Climb Kilimanjaro – Lemosho Route
Route Overview
The Lemosho Route is widely considered the most beautiful and scenic trail on Mount Kilimanjaro. Starting from the western side of the mountain, it offers a remote and quiet start, excellent acclimatization, and breathtaking views throughout. It joins the Machame Route on Day 3 and continues toward Uhuru Peak. This is the ideal route for those looking for a high summit success rate and fewer crowds.
🌟 Route Highlights
Remote and less crowded start
Rich scenery: rainforest, moorland, alpine desert, glaciers
Excellent acclimatization profile
High summit success rate
Campsites with stunning mountain views
Starts at Londorossi Gate and ends at Mweka Gate
📅 Itinerary (8-Day Recommended)
Day 1: Londorossi Gate – Forest Camp (Mti Mkubwa) (2,650m)
Drive from Arusha to Londorossi Gate
Hike through lush rainforest (approx. 3–4 hrs)
Overnight at Forest Camp
Meals: Lunch & Dinner
Accommodation: Mountain Camp (tents)
Day 2: Forest Camp – Shira 1 Camp (3,610m)
Steep climb to the Shira Plateau
Amazing views of the Shira Ridge and Kibo Peak
Overnight at Shira 1 Camp
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
Accommodation: Mountain Camp
Day 3: Shira 1 – Shira 2 Camp (3,850m)
Gentle hike across the plateau
Acclimatization and stunning panoramic views
Join Machame route trekkers at Shira 2
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
Accommodation: Mountain Camp
Day 4: Shira 2 – Lava Tower – Barranco Camp (3,960m)
Acclimatization hike to Lava Tower (4,630m)
Descend to Barranco Camp for overnight
“Climb high, sleep low” strategy
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
Accommodation: Mountain Camp
Day 5: Barranco Camp – Karanga Camp (4,035m)
Climb the Barranco Wall with stunning views
Short hike to Karanga Camp
Afternoon rest or optional acclimatization walk
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
Accommodation: Mountain Camp
Day 6: Karanga Camp – Barafu Camp (4,640m)
Final approach to base camp
Early dinner and summit briefing
Rest before summit attempt
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
Accommodation: Mountain Camp
Day 7: Barafu – Uhuru Peak (5,895m) – Mweka Camp (3,100m)
Midnight summit push via Stella Point
Reach Uhuru Peak at sunrise
Descend to Mweka Camp for overnight
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
Accommodation: Mountain Camp
Day 8: Mweka Camp – Mweka Gate – Arusha/Moshi
Final descent through the rainforest
Receive summit certificate at the gate
Transfer to hotel in Arusha or Moshi
Meals: Breakfast & Lunch
Climbing Booking
Park fees, rescue fee, camping equipment
Transfers to/from Arusha or Moshi
Certified English-speaking mountain guide
Porters and chef
All meals and drinking water during the trek
Mountain tents and sleeping mattress
Summit certificate
International flights & visa
Sleeping bag and personal gear (can be rented)
Tips for guide, cook, and porters
Pre/post-hike accommodation in Arusha or Moshi
Optional extra excursions
Travel insurance and personal expenses