8-Day Mount Kilimanjaro Lemosho Route Trek
The 8-Day Lemosho Route is widely regarded as the most beautiful route on Mount Kilimanjaro, offering exceptional scenery, excellent acclimatization, and one of the highest summit success rates of all routes. Beginning on Kilimanjaro’s remote western slopes, the trail passes through untouched rainforest, expansive heathlands, the spectacular Shira Plateau, dramatic alpine deserts, and finally reaches the snow-capped summit of Uhuru Peak at 5,895 meters. The route’s longer duration allows climbers to ascend gradually, giving the body ample time to adapt to the altitude while enjoying the mountain’s ever-changing landscapes.
Perfect for first-time climbers and experienced trekkers alike, the Lemosho Route combines breathtaking scenery with a carefully designed itinerary that maximizes comfort, acclimatization, and summit success. From peaceful forest trails to panoramic ridgelines and unforgettable sunrise views from Africa’s highest point, this route delivers one of the finest trekking experiences anywhere in the world.
Day to Day
Day 1: Londorossi Gate (2,100m) to Mti Mkubwa Camp (2,650m)
Your adventure begins with an early morning drive from Moshi to Londorossi Gate for registration before continuing to the Lemosho trailhead. The trek starts through pristine rainforest filled with towering trees, colorful birds, and playful colobus monkeys. The peaceful surroundings and gentle ascent make for an enjoyable first day before arriving at Mti Mkubwa Camp, where your mountain crew prepares dinner and your first overnight stay beneath the forest canopy.
Walking Time: 3–4 Hours
Day 2: Mti Mkubwa Camp to Shira 1 Camp (3,500m)
Leaving the rainforest behind, today’s trail climbs steadily through heathland and moorland with spectacular views opening across the Shira Plateau. Giant lobelias and volcanic rock formations dominate the landscape as the scenery becomes increasingly dramatic. Upon reaching Shira 1 Camp, you’ll enjoy sweeping views across one of Kilimanjaro’s oldest volcanic plateaus while continuing your acclimatization.
Walking Time: 5–6 Hours
Day 3: Shira 1 Camp to Shira 2 Camp (3,850m)
Today’s shorter trek allows your body additional time to acclimatize while exploring the magnificent Shira Plateau. Gentle walking across open alpine landscapes offers breathtaking views of Kibo Peak, Mount Meru, and the surrounding wilderness. Arriving at Shira 2 Camp early provides an excellent opportunity to rest or take an optional acclimatization walk with your guide before dinner.
Walking Time: 3–4 Hours
Day 4: Shira 2 Camp to Lava Tower (4,630m) then Barranco Camp (3,960m)
Today’s route follows the important “climb high, sleep low” strategy. You ascend into the alpine desert toward the impressive Lava Tower, one of Kilimanjaro’s most iconic landmarks. After spending time at higher altitude, the trail descends through the scenic Barranco Valley, home to giant senecio plants and one of the mountain’s most beautiful campsites. This day is essential for successful acclimatization and significantly improves your chances of reaching the summit.
Walking Time: 6–8 Hours
Day 5: Barranco Camp to Karanga Camp (4,035m)
The day begins with the exhilarating climb up the famous Barranco Wall. Although steep in appearance, the ascent is non-technical and rewards climbers with spectacular panoramic views over the valleys below. Beyond the wall, the trail continues across rolling ridges before arriving at Karanga Camp. The shorter trekking distance allows additional time to rest and prepare for the higher elevations ahead.
Walking Time: 4–5 Hours
Day 6: Karanga Camp to Barafu Camp (4,640m)
Today’s gradual ascent leads across barren alpine desert toward Barafu Camp, the final base camp before the summit attempt. The dramatic volcanic landscape provides unforgettable views of both Kibo and Mawenzi Peaks. After an early dinner, you’ll rest for several hours before beginning your midnight ascent to Uhuru Peak.
Walking Time: 3–4 Hours
Day 7: Barafu Camp to Uhuru Peak (5,895m) then Descend to Mweka Camp (3,100m)
Shortly after midnight, your summit attempt begins beneath a brilliant African sky filled with stars. Moving slowly and steadily, you’ll climb past Stella Point before reaching Uhuru Peak, the highest point in Africa. Watching the sunrise above the glaciers and endless African plains is a truly unforgettable experience and the reward for days of determination. After celebrating your achievement and capturing photographs, you’ll descend back to Barafu Camp for a short rest before continuing to Mweka Camp for your final night on the mountain.
Walking Time: 10–14 Hours
Day 8: Mweka Camp to Mweka Gate
After breakfast, your final descent takes you through Kilimanjaro’s lush rainforest to Mweka Gate. Upon arrival, you’ll receive your official summit certificate before transferring back to your hotel in Moshi or Arusha. The journey concludes with unforgettable memories of conquering Africa’s highest mountain and completing one of the world’s most scenic trekking routes.
Walking Time: 3–5 Hours
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- What's included
- Kilimanjaro National Park fees
- Professional licensed mountain guides
- Assistant guides, porters, and mountain cook
- Quality camping accommodation
- Sleeping mattresses
- Dining tent and camping equipment
- All meals during the trek
- Drinking water
- Emergency oxygen and pulse oximeter
- First aid kit
- Transfers to and from the mountain gate
- Summit certificate
- Government taxes
- What's NOt included
- Liquors, beers and bottled beverages
- Surcharge for online payment of advance and balance (5% on each payment)
- Tanzania Visa
- Travel insurance
- Personal Expenses (e.g. laundry, telephone, beverages, etc.)
- International and domestic flights
- Tips and gratuities
- Personal trekking equipment such as sleepings bags, hiking boots, clothes, etc (available for renting)
- Meals not listed in the itinerary