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8 Days Lemosho Route

Recommended by 99% of travelers

USD 2,995 / person

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No. of People

Price per person

1 Pax $ 3,995
2 Pax $ 2,995
3 - 6 Pax $ 2,870
7 - 10 Pax $ 2,580
10+ Pax $ 2,520

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Mount Kilimanjaro Lemosho Route

Mount Kilimanjaro can be climbed via several established routes, including Marangu, Machame, Lemosho, Shira, Rongai, and Umbwe. Each route offers a unique trekking experience with different scenery, acclimatization profiles, and levels of difficulty. The Marangu, Machame, and Umbwe routes approach the mountain from the southern slopes, while the Lemosho and Shira routes begin on the western side. The Rongai Route starts from the northern side near the Kenya border. Most climbers descend via the Mweka Route after successfully reaching the summit.

Country

Tanzania

Duration

10 Days

Difficulty

Challenging

Activity

Trekking/Hiking

Max. altitude

5,895m (19,341 ft)

Best season

Jun-Oct, Dec-March

Accomodation

Hotel & Camping

Meals on Trek

Included

Start/End Point

Kilimanjaro Airport

Country

Tanzania

Duration

10 Days

Difficulty

Challenging

Activity

Trekking / Hiking

Max. altitude

5,895m (19,341 ft)

Best season

Jun-Oct, Dec-March

Accomodation

Hotel & Camping

Meals on Trek

Included

Tour Highlights

Gradual and well-paced ascent for excellent acclimatization and high summit success
Start from the remote western side of Mount Kilimanjaro with fewer crowds
Cross the stunning Shira Plateau, one of Africa’s most unique high-altitude landscapes
Climb to Lava Tower (4,600m) for optimal altitude adaptation
Conquer the famous Barranco Wall, a thrilling and rewarding highlight
Summit Uhuru Peak (5,895m), the highest point in Africa
Trek through rainforest, moorland, alpine desert, and glacial zones
Spectacular sunrise views from the summit above the clouds
Supported by expert local guides from Hike Kilimanjaro
Ideal for climbers seeking a balanced, scenic, and high-success route

Climbing Mount Kilimanjaro Lemosho Route

The Lemosho Route is widely regarded as one of the most scenic and successful routes on Mount Kilimanjaro. Beginning on the remote western side of the mountain at Londorossi Gate, this route offers a quieter and more exclusive trekking experience compared to other popular routes. The trail passes through pristine rainforest, expansive moorlands, and the stunning Shira Plateau before joining the southern circuit of the mountain.

One of the greatest advantages of the Lemosho Route is its excellent acclimatization profile. The longer itinerary allows climbers more time to adjust to the altitude, significantly increasing the chances of reaching Uhuru Peak (5,895m), the highest point in Africa. Along the way, trekkers are rewarded with spectacular views, diverse landscapes, and occasional wildlife sightings, including buffalo, antelope, and other animals found in the mountain’s lower forest zones.

The route continues through Lava Tower and Barranco Valley before approaching the summit via Barafu Camp. With its combination of breathtaking scenery, lower traffic, and high summit success rates, the Lemosho Route is considered one of the best ways to experience Mount Kilimanjaro.

Upon arrival at Kilimanjaro International Airport, you will be welcomed by a Hike Kilimanjaro representative and transferred to your hotel in Arusha Planet Lodge or similar accommodation for an overnight stay. Before your trek begins, your experienced mountain guide will conduct a detailed trip briefing, inspect your climbing gear, and assist with arranging any equipment rentals you may require for the adventure ahead.

8 Days Lemosho Route Tour Itinerary

Day 01: Arrival in Tanzania

Upon arrival at Kilimanjaro International Airport (JRO), a Hike Kilimanjaro Ltd representative will greet you and provide a transfer to Planet Lodge in Arusha or a similar lodge. After check-in, you will attend a comprehensive briefing with your guide, including a gear check to ensure you are fully prepared for the trek.

Note: Your pre-trek briefing will be conducted at our office for arrivals before 4:00 PM. For guests arriving later in the evening, the briefing will instead take place at your hotel.

Kindly bring a copy of your passport and a clear copy of your travel insurance policy. These are mandatory for securing your trekking permits and completing official park registration procedures.

