The Lemosho Route is a scenic Kilimanjaro climbing path starting on the mountain’s western side, known for its beautiful, quiet trails and excellent acclimatization through gradual ascents. It is typically 7-8 days long, traverses lush forests and the Shira Plateau, and follows a counter-clockwise path around the mountain to the southern circuit before the summit ascent. The Lemosho is considered a moderate but expensive route, ideal for physically fit climbers seeking high chances of reaching the summit.
8-day Lemosho Route itinerary for Kilimanjaro treks
Day 1: Arrival in Kilimanjaro and Transfer to Hotel
- Morning:Arrive at Kilimanjaro International Airport (JRO).
- You will be met by your climb operator representative and transferred to your hotel in Moshi or Arusha.
- Afternoon:Relax, acclimatize, and attend a pre-climb briefing with your guide. This is where you will discuss the climb in detail, check your gear, and answer any questions.
- Evening:Enjoy dinner at the hotel and get a good night’s sleep.
Day 2: Lemosho Gate to Forest Camp
- Morning:After breakfast, drive to the Lemosho Gate (approx. 2-3 hours). Complete park formalities and meet your trekking team.
- Afternoon:Begin trekking through the rainforest. The trail is relatively gentle and a good introduction to the climb.
- Evening: Arrive at Forest Camp (approx. 8,500 ft / 2,590 m). Set up camp, have dinner, and rest.
Trekking time:3-4 hours
Habitat: Montane Forest
Day 3: Forest Camp to Shira Camp 1
- Morning: Continue trekking through the forest, which gradually thins out as you ascend.
- Afternoon:Emerge onto the Shira Plateau, a beautiful and relatively flat area with stunning views.
- Evening: Arrive at Shira Camp 1 (approx. 11,500 ft / 3,505 m). Enjoy the views, have dinner, and acclimatize.
Trekking time:5-6 hours
Habitat:Heathland
Day 4: Shira Camp 1 to Shira Camp 2
- Morning:A shorter day of trekking across the Shira Plateau.
- Afternoon:Explore the plateau, with options for short acclimatization hikes.
- Evening: Arrive at Shira Camp 2 (approx. 12,500 ft / 3,810 m). Enjoy panoramic views of Kibo Peak.
Trekking time: 3-4 hours
Habitat:Heathland
Day 5: Shira Camp 2 to Lava Tower to Barranco Camp
- Morning:Ascend to the Lava Tower (approx. 15,190 ft / 4,630 m) for acclimatization. This is a challenging section, but crucial for adapting to the altitude.
- Afternoon:Descend from Lava Tower to Barranco Camp (approx. 13,000 ft / 3,962 m). This descent helps with acclimatization and allows you to “climb high, sleep low.”
- Evening:Enjoy dinner at Barranco Camp, located in a scenic valley with the Great Barranco Wall looming above.
Trekking time:6-8 hours
Habitat:Alpine Desert
Day 6: Barranco Camp to Karanga Camp
- Morning:Tackle the Barranco Wall. This is a non-technical climb that involves scrambling over rocks.
- Afternoon:Descend into the Karanga Valley and then ascend to Karanga Camp.
- Evening: Relax and enjoy the views from Karanga Camp (approx. 13,100 ft / 3,993 m).
Trekking time:4-5 hours
Habitat:Alpine Desert
Day 7: Karanga Camp to Barafu Camp
- Morning: A shorter trekking day to Barafu Camp.
- Afternoon:Rest and prepare for the summit attempt.
- Evening: Early dinner and sleep. You will be woken up around midnight to begin the summit climb. Barafu Camp is at approximately 15,331 ft / 4,673 m.
Trekking time: 3-4 hours
Habitat:Alpine Desert
Day 8: Summit Day! Barafu Camp to Uhuru Peak to Mweka Camp
- Midnight: Begin the ascent to the summit. This is the most challenging part of the climb, trekking in the dark on steep, icy slopes.
- Morning:Reach Stella Point (approx. 18,652 ft / 5,685 m), the crater rim. Continue to Uhuru Peak (approx. 19,341 ft / 5,895 m), the highest point in Africa.
- Late Morning: Descend from Uhuru Peak back to Barafu Camp for a short rest and breakfast.
- Afternoon:Continue descending to Mweka Camp (approx. 10,000 ft / 3,048 m).
- Evening: Celebrate your achievement with dinner and a well-deserved night’s sleep.
Trekking time: 7km (summit day)
Habitat: Arctic (summit) / Heathland (Mweka Camp)
Day 9: Mweka Camp to Mweka Gate to Departure
- Morning:Descend from Mweka Camp to Mweka Gate.
- Afternoon: Receive your summit certificates.
- Transfer back to your hotel in Moshi or Arusha for a celebration and a shower.
- Depending on your flight schedule, you may be transferred to Kilimanjaro International Airport (JRO) for your departure.
Important Considerations:
- Acclimatization: This itinerary is designed with acclimatization in mind. However, it is crucial to listen to your body and communicate any symptoms of altitude sickness to your guide.
- Fitness: You should be in good physical condition.
- Gear:Ensure you have appropriate clothing, gear, and equipment for all weather conditions.
- Guides and Porters: Choose Kilimanjaro Exped for success.
- Travel Insurance: Make sure you have adequate travel insurance that covers high-altitude trekking and medical evacuation
Typically Included:
- Airport transfers
- All park fees and camping fees
- Professional mountain guides, cooks, and porters
- Meals during the trek
- Camping equipment (tents, sleeping mats)
- Emergency oxygen and first aid kit
- Drinking water
Typically Excluded:
- Flights to/from Kilimanjaro International Airport
- Visa fees
- Personal gear and equipment (sleeping bags, hiking boots, etc.)
- Tips for guides and porters
- Travel insurance
- Personal expenses and souvenirs
- Additional hotel stays before/after the trek
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