8 Days Lemosho Route
Your Best Choice
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Duration
7 Days
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Min Age
10 +
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Tour Type
Adventure
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Kilimanjaro
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Posted 2 days ago
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5.0 Reviews
The 8 Days Lemosho Route is one of the most scenic and rewarding ways to summit Mount Kilimanjaro. Known for its beautiful landscapes, diverse ecosystems, and excellent acclimatization opportunities, this route ensures a high success rate for climbers aiming to conquer Africa’s highest peak. Whether you're a seasoned trekker or a beginner with good fitness, this 8-day itinerary offers a perfect blend of challenge and adventure.
The 8 Days Lemosho Route is one of the most recommended paths for climbing Mount Kilimanjaro, thanks to its beautiful landscapes, high success rate, and gradual acclimatization profile. This route begins on the western side of Kilimanjaro and passes through lush rainforests, the stunning Shira Plateau, and the famous Barranco Wall, offering trekkers an unforgettable experience. With fewer crowds and diverse scenery, Lemosho is perfect for climbers looking for a challenging yet rewarding trek to the Roof of Africa. Whether you're a first-time trekker or an experienced hiker, this 7-day itinerary ensures a safe and enjoyable ascent to Uhuru Peak (5,895m).
Why Choose the 8 Days Lemosho Route?
The 8 Days Lemosho Route stands out for its incredible scenery and gradual ascent, making it one of the best Kilimanjaro routes. Starting in the lush rainforest, the trail passes through moorlands, alpine deserts, and stunning glacier-filled landscapes. Its extended duration allows climbers to acclimatize better, significantly increasing the chances of a successful summit. This route also tends to be less crowded, offering a more peaceful and immersive experience.
Highlights of the 8 Days Lemosho Route
The Lemosho Route offers breathtaking highlights, including panoramic views from Shira Plateau, the majestic Lava Tower, and the iconic Barranco Wall. You’ll trek through diverse terrains teeming with unique flora and fauna, making the journey as rewarding as the summit. The extended itinerary also includes a scenic approach to Uhuru Peak, ensuring you enjoy every step of the adventure.
8 Days Lemosho Route – Detailed Itinerary
Day 0 Arrival in Moshi or Arusha
Arrive in Tanzania and prepare for your Kilimanjaro climb. Meet your experienced guides, check your gear, and attend a pre-trek briefing for final preparations.
Day 1: Londorossi Gate to Mti Mkubwa Camp (Big Tree Camp)
Your trek begins with a drive to Londorossi Gate for registration. The trail winds through lush rainforests, where you’ll encounter unique plants and possibly colobus monkeys, before arriving at Mti Mkubwa Camp for the night.
- Distance: 7km (4.3 miles)
- Time: 3–4 hours
- Elevation: 2,100m/6,890ft to 2,650m/8,694ft
- Habitat: Rainforest
- Meals: Lunch and Dinner
Day 2: Mti Mkubwa Camp to Shira 1 Camp
Leave the rainforest behind as the trail ascends into the moorland zone. Stunning views of the Shira Ridge and plateau accompany you as you head to Shira 1 Camp.
- Distance: 8km (5 miles)
- Time: 5–6 hours
- Habitat: Moorland
- Elevation: 2,650m/8,694ft to 3,610m/11,843ft
- Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner
Day 3: Shira 1 Camp to Shira 2 Camp
The trek across the Shira Plateau offers spectacular vistas and an opportunity to adjust to the high-altitude conditions. Shira 2 Camp provides incredible views of the surrounding peaks.
- Distance: 7km (4.3 miles)
- Time: 3–4 hours
- Habitat: Moorland
- Elevation: 3,610m/11,843ft to 3,850m/12,631ft
- Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner
Day 4: Shira 2 Camp to Lava Tower to Barranco Camp
Climb to Lava Tower, a dramatic rock formation that’s perfect for acclimatization. After a short rest, descend to Barranco Camp, where you’ll be greeted by the iconic Barranco Wall.
