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8 Days Lemosho Route Itinerary Kilimanjaro
Overview
The 8 Days Lemosho Route on Mount Kilimanjaro is one of the most scenic and successful ways to reach the summit of Africa’s highest mountain. Known for its excellent acclimatization profile and breathtaking landscapes, the Lemosho Route offers hikers diverse ecosystems — from lush rainforest to alpine desert and icy glaciers at the summit.
Starting on the western side of the mountain, this route crosses the famous Shira Plateau before joining the Machame Route, giving climbers both beauty and strategic altitude gain for better summit success.
Day-by-Day
Day 1: Londorossi Gate (2,100m) to Mti Mkubwa Camp (2,820m)
Your adventure begins with registration at Londorossi Gate. After a short drive to the trailhead, you start trekking through lush rainforest filled with birds, monkeys, and thick vegetation. The trail is gentle and allows your body to begin adapting gradually.
Overnight at Mti Mkubwa Camp (Big Tree Camp).
Day 2: Mti Mkubwa Camp to Shira 1 Camp (3,610m)
You leave the rainforest behind and enter the heather and moorland zone. The views open dramatically as you approach the vast Shira Plateau — one of the highest plateaus on earth.
Overnight at Shira 1 Camp with spectacular sunset views.
Day 3: Shira 1 Camp to Shira 2 Camp (3,850m)
A relatively short day allowing further acclimatization. You cross the Shira Plateau with incredible views of Kibo Peak. Optional acclimatization walks may be done in the afternoon.
Overnight at Shira 2 Camp.
Day 4: Shira 2 Camp to Lava Tower (4,630m) to Barranco Camp (3,960m)
Today is crucial for acclimatization. You climb to Lava Tower at 4,630m before descending to Barranco Camp. This “climb high, sleep low” strategy significantly improves summit success rates.
Overnight at Barranco Camp, surrounded by the famous Barranco Wall.
Day 5: Barranco Camp to Karanga Camp (4,035m)
The day starts with climbing the Barranco Wall — a fun and rewarding scramble. After reaching the top, the trail undulates through valleys before arriving at Karanga Camp.
Shorter hiking day allows further acclimatization.
Day 6: Karanga Camp to Barafu Camp (4,640m)
You ascend to Barafu Camp, your base camp for the summit attempt. Early dinner and rest are essential as you prepare for the midnight climb.
Overnight at Barafu Camp.
Day 7: Barafu Camp to Uhuru Peak (5,895m) to Mweka Camp (3,100m)
Summit day begins around midnight. Slow and steady, you ascend through Stella Point and finally reach Uhuru Peak (5,895m) — the highest point in Africa on Mount Kilimanjaro.
After celebrating at the summit, descend to Barafu Camp for lunch, then continue down to Mweka Camp for overnight rest.
This is the most challenging but rewarding day of the trek.
Day 8: Mweka Camp to Mweka Gate (1,640m)
A gentle descent through the rainforest leads to Mweka Gate where you receive your summit certificates. Transfer back to Moshi or Arusha for celebration and relaxation.
What’s Included
- Professional English-speaking mountain guides
- Assistant guides & porters
- All park fees & rescue fees
- Camping equipment
- Meals on the mountain (breakfast, lunch, dinner)
- Drinking water
What’s Not Included
- International flights
- Visa fees
- Travel insurance
- Tips for guides & porters
- Alcoholic beverages
- All what is not explicitly included