Overview
The Lemosho Route is one of Kilimanjaro’s most scenic and rewarding trails. Beginning on the western slopes, this route offers a gradual ascent that allows climbers to acclimatize properly and enjoy the mountain’s diverse ecosystems. From dense rainforest to alpine desert and glaciated summit zones, this route provides an unforgettable trekking experience. Its relatively lower traffic and high success rate make it a favourite for experienced trekkers and first-time climbers alike.
ROUTE OVERVIEW
- Route Type: Western Approach
- Trail Start: Lemosho Gate (2,100m / 6,890ft)
- Trail End: Mweka Gate (1,680m / 5,500ft)
- Highest Point: Uhuru Peak (5,895m / 19,341ft)
- Total Distance: Approx. 70 km (43 miles)
- Ecological Zones: Rainforest, moorland, alpine desert, arctic summit
- Route Profile: Gradual ascent, ideal for acclimatization
- Descent Route: Mweka Trail
- Traffic: Low to moderate
DETAILED ITINERARY
Arrival Day: Arrival in Arusha
Upon arrival at Kilimanjaro International Airport, you will be warmly welcomed and transferred to your hotel in Arusha. Later, your lead guide will conduct a full briefing, inspect your equipment, and answer any final questions.
Day 1: Lemosho Gate to Mti Mkubwa (Big Tree) Camp
Begin your trek with a drive to the western gate of Kilimanjaro at Lemosho. After park registration, hike through lush montane forest, rich in wildlife and exotic birds.
- Elevation: 2,100m / 6,890ft to 2,650m / 8,700ft
- Distance: 6 km / 4 miles
- Hiking Time: 3–4 hours
- Habitat: Rainforest
Day 2: Mti Mkubwa to Shira 2 Camp
Continue trekking through heather and moorland. The trail offers panoramic views as you cross Shira Ridge and descend slightly into the Shira Plateau.
- Elevation: 2,650m / 8,700ft to 3,850m / 12,600ft
- Distance: 17 km / 10 miles
- Hiking Time: 7–8 hours
- Habitat: Moorland
Day 3: Shira 2 Camp to Barranco Camp via Lava Tower
Climb steadily toward Lava Tower (4,600m), a prominent volcanic rock formation, then descend to Barranco Camp. This acclimatization strategy—”climb high, sleep low”—aids your body’s adjustment to altitude.
- Elevation: 3,850m / 12,600ft to 3,950m / 13,000ft
- Distance: 8 km / 5 miles
- Hiking Time: 5–6 hours
- Habitat: Alpine desert
Day 4: Barranco Camp to Karanga Camp
Tackle the adventurous Barranco Wall and then traverse through valleys and ridges to reach Karanga Camp. This short day helps with acclimatization before summit night.
- Elevation: 3,950m / 13,000ft to 4,050m / 13,250ft
- Distance: 5 km / 3 miles
- Hiking Time: 3–4 hours
- Habitat: Alpine desert
Day 5: Karanga Camp to Barafu Camp
Ascend steadily to Barafu Camp, located on a barren ridge. Get an early dinner and rest in preparation for the midnight summit push.
- Elevation: 4,050m / 13,250ft to 4,673m / 15,350ft
- Distance: 4 km / 2 miles
- Hiking Time: 3–4 hours
- Habitat: Alpine desert
Day 6: Summit Day – Barafu Camp to Uhuru Peak, then down to Mweka Camp
Start your summit attempt just after midnight. Hike through the arctic zone to reach Uhuru Peak, the highest point in Africa. After a brief celebration at the top, descend back to Barafu for a short rest and then continue down to Mweka Camp.
Ascent to Uhuru Peak:
- Elevation: 4,673m / 15,350ft to 5,895m / 19,341ft
- Distance: 5 km / 3 miles
- Hiking Time: 6–7 hours
Descent to Mweka Camp:
- Elevation: 5,895m / 19,341ft to 3,000m / 10,150ft
- Distance: 13 km / 8 miles
- Hiking Time: 5–6 hours
- Habitat: Arctic to moorland
Day 7: Mweka Camp to Mweka Gate – Return to Arusha
Descend through the rainforest to Mweka Gate, where you will receive your summit certificates. After saying goodbye to your mountain crew, transfer back to Arusha for rest and celebration.
- Elevation: 3,000m / 10,150ft to 1,680m / 5,500ft
- Distance: 10 km / 6 miles
- Hiking Time: 3–4 hours
- Habitat: Montane Forest
PACKAGE
Package Inclusions
Travel Handbook
Included in Package
Airport Pick up and drop off
Pre and Post Trek Hotel accommodation
Park fees, camping fees, rescue fees, and taxes
Q-4 season mountain tents
Transportation to and from the mountain gate
Professional mountain guides, cooks, and porters
3 meals per day whilst on the mountain
Filtered water throughout the trek
Excluded in Package
International flights
Traveler’s insurance
VISA
Drinks outside safari
Tipping (we recommend from $10 per person per day)