Lemosho Route – Best for Scenery & Success
The Lemosho Route is widely regarded as the most scenic and rewarding path to climb Mount Kilimanjaro. Starting from the western side of the mountain, it offers panoramic views, diverse landscapes, and low traffic—especially in the early days. It also allows for excellent acclimatization, making it one of the most successful routes for reaching Uhuru Peak (5,895m).
Duration: 8 Days / 7 Nights (trekking)
Difficulty Level: Moderate
Highest Elevation: 5,895m (Uhuru Peak)
Starting Point: Londorossi Gate (Western Kilimanjaro)
Route Type: Camping, Traverse Route
Success Rate: Very High
Route Highlights
Begins in remote rainforest with chances of wildlife sightings
Crosses the stunning Shira Plateau
Excellent acclimatization profile
Climbs iconic Barranco Wall
Spectacular views of Kibo and surrounding plains
Less crowded, especially in early stages
📅 Itinerary Overview (8-Day Trek)
Day 1: Londorossi Gate to Mti Mkubwa (Big Tree Camp) – 2,820m
After park registration, begin the trek through dense forest.
⛺ Overnight at Big Tree Camp.
Day 2: Mti Mkubwa to Shira 1 Camp – 3,610m
Climb out of the forest and onto the Shira Plateau with vast open views.
⛺ Overnight at Shira 1 Camp.
Day 3: Shira 1 to Shira 2 Camp – 3,850m
Easy trek across the plateau. Great day for acclimatization and photography.
⛺ Overnight at Shira 2 Camp.
Day 4: Shira 2 to Barranco Camp (via Lava Tower – 4,640m)
Acclimatization day. Ascend to Lava Tower then descend to Barranco Camp.
⛺ Overnight at Barranco Camp.
Day 5: Barranco Camp to Karanga Camp – 4,035m
Climb the impressive Barranco Wall and trek to Karanga Valley.
⛺ Overnight at Karanga Camp.
Day 6: Karanga Camp to Barafu Camp – 4,640m
Short climb to high camp. Rest and prepare for summit attempt.
⛺ Overnight at Barafu Camp.
Day 7: Summit Day – Barafu to Uhuru Peak (5,895m), descend to Mweka Camp
Start at midnight to reach Uhuru Peak by sunrise. After celebrations, descend to Mweka Camp.
⛺ Overnight at Mweka Camp.
Day 8: Mweka Camp to Mweka Gate – 1,640m
Final descent through the forest. Receive summit certificates and return to Moshi or Arusha.
End of trek.
✅ What’s Included
Park fees, camping equipment, and conservation fees
Professional guides, cooks, and porters
All meals on the mountain (breakfast, lunch, dinner)
Clean drinking water, hot drinks, and snacks
Portable toilet (if included in package)
Daily health checks and emergency oxygen
Round-trip transfers to Londorossi Gate
Climbing certificate upon completion
❌ What’s Not Included
Flights and visa fees
Sleeping bags, trekking poles, and personal gear
Tips for guides and porters
Pre/post trek accommodation (can be arranged)
Personal travel insurance