8 Day Kilimanjaro Lemosho Trek | Group Join
8 Day Kilimanjaro Lemosho Trek
USD 2,895 / person
Join our unforgettable Kilimanjaro Group Climb 8 Days Lemosho Route, including 2 nights’ hotel accommodation in Arusha. This scenic and less-crowded route offers incredible views, gradual acclimatization, and the chance to summit with the support of expert local guides and a small, friendly group. Perfect for trekkers looking to share the adventure and reduce costs without compromising quality.
Tanzania
10 Days
Challenging
Trekking/Hiking
5,895m (19,341 ft)
Jun-Oct, Dec-March
Hotel & Camping
Included
Kilimanjaro Airport
Country
Tanzania
10 Days
Challenging
Trekking / Hiking
5,895m (19,341 ft)
Jun-Oct, Dec-March
Hotel & Camping
Included
Trip Highlights
- Climb Mount Kilimanjaro, Africa’s highest peak, for an unforgettable adventure.
- Enjoy breathtaking aerial views of Mount Kilimanjaro and the Tanzanian landscape upon arrival.
- Trek through varied landscapes, from lush rainforests to alpine deserts.
- Enjoy breathtaking panoramic views at iconic landmarks like Shira Plateau and Barranco Wall.
- See the striking glaciers and ice fields close to Kilimanjaro’s summit.
- Experience the vibrant culture and traditions of the Chagga people.
- Take on the challenging and rewarding climb to Uhuru Peak (5,895 m), Africa’s highest point.
8 Day Kilimanjaro Lemosho Trek Overview
Embark on the adventure of a lifetime with our Kilimanjaro Lemosho Route – 8 Days Group Join Trek, featuring 8 days and 7 nights on the mountain, plus 2 nights of hotel accommodation in Arusha. This group trek offers the perfect blend of affordability, safety, and camaraderie, ideal for solo travelers or small parties looking to join others on the journey to the Roof of Africa.
The Lemosho Route is widely considered the most scenic trail on Mount Kilimanjaro. With its remote western approach, low traffic, and slow, steady altitude gain, it’s recognized for having one of the highest summit success rates of all Kilimanjaro routes. As you ascend, you’ll hike through lush rainforest, surreal moorland, expansive alpine desert, and finally approach the glacier fields near Uhuru Peak (5,895 m), Africa’s highest point.
By joining one of our small group departures, you’ll share the trail with fellow adventurers while being fully supported by our trusted Kilimanjaro guides, experienced porters, and skilled mountain chefs. Our WFR-certified leaders ensure your trek is both safe and enriching, with daily health checks and nutritious meals to fuel each day’s climb.
Your journey begins and ends with 2 nights in a comfortable hotel in Arusha, allowing time to rest, acclimate, and prepare. Airport transfers are included, along with gear checks, pre-trek briefings, and support from our friendly logistics team.
Whether you’re new to high-altitude trekking or a seasoned hiker, this Lemosho Route – 8 Days Group Join Trek delivers an unforgettable Kilimanjaro experience, combining epic landscapes, expert leadership, and a high chance of success.
8 Day Kilimanjaro Lemosho Trek Itinerary
Day 01: Arrival in Tanzania
On arrival at Kilimanjaro International Airport (JRO), a Hike Kilimanjaro Ltd representative will greet you and transfer you to Planet Lodge in Arusha or a similar lodge. After check-in, you’ll have a full briefing with your guide, including a gear check to ensure you’re ready for the trek.
- Overnight at Planet Lodge
- Breakfast included
Note: The pre-trip briefing will take place at our office if you arrive before 4:00 PM, and at your hotel if you arrive later in the evening. Please ensure you bring a copy of your passport and a readable copy of your travel insurance policy to the meeting. These documents are required for us to obtain your trekking permits and complete necessary documentation for the trek.
Please also note that hotel check-in is from midday (12:00 PM). If your flight arrives early in the morning, kindly let us know in advance. We can arrange a day-use room for you, or, if you prefer, we can organize some short activities to keep you engaged until your check-in time.
Day 02: Arusha – Lemosho Gate (2,100 m) – Mti Mkubwa Camp (2,820 m)
After breakfast, we depart Arusha and drive to Lemosho Gate (approx. 3-4 hours). Upon arrival, registration with the park authorities is completed, and we begin our trek through the lush rainforest, home to black and white colobus monkeys. We gradually ascend to Mti Mkubwa Camp for our first night on the mountain.