Please be aware that hotel check-in begins at 12:00 PM. If you land early in the morning, inform us in advance. We can arrange a day-use room or organize optional short excursions while you wait for your room to be ready.

Day 2: Transfer to Lemosho Gate (2,100m) – Trek to Mti Mkubwa Camp (2,820m)

After breakfast, we depart Arusha for a scenic 3–4 hour drive to Lemosho Gate, the western entry point of Mount Kilimanjaro. Once park registration is completed, your trek officially begins in the lush rainforest, where towering trees and the calls of black-and-white colobus monkeys surround the trail. The path rises steadily and gently, allowing your body to adjust as we make our way to Mti Mkubwa Camp, where we spend our first night on the mountain.

tent accommodation during Kilimanjaro Lemosho Route Trek - 8 Days

mess on the mountain during Kilimanjaro Lemosho Route Trek - 8 Days

Day 3: Mti Mkubwa Camp to Shira Camp 1 (3,500m) – Trek Across the Shira Plateau

Leaving the dense rainforest behind, the trail gradually opens into the heather and moorland landscape, revealing wide skies and dramatic scenery. The steady ascent offers impressive views across the Shira Plateau as the vegetation becomes lower and more alpine. By afternoon, we arrive at Shira Camp 1, where you can unwind and take in the vast, open views stretching across the mountain.

Day 4: Shira Camp 1 (3,505m) to Shira Camp 2 (3,900m) – Crossing the Shira Plateau

Today’s journey takes us across the wide-open Shira Plateau as we trek from Shira Camp 1 (3,505m) to Shira Camp 2 (3,900m). This section is a steady, moderate walk eastward over rolling moorland, allowing for a comfortable pace that supports proper acclimatization. The expansive plateau offers sweeping mountain views and a true sense of high-altitude wilderness.

In the afternoon, you may choose to take an optional acclimatization hike toward Shira Cathedral near the Lent Hills, a quiet and less-visited area ideal for short elevation gains before returning to camp. The gradual increase in altitude combined with the open terrain makes this day both physically manageable and strategically important for adjusting to the mountain.

shira 2 during kilimanjaro lemosho route trek

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 5: Shira Camp 2 to Lava Tower (4,630m) – Descend to Barranco Camp (3,960m)

Today is an important acclimatization day on the mountain. We gradually ascend to Lava Tower (4,630m), where we stop for lunch and experience a higher altitude before descending. After spending time at elevation, we continue down to Barranco Camp (3,960m), set beneath the impressive Barranco Wall. This proven “climb high, sleep low” approach allows your body to adapt more effectively to the increasing altitude, improving your chances of a successful summit.

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 6: Barranco Camp to Karanga Camp (4,035m) – Overcoming the Barranco Wall

The day begins with the thrilling ascent of the Barranco Wall, a challenging yet highly rewarding scramble that offers stunning panoramic views. After conquering the wall, the trail winds through scenic alpine valleys as we make our way to Karanga Camp (4,035m). The afternoon is reserved for rest and further acclimatization, allowing your body to adjust comfortably to the increasing altitude.

barancco to karanga during kilimanjaro lemosho route trek

Day 7: Karanga Camp to Barafu Camp (4,640m) – Final Ascent Base Camp

After a relaxed breakfast, we begin the ascent from Karanga Camp to Barafu Camp (4,640m), the base for our summit attempt. Arriving early allows time to rest, rehydrate, and mentally prepare for the challenging midnight climb to Uhuru Peak.

karanga to barafu camp during Kilimanjaro Lemosho Route Trek - 8 Days

Day 8: Barafu Camp to Uhuru Peak (5,895m) – Descend to Millennium Camp (3,820m) – Summit Day

We begin our summit attempt around midnight, climbing slowly but steadily toward Stella Point (5,739m) and onward to Uhuru Peak, the highest point in Africa. After celebrating your achievement and capturing unforgettable summit photos, we descend to Barafu Camp for a short rest before continuing down to Millennium Camp (3,820m).

on the way to uhuru peak during Kilimanjaro Lemosho Route Trek - 8 Days

Kilimanjaro The Tallest Mountain in Africa

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 9: Millennium Camp to Mweka Gate (1,640m) – Return to Arusha

On your final day, you’ll descend through the lush montane rainforest, absorbing the sights and sounds of Kilimanjaro’s vibrant lower slopes. The trail may be muddy and slippery, particularly after rain, so trekking poles and careful footing are recommended.

