Climb Kilimanjaro Lemosho Route | Day By Day Description
Experience the adventure of a lifetime with our Kilimanjaro Lemosho Route climb, one of the most scenic and rewarding ways to reach Africa’s highest peak. Known for its breathtaking landscapes, gradual ascent, and excellent acclimatization profile, the Lemosho Route offers the highest success rate of all Kilimanjaro routes.
Starting on the western slopes of Mount Kilimanjaro, this route takes you through lush rainforest, expansive Shira Plateau, and dramatic alpine deserts before summiting Uhuru Peak (5,895 m). Along the way, trekkers enjoy panoramic views, fewer crowds, and a truly immersive wilderness experience.
Guided by our expert team at Hike Kilimanjaro, you’ll enjoy high-quality camping, nutritious meals, and professional support every step of the way. The Lemosho Route is perfect for those seeking a scenic, less-traveled path to the summit, combining adventure, safety, and the unmatched beauty of Tanzania’s most iconic mountain.
The Lemosho route on Kilimanjaro – a detailed day-by-day description
The Lemosho Route is one of the most beautiful and diverse ways to climb Mount Kilimanjaro. It combines stunning scenery with excellent acclimatization, making it one of the most successful routes to reach Uhuru Peak. This trail takes you through lush rainforest, open moorlands, and across the spectacular Shira Plateau, offering incredible views throughout the journey.
At Hike Kilimanjaro, we highlight why the Lemosho Route is ideal for climbers of all experience levels, from first-time trekkers to seasoned adventurers. Its gradual ascent and well-paced itinerary give you the best chance of a safe, enjoyable, and successful summit experience.
The Lemosho Route at a Glance
The Lemosho Route on Kilimanjaro spans approximately 70 km (43 miles) and offers a perfect balance between challenge and comfort, making it suitable for both first-time climbers and experienced trekkers. Compared to the other Kilimanjaro routes, it ranks as a moderate trail with a high success rate due to its gradual ascent and excellent acclimatization profile.
Introduced as a scenic alternative to the Shira Route, the Lemosho begins on the western side of Mount Kilimanjaro at a lower altitude, allowing for better adaptation to the mountain’s increasing elevation. Trekkers pass through lush rainforest, Afro-alpine moorland, and high alpine desert before entering the arctic zone near the summit, offering some of the most stunning and varied landscapes on the mountain.
The route joins the Machame Route near Lava Tower, following the Southern Circuit below Kibo’s glacial slopes before reaching Barafu Camp, the base for the summit attempt. Climbers begin their ascent around midnight, traversing the icy slopes of Kibo Peak to reach Uhuru Peak (5,895 m). The descent follows the Mweka Route, leading back down through the rainforest, completing one of the most beautiful and rewarding treks on Kilimanjaro.
The Seven- and Eight-Day Lemosho Routes
The Lemosho Route can be completed in either seven or eight days, with the extended version offering an extra day for better acclimatization and a more relaxed pace. This additional day greatly enhances your comfort and overall summit success rate.
The eight-day Lemosho Route is renowned for having one of the highest summit success rates on Kilimanjaro meaning the majority of climbers who take this itinerary successfully reach Uhuru Peak (5,895 m). In fact, the only route with a higher success rate is the nine-day Northern Circuit.
If your goal is to maximize your chances of reaching the summit while enjoying a balanced, scenic, and well-paced climb, the Lemosho Route is an excellent choice. Not sure which itinerary suits you best? Book with Hike Kilimanjaro, and our expert team will gladly guide you through every detail.
8-day Lemosho route map
Day-by-Day Route Description – 8-Day Lemosho Route
Embark on one of Kilimanjaro’s most scenic and rewarding adventures with the 8-Day Lemosho Route. Known for its gradual ascent, rich landscapes, and high summit success rate, this route offers climbers the perfect combination of challenge, beauty, and proper acclimatization.