- Hiking Time: 3–4 hours
- Distance: 7 km
- Elevation Gain:720 m
- Overnight at Mti Mkubwa Camp
- Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner included
Day 03: Mti Mkubwa Camp – Shira Camp 1 (3,500 m)
The trail leads us out of the rainforest and into the heather and moorland zone. We ascend steadily, with amazing views of the Shira Plateau. By afternoon, we reach Shira Camp 1, where you can relax and enjoy the expansive views.
- Hiking Time: 5–6 hours
- Distance: 8 km
- Elevation Gain: 680 m
- Overnight at Shira Camp 1
- Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner included
Day 04: Shira 1 Camp (3,505 m) - Shira 2 Camp (3,900 m)
Today’s trek takes us from Shira 1 Camp (3,505 m) to Shira 2 Camp (3,900 m) as we explore the vast Shira Plateau, one of the highest plateaus on Earth. The route is a gentle walk eastward across open moorland meadows, offering expansive views and a relatively easy pace for acclimatization. In the afternoon, there is an optional hike to Shira Cathedral, located at the base of the Lent Hills. This less-traveled site offers excellent opportunities for acclimatization, with a variety of scenic walks around the hills. The gradual elevation gain and open landscapes make this day both relaxing and beneficial for altitude adjustment.
- Hiking Time: 3–4 hours
- Distance: 10 km
- Elevation Gain: 450 m
- Elevation Loss: 55 m
- Overnight at Barranco Camp
- Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner included
Day 05: Shira Camp 2 - Lava Tower (4,630m) - Barranco Camp (3,960m)
Today is a key acclimatization day. We ascend to Lava Tower for lunch at 4,630 m before descending to Barranco Camp, located below the Barranco Wall. This “climb high, sleep low” strategy helps your body adjust to the altitude.
- Hiking Time: 6–7 hours
- Distance: 10 km
- Elevation Gain: 730 m
- Elevation Loss: 670 m
- Overnight at Barranco Camp
- Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner included
Day 06: Barranco Camp – Karanga Camp (4,035 m)
We start the day by conquering the impressive Barranco Wall, a challenging but rewarding scramble with breathtaking views. We then continue through alpine valleys to Karanga Camp. The afternoon is for rest and acclimatization.
- Hiking Time: 4–5 hours
- Distance: 5 km
- Elevation Gain: 75 m
- Overnight at Karanga Camp
- Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner included
Day 07: Karanga Camp – Barafu Camp (4,640 m)
After a leisurely breakfast, we ascend to Barafu Camp, our base camp for the summit push. We arrive early to rest, hydrate, and prepare for the midnight ascent to Uhuru Peak.
- Hiking Time: 3–4 hours
- Distance: 4 km
- Elevation Gain: 605 m
- Overnight at Barafu Camp
- Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner included
Day 08: Barafu Camp – Uhuru Peak (5,895m) – Millennium Camp (3,820m)
We begin our summit attempt around midnight, climbing slowly but steadily toward Stella Point (5,739 m) and onward to Uhuru Peak, the highest point in Africa. After celebrating your achievement and taking unforgettable photos at the summit, we descend back to Barafu Camp for a short rest before continuing down to Millennium Camp.
- Hiking Time: 12–14 hours
- Distance: 15 km
- Elevation Gain: 1,255 m
- Elevation Loss: 2,075 m
- Overnight at Millennium Camp
- Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner included
Day 09: Millennium Camp – Mweka Gate (1,640 m) – Arusha
On your final day, you’ll descend through the lush montane rainforest, soaking in the sights and sounds of Kilimanjaro’s vibrant lower slopes. The trail can be muddy and slippery, especially if it has rained, so trekking poles and caution are advised.
Once you arrive at Mweka Gate, you’ll receive your well-earned summit certificate from the Kilimanjaro National Park authorities a proud moment marking your successful climb to Uhuru Peak. Your Hike Kilimanjaro driver will be waiting to greet you and transfer you to Mweka Village, where you’ll enjoy a freshly prepared picnic hot lunch en route.
After lunch, continue the return journey to either Arusha or Moshi. This marks the perfect time to reflect on your unforgettable experience and celebrate your accomplishment of conquering Africa’s highest peak.
- Hiking Time: 4–5 hours
- Distance: 10 km
- Elevation Loss: 2,180 m
- Overnight at Planet Lodge or similar
- Breakfast included
Day 10: Departure Day
After breakfast, depending on your flight schedule, you will be transferred to Kilimanjaro International Airport (JRO) for your departure.
- Breakfast included
Note:
Check-out time at the hotel is 10:00 AM. If your flight is scheduled for the evening or night, you may book a day-use room to rest and freshen up before your departure. Please inform us in advance if you would like us to reserve a room for you.
Additional Information
• Confirmation will be provided at the time of booking.
• This safari operates throughout the year.
