Lemosho Route
The Most Scenic and Successful Path to Kilimanjaro’s Summit!
Trekking Overview
Lemosho Route is one of the most scenic and less crowded trails to the summit of Mount Kilimanjaro. It offers breathtaking landscapes, diverse ecosystems, and a high summit success rate. The route begins on the western side of the mountain, crossing the Shira Plateau before merging with the Machame Route.
Trekking Analytics for Lemosho Route
Total Distance: ~70 km (43 miles)
Starting Elevation: ~2,100m (6,890ft)
Summit Elevation: 5,895m (19,341ft)
Success Rate: ~85% (7 Days), ~75% (6 Days)
Difficulty Level: Moderate to Challenging
Acclimatization: Better with a 7-day trek for a higher success rate
Lemosho Route, Best Time to Visit
January – March: Dry season, fewer crowds, cold at the summit
June – October: Peak climbing season, best weather conditions
November – December: Short rainy season, fewer climbers
Lemosho Route Trekking
Learn More about Lemosho Route Trekking!
Day 1: Londorossi Gate to Shira 1 Camp
Today your trek will begin at Londorossi Gate. Hike through lush rainforest, watching for wildlife. Emerge onto the Shira Plateau and reach Shira 1 Camp. Enjoy your first night on the mountain.
Day 2: Shira 1 Camp to Shira 2 Camp
Explore the vast Shira Plateau. Encounter unique high-altitude flora and dramatic landscapes. Reach Shira 2 Camp and acclimatize to the increasing elevation.
Day 3: Shira 2 Camp to Lava Tower, then Barranco Camp
Ascend to the Lava Tower for acclimatization, then descend to Barranco Camp. Experience diverse ecosystems and prepare for the challenging day ahead.
Day 4: Barranco Camp to Karanga Camp
Tackle the steep Barranco Wall. Enjoy stunning views from the top. Trek through alpine desert to reach Karanga Camp.
Day 5: Karanga Camp to Barafu Camp
Climb to Barafu Camp, your base for the summit attempt. Rest and prepare for the nighttime summit push.
Day 6: Summit Day – Barafu to Uhuru Peak, then to Millennium Camp
Start your summit climb around midnight. Reach Uhuru Peak at dawn. Celebrate your achievement, then descend to Millennium Camp for a well-deserved rest.
Day 7: Millennium Camp to Mweka Gate, Departure
Descend through the rainforest to Mweka Gate. Receive your summit certificate and bid farewell to the mountain. Transfer to your hotel or airport for departure.
Day 1: Londorossi Gate – Forest Camp
Your adventure begins at Londorossi Gate (2,385m/7,828ft). After registering, you’ll start your trek through a lush rainforest teeming with colorful birds, monkeys, and an abundance of plant life. Keep an eye out for towering fig trees and vibrant wildflowers adorning the trail. Highlight: Lush Rainforest
Day 2: Forest Camp – Shira Camp 1
Emerge from the rainforest and continue your ascent through rolling hills offering panoramic views. The landscape transforms from verdant forest to open moorland, dotted with heather and volcanic rock formations. Enjoy a delicious lunch prepared by your guides and take in the beauty of this diverse environment. Highlight: Diverse Landscapes
Day 3: Shira Camp 1 – Shira Camp 2
Today is dedicated to exploring the vast Shira Plateau (3,500m-4,200m/11,483-13,779ft). Hike across this volcanic wonderland, encountering unique flora and fauna adapted to the high altitude. Look out for signs of volcanic activity like volcanic ash and dramatic rock formations. You might even spot lammergeyers, large birds of prey soaring majestically above. Highlight: Exploration Day
Day 4: Shira Camp 2 – Barranco Camp
Today’s scenic hike offers a gradual ascent, allowing your body to further acclimatize to the increasing altitude. Traverse through semi-desert terrain with sparse vegetation and enjoy breathtaking views of the surrounding mountains. As you reach higher elevations, the air becomes cooler, so be sure to dress in layers. Highlight: Acclimatization Hike
Day 5: Barranco Camp – Karanga Camp
Gear up for a challenging yet rewarding section – the Barranco Wall. This dramatic climb involves navigating a steep ridge with stunning views of the valley below. Take your time, enjoy the fresh mountain air, and be rewarded with panoramic vistas as you reach the top. Highlight: Barranco Wall
Day 6: Karanga Camp – Barafu Camp
Start your summit climb around midnight. Reach Uhuru Peak at dawn. Celebrate your achievement, then descend to Millennium Camp for a well-deserved rest.
