8-Day Trekking Kilimanjaro via the Lemosho Route

• You'll be collected from the airport.
• Accommodation before the tour starts can be arranged for an extra cost.

Moshi Starting Point Mti Mkubwa Camp 2780m

At the break of dawn, our driver will collect you and transport you to Londorossi Gate (2,250 m), an approximately two-and-a-half-hour drive away. Upon gate registration, you'll ascend along a rugged track that winds through the dense rainforest to your trek's starting point. This moderately steep path guides you through a captivating and pristine natural forest, leading to Mkubwa Camp (2,800 m).

Duration: 02:25 h
Distance: 4.7 km / 2.9 mi
Ascent: 400 m / 1312 ft.

Main Destination:

Mount Kilimanjaro

Accommodation:

Budget camping

Meals & Drinks:

• Lunch & dinner (Breakfast not included)
• Non-alcoholic drinks

Mti Mkubwa 2750m to Shira Camp 1 3550m

The trail leading to Shira Camp 1 unveils a striking shift from the lush rainforest to the arid heather moorland, marking Mount Kilimanjaro's third climate zone.

The landscape transforms into a dry expanse adorned with towering lobelias amidst delicate white flora that contrasts the dusty sand dunes. Ascending steep ridges, we arrive at the expansive Shira Plateau, offering sweeping views of Kilimanjaro's grandeur and the sun's descent behind Mount Meru in the west.

Amid the journey, we gracefully cross tranquil streams, while progressing over Shira Ridge (3,600m) and descending to the welcoming embrace of Shira Camp 1.

Duration: 06:40 h
Distance: 6.35 km / 3.9 mi
Ascent: 490 m / 1608 ft
Descent: 50 m / 164 ft.

Main Destination:

Mount Kilimanjaro

Accommodation:

Budget camping

Meals & Drinks:

• All meals included
• Non-alcoholic drinks

Shira Camp 1 3550m to Shira Camp 2 3840m

Your day commences with a delightful breakfast, followed by a trek through an open expanse. This less-traveled path grants tranquility and an unspoiled experience. As you ascend to Shira Plateau, the panoramic vistas of Uhuru Peak unfold, providing an exhilarating and almost magical sensation of witnessing the summit's grandeur.

A satisfying hot lunch awaits you at Shira Camp 2 (3,810m). Your guide will arrange a brief break for acclimatization, after which you're welcome to unwind and relax at your leisure.

Duration: 03:20 h
Distance: 7.7 km / 4.8 mi
Ascent: 320 m / 1050 ft
Descent: 60 m / 197 ft.

Main Destination:

Mount Kilimanjaro

Accommodation:

Budget camping

Meals & Drinks:

• All meals included
• Non-alcoholic drinks

Shira Camp 2 3840m to Barranco Camp 3950m via Lava Tower

The Lemosho route converges with the Machame Route as it approaches the molten Lava Tower. The gradual ascent leading to Barranco Camp is adorned with captivating landscapes and adorned with vibrant desert shrubs (a 6-7 hour hike).

Shark’s Tooth, an immense serrated rock formed by a volcanic eruption thousands of years ago, serves as a guidepost, signaling our southward journey across light valleys to the expansive Lava Tower (4,600m). Slowly, delicate specks of snow begin to scatter across the scenery, and as we descend to Barranco Camp, the frosted vistas of the Western Breach come into view.

The ashen Barranco Wall showcases intricate grooves and is graced with olive foliage, creating what is referred to as the 'Breakfast Wall'. Rest up, tomorrow is an exciting day!

Duration: 05:30 h
Distance: 9.6 km / 6 mi
Ascent: 700 m / 2297 ft
Descent: 660 m / 2165 ft.

Main Destination:

Mount Kilimanjaro

Accommodation:

Budget camping

Meals & Drinks:

• All meals included
• Non-alcoholic drinks

Barranco Camp 3950m to Karanga Camp 3930m

Today, you face the challenge of conquering the Barranco Wall. While certain sections may demand the use of your hands for improved grip, actual climbing is not required. Your guide will be right alongside you, offering assistance every step of the way. Our video demonstrates that the experience isn't as daunting as some blog posts might suggest.

