8 Days Mount Kilimanjaro Trek via Lemosho Route

Overview

The Lemosho Route is widely regarded as one of the most scenic and rewarding Kilimanjaro treks. This 8-day journey approaches the mountain from the western slopes, offering a gradual ascent, excellent acclimatization, and stunning views of Kibo and Mawenzi peaks. Trekkers enjoy a combination of lush rainforest, moorland, alpine desert, and arctic summit zones, making it ideal for both first-time climbers and seasoned adventurers.

The trail begins in the dense Shira rainforest, where wildlife like colobus monkeys and exotic birds can be spotted. As the trek progresses, trekkers traverse the Shira Plateau, Barranco and Karanga valleys, and the lunar-like landscapes of the high alpine desert, culminating in the summit ascent to Uhuru Peak (5,895 m).

Descending via the Mweka Route, climbers pass through heathland and rainforest, completing the circuit in a way that balances adventure, safety, and immersive natural beauty. The Lemosho Route combines solitude, panoramic scenery, and high summit success rates, making it one of Kilimanjaro’s most luxurious and fulfilling trekking experiences.

Highlights

  • Approaches Kilimanjaro from the western Lemosho slopes
  • Quiet and scenic with low trekking traffic
  • Gradual ascent profile for optimal acclimatization
  • Diverse ecosystems: rainforest → moorland → alpine desert → arctic summit
  • Stunning Shira Plateau vistas and volcanic formations
  • Famous Barranco Wall scramble
  • Spectacular high-altitude camps: Shira, Barranco, Karanga, Barafu
  • Summit ascent to Uhuru Peak (5,895 m) with sunrise views
  • Descent via Mweka Route through lush rainforest

Start Date

Can start any day a Client Chooses

Duration

8 Days Kilimanjaro Trek

Comfort Level

High Challenge Adventure

Tour Type

Private or Group Tour

language

Language

English, Chinese, Spanish, French

Meals

Lunch, Snacks, Water and Soda

What’s Included

  • Certified Kilimanjaro guides, assistant guides, porters, and cooks
  • Park entrance, camping, rescue, and conservation fees
  • Mountain tents, dining tents, and sleeping mats
  • All meals on the mountain
  • Safe drinking water (filtered and boiled daily)
  • Daily health and safety checks
  • Hotel accommodation before and after the climb
  • Fair wages for porters and staff
  • Emergency evacuation support (park rescue services)
  • Summit certificates
  • Government taxes and service charges

What’s Included

  • International and domestic flights
  • Tanzania visa and travel insurance
  • Personal trekking gear (boots, sleeping bags, jackets, walking poles)
  • Tips and gratuities for guides and porters
  • Personal expenses (snacks, drinks, souvenirs)
  • Optional equipment rental (oxygen, extra gear)
  • Alcoholic and soft drinks
  • Any items not mentioned under What’s Included

Day to Day Itinerary

Arrival in Moshi – Welcome to Tanzania

Arrive at Kilimanjaro International Airport (JRO), where our driver will meet and transfer you to your hotel in Moshi. Meet your mountain guide for a detailed briefing and gear inspection. Spend the evening preparing for the adventure ahead.

Panama Hotel Moshi

Kilimanjaro Wonders Hotel is one of the first truly 4-stars boutique hotels in Moshi which provide great ambience and facilities. Located 4km from the Town of Moshi, 45 km away from Kilimanjaro national park, 40km away from the Kilimanjaro International airport. Kilimanjaro Wonders Hotel is ideally located for all those that visit Moshi Town for adventure seeking or for business travel. Click here to learn more

Tulivu Kilimanjaro Retreat

Kilimanjaro Wonders Hotel is one of the first truly 4-stars boutique hotels in Moshi which provide great ambience and facilities. Located 4km from the Town of Moshi, 45 km away from Kilimanjaro national park, 40km away from the Kilimanjaro International airport. Kilimanjaro Wonders Hotel is ideally located for all those that visit Moshi Town for adventure seeking or for business travel. Click here to learn more

Kilimanjaro Wonders Hotel

Kilimanjaro Wonders Hotel is one of the first truly 4-stars boutique hotels in Moshi which provide great ambience and facilities. Located 4km from the Town of Moshi, 45 km away from Kilimanjaro national park, 40km away from the Kilimanjaro International airport. Kilimanjaro Wonders Hotel is ideally located for all those that visit Moshi Town for adventure seeking or for business travel. Click here to learn more

  • Elevation: 2,100 m to 2,650 m
  • Distance: 7 km | Hiking Time: 3–4 hours

After breakfast, drive to Londorossi Gate for registration and then continue to Lemosho Gate. Begin your trek through the lush rainforest, home to blue monkeys and colobus. The gradual ascent offers a gentle start to your journey. Reach Mti Mkubwa Camp for dinner and overnight surrounded by forest sounds.