• A valid passport copy is required.
• Travel insurance is highly recommended.
• Comfortable safari clothing and walking shoes are advised.
• Please bring sunscreen, sunglasses, a hat, camera, and binoculars.
• Wildlife sightings cannot be guaranteed, but chances are excellent year-round.
• Optional Hot Air Balloon Safari: USD 550 per person.
• Optional flight from Serengeti to Zanzibar: USD 250 per person.
• International flights, Tanzania visa fees, tips, and personal expenses are not included.
The best airport to fly into is Kilimanjaro International Airport (JRO). Located about 45 km from Moshi and 50 km from Arusha, it is the most convenient airport for climbers.
Hike Kilimanjaro Ltd can arrange airport transfers from Kilimanjaro International Airport to your hotel and back. Please note that transfers are available at an additional cost—just let us know your flight details in advance, and we’ll handle the rest.
Alternative Airports
If you cannot find a flight directly to Kilimanjaro International Airport, you may also consider flying to:
- Nairobi International Airport (NBO) – Kenya
- Julius Nyerere International Airport (DAR) – Dar es Salaam, Tanzania
From these airports, you can connect to Kilimanjaro by either:
- A connecting flight to Kilimanjaro International Airport (JRO)
- A shuttle bus or private transfer to Moshi or Arusha, where your trek begins
For convenience, Nairobi is closer to Kilimanjaro than Dar es Salaam, and often offers more international flight options at competitive prices.
International Flights to Kilimanjaro Airport (JRO)
Several major airlines offer direct flights to Kilimanjaro International Airport:
| Airline | Route |
|---|---|
| KLM | Amsterdam → Kilimanjaro |
| Condor | Frankfurt → Kilimanjaro |
| Turkish Airlines | Istanbul → Kilimanjaro |
| Kenya Airways | Nairobi → Kilimanjaro |
| Precision Air | Nairobi → Kilimanjaro |
| Qatar Airways | Doha → Kilimanjaro |
| Ethiopian Airlines | Addis Ababa → Kilimanjaro |
| RwandAir | Kigali → Kilimanjaro |
If direct flights are not available from your location, you can also book flights via Dar es Salaam or Nairobi, then connect to Kilimanjaro.
Domestic Flights within Tanzania
For flights within Tanzania, the following airlines operate regular domestic services:
- Precision Air
- Air Tanzania
- Fly540
- Regional Air
- ZanAir
- Coastal Aviation
- Air Excel
Bus Transfers
We can also arrange shuttle bus services between Nairobi, Arusha, and Moshi. These are available daily for an additional fee.
Sample Shuttle Schedule (subject to change):
| Route | Departure | Arrival |
|---|---|---|
| Nairobi → Arusha | 08:00 | 14:00 |
| Nairobi → Arusha | 14:00 | 18:30 |
| Nairobi → Moshi | 08:00 | 15:30 |
| Moshi → Nairobi | 06:00 | 14:00 |
| Arusha → Nairobi | 08:00 | 14:00 |
| Moshi → Nairobi | 10:30 | 18:30 |
| Arusha → Nairobi | 14:00 | 18:30 |
Private Transfers
For added comfort and flexibility, private transfers can also be arranged between:
- Nairobi ↔ Arusha / Moshi
- Dar es Salaam ↔ Arusha / Moshi
- Mombasa ↔ Arusha / Moshi
Private transfers are available at an extra cost. Contact us for current rates and arrangements.
Check Availability
Price Includes
- Airport transfers (to and from Kilimanjaro International Airport)
- Two nights hotel accommodation in Arusha (one night before and one night after the trek, with breakfast included)
- All park entry fees, camping fees, and rescue fees
- Professional, experienced mountain guides (Wilderness First Responder certified)
- Assistant guides, cooks, and porters to support you throughout the trek
- Private portable toilet for group use on the mountain
- Emergency oxygen cylinder carried on the trek for safety purposes
- Pulse oximeter monitoring (daily health checks)
- Comfortable, high-quality, four-season mountain tents (shared by two climbers)
- Sleeping mattress
- All meals during the trek (breakfast, lunch, dinner), freshly prepared by our mountain chef
- Drinking water (filtered and treated)
- Table and chairs for meals at camp
- Mess tent for dining and shelter
- Summit certificate from Kilimanjaro National Park
- Fair wages for guides, cooks, and porters (following Kilimanjaro Porter Assistance Project guidelines)
- Transfer to and from the Kilimanjaro National Park gate
- Pre-climb briefing with your guide
Price Excludes
- International airfare to and from Tanzania
- Tanzania entry visa fees
- Travel insurance (mandatory and must cover high-altitude trekking and emergency evacuation)
- Tips for guides, porters, and cooks (recommended guidelines will be provided)
- Personal trekking gear (sleeping bags, trekking poles, etc.)
