Overview

The 8 Days Lemosho Route is widely regarded as the best and most scenic route to the summit of Mount Kilimanjaro (5,895 m). Beginning on the remote western side of the mountain, this route offers breathtaking scenery, diverse ecosystems, excellent acclimatization, and one of the highest summit success rates of all Kilimanjaro routes. The extra day on the mountain allows climbers to adjust gradually to the altitude, making it the preferred option for both first-time and experienced trekkers. The route crosses the spectacular Shira Plateau, ascends the famous Barranco Wall, and reaches Uhuru Peak before descending through the lush Mweka Route.

Tour Highlights

• Summit Uhuru Peak (5,895 m) – Africa’s highest point.
• One of Kilimanjaro’s highest summit success rates.
• Excellent 8-day acclimatization schedule.
• Explore all five climatic zones of Mount Kilimanjaro.
• Trek through pristine rainforest, moorland, alpine desert, and Arctic landscapes.
• Cross the spectacular Shira Plateau.
• Experience the famous Barranco Wall.
• Enjoy panoramic sunrise views from the Roof of Africa.
• Professional mountain guides, porters, and experienced mountain chef.
• High-quality camping equipment provided throughout the climb.

Detailed Itinerary

Day 1: Moshi – Londorossi Gate – Mti Mkubwa (Forest Camp)

Elevation: 2,100 m to 2,780 m
Distance: 6 km
Hiking Time: 3–4 Hours
Habitat: Rainforest

After breakfast, depart from Moshi for Londorossi Gate, where park registration is completed. Continue by vehicle to the Lemosho trailhead before beginning your trek through the lush western rainforest.

The trail winds beneath giant trees draped in moss, offering opportunities to spot black-and-white colobus monkeys and colorful birdlife before arriving at Mti Mkubwa (Forest Camp).

Meals: Lunch & Dinner

Accommodation: Mti Mkubwa Camp

Day 2: Mti Mkubwa Camp – Shira Camp 1

Elevation: 2,780 m to 3,500 m
Distance: 8 km
Hiking Time: 5–6 Hours
Habitat: Moorland

Today’s trek leaves the rainforest behind as the landscape opens into beautiful heath and moorland. Enjoy spectacular views across the Shira Plateau while gradually ascending toward Shira Camp 1.

The scenery becomes increasingly dramatic with giant lobelias and volcanic formations dominating the landscape.

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner

Accommodation: Shira Camp 1

Day 3: Shira Camp 1 – Shira Camp 2 – Moir Hut

Elevation: 3,500 m to 4,200 m
Distance: 14 km
Hiking Time: 6–7 Hours
Habitat: Moorland & Alpine Desert

Traverse the vast Shira Plateau, one of Kilimanjaro’s most scenic sections. Pass Shira Camp 2 before continuing toward the quieter Moir Hut, located beneath impressive volcanic ridges.

The afternoon offers an excellent opportunity for a short acclimatization hike before returning to camp.

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner

Accommodation: Moir Hut

Day 4: Moir Hut – Lava Tower – Barranco Camp

Elevation: 4,200 m to 4,630 m then descend to 3,960 m
Distance: 12 km
Hiking Time: 6–8 Hours
Habitat: Alpine Desert

Today’s hike follows the important “climb high, sleep low” principle. Ascend gradually to the impressive Lava Tower (4,630 m) for lunch and acclimatization before descending into the beautiful Barranco Valley.

Towering cliffs and giant senecio plants create one of the most picturesque camps on Kilimanjaro.

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner

Accommodation: Barranco Camp

Day 5: Barranco Camp – Barranco Wall – Karanga Camp

Elevation: 3,960 m to 4,035 m
Distance: 5 km
Hiking Time: 4–5 Hours
Habitat: Alpine Desert

After breakfast, tackle the famous Barranco Wall, an exciting but non-technical climb that rewards trekkers with magnificent panoramic views.

Continue across rolling alpine terrain before reaching Karanga Camp, where the remainder of the afternoon is reserved for rest and acclimatization.

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner

Accommodation: Karanga Camp

Day 6: Karanga Camp – Barafu Camp

Elevation: 4,035 m to 4,640 m
Distance: 4 km
Hiking Time: 3–4 Hours
Habitat: Alpine Desert

Today’s trek is relatively short, allowing time to conserve energy for the summit attempt. Arrive at Barafu Camp, the final base camp before Uhuru Peak.

After an early dinner, your guides will conduct a summit briefing before everyone retires for a few hours of rest.

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner

Accommodation: Barafu Camp

Day 7: Barafu Camp – Uhuru Peak – Mweka Camp

Elevation: 4,640 m to 5,895 m then descend to 3,100 m
Distance: 17 km
Hiking Time: 11–15 Hours
Habitat: Arctic → Rainforest

Around midnight, begin the final ascent under a blanket of stars. Climb steadily to Stella Point (5,756 m) before continuing along the crater rim to Uhuru Peak (5,895 m) — the highest point in Africa.

Celebrate your incredible achievement while watching the sunrise over glaciers and volcanic landscapes.

Descend back to Barafu Camp for a short rest before continuing down to Mweka Camp for your final night on the mountain.

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner

Accommodation: Mweka Camp

Day 8: Mweka Camp – Mweka Gate – Moshi

Elevation: 3,100 m to 1,640 m
Distance: 10 km
Hiking Time: 3–4 Hours
Habitat: Rainforest

Following breakfast, descend through the lush rainforest to Mweka Gate, where you’ll complete park formalities and receive your official Mount Kilimanjaro Summit Certificate.

Your driver will then transfer you back to Moshi for a well-deserved shower, celebration, and overnight stay or onward journey.

Meals: Breakfast & Lunch

Package Includes

• Airport transfers (where applicable)
• Professional English-speaking mountain guides
• Certified mountain rescue support
• Experienced mountain cook and porters
• Kilimanjaro National Park entrance, camping and rescue fees
• High-quality mountain tents and sleeping mattresses
• Dining tent, tables and chairs
• Three freshly prepared meals daily during the trek
• Safe drinking water throughout the climb
• Portable oxygen cylinder and first aid kit
• Daily health monitoring
• Government taxes and VAT
• Official Mount Kilimanjaro Summit Certificate

Package Excludes

• International and domestic flights
• Tanzanian Visa
• Personal travel insurance
• Sleeping bag and personal climbing equipment (available for hire)
• Tips for guides, cooks and porters
• Alcoholic and soft drinks
• Personal expenses
• Laundry services
• Items of a personal nature

Best Time to Climb

The Lemosho Route can be climbed throughout the year, but the best climbing conditions are during:

• January – March (cooler temperatures with fewer climbers)
• June – October (dry season with excellent visibility)

The 8-day itinerary is generally considered the optimal choice because it provides better acclimatization and consistently achieves higher summit success rates than shorter schedules.