Is the Lemosho Route good for beginners?

Yes, it’s suitable for trekkers in good physical shape and offers excellent acclimatization.

What makes Lemosho more scenic?

It crosses multiple climate zones and offers open views from day two, with less crowding early on.

Can I rent gear locally?

Yes, sleeping bags, jackets, poles, and boots are available for rent in Moshi.

What’s the weather like?

Expect warm, humid conditions in the forest and freezing temperatures near the summit.

Is altitude sickness a concern?

With good pacing and hydration, this route minimizes risks thanks to its acclimatization schedule.

7 Days Kilimanjaro Climb – Lemosho Route

Overview

The 7-day Lemosho Route is renowned for its breathtaking scenery, high success rates, and excellent acclimatization profile. Approaching Mount Kilimanjaro from the western side, this route passes through untouched rainforest, rolling heather moorlands, alpine deserts, and glacial peaks, offering a gradual ascent and fewer crowds in the early stages. It’s a perfect choice for climbers seeking beauty, variety, and a well-paced journey to the summit.

The Lemosho Route offers a longer approach to the summit, which allows for better acclimatization and increases your chances of a successful summit. Trekkers experience a wide variety of ecosystems from dense rainforest alive with monkeys and birds to barren high-altitude deserts and icy glaciers near the top. After merging with the Machame Route, the trail follows the Southern Circuit before summiting via Stella Point. Descent is made through the Mweka route.

Trip Highlights

Most scenic Kilimanjaro route with low traffic on first days
Excellent acclimatization and summit success rate
Rich biodiversity and panoramic landscapes
Crosses the Shira Plateau, with views of Kibo’s glaciers
Small group, experienced guides, full porter support
Option to spot wildlife like colobus monkeys on day one

Day 01 :

Londorossi Gate to Mti Mkubwa Camp (2,650m)

Your journey begins with a drive from Moshi to Londorossi Gate for registration. After clearance, a short drive brings you to the Lemosho trailhead, where your hike begins through lush rainforest. The trail is rich in flora and fauna, and you may spot blue monkeys or black-and-white colobus monkeys along the way. After about 3 to 4 hours of trekking, you reach Mti Mkubwa (Big Tree) Camp where you’ll spend your first night in the wilderness.

Day 02 :

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

Today, the trail leads out of the forest and into the moorland zone. You’ll ascend a steep ridge before reaching the Shira Plateau, a vast and dramatic expanse formed by lava flows. The vegetation changes to tall grasses and heather, and the views of Kibo Peak in the distance become clearer. After a 5–6 hour trek, you arrive at Shira 1 Camp, nestled near a stream and offering open skies for stargazing.

Day 03 :

Shira 1 Camp to Shira 2 Camp (3,850m)

Today’s trek is a relatively gentle one across the Shira Plateau. As you move east toward Shira 2 Camp, you’ll pass volcanic formations and enjoy wide panoramic views. This day helps you acclimatize, with optional acclimatization walks in the afternoon. The camp sits in a high moorland zone with clear views of Kibo and the Western Breach. Expect about 4–5 hours of hiking.

Day 04 :

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

This is an important acclimatization day following the "climb high, sleep low" strategy. The route ascends steadily to the Lava Tower, a large volcanic rock formation where you’ll have lunch. Afterward, you descend to Barranco Camp, passing through scenic valleys with giant groundsels and lobelias. The descent into Barranco Valley provides valuable altitude adjustment and ends with a camp beneath the impressive Barranco Wall.

Day 05 :

Barranco Camp to Karanga Camp (4,035m)

After breakfast, you’ll tackle the Barranco Wall, a steep scramble that looks more intimidating than it actually is. Once over the wall, the trail meanders through glacial valleys with breathtaking views. After a few ups and downs across rocky terrain, you arrive at Karanga Camp, situated above the cloud line. This is a shorter trekking day—about 4 to 5 hours—and is key to boosting your acclimatization ahead of summit night.

Day 06 :

Karanga Camp to Barafu Camp (4,640m)

The trail today is barren and rocky, with little vegetation as you enter the alpine desert. After a steady ascent, you arrive at Barafu Camp, your final camp before summit night. The camp sits on an exposed ridge with commanding views of the summit and Mawenzi Peak. After an early dinner, you'll rest in preparation for the midnight climb to the summit of Africa's highest peak.

Day 07 :

Barafu Camp to Uhuru Peak (5,895m), then down to Mweka Camp (3,100m)

Your summit attempt begins around midnight. The trail is steep and demanding, passing through scree and switchbacks toward Stella Point on the crater rim. From there, a final push leads you to Uhuru Peak, the highest point in Africa. After celebrating and taking photos, you’ll begin the long descent back to Barafu for a short rest and continue down to Mweka Camp. This is a long and exhausting day, taking 12–15 hours in total, but also the most rewarding.