Day 7: Barafu Camp – Uhuru Peak – Mweka Camp
Begin a pre-dawn summit push, typically starting around midnight. Headlamps will illuminate your path as you ascend through challenging terrain in the darkness. The climb is demanding, but the reward is unparalleled. Reach Uhuru Peak (5,895m/19,341ft), the highest point in Africa, and witness a breathtaking sunrise above the clouds. After celebrating your achievement, descend to Mweka Camp (3,080m/10,105ft) for a well-deserved rest. Highlight: Summit Day & Descent
Day 8: Mweka Camp – Mweka Gate
Today marks the final leg of your journey. Descend through the rainforest ecosystem, retracing your steps from day 1. Enjoy the lush vegetation and the refreshing change in temperature. Upon reaching Mweka Gate (1,630m/5,348ft), celebrate your incredible accomplishment with your fellow climbers and guides. Receive your summit certificate and reflect on the unforgettable memories of your Kilimanjaro adventure. Highlight: Celebrate Your Triumph
Packing List for Trekking Mount Kilimanjaro
Packing the right gear is essential for a successful and comfortable Kilimanjaro trek. Below is a comprehensive list of what you need to bring:
- Clothing
- Base Layers: Moisture-wicking thermal tops and bottoms (2–3 sets).
- Insulating Layers: Fleece or down jacket for warmth.
- Outer Shell: Waterproof and windproof jacket and pants.
- Trekking Pants & Shirts: Lightweight, breathable, and quick-drying.
- Gloves: Thin inner gloves and insulated waterproof gloves.
- Hat & Balaclava: Warm hat for cold weather, sun hat for protection.
- Gaiters: To keep dirt, mud, and snow out of boots.
- Socks: 3–4 pairs of moisture-wicking trekking socks and thick thermal socks.
- Footwear
- Trekking Boots: Waterproof, well-broken-in hiking boots with good ankle support.
- Camp Shoes: Lightweight sandals or sneakers for relaxing at camp.
- Sleeping Gear
- Sleeping Bag: Rated for -10°C to -20°C (4-season, down or synthetic).
- Sleeping Mat: Optional but useful for extra comfort.
- Backpacks & Bags
- Daypack (20–30L): For carrying daily essentials.
- Duffel Bag (90L–100L): For porters to carry your gear.
- Dry Bags: For keeping electronics and clothes dry.
- Accessories
- Trekking Poles: Adjustable, lightweight poles for stability.
- Headlamp: With extra batteries.
- Sunglasses: UV-protection, polarized.
- Water Bottles & Hydration System: 3L total capacity.
- Snacks: Energy bars, nuts, and dried fruits for quick energy.
- Personal Hygiene & Toiletries
- Toothbrush & Toothpaste
- Biodegradable Wet Wipes & Hand Sanitizer
- Lip Balm & Sunscreen (SPF 50+)
- Small Quick-Dry Towel
- Toilet Paper & Travel Tissues
- First Aid & Medications
- Personal Prescriptions
- Painkillers (Ibuprofen or Paracetamol)
- Altitude Sickness Medication (Diamox – consult your doctor first)
- Blister Plasters & Bandages
- Electrolyte Tablets & Rehydration Salts
- Documents & Money
- Passport & Copy
- Tanzania Visa
- Yellow Fever Vaccination Card (if required)
- Travel Insurance (including high-altitude trekking coverage)
- Cash (USD for tips and incidentals)
- Final Tips
✔ Layering is key! The weather varies from hot to freezing, so dress in layers.
✔ Pack light but efficiently! Porters carry most of your gear, but keep your daypack essentials with you.
✔ Break in your boots! Avoid blisters by wearing them on practice hikes.
✔ Stay hydrated! Carry and drink at least 3 liters of water per day.
#By packing smart, you’ll ensure a safer, more comfortable, and enjoyable trek to the Roof of Africa!
Prices for Lemosho Route
| Number of People | 1 pax | 2 pax | 3 pax | 4 pax | 5 pax | 6 pax | 7 pax | 8+ pax |
| 7 Days | $1950 | $1910 | $1870 | $1840 | $1810 | $1740 | $1700 | $1660 |
| 8 Days | $2228 | $2208 | $2188 | $2168 | $2148 | $2128 | $2108 | $2088 |
Transparent Pricing
Know What's Included & Excluded for a Hassle-Free Adventure!
- Moshi/Arusha Stays: 2 comfy nights in a hotel before & after your climb.
- Transport Covered: Rides to & from the mountain starting point.
- Park Fees Included: Permits, camping/hut fees & park taxes included.
- Expert Team: Guides, assistants, cooks & porters for support.
- Emergency Oxygen: Available for safety (not for regular use).
- Camping Gear: Tents, sleeping pads, shared dining area with lights.
- Mountain Meals: Delicious & nutritious food to fuel your adventure.
- Flights & Visas: These are separate, make a plan to arrange them yourself.
- Meals at Hotel: Accommodation is on B&B plan, lunch and dinner are on you.
- Personal Gear: Pack what you need for the climb. Contact us for a detailed packing list.
- Gratitude is Golden: Tips for the crew are welcome!
Lemosho Route - Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Everything You Need to Know for a Successful Kilimanjaro Climb!
Why Choose the Lemosho Route?
How Long Does the Lemosho Route Take?
What Is the Difficulty Level of Lemosho Route?
How Fit Do I Need to Be to Climb the Lemosho Route?
How Safe Is the Lemosho Route?
Do I Need a Guide to Trek the Lemosho Route?
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Lemosho Trekking
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