Overview: 8 Days Lemosho Route – Kilimanjaro Climb

The Lemosho Route is one of the most scenic and less crowded trails on Mount Kilimanjaro. Known for its gradual ascent and excellent acclimatization profile, it offers a higher summit success rate. Starting on the forested western slopes, the route crosses through diverse ecosystems—from rainforest and moorland to alpine desert—before reaching the alpine summit zone.

This 8-day itinerary includes an extra acclimatization day on the Shira Plateau, allowing your body to adjust gradually and increasing your chances to reach Uhuru Peak (5,895m). With breathtaking views, varied terrain, and fewer trekkers, the Lemosho Route is ideal for those seeking both adventure and solitude on Africa’s highest mountain.

Day 1: Londorossi Gate to Big Tree Camp

• Habitat: Montane rainforest

• Distance: ~7 km

• Elevation: 2,100m to 2,600m
  Start your trek at Londorossi Gate, entering lush rainforest with vibrant birdlife and monkeys. Trek through dense vegetation to reach Big Tree Camp, nestled in the forest.

Day 2: Big Tree Camp to Shira 1 Camp

• Habitat: Heath and moorland

• Distance: ~5 km

• Elevation: 2,600m to 3,500m
  Leave the forest behind as the trail climbs to the open Shira Plateau. Enjoy sweeping views of Kibo and Mawenzi peaks while camping on this high-altitude moorland.

Day 3: Shira 1 Camp to Shira 2 Camp (via Shira Cathedral)

• Habitat: Moorland

• Distance: ~6 km

• Elevation: 3,500m to 3,840m
  Hike across the plateau toward the impressive Shira Cathedral volcanic formation. Camp nearby and take in panoramic views of the surrounding landscape.

Day 4: Shira 2 Camp to Barranco Camp

• Habitat: Moorland to alpine desert

• Distance: ~10 km

• Elevation: 3,840m to 3,960m
  Descend from the plateau into the alpine desert, crossing valleys and ridges. Arrive at Barranco Camp, sheltered beneath the famous Barranco Wall.

Day 5: Barranco Camp to Karanga Camp

• Habitat: Alpine desert

• Distance: ~5 km

• Elevation: 3,960m to 4,035m
  Begin with the exciting Barranco Wall scramble. Continue through rugged terrain to Karanga Camp for rest and acclimatization.

Day 6: Karanga Camp to Barafu Camp

• Habitat: Alpine desert

• Distance: ~4 km

• Elevation: 4,035m to 4,640m
  Trek steadily up to Barafu Camp, the base for your final summit attempt. Rest early and prepare for the challenging night ahead.

Day 7: Barafu Camp to Uhuru Peak, then down to Mweka Camp

• Habitat: Arctic summit zone to rainforest

• Distance: ~17 km total (7 km ascent, 10 km descent)

• Elevation: 4,640m to 5,895m (Uhuru Peak), then down to 3,100m
  Begin your summit push around midnight, reaching Stella Point and then Uhuru Peak at sunrise. After celebration, descend all the way to Mweka Camp.

Day 8: Mweka Camp to Mweka Gate

• Habitat: Montane rainforest

• Distance: ~10 km

• Elevation: 3,100m to 1,640m
  Descend through the lush rainforest to Mweka Gate, where you’ll receive your summit certificate and transfer back to Moshi or Arusha.