- Lunch and dinner in Arusha (except breakfast at the hotel)
- Additional hotel nights beyond those included in the itinerary (if required)
- Personal expenses (such as souvenirs, snacks, and laundry)
- Beverages other than those served with meals (soft drinks, alcohol)
- Optional activities or excursions before or after your trek
- Half-day room use if your departure flight is late and you wish to rest after check-out (available at extra cost)
- Portable power banks or solar chargers for electronic devices
Packing List for 8 Day Kilimanjaro Lemosho Trek
To ensure a safe and comfortable trek with Hike Kilimanjaro Ltd, we recommend the following essential gear and equipment. Proper preparation is key to enjoying your climb and reaching the summit successfully.
- Sun hat or cap (wide-brimmed or with neck cover is ideal)
- Knitted hat / Beanie (for warmth at higher altitudes)
- Scarf / Neck Gaiter / Buff (highly recommended for dust, wind, and cold)
- Headlamp (with extra batteries – essential for summit night)
- Sunglasses (with high UV protection and polarized lenses)
Torso (Upper Body Clothing)
- Technical fabric base layers (1 light for warmer days, 1 heavier for cold conditions; synthetic or merino wool preferred)
- Technical trekking shirts – 2 short-sleeve and 2 long-sleeve (breathable, moisture-wicking)
- Fleece jacket or pullover (for insulation during cool evenings and mornings)
- Insulated down or synthetic jacket (optional but highly recommended for extra warmth on summit night)
- Waterproof and windproof shell jacket (with hood; Gore-Tex or similar material to protect against rain and wind)
Lower Body (Legwear)
- Technical fabric base layer leggings (lightweight for warmer days, heavier thermal for cold nights)
- Hiking pants (2 pairs; lightweight, quick-dry, and breathable)
- Comfortable pants (for relaxing at camp and sleeping, such as joggers or fleece pants)
- Waterproof and windproof shell pants (to wear over hiking pants in rain or high winds; essential)
- Hiking shorts (optional – for the lower, warmer sections of the mountain)
Hands
- Lightweight liner gloves (wool or technical fabric; good for mild conditions and as a base layer)
- Insulated outer gloves or mittens (waterproof and windproof; essential for summit night and cold weather)
Feet
- Warm socks (wool or technical fabric; essential for cold nights and summit day)
- Hiking socks (several pairs; moisture-wicking and breathable)
- Liner socks (optional, such as silk or synthetic, to help prevent blisters)
- Trekking/Hiking boots (waterproof, insulated, and well broken-in)
- Ice Cleats / Micro Spikes (recommended from December to February) – helpful for icy or slippery conditions on the higher slopes.
- Casual shoes (for wearing around camp after trekking, such as sneakers or slip-ons)
- Gaiters (lightweight for dust or heavy-duty for snow during the wet season)
- Tip: Bring enough socks to change regularly, keeping your feet dry and blister-free.
- Note: Our guides carry a basic first aid kit and essential medications during the trek. However, we highly recommend bringing your own personal kit with any specific items you may need.)
- Sunscreen (SPF 30 or higher; essential for high-altitude sun exposure)
- Lip balm (with SPF protection)
- Antiseptic ointment (for cuts, blisters, or minor wounds)
- Cough syrup (dry air and cold temperatures can irritate the throat)
- Mosquito repellent (for lower elevations or time spent before/after the trek)
- Tip: Always consult with your doctor before traveling to ensure you have the right medications for high-altitude trekking.
Other Essentials
- Passport (valid, with necessary visas)
- Reusable water bottles (2 bottles of 1L each are recommended)
- Hydration bladder (like a CamelBak, 2–3L capacity, useful for summit night)
- Water purification tablets or UV water purifier (optional, as filtered water is provided, but good as backup)
- Toiletry kit (toothbrush, toothpaste, wet wipes, hand sanitizer, etc.)
- Quick-dry towel (small or medium size)
- High-protein snacks (such as energy bars, trail mix, or nuts).
- Waterproof/dry bags (to protect important documents, electronics, and money)
- Airline tickets (Please leave a copy of your flight details with our office for coordination and in case of schedule changes.)
- Tip: Always keep important documents in sealed, waterproof pouches to protect them from rain and moisture.
Optional
Once you are in Tanzania, you have the option to rent all necessary gear from us or purchase supplies and hiking equipment if you have spare time before your trek. Our guide will be happy to assist you in finding and buying any required gear.
