Climbing Mount Kilimanjaro 8 Days Lemosho Route
From $. 2,337 USD* / 24/7 service / 10 days
*Price p.p. incl. transfers, accommodation, food, drinks, guides, tents and park fees. Excl. International flight (based on six persons)
Mount Kilimanjaro, located in Tanzania, stands as one of the world’s most iconic peaks. With its towering presence and diverse ecosystems, it draws adventurers from all over the globe. Scaling the summit of Kilimanjaro is a dream for many mountaineers, trekkers, and nature enthusiasts. Among the several routes available to ascend the mountain, the Lemosho Route is widely considered one of the most scenic and effective for those aiming for a summit at Uhuru Peak, the highest point on Kilimanjaro.
The 8-Day Lemosho Route provides a balanced and rewarding trekking experience, offering ample time for acclimatization, magnificent views, and the opportunity to explore the full diversity of the mountain’s ecosystems. This detailed guide will walk you through what to expect on this route, the day-by-day itinerary, essential tips, and practical information that will help ensure a successful and memorable climb.
The Lemosho Route is renowned for its scenic beauty, which includes lush rainforests, alpine meadows, and the iconic Shira Plateau. It is often considered one of the least crowded routes on Kilimanjaro, especially when compared to the more popular Marangu or Machame routes. It begins on the western side of the mountain and approaches Kilimanjaro from the remote Lemosho Glades. From there, the route traverses various ecosystems as it ascends toward the summit.
The 8-day Lemosho Route strikes a perfect balance between being long enough to offer sufficient time for proper acclimatization and short enough to avoid excessive fatigue. This length of time maximizes the likelihood of success at the summit while ensuring that the trek remains enjoyable. The trek includes key landmarks such as the Shira Plateau, Lava Tower, Barranco Wall, and the famous Crater Camp, providing a comprehensive Kilimanjaro experience.
Why Choose the Lemosho Route?
There are many reasons why the Lemosho Route is preferred by many trekkers. Some of the key benefits include:
Scenic Beauty: The Lemosho Route offers an incredibly diverse and stunning landscape, from the dense rainforests at lower elevations to the stark, lunar-like landscapes at higher altitudes. The views of the summit, glaciers, and surrounding valleys are breathtaking.
Lower Crowds: Because it is less crowded than the Machame or Marangu routes, Lemosho offers a more peaceful and intimate trekking experience. This is ideal for those who prefer a less commercialized route.
Better Acclimatization: The extended trek allows for a more gradual ascent, which is beneficial for acclimatization. This increases the chances of successfully summiting without succumbing to altitude sickness.
Diverse Ecosystems: The route traverses multiple ecosystems, from lush rainforest to alpine desert, offering trekkers a chance to experience a wide variety of plant and animal life.
Variety of Terrain: The Lemosho Route includes many of Kilimanjaro’s iconic features, such as the Shira Plateau, the Lava Tower, the Barranco Wall, and the glaciers near the summit.
Day 1: Arrival At Kilimanjaro International Airport
After clearing customs and immigration, you will be greeted by your safari guide. Transfer to your accommodation in Arusha to check in and freshen up. We have suggested bellow a comfortable accommodations based on your budget from 3 stars, 4stars or 5stars.
If you arrive in morning time, you will have rest at your hotel and after lunch, take a compliment short tour of Arusha town. Visit the local market for an authentic experience, and if time permits, visit the Arusha Declaration Museum to learn about Tanzania’s history. Experience the local culture by interacting with the friendly locals.
Evening enjoy a welcome dinner at your accommodation or local restaurant to try local dishes like NyamaChoma(grilled meat) or/and Ugali(cornmeal).
Accommodations:
- 3 Stars: Planet Lodge Arusha
- 4 Stars: Arusha Hotel By Sheraton
- 5 Stars: Melia Arusha
Day 2: Lemosho Gate to Mti Mkubwa Camp
- Elevation: 2,100 meters (6,888 feet)
- Hiking Time: 2-3 hours
- Distance: 5-7 km (3-4 miles)
- Acclimatization: Minimal
The journey begins at the hotel and you will be transferred to the Lemosho Gate, which is about a 3-hour drive from the airport. Here, you will complete the necessary paperwork and have your first interaction with the local porters, guides, and cooks.
Once at the gate, you’ll start your trek through the lush rainforest. The first day’s trek is relatively easy, designed to allow you to get accustomed to the environment while still taking in the beauty of Kilimanjaro’s rainforest. The path is wide and sometimes muddy, with vibrant vegetation and the sounds of birds and monkeys. After a few hours of hiking, you’ll reach your camp at Mti Mkubwa, also known as the “Big Tree” camp, situated at an altitude of 2,800 meters (9,186 feet).
Overnight at Mti Mkubwa Camp.