The route's series of ascents and descents serve as a valuable acclimatization opportunity before reaching the mountain ridge. Walking along this ridge allows you to absorb the stunning landscape, characterized by captivating contrasts between desert and vegetation. Eventually, you'll arrive at the mist-shrouded Karanga Camp, positioned at 4,035 meters (13,240 ft). Even through the clouds, Kibo remains visible, while the call of Uhuru Peak beckons.

Duration: 02:40 h
Distance: 4.45 km / 2.8 mi
Ascent: 350 m / 1148 ft
Descent: 270 m / 886 ft.

Main Destination:

Mount Kilimanjaro

Accommodation:

Budget camping

Meals & Drinks:

• All meals included
• Non-alcoholic drinks

Karanga Camp 3930m to Barafu Camp 4700m

Another day unfolds on the captivating slopes of Kilimanjaro. The meticulous acclimatization efforts you've undertaken are paying off. By maintaining a steady "pole pole" pace, the summit will draw near sooner than you realize. Today's journey leads you through arid desert terrain, with the imposing presence of Kibo on your left side.

Although the distance covered is short, the altitude's effects will be noticeable, adding to the challenge. Embrace the gradual approach and heed the guidance of your knowledgeable guide(s). As this day concludes, anticipation builds for the significant day that lies ahead – an early night awaits for the journey that unfolds tomorrow.

Duration: 02:25 h
Distance: 3.5 km / 2.2 mi
Ascent: 570 m / 1870 ft.

Main Destination:

Mount Kilimanjaro

Accommodation:

Budget camping

Meals & Drinks:

• All meals included
• Non-alcoholic drinks

Barafu Camp 4700m to Summit 5895m midnight start descent to Mweka Camp 3100m

Your guide will wake you in the middle of the night for a light breakfast before starting your ascent by moonlight and headlamps. After 5–7 hours, you'll reach Stella Point, then trek another challenging 1–2 hours to Uhuru Peak—the highest point in Africa and one of the Seven Summits. Witness the sunrise over Africa, an unforgettable moment.

After capturing this achievement, descend to Barafu Camp for refreshments before heading to Mweka Camp for your final night on the mountain. Reflect on the day’s triumphs as you enjoy dinner and prepare for the tipping ceremony to thank your guides and porters. Contact our Kilimanjaro expert for tipping guidelines.

Duration: 10:50 h
Distance: 16.6 km / 10.3 mi
Ascent: 1220 m / 4003 ft
Descent: 2790 m / 9154 ft.

Main Destination:

Mount Kilimanjaro

Accommodation:

Budget camping

Meals & Drinks:

• All meals included
• Non-alcoholic drinks

Mweka Camp 3100m to Mweka Gate 1800m to Moshi

The more you descend, the better your oxygen intake. The better your oxygen intake, the better your body and mind work. It’s all sinking now. You’ve ascended Kilimanjaro. You will once more trek through the rainforest, giving you another opportunity to spot the cheeky colobus monkeys, finally reaching the Mweka gate in about 2 – 3 hours. In Mweka, after some paperwork, another meal awaits you. You may as well add a Kilimanjaro beer to that. While you’re at it, your guide will present you with your climbing certificate. Well done!

After some good food and a celebration, you will be taken back to your hotel. It’s time to rest those legs. Jump in the pool, eat, drink and sleep.

Duration: 03:40 h
Distance: 8.7 km / 5.4 mi
Descent: 1420 m / 4659 ft.

Main Destination:

Mount Kilimanjaro

Accommodation:

No accommodation (End of tour)

Meals & Drinks:

• Breakfast & lunch (Dinner not included)
• Non-alcoholic drinks

• Additional accommodation can be arranged for an extra cost.
• You'll be dropped off at the airport.