8 Days Lemosho Route: The Ultimate Kilimanjaro Adventure
The 8-day Lemosho Route is a premier trekking experience on Mount Kilimanjaro, offering ample time for acclimatization and maximizing summit success rates. Known for its breathtaking scenery, this route traverses lush rainforests, dramatic moorlands, alpine deserts, and glaciers before culminating at the majestic Uhuru Peak.
Starting on Kilimanjaro’s remote western side, the Lemosho Route ensures a quiet and immersive journey, allowing trekkers to experience the mountain’s biodiversity and geological wonders. Its gradual ascent profile is ideal for those looking to balance physical challenge with a strategic approach to altitude adaptation.
This itinerary features the iconic Shira Plateau, the acclimatization trek to Lava Tower, and the dramatic ascent of the Barranco Wall, all while enjoying panoramic views of Africa's highest peak. With eight days on the mountain, the Lemosho Route provides plenty of time to adjust, enjoy the stunning landscape, and tackle the final summit push with confidence.
Day 1: Lemosho Gate to Big Tree Camp
- Elevation: 2,100m (6,890 ft) to 2,780m (9,120 ft)
- Distance: 7 km (4.3 miles)
- Hiking Time: 3–4 hours
After registration at Lemosho Gate, begin trekking through the lush rainforest, home to wildlife like colobus monkeys. Arrive at Big Tree Camp in the late afternoon.
Day 2: Big Tree Camp to Shira 1 Camp
- Elevation: 2,780m (9,120 ft) to 3,500m (11,485 ft)
- Distance: 8 km (5 miles)
- Hiking Time: 5–6 hours
Continue through the forest, transitioning to the open moorlands. Enjoy stunning views of the Shira Ridge as you approach Shira 1 Camp.
Day 3: Shira 1 Camp to Shira 2 Camp
- Elevation: 3,500m (11,485 ft) to 3,840m (12,598 ft)
- Distance: 7 km (4.3 miles)
- Hiking Time: 4–5 hours
Today’s trek is a gentle climb across the Shira Plateau, offering panoramic views of the surrounding landscapes. After reaching Shira 2 Camp, spend the afternoon resting and acclimatizing.
Day 4: Shira 2 Camp to Barranco Camp (via Lava Tower)
- Elevation: 3,840m (12,598 ft) to 3,950m (12,959 ft)
- Distance: 10 km (6 miles)
- Hiking Time: 6–8 hours
This is an essential acclimatization day as you ascend to Lava Tower (4,630m/15,190 ft) before descending to Barranco Camp. The trek showcases diverse landscapes and reinforces the “climb high, sleep low” strategy.
Day 5: Barranco Camp to Karanga Camp
- Elevation: 3,950m (12,959 ft) to 4,035m (13,238 ft)
- Distance: 6 km (3.7 miles)
- Hiking Time: 4–5 hours
Begin the day with an exciting climb up the Barranco Wall, a steep yet manageable section offering breathtaking views. Continue through rolling terrain to reach Karanga Camp for the night.
Day 6: Karanga Camp to Barafu Camp
- Elevation: 4,035m (13,238 ft) to 4,600m (15,091 ft)
- Distance: 6 km (3.7 miles)
- Hiking Time: 4–5 hours
Trek through the sparse and rocky alpine desert en route to Barafu Camp, the base camp for your summit attempt. Rest and prepare for the midnight climb to the summit.
Day 7: Barafu Camp to Uhuru Peak to Millennium Camp
- Elevation: 4,600m (15,091 ft) to 5,895m (19,341 ft) (descent to 3,820m/12,533 ft)
- Distance: 13 km (8 miles)
- Hiking Time: 10–14 hours
Begin your summit push around midnight, navigating steep and icy paths to Uhuru Peak, the highest point in Africa. After celebrating your achievement, descend to Millennium Camp for a well-deserved rest.
Day 8: Millennium Camp to Mweka Gate
- Elevation: 3,820m (12,533 ft) to 1,650m (5,413 ft)
- Distance: 10 km (6.2 miles)
- Hiking Time: 4–5 hours
Descend through the lush rainforest to Mweka Gate, where you’ll receive your summit certificate and bid farewell to the mountain. A transfer will take you back to your hotel in Moshi or Arusha.
Tour Inclusions:
- Professional and certified mountain guides, porters, and cooks
- Transfers to and from the trailhead
- Park entry, camping, and rescue fees
- All meals during the trek (breakfast, lunch, and dinner)
- Drinking water throughout the trek
- Camping equipment (tents, sleeping pads, chairs, and dining tables)
- Pulse oximeter for daily health monitoring
- Emergency oxygen cylinder
Tour Exclusions:
- Flights to and from Tanzania
- Personal trekking gear (e.g., boots, jackets, sleeping bags)
- Travel insurance (mandatory)
- Visa fees
- Tips for guides, porters, and cooks
- Personal expenses, such as snacks and drinks
- Additional hotel stays before or after the trek
Contact US Now!
Arusha – Tanzania
+255 682 009 908
info@kiligatesexpedition.com
kiligatesexpedition@gmail.com