Day 3: Mti Mkubwa to Shira 1 Camp
- Elevation: 2,800 meters (9,186 feet) to 3,500 meters (11,483 feet)
- Hiking Time: 5-6 hours
- Distance: 8-10 km (5-6 miles)
- Acclimatization: Moderate
Day 2 takes you out of the rainforest and into the moorland zone. The route gradually climbs, offering views of the surrounding valleys and distant peaks. The trail is a bit steeper today, but still manageable. You’ll trek across undulating terrain with patches of heath and moorland.
At the end of the day, you’ll reach Shira 1 Camp at an altitude of 3,500 meters (11,483 feet). This camp is located on the Shira Plateau, a large, high-altitude plateau offering incredible views of the mountain.
Overnight at Shira 1 Camp.
Day 4: Shira 1 Camp to Shira 2 Camp
- Elevation: 3,500 meters (11,483 feet) to 3,900 meters (12,795 feet)
- Hiking Time: 4-5 hours
- Distance: 6 km (3.7 miles)
- Acclimatization: Moderate
Day 3 involves a relatively short and easy hike to Shira 2 Camp, giving you a chance to further acclimatize to the increasing altitude. Along the way, you will pass the remnants of volcanic craters, stunning lava formations, and a variety of alpine plants. The view of Kilimanjaro’s towering summit starts to come into clearer view, and the terrain becomes increasingly rocky and barren.
Overnight at Shira 2 Camp.
Day 5: Shira 2 Camp to Lava Tower to Barranco Camp
- Elevation: 3,900 meters (12,795 feet) to 4,600 meters (15,091 feet) to 3,950 meters (12,960 feet)
- Hiking Time: 7-8 hours
- Distance: 10 km (6.2 miles)
- Acclimatization: High
Today’s hike is one of the most crucial for acclimatization. The route leads you to Lava Tower, a stunning volcanic rock formation at 4,600 meters (15,091 feet), offering panoramic views of the surrounding landscape. The idea of hiking to this height before descending to Barranco Camp is to help your body adjust to the altitude. While this may feel challenging, the strategy is scientifically proven to help reduce the likelihood of altitude sickness.
After a short break at Lava Tower, the trek descends to Barranco Camp, located at an altitude of 3,950 meters (12,960 feet). This day provides an opportunity for your body to adjust to the higher elevations and recover from the strain of the previous days.
Overnight at Barranco Camp.
Day 6: Barranco Camp to Karanga Camp
- Elevation: 3,950 meters (12,960 feet) to 4,035 meters (13,267 feet)
- Hiking Time: 4-5 hours
- Distance: 5 km (3.1 miles)
- Acclimatization: High
On Day 5, the day starts with the famous Barranco Wall, a steep but non-technical rock scramble that leads to a ridge. This section is a highlight of the trek and offers great views of the Barranco Valley. Once at the top, the path continues through the rocky terrain, with increasing views of the summit.
You will then proceed to Karanga Camp, which is nestled in a valley. It is located at 4,035 meters (13,267 feet), and serves as a great spot for resting and acclimatizing further.
Overnight at Karanga Camp.
Day 7: Karanga Camp to Barafu Camp
- Elevation: 4,035 meters (13,267 feet) to 4,640 meters (15,223 feet)
- Hiking Time: 4-5 hours
- Distance: 5 km (3.1 miles)
- Acclimatization: High
Day 6 is a relatively short day designed to give you time to rest before the final summit push. The trek will take you to Barafu Camp, located at 4,640 meters (15,223 feet). Barafu is the starting point for the summit attempt the following day. The camp sits on a barren, rocky ridge, and the views are extraordinary. At Barafu, you will have a brief rest and a chance to prepare your gear for the early morning summit attempt.
Overnight at Barafu Camp.
Day 7: Summit Day – Barafu Camp to Uhuru Peak to Mweka Camp
- Elevation: 4,640 meters (15,223 feet) to 5,895 meters (19,341 feet) to 3,100 meters (10,170 feet)
- Hiking Time: 12-14 hours
- Distance: 18 km (11.2 miles)
- Acclimatization: High
This is the most challenging day of the trek. You will wake up around midnight and begin the climb to Uhuru Peak (5,895 meters/19,341 feet), the highest point in Africa. The ascent is done in stages, passing through Stella Point before reaching the summit. The summit climb takes about 6-8 hours, and the last part is challenging due to the altitude, freezing temperatures, and lack of oxygen.
After reaching the summit and taking in the awe-inspiring views, you will begin your descent to Mweka Camp at 3,100 meters (10,170 feet). The descent to Mweka is long and tiring, but much less strenuous than the ascent.
Overnight at Mweka Camp.
Day 8: Mweka Camp to Mweka Gate
- Elevation: 3,100 meters (10,170 feet) to 1,650 meters (5,413 feet)
- Hiking Time: 3-4 hours
- Distance: 10 km (6.2 miles)
- Acclimatization: Low
The final day of the trek involves a relatively easy descent through the rainforest back to the Mweka Gate. Once you reach the gate, you will complete your departure formalities and receive your summit certificates. You will then be transferred back to the hotel for a well-deserved rest.