Important Luggage and Gear Information
Each participant may bring one duffel bag weighing 10–14 kg, which our porters will carry during the trek.
You’ll also need a daypack (with a waterproof cover) for essentials like cash, documents, water, camera, snacks, sunscreen, extra clothing layers, and personal items.
Any extra luggage not needed for trekking can be securely stored at your hotel in Arusha or Moshi.
Gear Rentals:
A down jacket with a hood (required above 4,000 m) and a high-altitude sleeping bag are available to rent from Hike Kilimanjaro Ltd. for USD 30 each.
All essential mountain gear can be rented as needed.
8 Day Kilimanjaro Lemosho Trek Map
Frequently Asked Questions
Is the 8 Day Kilimanjaro Lemosho Trek suitable for beginners?
Yes. If you are reasonably fit and prepare before your trip, the 8-day Lemosho Route is one of the best options for first-time climbers due to its gradual ascent and excellent acclimatization.
What is the success rate?
The 8-day Lemosho Route has one of the highest summit success rates on Kilimanjaro, often exceeding 90% with experienced guides and proper acclimatization.
Can I join if I'm traveling alone?
Absolutely. Most of our climbers are solo travelers who join our scheduled group departures.
How many kilometers is the 8 Days Lemosho Route?
The route covers approximately 70 kilometers (43 miles) from the starting point to the summit and descent.
Do I need previous climbing experience?
Tipping is customary on Kilimanjaro and supports your mountain crew. We provide recommended tipping guidelines before the climb.
What is the 8 Day Kilimanjaro Lemosho Trek?
The 8 Day Kilimanjaro Lemosho Trek is a scheduled group trekking tour that allows solo travelers, couples, and friends to climb Mount Kilimanjaro together. The package includes 8 days of trekking, 2 nights of hotel accommodation in Arusha, airport transfers, park fees, meals on the mountain, and professional guides.
What type of accommodation is used on the route?
Climbers stay in mountain tents throughout the trek, with a dedicated dining tent provided for meals.
What is the summit success rate on the 8 Days Lemosho Route?
The 8 Days Lemosho Route has one of the highest summit success rates on Mount Kilimanjaro, with many climbers achieving over a 90% success rate when climbing with experienced guides and following proper acclimatization procedures.
How difficult is the 8 Days Lemosho Route?
The trek is considered moderately challenging. No technical climbing experience is required, but you should be in good physical condition and prepare with regular hiking or cardiovascular exercise before your trip.
Can I experience altitude sickness on the Lemosho Route?
Altitude sickness can affect anyone regardless of age or fitness level. The route’s longer itinerary helps improve acclimatization and reduce risks.
What wildlife can be seen on the Lemosho Route?
During the early stages of the trek, climbers may spot monkeys, birds, buffalo, and occasionally elephants in the forest areas near the trailhead
Do I need previous hiking experience?
Previous hiking experience is helpful but not mandatory. Proper preparation and determination are often more important.
Is the 8 Days Lemosho Route suitable for beginners?
Yes. It is one of the best routes for first-time climbers because the longer itinerary allows more time for acclimatization, greatly improving your chances of reaching the summit.
Do I need travel insurance?
Yes. Comprehensive travel insurance that covers trekking up to 5,895 meters and emergency evacuation is mandatory for all climbers.
What is the best time to climb Kilimanjaro?
The best months to climb are January to March and June to October, when the weather is generally drier and offers clearer views of the mountain.
How much luggage can I bring?
Your duffel bag carried by the porters should weigh no more than 15 kg (33 lbs). You’ll also carry a small daypack containing water, snacks, and personal items needed during the day’s hike
What should I pack for the 8 Days Lemosho Route?
Essential items include layered clothing, waterproof gear, warm summit clothing, hiking boots, gloves, a sleeping bag, and personal medications.
How many porters and guides will accompany the group?
The number of guides and porters depends on the group size. Every climb is supported by licensed mountain guides, assistant guides, cooks, and enough porters to safely carry camping equipment, food, and personal luggage.
What happens if I experience altitude sickness?
Our experienced guides monitor your health daily using pulse oximeters and conduct regular wellness checks. Emergency oxygen is carried on every climb, and if necessary, the guides will arrange a safe descent following Kilimanjaro National Park safety procedures.
Why book your Kilimanjaro Group Climb with Hike Kilimanjaro?
Hike Kilimanjaro is a locally owned Tanzanian tour operator specializing in Mount Kilimanjaro climbs and Tanzania safaris. We provide experienced guides, high-quality equipment, excellent customer service, transparent pricing, and carefully planned itineraries that maximize your chances of reaching Uhuru Peak safely.
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.
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