The Lemosho Route is renowned for its beauty, remoteness, and high summit success rate. Over eight days, you’ll trek through pristine rainforest, remote valleys, and across the Shira Plateau, enjoying panoramic views and diverse flora and fauna. The route’s extended itinerary allows for gradual acclimatization, increasing your chances of reaching Uhuru Peak. Each day brings new landscapes and challenges, from the dramatic Barranco Wall to the windswept heights of Barafu Camp. The Lemosho Route is perfect for those seeking a less crowded, immersive mountain experience, with ample time to adapt to the altitude and savor the journey to Africa’s highest point. The camaraderie among trekkers and guides, combined with the route’s varied terrain, makes this a favorite among experienced hikers and those who want to maximize their chances of a successful summit.
From $2,350 per person (based on 2 people, low season).
Contact us for a personalized quote depending on group size and season.
After breakfast and a briefing in Moshi, drive to Londorossi Gate (2,250m) for registration. Begin your trek through pristine rainforest, where you may spot colobus monkeys and exotic birds. The trail is often muddy and slippery, so trekking poles are recommended. After 3-4 hours of hiking, arrive at Mti Mkubwa Camp (2,820m) for your first night on the mountain. Enjoy a hearty dinner and rest in your tent, surrounded by the sounds of the forest.
Leave the rainforest behind and ascend into moorland, with stunning views of the Shira Ridge and Plateau. The trail is steep in places but offers rewarding vistas. After 5-6 hours of trekking, reach Shira 1 Camp (3,610m), where you’ll enjoy panoramic views and a well-deserved meal. Acclimatization begins as you adjust to the higher altitude.
Continue across the Shira Plateau, one of the highest in the world, with expansive views of Kilimanjaro’s upper slopes. The trail is gentle, allowing for easy acclimatization. After 4-5 hours, arrive at Shira 2 Camp (3,850m), where you’ll rest and prepare for the next stage of the trek.
Today is an important acclimatization day. Trek east toward Lava Tower (4,630m), where you’ll have lunch and enjoy dramatic alpine scenery. Descend to Barranco Camp (3,960m) for the night. The climb high, sleep low approach helps your body adapt to the altitude. Barranco Camp is famous for its stunning views of the Barranco Wall and the southern glaciers of Kibo.
Begin the day with a scramble up the Barranco Wall, a highlight of the Lemosho Route. The trail then undulates through alpine desert, with breathtaking views of the mountain. After 4-5 hours, arrive at Karanga Camp (4,035m), where you’ll rest and prepare for the final ascent. This shorter day aids acclimatization and allows for recovery before the summit push.
Ascend steadily to Barafu Camp (4,640m), the base camp for your summit attempt. The landscape is stark and windswept, with little vegetation. After an early dinner, rest and prepare your gear for the midnight summit push. The anticipation builds as you get ready for the most challenging part of the trek.
Begin your summit attempt around midnight, climbing by headlamp through scree and switchbacks. Reach Stella Point (5,756m) at sunrise, then continue to Uhuru Peak (5,895m), the highest point in Africa. Celebrate your achievement, take photos, and begin the descent to Barafu Camp for a short rest. Continue down to Mweka Camp (3,100m) for your final night on the mountain. This is a long, rewarding day—expect to trek for 12-15 hours in total.
After breakfast, descend through lush rainforest to Mweka Gate (1,640m), where you’ll receive your summit certificate. Transfer back to Moshi for a hot shower and celebration. Reflect on your incredible achievement and the unforgettable memories made on Kilimanjaro’s Lemosho Route.
