Overview

The Lemosho Route is considered one of the most scenic routes to Mount Kilimanjaro’s summit, offering breathtaking views, diverse landscapes, and excellent acclimatization opportunities. This trail approaches Kilimanjaro from the west, crossing lush rainforests, expansive moorlands, and dramatic ridges before merging with the Machame Route. With a gradual ascent and varied terrain, the Lemosho Route is perfect for trekkers seeking both beauty and a higher success rate in reaching Uhuru Peak (5,895m).

Your adventure begins at the Lemosho Gate, where the trail meanders through pristine rainforests filled with wildlife, including colobus monkeys and exotic birds. As you ascend, the landscape shifts to rolling heathlands and vast alpine deserts, offering panoramic views of Kibo Peak and distant glaciers. The route allows for excellent acclimatization, increasing the chances of a successful summit. The trek culminates with a challenging night ascent from Barafu Camp to the summit, followed by a descent through the lush Mweka Route.

Trip Highlights

Stunning Scenic Views: Panoramic vistas from start to finish.
High Summit Success Rate: Great acclimatization profile.
Diverse Ecosystems: Rainforests, moorlands, alpine deserts, and glaciers.
Less Crowded: Remote and peaceful start with fewer trekkers.
Wildlife Encounters: Monkeys, exotic birds, and unique alpine flora.

Day 01 :

Lemosho Gate (2,100m) to Mti Mkubwa Camp (2,820m)

Your journey starts with a drive from Moshi/Arusha to Lemosho Gate. After completing park formalities, you’ll begin trekking through dense rainforest, where towering trees, ferns, and the sounds of wildlife surround you. The trail is gentle but can be muddy depending on the weather. Keep an eye out for black-and-white colobus monkeys as you make your way to Mti Mkubwa Camp, where you’ll spend your first night on the mountain.

Day 02 :

Mti Mkubwa Camp (2,820m) to Shira 1 Camp (3,500m)

After breakfast, the trail ascends steeply through the forest and transitions into heathland and moorland, with panoramic views of Shira Ridge and Kibo Peak emerging in the distance. You’ll cross several streams and rocky outcrops as the landscape becomes more open and less vegetated. After about 6–7 hours of trekking, you’ll reach Shira 1 Camp, set on a plateau with stunning views of the Shira Cathedral and Mount Meru in the distance.

Day 03 :

Shira 1 Camp (3,500m) to Shira 2 Camp (3,840m)

Today’s trek is a more leisurely walk across the vast Shira Plateau, one of the highest plateaus in the world. The terrain is open and rocky, with spectacular views of Kibo’s glaciers ahead and Mount Meru behind you. You’ll pass small streams and unique alpine flora as you head towards Shira 2 Camp, where you’ll enjoy a restful evening under the stars. This day also aids in acclimatization as you spend more time at higher altitudes.

Day 04 :

Shira 2 Camp (3,840m) to Barranco Camp (3,960m) via Lava Tower (4,630m)

This is an important acclimatization day. You’ll ascend to the iconic Lava Tower, a volcanic rock formation at 4,630m. The trek is challenging as you gain significant altitude, which helps your body adjust. After lunch near Lava Tower, you’ll descend into the beautiful Barranco Valley, with its giant senecio plants and dramatic views of the Breach Wall. The day ends at Barranco Camp, nestled beneath the imposing Barranco Wall, where you’ll rest and acclimate further.

Day 05 :

Barranco Camp (3,960m) to Karanga Camp (4,035m)

Your day begins with the thrilling climb up the Barranco Wall, a steep but non-technical ascent that requires some scrambling. Once at the top, you’ll be rewarded with breathtaking views of the Karakara Valley and distant glaciers. The trail then undulates through rocky ridges and alpine desert landscapes, leading to Karanga Camp, where you’ll relax and prepare for the final ascent. This shorter day helps with acclimatization and recovery.

Day 06 :

Karanga Camp (4,035m) to Barafu Camp (4,640m)

After leaving Karanga, the trail steadily climbs through a barren, rocky landscape with little vegetation. The air becomes thinner as you gain altitude, but the stunning views of Kibo Peak keep you motivated. After 3–4 hours, you’ll reach Barafu Camp, the last base camp before your summit attempt. You’ll have an early dinner and rest as you’ll begin your ascent to the summit around midnight.

Day 07 :

Barafu Camp (4,640m) to Uhuru Peak (5,895m), then Descent to Mweka Camp (3,100m)

Your summit attempt begins in the dark, with headlamps lighting the way. The trail is steep and challenging, with switchbacks leading to Stella Point (5,756m) on the crater rim. After a brief rest, you’ll continue along the snowy path to Uhuru Peak, the highest point in Africa. Witnessing the sunrise from the summit is an unforgettable experience.

After celebrating your achievement, you’ll descend back to Barafu Camp for a short rest, then continue down to Mweka Camp, where you’ll spend your final night on the mountain, surrounded by lush vegetation as you return to lower altitudes.