- Distance: 10km (6.2 miles)
- Time: 7–8 hours
- Habitat: Semi-desert
- Elevation: 3,850m/12,631ft to 4,630m/15,190ft (Lava Tower), then down to 3,960m/12,992ft
- Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner
Day 5: Barranco Camp to Karanga Camp
Begin your day by tackling the challenging yet rewarding Barranco Wall. The rest of the trail to Karanga Camp offers breathtaking views of the valleys and glaciers.
- Distance: 5km (3.1 miles)
- Time: 4–5 hours
- Habitat: Alpine desert
- Elevation: 3,960m/12,992ft to 4,035m/13,238ft
- Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner
Day 6: Karanga Camp to Barafu Camp
The trek to Barafu Camp takes you through a rugged alpine desert. This is your base camp for the summit push. Rest, eat, and prepare for the midnight ascent to Uhuru Peak.
- Distance: 4km (2.5 miles)
- Time: 4–5 hours
- Habitat: Alpine desert
- Elevation: 4,035m/13,238ft to 4,640m/15,223ft
- Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner
Day 7: Barafu Camp to Uhuru Peak to Mweka Camp
Begin the climb at midnight to reach Uhuru Peak by sunrise. Celebrate your achievement at the highest point in Africa before descending to Mweka Camp for a well-earned rest.
- Distance: 17km (10.5 miles)
- Time: 10–14 hours
- Habitat: Arctic (Uhuru Peak) and Rainforest (Mweka Camp)
- Elevation: 4,640m/15,223ft to 5,895m/19,341ft (Uhuru Peak), then down to 3,080m/10,105ft
- Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner
Day 8: Mweka Camp to Mweka Gate
Descend through the lush rainforest to Mweka Gate. After receiving your summit certificate, return to Moshi to celebrate your incredible accomplishment.
- Distance: 10km (6.2 miles)
- Time: 3–4 hours
- Habitat: Rainforest
- Elevation: 3,080m/10,105ft to 1,630m/5,348ft
- Meals: Breakfast
Included/Exclude
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All Park Fees, Camping Fees
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Season mountain tents with sleeping mats
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Transportation to & from the mountain gate
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Professional mountain guides & cooks and porters
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Crew Wages
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Breakfasts, Lunches, Dinners and Drinking water
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Supplemental Oxygen & Pulse Oximeter
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Flights, Visa and Travel Insurance
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Tipping the crew
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Personal Climbing Gears
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Laundry Services
Is the 8 Days Lemosho Route Suitable for Beginners?
Yes, the 8 Days Lemosho Route is an excellent choice for beginners with good physical fitness. The itinerary is designed with ample time for acclimatization, which reduces the risk of altitude sickness. However, proper preparation, including endurance training and packing essential gear, is crucial for a successful and enjoyable climb.
What to Expect During the 8 Days Lemosho Route?
Climbers expect approximately 6-8 hours of trekking daily, covering diverse terrains and elevations. Each day presents new challenges and rewards, from dense rainforests to high-altitude camps with stunning views. Night temperatures at higher altitudes can drop significantly, so layering and preparation are vital. Professional guides and porters ensure safety and comfort throughout the journey.
Best Time to Climb the 8 Days Lemosho Route
The best time to climb the Lemosho Route is during the dry seasons: January to mid-March and June to October. These months offer favorable weather conditions with clear skies and minimal rainfall. Avoid the rainy seasons (April, May, and November), as trails can become muddy and visibility may be reduced.
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Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) – 8 Days Lemosho Route
The Lemosho Route spans approximately 70 kilometers (43.5 miles) from start to finish, offering a gradual ascent with ample time for acclimatization.
The cost of climbing the Lemosho Route varies depending on the tour operator, but prices typically range from $2,000 to $4,000, including permits, guides, and camping equipment.
The 8 Days Lemosho Route boasts one of the highest success rates for Kilimanjaro climbs, with an average of 90% of climbers reaching the summit.
Essential items include trekking boots, warm clothing, a sleeping bag, hiking poles, a daypack, sunscreen, and a refillable water bottle. Consult your tour operator for a detailed packing list.
While prior trekking experience is beneficial, it is not mandatory. Good physical fitness, determination, and proper preparation are key to successfully completing the climb.