Accommodations:
- 3 Stars: Planet Lodge Arusha
- 4 Stars: Arusha Hotel By Sheraton
- 5 Stars: Melia Arusha
Day 8: Departure:
Late morning breakfast, them you will have city tour and have some time for last-minute souvenir shopping in local craft shops.
Departure: Depending on your flight schedule, transfer to Kilimanjaro International Airport for your departure or proceed with safari tour or flight to Zanzibar.
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Kilimanjaro Mountain Packing List
Communal equipment (tents, food, utensils, etc.) is provided. You are responsible for bringing the required, recommended and optional personal gear and equipment listed below. The most common mistake that climbers make is that they over pack. Be selective in what you take with you. Our porters are limited to carrying 33 lbs. (15 kgs) of your personal belongings.
Clothing:
- 4-5 Pairs of underwear
- Top and bottom base layer – Icebreaker (Women) or SmartWool (Men)
- 3-4 Short sleeve and 1-2 long sleeve trekking shirts
- 1-2 Pairs of hiking trousers
- 1 Fleece jacket – Helly Hansen (Men) or The North Face (Women)
- 1 Insulated winter jacket – Arc’Teryx Atom (Men) or North Face Nuptse (Women)
- 1 Insulated trekking trousers
- 1 Hardshell jacket – North Face Resolve Resolve (Men) and North Face Venture 2 (Women)
- Lightweight raingear
Headgear:
- Sun hat, ideally with a neck cover
- Warm beanie or fleece headband
- Bandana or neck gaiter
- Headlamp – PETZL Tikka
- Sunglasses
Hands and Walking:
- Lightweight inner gloves – New Balance Lightweight Gloves
- Warm outer gloves/mitts – Gore-Tex Gloves (Men) or Black Diamond Mercury Mitts (Women)
- Adjustable trekking poles – Black Diamond Alpine
Footwear:
- Mid-weight hiking boots – Salomon Quest (Women) or KEEN Targhee (Men)
- Camp trainers (Men) / Trekking sandals (Women)
- 4-5 Pairs of trekking socks – SmartWool or Bridgedale
- 1 Pair of warm/thick trekking socks
- Bags and Daypack (click for details)
- 80-90L Waterproof duffle bag – North Face Base Camp
- 20-30L Daypack – Osprey Talon 22
- Daypack raincover
- Travel bag organisers (optional)
Sleeping Accessories:
- 4-Season sleeping bag – Marmot Trestles or Hyke & Byke Unisex
- Insulated sleeping mat
- Inflatable pillow (optional)
General Accessories:
- Large volume water bottle or hydration bladder – Platypus Hydration Bladder for backpack
- Water Purification Tablets
- Baby wipes
- Sweat-resistant suncream
- Blister plasters
- Insect repellant
- General medications (Paracetamol, Imodium)
- Pee bottle (optional)
Technology:
- Camera
- GoPro (optional)
- Solar Backpack Charger (optional)
- Spare batteries and camera memory card
- Kindle with backlight (optional)
Other Bits and Bobs
- Energy bars
- Energy drink supplement
- Ziplock bags for important possessions (passport, money, phone, etc.)
- Trekking towel
- Toiletries, including one roll of toilet paper
- Passport, visa, insurance, yellow fever card (if applicable)
- Small lock for your duffle bag.
Important Information’s to know:
- Children under 10 years are not allowed to Summit Kilimanjaro.
- The duration of transfers/walking are approximate, the exact duration will depend on the time of day and traffic conditions and customers fitness.
- A Yellow fever vaccination is mandatory when enters Tanzania.
- Visas are available on arrival. All visa requirements are the sole responsibility of the traveler.
Preparation for the Climb
Physical Preparation
Getting in shape for the Kilimanjaro climb is crucial. Engage in a well-rounded fitness program, focusing on cardiovascular endurance, strength training, and hiking practice. Aim for at least three to six months of preparation:
- Cardio Training: Engage in activities such as running, cycling, swimming, or brisk walking. Gradually increase your duration and intensity.
- Strength Training: Focus on building strength in your legs, back, and core to ease the physical demands of the trek. Squats, lunges, and leg presses are beneficial.
- Hiking Practice: Go on regular hikes, both on flat and inclined terrains, to prepare your body for the conditions you will encounter on Kilimanjaro.
Mental Preparation
Climbing Kilimanjaro can be as much a mental challenge as it is a physical one. Preparing mentally involves:
- Researching the Climb: Understand the route, what to expect in terms of altitude sickness, and the physical demands.
- Setting Realistic Goals: Know your limits and be prepared for the possibility of needing to descend if necessary.
- Practicing Mindfulness: Engage in activities that promote mental resilience, such as meditation or yoga, to prepare for the mental aspect of high-altitude trekking.
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