Day 1: Lemosho Gate to Mti Mkubwa (Big Tree Camp)
Elevation: 2,100 m → 2,895 m
Distance: 6 km / 4 miles
Hiking Time: 3–4 hours
Zone: Rainforest
Your journey begins at Londorossi Gate for park registration, followed by a short drive to Lemosho Gate the starting point of the trek. A gentle hike through dense rainforest brings you to Mti Mkubwa Camp, where you’ll enjoy your first night on the mountain under the stars.
Day 2: Mti Mkubwa to Shira 1 Camp
Elevation: 2,895 m → 3,505 m
Distance: 8 km / 5 miles
Hiking Time: 5–6 hours
Zone: Moorland
After breakfast, you ascend gradually out of the rainforest into the heather and moorland zone. The trail crosses streams and open ridges, leading to Shira 1 Camp with sweeping views of the Shira Plateau and Western Breach.
Day 3: Shira 1 Camp to Moir Hut
Elevation: 3,505 m → 4,206 m
Distance: 6 km / 4 miles
Hiking Time: 6–7 hours
Zone: Moorland
Today’s trek takes you across the expansive Shira Plateau, offering panoramic views and a first glimpse of Kilimanjaro’s upper slopes. You’ll encounter rare high-altitude plants such as giant lobelias and groundsels before reaching Moir Hut for overnight rest.
Day 4: Moir Hut to Lava Tower to Barranco Camp
This is your key acclimatization day “climb high, sleep low.”
Part 1: Moir Hut to Lava Tower
Elevation: 4,206 m → 4,630 m
Distance: 8 km / 5 miles
Hiking Time: 4–6 hours
You hike toward Lava Tower, a striking volcanic formation at 4,630 m, where lunch is served amid breathtaking views.
Part 2: Lava Tower to Barranco Camp
Elevation: 4,630 m → 3,976 m
Distance: 3 km / 2 miles
Hiking Time: 2–3 hours
Afterwards, you descend to Barranco Camp, situated below the dramatic Barranco Wall, a favourite stop known for its incredible sunset views.
Day 5: Barranco Camp to Karanga Camp
Elevation: 3,976 m → 3,995 m
Distance: 5 km / 3 miles
Hiking Time: 4–5 hours
Zone: Alpine Desert
Today, you conquer the famous Barranco Wall, a steep but non-technical climb that rewards you with magnificent views above the clouds. The trail continues with gentle ups and downs to reach Karanga Camp, a key acclimatization stop.
Day 6: Karanga Camp to Barafu Camp
Elevation: 3,995 m → 4,673 m
Distance: 4 km / 2 miles
Hiking Time: 3 hours
Zone: Alpine Desert
A short, steady hike brings you to Barafu Camp, your base camp for the summit attempt. Enjoy an early dinner and rest as you prepare for the midnight climb to Uhuru Peak.
Day 7: Barafu Camp to Uhuru Peak to Mweka Camp
Part 1: Barafu Camp to Uhuru Peak
Elevation: 4,673 m → 5,895 m
Distance: 5 km / 3 miles
Hiking Time: 6–8 hours
Zone: Arctic
Summit day! You’ll start your climb around midnight, reaching Stella Point at sunrise and then pushing onward to Uhuru Peak (5,895 m), the Roof of Africa.
Part 2: Uhuru Peak to Mweka Camp
Elevation: 5,895 m → 3,068 m
Distance: 12 km / 7 miles
Hiking Time: 6–8 hours
After celebrating your summit, descend through varied terrain to Mweka Camp for your final night on the mountain.
Day 8: Mweka Camp to Mweka Gate
Elevation: 3,068 m → 1,640 m
Distance: 10 km / 6 miles
Hiking Time: 3 hours
Zone: Rainforest
A short trek through lush rainforest brings you to Mweka Gate, where you’ll sign out and receive your Kilimanjaro summit certificate, a lasting reminder of your incredible journey.
Our Opinion on the Lemosho Route
At Hike Kilimanjaro, we consider the Lemosho Route one of the most rewarding treks on Mount Kilimanjaro. It offers diverse landscapes, excellent acclimatization, and a high summit success rate. From the quiet rainforest approach to the panoramic Shira Plateau and dramatic Southern Circuit, it captures every aspect of Kilimanjaro’s natural beauty.