Upon reaching Mweka Gate, you’ll be awarded your well-earned summit certificate from the Kilimanjaro National Park authorities a proud moment celebrating your successful climb to Uhuru Peak. Your Hike Kilimanjaro driver will be ready to transfer you to Mweka Village, where a freshly prepared picnic lunch awaits.

After lunch, continue the return journey to Arusha or Moshi, offering the perfect opportunity to reflect on your unforgettable adventure and celebrate your achievement of conquering Africa’s highest peak.

Day 10: Departure Day

After breakfast, and according to your flight schedule, you will be transferred to Kilimanjaro International Airport (JRO) for your departure, marking the conclusion of your unforgettable Kilimanjaro journey.

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 received at time of booking
This safari operates year-round.
A valid passport copy is required.
Travel insurance is highly recommended.
Comfortable safari clothing and walking shoes are recommended.
Bring sunscreen, sunglasses, hat, camera, and binoculars.
Wildlife sightings cannot be guaranteed but opportunities are excellent throughout the year.
Hot Air Balloon Safari available for an additional USD 550 per person.
Optional Serengeti to Zanzibar flight available for an additional USD 250 per person.
International flights are not included
Tanzania visa fees are not included.
Tips for your safari guide and lodge staff are not included.
Personal expenses are not included.

Cancellation Policy

More than 60 days before departure: Deposit refundable less bank charges.
30–59 days before departure: a 50% cancellation fee applies.
15–29 days before departure: 75% cancellation fee.
Less than 15 days before departure: a 100% cancellation fee applies.

Flight information

Flying to Mount Kilimanjaro – Airport and Transfer Guide

The most convenient airport for Kilimanjaro climbers is Kilimanjaro International Airport (JRO), located approximately 45 km from Moshi and 50 km from Arusha. Hike Kilimanjaro Ltd can arrange airport transfers between JRO and your hotel for a smooth start and end to your trek. Transfers are available at an additional cost. Simply provide your flight details in advance, and we’ll take care of the arrangements.

Alternative International Airports

If you cannot secure a direct flight to Kilimanjaro, consider flying into:

Nairobi International Airport (NBO), Kenya
Julius Nyerere International Airport (DAR), Dar es Salaam, Tanzania

From these airports, you can reach Kilimanjaro via:

A connecting flight to Kilimanjaro International Airport (JRO)
A shuttle bus or private transfer to Moshi or Arusha, where your trek begins

Tip: Nairobi is geographically closer to Kilimanjaro than Dar es Salaam and often provides more international flight options at competitive prices.

Direct International Flights to Kilimanjaro (JRO)

Several major airlines operate direct routes 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 no direct flights are available from your location, you can connect via Dar es Salaam or Nairobi.

Domestic Flights within Tanzania

For internal travel, the following airlines offer regular services:

Precision Air
Air Tanzania
Fly540
Regional Air
ZanAir
Coastal Aviation
Air Excel

Bus and Shuttle Transfers

Daily shuttle services can be arranged between Nairobi, Arusha, and Moshi for an additional fee. Sample schedules (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 maximum comfort and flexibility, private transfers can be arranged between:

Nairobi ↔ Arusha / Moshi
Dar es Salaam ↔ Arusha / Moshi
Mombasa ↔ Arusha / Moshi

Private transfers are available at an additional 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 Days Lemosho Route Tour

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.

Head & Neck Gear (Essential Accessories)

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

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)

First Aid Kits and Personal Medications

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)

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.)

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 is allowed one duffel bag, which should weigh between 10 to 14 kg.
This bag will be carried by our porters throughout the trek.

You will also need to carry your own daypack (with a waterproof cover) for daily essentials such as cash, important documents, water bottle or hydration bladder, camera, snacks, energy bars, toiletries, sunscreen, extra clothing layers, and other personal items.

Any extra luggage (non-trekking items) can be safely stored at your hotel in Arusha or Moshi during the trek.

