8-Day Adventure Hike at Kilimanjaro Via Lemosho Route
Highlights
Diverse landscapes, from rainforest to alpine desert
Stunning views of Mount Meru and Kilimanjaro
Conquer the dramatic and challenging Barranco Wall
Unique flora such as giant Senecio trees and volcanic rock formations
Gradual acclimatization with climb high, sleep low days
Fewer crowds and well-spaced campsites for a more peaceful experience
Dramatic summit views from Stella Point and Uhuru Peak
Ice and glacier views from the summit's crater rim
Mount Kilimanjaro, Moshi
nature, trekking, climbing
Group Tour
8 Days
Easy
English, French, German
Description
Embark on an 8-day adventure hike and traverse through the scenic Mount Kilimanjaro via Lemosho Route. Venture through the Shira Camp and conquer the Barranco wall. Immerse in the scenic sunset views at Uhuru Peak.
Itinerary
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DAY 1 - Londrossi Gate – Mti Mkubwa Camp: 4.8km /3mi | 3-4 Hrs | Rainforest
- Elevation: 2389m/7838ft to 2785m/9137ft
- Altitude gained: 396m
- Departing from Moshi a 45-minute drive will take you through welcoming mountainside villages to the Kilimanjaro National Park Gate. We will patiently wait for our permits to be issued while watching the hustle and bustle of operations as many crews prepare for the journey ahead.
- Enjoy the beautiful rainforest scenery and windy trails while your guide tells you about the local flora and fauna and natural wildlife.
- At these lower elevations, the trail can be muddy and quite slippery. We highly recommend gaiters and trekking poles here.
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DAY 2 - Mti Mkubwa Camp – Shira I Camp: 17km/5mi | 6-8hrs | Moorland
- Elevation: 2785m/9137ft to 3895m/12,779ft
- Altitude gained: 1110m
- After a good night’s sleep and a hearty breakfast, we emerge from the rain forest and continue on an ascending path, we leave the forest behind now, the trail climbs steadily with wide views to reach the rim of the Shira Plateau.
- Temperatures begin to drop.
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DAY 3 - Shira I Camp – Shira Hut: 6.9km/4.3mi | 5-7hrs | Moorland
- Elevation: 3504m/11,496ft to 3895m/12,779ft
- Altitude gained: 391m
- We explore the Shira plateau for a full day. It is a gentle walk east toward Kibo’s glaciered peak, across the plateau which leads to Shira 2 camp on moorland meadows by a stream.
- Then we continue to Moir Hut, a little-used site on the base of Lent Hills.
- A variety of walks are available on Lent Hills making this an excellent acclimatization opportunity.
- Shira is one of the highest plateaus on earth.
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DAY 4 - Shira Hut – Lava Tower – Barranco Camp: 10.1km/6.3mi | 4-6hrs | Semi Desert
- Elevation: 3895m/12,779ft to 3986m/13,077ft
- Altitude gained: 91m
- Although you end the day around the same elevation as when you began, this day is very important for acclimatization.
- From Shira Plateau we continue east up a ridge, passing the junction towards the Kibo peak before we then continue, South East towards the Lava Tower, called the “Shark’s Tooth” (elev. 4650m/15,250ft).
- Shortly after the tower, we come to a second junction, which leads to the Arrow Glacier.
- We then continue to descend to overnight at Barranco Camp.
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DAY 5 - Barranco Camp – Karanga Camp: 5.2km/3mi | 4-5hrs | Alpine Desert
- Elevation: 3986m/13,077ft to 4034m/13,235ft
- Altitude gained: 48m
- After breakfast, we continue on a steep ridge up to the adventurous Barranco Wall to the Karanga Valley and the junction, which connects, with the Mweka Trail.
- This is one of the most impressive days to see the power, agility, and strength of your crew zip over this wall with what appears such ease.
- Overnight at Karanga Camp.
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DAY 6 - Hike Karanga Camp – Barafu Camp: 3.3km /2 Mi | 4-5hrs | Alpine Desert
- Elevation: 4034m/13,235ft to 4662m/15,295ft
- Altitude gained: 628m
- We continue up toward Barafu Camp, and once reached you have now completed the South Circuit, which offers a variety of breathtaking views of the summit from many different angles.
- An early dinner and rest as we prepare for summit night.
- Overnight at Barafu Camp.
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DAY 7- Summit Day
Barafu Camp – Summit: 4.86km /3mi Up | 5-7hrs | – Mweka Camp: 13km /8mi Down | 5-6hrs | Glaciers, Snow Capped Summit
- Elevation: 4662m/15,295ft to 5895m/19,341ft
- Altitude gained: 1233m
- Descent to 3106m/10,190ft
- Altitude lost: 2789m
- Excitement is building as morning comes with an early start between midnight and 2 a.m.
- This is the most mentally and physically challenging portion of the trek. We continue our way to the summit between the Rebmann and Ratzel glaciers trying to stay warm and focused on the amazing sense of accomplishment that lies ahead.
- With a switchback motion in a northwesterly direction and ascend through heavy scree towards Stella Point on the crater rim.
- ou will be rewarded with the most magnificent sunrise during your short rest here. Faster hikers may view the sunrise from the summit. From here on your remaining 1 hour ascent to Uhuru Peak, you are likely to encounter snow all the way.
