7 Days Lemosho Route – Kilimanjaro Climbing Adventure

Price

On Request

Best time

All year round

Trip Overview

The Lemosho Route is one of Kilimanjaro’s most picturesque and less-crowded routes. Beginning from the western side at Londorossi Gate, it traverses lush rainforests and the expansive Shira Plateau before merging with the Machame Route near Lava Tower.

With its gradual ascent and longer duration, the Lemosho Route offers superb acclimatization and a higher success rate a perfect balance of challenge and beauty for those seeking a complete Kilimanjaro experience.

Trip Gallery

endless memory to capture

Destinations

Moshi, Londorossi Gate, Shira Plateau, Lava Tower, Barranco Wall, Barafu Camp, Uhuru Peak

What to expect

scenic and remote trek across the western slopes of Kilimanjaro, offering panoramic views, diverse ecosystems, and excellent acclimatization

Day by day description

Day 0: Arrival in Tanzania

Upon arrival at Kilimanjaro International Airport, you’ll be warmly greeted and transferred to the Kilimanjaro Wonders Hotel, a 4-star bed and breakfast in Moshi.
Your head guide will meet you for a detailed climb briefing, gear inspection, and to assist with any rental needs. Rest well your adventure begins tomorrow.

Accommodation

Kilimanjaro Wonders Hotel

Day 1: Londorossi Gate to Mti Mkubwa Camp

Altitude: 2,389 m to 2,785 m
Hiking Time: 3 – 4 hours
Habitat: Rainforest

After breakfast, depart from Moshi and enjoy a scenic drive through mountain villages to Londorossi Gate, where registration and permit procedures take place. Once the trek begins, you’ll journey through dense rainforest filled with birds, butterflies, and playful blue monkeys.
The trail gradually ascends through moss-covered trees before reaching Mti Mkubwa (Big Tree) Camp, a tranquil spot for your first night on the mountain.

Day 2: Mti Mkubwa Camp to Shira 1 Camp

Altitude: 2,785 m to 3,895 m
Hiking Time: 6 – 8 hours
Habitat: Moorland

Leaving the forest behind, the path climbs steadily into the heath and moorland zone. The views open up, revealing sweeping valleys and the first glimpse of Kibo Peak.
As you ascend to the rim of the Shira Plateau, you’ll notice the cooler air and vast open landscape. Arrive at Shira 1 Camp, where you’ll spend the night surrounded by Kilimanjaro’s wild beauty.

Day 3: Shira Camp to Lava Tower to Barranco Camp

Altitude: 3,895 m to 3,986 m (ascend to 4,650 m for acclimatization)
Hiking Time: 6 – 7 hours
Habitat: Semi-Desert

This is a key day for acclimatization. Trek east across the Shira Plateau and climb gradually toward the Lava Tower, a towering volcanic formation nicknamed the “Shark’s Tooth.”
After lunch near the tower (4,650 m), descend into the Barranco Valley, filled with giant senecio plants and dramatic cliffs. You’ll camp at Barranco Camp, resting below the impressive Barranco Wall.

Day 4: Barranco Camp to Karanga Camp

Altitude: 3,986 m to 4,034 m
Hiking Time: 4 – 5 hours
Habitat: Alpine Desert

After breakfast, tackle the thrilling Barranco Wall, a non-technical but exhilarating climb with sweeping views. The route continues through a series of ridges and valleys before descending into the Karanga Valley, your overnight stop.
This short but essential day aids acclimatization and provides recovery time before the final push toward the summit.

Day 5: Karanga Camp to Barafu Camp

Altitude: 4,034 m to 4,662 m
Hiking Time: 4 – 5 hours
Habitat: Alpine Desert

Today’s trek ascends gradually to Barafu Camp, your high camp and the final base before the summit attempt.
The landscape becomes barren and windswept, a stark but inspiring environment at the edge of the Arctic zone. After an early dinner, prepare your gear and rest — summit night begins soon after midnight.

Day 6: Barafu Camp to Uhuru Peak to Mweka Camp

Altitude: 4,662 m to 5,895 m to 3,090 m
Hiking Time: 10 – 13 hours
Habitat: Arctic (summit) to Moorland (descent)

Summit night begins between midnight and 2 a.m. The climb is steep and demanding, but determination and steady pacing will carry you forward.

Following switchbacks up the scree slopes, you’ll reach Stella Point (5,756 m) on the crater rim where the sun rises over Africa in breathtaking fashion. From here, continue to Uhuru Peak, the highest point on the continent at 5,895 m.

Celebrate your incredible achievement, take photos, and soak in the moment before beginning your descent. Return via Barafu Camp for a short rest, then continue down to Mweka Camp for your final night on the mountain.

Day 7: Mweka Camp to Mweka Gate to Moshi

Altitude: 3,090 m to 1,640 m
Hiking Time: 3 – 4 hours
Habitat: Rainforest

After breakfast, descend through the lush rainforest one final time, listening to the songs of tropical birds and feeling the warmth return to the air.

At Mweka Gate, receive your well-earned summit certificate, marking the successful completion of your Kilimanjaro climb.

A short drive takes you back to Moshi and the Kilimanjaro Wonders Hotel, where a hot shower, hearty dinner, and a well-deserved celebration await.