Gear Rentals:

Down jacket with hood (mandatory above 4,000m): Available to rent from Hike Kilimanjaro Ltd. for USD 30
Sleeping bag (suitable for high-altitude cold conditions): Available to rent from Hike Kilimanjaro. for USD 30
Note: All essential mountain gear is available for rent.

8 Days Lemosho Route Tour Map

Frequently Asked Questions About the 8 Days Lemosho Route

Is the Lemosho Route the best route to climb Kilimanjaro?

The Lemosho Route is widely considered one of the best routes on Mount Kilimanjaro because it offers excellent acclimatization, spectacular scenery, lower trail traffic, and one of the highest summit success rates on the mountain.

What is the success rate of the 8 Days Lemosho Route?

The 8 Days Lemosho Route has an estimated summit success rate of 90–95% when climbed with experienced guides. The extra acclimatization day significantly improves climbers’

chances of reaching Uhuru Peak.

How difficult is the 8 Days Lemosho Route?

The route is rated as moderate to challenging. No technical climbing skills are required, but climbers should be prepared for multiple days of hiking at high altitude.

How long is the 8 Days Lemosho Route?

The route typically covers approximately 70 kilometers (43 miles) from Londorossi Gate to Mweka Gate, depending on the exact itinerary followed.

Why is the Lemosho Route more successful than other Kilimanjaro routes?

The longer itinerary allows for better acclimatization. Climbers gain altitude gradually, giving their bodies more time to adapt and reducing the risk of altitude sickness

What is the highest point reached on the Lemosho Route?

The highest point is Uhuru Peak at 5,895 meters (19,341 feet), the highest point in Africa and the summit of Mount Kilimanjaro.

What makes the Lemosho Route different from the Machame Route?

The Lemosho Route starts on the quieter western side of Kilimanjaro and offers more remote scenery during the first few days. It also provides better acclimatization opportunities before joining the Machame Route near Lava Tower.

Is the 8 Days Lemosho Route suitable for beginners?

Yes. While good fitness is recommended, many first-time trekkers successfully summit Kilimanjaro via the Lemosho Route thanks to its gradual ascent profile

Which is better, the 7 Days or 8 Days Lemosho Route?

The 8 Days Lemosho Route is generally recommended because the extra day improves acclimatization and increases the likelihood of a successful summit.

What is the best time to climb the Lemosho Route?

The best months are January to March and June to October when weather conditions are typically drier and mountain views are often at their best.

Can I see wildlife on the Lemosho Route?

Yes. Because the route begins in a remote area near Londorossi Gate, hikers occasionally spot buffalo, colobus monkeys, antelope, and other wildlife in the lower forest zones

Do I need previous mountain climbing experience?

No. Previous trekking experience is helpful but not required. Many climbers with no mountaineering experience successfully complete the Lemosho Route each year

How cold does it get during the climb?

Temperatures vary significantly. Summit night can drop well below freezing, while lower elevations are often mild and comfortable.

Is drinking water provided during the trek?

Yes. Drinking water is collected, filtered, and treated daily by the mountain crew to ensure it is safe for consumption.

What type of accommodation is used on the Lemosho Route?

The route is a camping trek. Climbers sleep in high-quality mountain tents at designated campsites throughout the climb.

What is the biggest advantage of the Lemosho Route?

Its combination of stunning scenery, excellent acclimatization, lower crowds during the early stages, and high summit success rates makes it one of the most highly recommended Kilimanjaro routes.

How much fitness do I need for the 8 Days Lemosho Route?

A reasonable level of fitness is sufficient. Regular hiking, walking, jogging, or cardiovascular exercise before the trip will help prepare you for the climb

Is altitude sickness common on the Lemosho Route?

Altitude affects every climber differently. However, the 8-day itinerary greatly reduces the risk because it allows more time for acclimatization compared to shorter routes.

Is travel insurance required?

Comprehensive travel insurance that covers high-altitude trekking and emergency evacuation is strongly recommended.

Why should I book the 8 Days Lemosho Route with Hike Kilimanjaro?

Hike Kilimanjaro provides experienced local guides, quality camping equipment, personalized service, safety-focused operations, and carefully designed itineraries that maximize your chances of reaching the Roof of Africa.

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