Description
The Lemosho Route is celebrated for its stunning scenery, strategic acclimatization schedule, and high summit success rate. Spanning 7 to 8 days, this route begins on the quieter western side of Mount Kilimanjaro, allowing climbers to enjoy the tranquility and beauty of the mountain before joining the busier southern circuit. Its longer duration facilitates better acclimatization and offers more time to savor the breathtaking landscapes, from lush rainforests to alpine deserts.
Why Choose the Lemosho Route?
- Scenic Beauty: Offers some of the most spectacular and varied scenery of all the routes.
- Acclimatization: The longer duration and “climb high, sleep low” strategy promote better acclimatization.
- Success Rate: Its acclimatization schedule contributes to a higher success rate for reaching the summit.
Wilderness - Experience: Starts in a remote location, providing a more solitary and wilderness experience.
Day 1: Londorossi Gate to Mti Mkubwa (Big Tree Camp)
Altitude: 2,250m to 2,650m
Hiking Time: 3-4 hours
Distance: About 6 km
Activities: After registration at Londorossi Gate, a short drive leads to the starting point. The hike through rainforest to Mti Mkubwa Camp offers a chance to see diverse flora and fauna.
Day 2: Mti Mkubwa to Shira 1 Camp
Altitude: 2,650m to 3,610m
Hiking Time: 5-6 hours
Distance: About 8 km
Activities: Ascend through the forest and into the heath zone, crossing several streams. The terrain opens up as you approach Shira 1 Camp, offering views of the Shira Plateau.
Day 3: Shira 1 to Shira 2 Camp
Altitude: 3,610m to 3,850m
Hiking Time: 3-4 hours
Distance: About 7 km
Activities: A gentle hike across the plateau to Shira 2 Camp, with optional acclimatization walks. Enjoy panoramic views of the mountain and its surroundings.
Day 4: Shira 2 to Barranco Camp via Lava Tower
Altitude: 3,850m to 4,630m (Lava Tower) down to 3,960m
Hiking Time: 6-7 hours
Distance: About 10 km
Activities: The route ascends to the Lava Tower for acclimatization, then descends to Barranco Camp. This day is crucial for adapting to altitude changes.
Day 5: Barranco Camp to Karanga Camp
Altitude: 3,960m to 3,995m
Hiking Time: 4-5 hours
Distance: About 5 km
Activities: Climb the challenging Barranco Wall then cross valleys and ridges to Karanga Camp, with stunning views along the way.
Day 6: Karanga Camp to Barafu Camp
Altitude: 3,995m to 4,673m
Hiking Time: 4-5 hours
Distance: About 4 km
Activities: The trail leads to Barafu Camp. The afternoon is for resting in preparation for the summit night. The camp offers views of Mawenzi and Kibo peaks.
Day 7: Barafu Camp to Uhuru Peak to Mweka Camp
Altitude: 4,673m to 5,895m (Summit) down to 3,100m
Hiking Time: 10-14 hours
Distance: About 5 km ascent and 12 km descent
Activities: Summit night begins around midnight, ascending steep scree to Stella Point and then to Uhuru Peak. After summiting, descend to Mweka Camp for the night.
Day 8: Mweka Camp to Mweka Gate
Altitude: 3,100m to 1,640m
Hiking Time: 3-4 hours
Distance: About 10 km
Activities: Descend through the forest to Mweka Gate, where climbers receive summit certificates. Transfer back to Arusha or Moshi concludes the journey.
- Camping accommodations throughout the climb
- All meals and water on the climb
- Professional guide, porters, and cook services
- Park fees, camping fees, and rescue fees
- Transfer to and from the starting point
