Kilimanjaro Lemosho Route (7 0r 8 Days)
A beautiful, quiet, and well-paced way to reach the Roof of Africa
- Tanzania
- 8 Days
- From $2112 Per Person
Overview
The Lemosho Route is one of the best and most scenic ways to climb Mount Kilimanjaro. It starts on the remote western side of the mountain, far from crowds, and slowly crosses forests, wide plateaus, and alpine landscapes before joining the southern routes to the summit.
This route is ideal if you want:
More time to acclimatize
Fewer climbers in the early days
Big views and diverse scenery
With 7 or 8 days, the Lemosho Route gives your body time to adjust to altitude, making it one of the routes with the highest summit success rates. At Safari Vibes Africa, we keep the climb flexible—so you can choose the pace that fits you best.
Highlights
- Start on the quiet western side of Kilimanjaro
- Walk through lush rainforest with wildlife chances
- Cross the wide-open Shira Plateau
- Excellent acclimatization profile
- High summit success rate (especially 8 days)
- Stunning views from Barranco Wall and Karanga Valley
- Reach Uhuru Peak (5,895m) at sunrise
- Option to choose 7 or 8 days based on fitness and comfort
Itinerary
(Flexible for both 7 & 8 days)
Day 1: Arusha / Moshi – Londorossi Gate – Mti Mkubwa Camp
After an early drive to the western side of Kilimanjaro, we register at Londorossi Gate and continue to the trailhead. The hike begins in thick rainforest. This is a gentle day to get used to walking on the mountain.
Overnight: Mti Mkubwa (Big Tree) Camp
Day 2: Mti Mkubwa – Shira 1 Camp
The forest slowly opens into moorland as you climb higher. Views of the Shira Plateau appear, and the air feels cooler.
Overnight: Shira 1 Camp
Day 3: Shira 1 – Shira 2 Camp
A short and relaxed walk across the Shira Plateau. This is a key acclimatization day with wide landscapes and clear views of Kibo Peak.
Overnight: Shira 2 Camp
(On the 7-day version, this day may be merged slightly with the next for a longer hike.)g
Day 4: Shira 2 – Lava Tower – Barranco Camp
A classic acclimatization day. You hike up to Lava Tower (4,600m), then descend to sleep lower at Barranco. This “climb high, sleep low” strategy greatly improves summit chances.
Overnight: Barranco Camp
Day 5: Barranco – Karanga Camp
After breakfast, you climb the famous Barranco Wall—a fun, non-technical scramble with amazing views. The trail then continues to Karanga Valley.
Overnight: Karanga Camp
(8-day climbers move slower and rest more; 7-day climbers continue at a steady pace.)
Day 6: Karanga – Barafu Camp
A short hike to Barafu, the base camp for summit night. After an early dinner, you rest and prepare for the final push.
Overnight: Barafu Camp
Day 7: Barafu – Uhuru Peak – Mweka Camp
Around midnight, the summit climb begins. Step by step, you reach Uhuru Peak at sunrise—the highest point in Africa. After photos and celebrations, you descend to Mweka Camp.
Overnight: Mweka Camp
(For the 8-day option, summit night comes after an extra acclimatization day.)
Day 8 (8-Day Option): Mweka Camp – Mweka Gate – Moshi
A final walk through rainforest to the gate, where you receive your summit certificates. Transfer back to Moshi or Arusha.
Includes
- Kilimanjaro park, camping & rescue fees
- Professional mountain guides
- Porters & cooks
- All meals on the mountain
- Tents, sleeping mats & dining tent
- Treated drinking water
- Pre-climb briefing & safety checks
- Ethical porter support standards
Excludes
- International flights to/from Tanzania
- Domestic flights (e.g., Dar es Salaam ↔ Arusha) unless added to your package
- Travel insurance (mandatory)
- Visa fees and personal travel documents
- Alcoholic and premium beverages
- Tips & gratuities for driver/guide (customary but discretionary)
- Optional activities
- Personal expenses (laundry, phone calls, souvenirs)
FAQ
Is the Lemosho Route good for first-time climbers?
Yes. It’s one of the best routes for beginners because of its gradual ascent and strong acclimatization profile—especially the 8-day option.
Should I choose 7 or 8 days?
- 7 days: Good for fit hikers with some altitude experience
- 8 days: Best for comfort, safety, and the highest summit success rate
We help you decide based on your fitness and travel plans.
How difficult is the Lemosho Route?
It is physically demanding but not technical. You don’t need climbing skills—just good fitness, patience, and determination.
What is the success rate?
- Lemosho Route – 7 Days: ~85–90% success rate
- Lemosho Route – 8 Days: ~90–95% success rate
What is the best time to climb?
The best months are January–March and June–October. The route is also beautiful during the green season if you don’t mind some rain.
How cold does it get?
Temperatures range from warm in the rainforest to -10°C or colder at the summit. Proper gear is essential.