If you’re looking for the perfect balance of scenery, comfort, and summit success, the 8-Day Lemosho Route ticks every box.
What Makes the Lemosho Route Special
The Lemosho Route is often called Kilimanjaro’s most beautiful trail. The journey begins in lush rainforest, where you might even spot monkeys or antelopes, and then crosses the dramatic Shira Plateau, one of the largest high-altitude plateaus in the world. From here, trekkers enjoy unforgettable sunrises, sunsets, and views of the Shira Cathedral and Kibo Peak.
Descending via the Mweka Route gives you an entirely new perspective, showcasing different landscapes and ensuring that no part of your trek feels repetitive.
How Hard Is the Lemosho Route?
Climbing Kilimanjaro through the Lemosho Route requires a good level of fitness, as no route to Africa’s highest peak is truly easy. However, compared to the steeper and shorter options like the Umbwe Route, Lemosho offers a more gradual ascent that gives climbers an excellent chance to adapt to altitude safely.
The eight-day Lemosho itinerary is especially recommended because it provides ideal acclimatization opportunities. Its steady incline and “climb high, sleep low” strategy allow your body to adjust gradually, making the overall experience more manageable and enjoyable.
Thanks to its balanced terrain, extended duration, and strategic acclimatization profile, the Lemosho Route boasts one of the highest summit success rates on Kilimanjaro, second only to the Northern Circuit. It’s an excellent choice for trekkers seeking a scenic, rewarding, and achievable path to Uhuru Peak.
How Busy Is the Lemosho Route?
The Lemosho Route is one of the most popular trails on Kilimanjaro, attracting many climbers for its breathtaking scenery and excellent acclimatization profile. During the first few days, the trail remains relatively quiet as it winds through the lush rainforest on the western slopes.
From Day 4 onward, when the route merges with the Machame trail near Lava Tower, you may start to see more trekkers, especially during the high season. Despite this, the Lemosho Route still offers a peaceful and immersive experience, balancing natural beauty with a rewarding sense of adventure.
What Does the Lemosho Route Cost?
The Lemosho Route is available as an 8-day Kilimanjaro climb, with prices starting from US$2,890 per person sharing for a full-service package. This includes all park fees, professional mountain guides, meals, camping equipment, and two nights of comfortable accommodation in Arusha or Moshi, one before and one after your trek.
If you prefer a private tent or upgraded lodging options, additional costs apply. Every expedition is fully customizable, allowing you to choose between standard, semi-luxury, or luxury Kilimanjaro experiences depending on your preferences and budget.
To learn more about pricing details and inclusions, explore our Lemosho Route Kilimanjaro package or contact Hike Kilimanjaro for a personalized quotation.
Keen to Explore More of Tanzania?
After conquering Mount Kilimanjaro, extend your adventure with a luxury Tanzania safari, the perfect way to unwind while witnessing Africa’s most iconic wildlife across the Serengeti, Ngorongoro Crater, Tarangire, and Lake Manyara. You can also relax on the pristine beaches of Zanzibar Island, an ideal post-trek paradise for sun, sea, and culture.
For those with limited time, consider a few exciting day trips around the Kilimanjaro region: visit a Maasai village, enjoy a coffee tour, or take a refreshing dip in the Kikuletwa Hot Springs. Each experience offers a genuine glimpse into Tanzania’s beauty and culture, perfectly complementing your mountain journey.
Share Your Article:
Make your dream trip come true with Hike Kilimanjaro .
5/5
Based on 100+ reviews
4.9
Based on 60+ reviews
Customized Travel Proposal
At Hike Kilimanjaro, you can tailor your trip to your preferences. Our sample itineraries are customizable, and our specialists work with you to create your dream trip!
Related posts
These full and frank reviews are from travelers who have traveled with Hike Kilimanjaro previously. The reviews and experiences shown here are from reputable travel websites like TripAdvisor, Google, Facebook, and Trust Pilot, etc.
Speak to an Expert
Need assistance with your booking? Our friendly Tanzania-based expert team is here to help. Feel free to reach out with any travel-related questions or concerns.
Maxon
- WhatsApp +255 692 406 444
