8-Day Trek: Lemosho Route, Mount Kilimanjaro

8 Days 7 Nights

Overview

The Lemosho Route is one of the most scenic and less crowded routes on Mount Kilimanjaro, offering gradual acclimatization and breathtaking views throughout the journey. This 8-day trek takes you through lush rainforests, across the expansive Shira Plateau, and past dramatic landscapes like Lava Tower and Barranco Wall before summiting at Uhuru Peak (5895m). With excellent acclimatization, diverse scenery, and professional support staff, the Lemosho Route is considered one of the best treks for reaching the summit successfully.

Note: Tips for mountain staff are highly appreciated.

Day 1 :

Lemosho Gate to Big Tree Camp (2780m)

After breakfast, transfer to the western side of Kilimanjaro at the Lemosho Gate for check-in. Begin trekking through the lush rainforest with chances to spot wildlife such as elephants before arriving at Big Tree Camp (2780m) for dinner and overnight stay.

Day 2 :

Big Tree Camp to Shira 1 Camp (3500m)

Following breakfast, continue hiking upward with a packed lunch on the way to the Shira Plateau, arriving at Shira 1 Camp (3500m) for dinner and overnight stay.

Day 3 :

Shira 1 Camp to Simba Picnic Site (3640m)

After breakfast, trek across open high-altitude terrain with beautiful views, stopping for lunch en route. Continue to Simba Picnic Site (3640m) where you will settle in for dinner and overnight stay.

Day 4 :

Simba Picnic Site to Shira 2 Camp

Depart after breakfast and trek further across the plateau to Shira 2 Camp, enjoying panoramic views of Kibo Peak. Arrive in the afternoon for dinner and overnight stay.

Day 5 :

Shira 2 Camp via Lava Tower to Barranco Camp (3960m)

Today’s trek is a key acclimatization day. After breakfast, hike toward the Lava Tower (approximately 4600m), where you stop for lunch. Then descend gradually to Barranco Camp (3960m) for dinner and overnight stay.

Day 6 :

Barranco Camp to Barafu Camp (4640m)

After breakfast, leave Barranco and trek through alpine desert terrain toward Barafu Camp (4640m). Prepare for the summit climb with an early dinner and overnight stay at the camp.

Day 7 :

Summit Day & Descent to Mweka Camp (3080m)

At midnight, begin the challenging ascent to Uhuru Peak (5895m), the summit of Mount Kilimanjaro. After enjoying the sunrise from the summit, descend back to Barafu Camp for breakfast, then continue down to Mweka Camp (3080m) for dinner and overnight stay.

Day 8 :

Mweka Camp to Mweka Gate & Return to Arusha

After an early breakfast, descend through the rainforest to Mweka Gate for check-out. Meet your vehicle for transfer back to Arusha, marking the end of the Lemosho Route trek.

8-Day Trek: Lemosho Route, Mount Kilimanjaro

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Accommodation

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8-Day Trek: Lemosho Route, Mount Kilimanjaro

Includes

Transfers from Arusha to Lemosho Gate and back.
Park entrance and camping fees for Kilimanjaro National Park.
Professional mountain guides, porters, and cook.
Accommodation in mountain camps along the route.
Full-board meals on the mountain (breakfast, lunch, and dinner).
Bottled water and hot drinks on the trek.
Emergency first aid kit and oxygen cylinder (if required).

Excludes

International and domestic flights.
Travel insurance.
Visa fees.
Personal trekking gear and equipment (sleeping bags, hiking boots, poles, jackets).
Tips for guides, porters, and cook (highly appreciated).
Optional extra nights in lodges or hotels before/after the trek.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

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What is the best time for the Lemosho Route trek?

January to March and June to October are the best months, with dry conditions and clear skies.

How difficult is the Lemosho Route?

It is moderately challenging but offers excellent acclimatization, making it one of the most successful routes for summit attempts.

How many hours will I hike per day?

Typically 5–7 hours per day, except summit day which can last 10–14 hours.

What should I pack?

Layered trekking clothes, waterproof gear, hiking boots, gloves, hat, sunglasses, sunscreen, sleeping bag, and trekking poles.

Is this route crowded?

Compared to Marangu or Machame, Lemosho is less crowded, offering a more peaceful and scenic trekking experience.

Can I rent gear in Tanzania?

Yes, trekking equipment such as sleeping bags, jackets, and poles can be rented in Arusha or Moshi.

Is it safe?

Yes, with experienced guides, proper acclimatization, and support staff, the trek is safe. Safety is prioritized with monitoring of altitude sickness symptoms.

8-Day Trek: Lemosho Route, Mount Kilimanjaro

Overview