Accommodation: Camping

  • Elevation: 2,650 m to 3,610 m
  • Distance: 10 km | Hiking Time: 5–6 hours

Leave the forest behind and enter the moorland zone, where the landscape opens to vast heather and rocky ridges. The trail climbs steadily, offering early views of Shira Ridge. Arrive at Shira 1 Camp for a hot meal and rest as the temperature begins to drop.

Accommodation: Camping

  • Elevation: 3,610 m to 3,850 m
  • Distance: 7 km | Hiking Time: 4–5 hours

A gentle trek across the Shira Plateau, one of Kilimanjaro’s most photogenic landscapes. Enjoy magnificent views of Mount Meru and the Shira Cathedral as you make your way to Shira 2 Camp. This day allows your body to adapt to higher altitudes before the steeper climbs ahead.

Accommodation: Camping

  • Elevation: 3,850 m to 3,900 m (via 4,600 m)
  • Distance: 10 km | Hiking Time: 6–7 hours

Today is key for acclimatization. Ascend to Lava Tower (4,600 m) for lunch before descending to Barranco Camp, located in a sheltered valley below the Barranco Wall. This “climb high, sleep low” routine helps your body adapt to altitude effectively.

Accommodation: Camping

  • Elevation: 3,900 m to 3,995 m
  • Distance: 6 km | Hiking Time: 4–5 hours

Start the day with an exciting scramble up the Barranco Wall, known as the “Breakfast Wall.” Traverse ridges and valleys as you make your way to Karanga Camp. The short trekking time aids further acclimatization while offering stunning mountain panoramas.

Accommodation: Camping

  • Elevation: 3,995 m to 4,673 m
  • Distance: 4 km | Hiking Time: 3–4 hours

A gradual but steady ascent leads to Barafu Camp, your base for the summit attempt. Enjoy early dinner and rest as you prepare for the midnight climb to Uhuru Peak. The barren alpine desert around you signals you’re close to the top of Africa.

Accommodation: Camping

  • Elevation: 4,673 m to 5,895 m (Uhuru) to 3,100 m
  • Distance: 17 km | Hiking Time: 10–13 hours

Begin your summit push around midnight. Trek through the cold night, reaching Stella Point at sunrise, then continue to Uhuru Peak (5,895 m). Celebrate this life-changing moment before descending to Mweka Camp for much-needed rest.

Accommodation: Camping

  • Elevation: 3,100 m to 1,800 m
  • Distance: 10 km | Hiking Time: 3–4 hours

Enjoy a final breakfast and descend through lush rainforest to Mweka Gate. Receive your summit certificate and meet your driver for transfer back to Moshi. Relax with a hot shower, celebratory dinner, and rest after your incredible adventure.

Accommodation: Budget, Midrange, or Luxury Hotel in Moshi

Panama Hotel Moshi

Kilimanjaro Wonders Hotel is one of the first truly 4-stars boutique hotels in Moshi which provide great ambience and facilities. Located 4km from the Town of Moshi, 45 km away from Kilimanjaro national park, 40km away from the Kilimanjaro International airport. Kilimanjaro Wonders Hotel is ideally located for all those that visit Moshi Town for adventure seeking or for business travel. Click here to learn more

Tulivu Kilimanjaro Retreat

Kilimanjaro Wonders Hotel is one of the first truly 4-stars boutique hotels in Moshi which provide great ambience and facilities. Located 4km from the Town of Moshi, 45 km away from Kilimanjaro national park, 40km away from the Kilimanjaro International airport. Kilimanjaro Wonders Hotel is ideally located for all those that visit Moshi Town for adventure seeking or for business travel. Click here to learn more

Kilimanjaro Wonders Hotel

Kilimanjaro Wonders Hotel is one of the first truly 4-stars boutique hotels in Moshi which provide great ambience and facilities. Located 4km from the Town of Moshi, 45 km away from Kilimanjaro national park, 40km away from the Kilimanjaro International airport. Kilimanjaro Wonders Hotel is ideally located for all those that visit Moshi Town for adventure seeking or for business travel. Click here to learn more

After conquering the majestic Mount Kilimanjaro, enjoy a relaxed morning at your hotel or lodge in Arusha or Moshi, reflecting on your incredible achievement. Savor a hearty breakfast while sharing stories and photos with fellow climbers. When ready, your private transfer will take you to the airport or next destination, ensuring a smooth, comfortable, and stress-free departure, leaving you with unforgettable memories of Africa’s highest peak.

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