- Congratulations, one step at a time you have now reached Uhuru Peak the highest point on Mount Kilimanjaro and the entire continent of Africa!
- After photos, celebrations and maybe a few tears of joy we take a few moments to enjoy this incredible accomplishment.
- We begin our steep descent down to Mweka Camp, stopping at Barafu for lunch and a very brief rest.
- We strongly recommend gaiters and trekking poles for uncooperative loose gravel and volcano ash terrain.
- Well-deserved rest awaits you to enjoy your last evening on the mountain.
- Overnight Mweka Camp.
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DAY 8 - Mweka Camp – Mweka Gate – Moshi: 9.1km/6mi |3-4hrs | Rainforest
- Elevation: 3106m/10,190ft to 1633m/5358ft
- Altitude lost: 1473m
- After breakfast and a heartfelt ceremony of appreciation and team bonding with your crew, it’s time to say goodbye.
- We continue the descent down to the Mweka Park Gate to receive your summit certificates.
- As the weather is drastically warmer, the terrain is wet, muddy and steep and we highly recommend Gaiters and trekking poles.
- From the gate, a vehicle will meet you at Mweka village to drive you back to your hotel in Moshi (about 30 minutes).
What's Included
Airport pickup and drop off
Park fees, camping fees, Hut fees & rescue fees
Team Kilimanjaro Rescue fees
18% VAT on tour fees & services
4 Season mountain tents
Double layered Sleeping Mats 4 inches (10cm) thick
Friendly and professional mountain guides, cook and porters
3 meals daily while on the mountain
Enough treated & filtered drinking water throughout the trek
Hot water for washing
Portable oxygen tanks, Ox meter
Emergency first-aid kit
Portable flush toilet with a toilet and tent
Mountain climbing certificates
What's Excluded
International or Local Flights
Optional activities
Alcoholic and soft drinks
Tips for guides, porters and cook
Visa fees
Travel insurance
Personal spending money for souvenirs etc.
Laundry (Available at the hotel)
Know Before You Go
Before embarking on the 8-day Kilimanjaro trek via the Lemosho Route, there are several key things to know to ensure you're well-prepared for the adventure. Here's a concise summary of important information:
1. Route Overview
Lemosho Route is known for its scenic beauty, diverse ecosystems, and gradual ascent, making it ideal for acclimatization. It's one of the quieter, less crowded routes, offering a more peaceful experience on the mountain.
8-day trek provides plenty of time for acclimatization, which increases your chances of successfully reaching the summit.
2. Physical Preparation
Fitness: You don’t need to be an elite athlete, but a moderate level of fitness is important. Training for stamina (long hikes, cardio, and strength) will help you manage the long days of trekking and the altitude.
Acclimatization: The Lemosho Route’s longer itinerary allows for gradual ascent, reducing the risk of altitude sickness. However, altitude can still be challenging, so listen to your body and stay hydrated.
3. Weather and Conditions
Weather Variations: The climate changes dramatically as you ascend—from hot and humid in the rainforest at lower altitudes to freezing cold and snowy conditions at the summit. Be prepared for all types of weather, including rain, snow, and wind.
Summit Night: Expect freezing temperatures around -10°C to -20°C (14°F to -4°F) on summit night. The climb to the summit (Uhuru Peak) is done in the early morning hours to catch the sunrise, so dress warmly.
4. Altitude Sickness
Symptoms: Headaches, nausea, dizziness, and fatigue are common. It’s important to acclimatize properly by following your guide’s instructions, drinking plenty of water, and taking it slow.
Prevention: Take Diamox (if prescribed) for altitude sickness prevention. "Climb high, sleep low" days will help your body adjust to the increasing elevation.
5. Packing Essentials
Clothing: Layering is essential. Pack moisture-wicking base layers, insulating mid-layers (fleece or down), and a waterproof outer layer. Don’t forget warm clothes for summit day (down jacket, insulated gloves, and warm socks).
Footwear: Bring sturdy, waterproof hiking boots with ankle support and break them in before the hike. Also, pack lightweight camp shoes.
Sleeping Bag: You’ll need a 4-season sleeping bag, rated for temperatures as low as -10°C (14°F) for summit night.
Trekking Poles: These help with stability, especially on challenging sections like the Barranco Wall.
6. Physical and Mental Preparation
Mental Toughness: The climb to the summit is mentally challenging, especially the final push after a long night of hiking. Be prepared for long days of trekking, and maintain a positive attitude.
Pacing: The Lemosho Route’s slow pace is designed for better acclimatization, but it's still a demanding hike, so pace yourself and take rest breaks.
7. Safety and Health
First Aid: Carry a basic first-aid kit, including pain relievers, blister treatments, and any personal medications.
Hydration and Snacks: Drink plenty of water (at least 3-4 liters a day) and carry energy snacks like bars, nuts, and dried fruit for quick energy.
Vaccinations: You may need vaccinations for diseases like yellow fever, typhoid, and hepatitis A/B. Consult with a healthcare provider well in advance.
8. Guides and Porters
Professional Guides: Make sure your trek is with a licensed operator who provides experienced guides, cooks, and porters. They play a crucial role in your safety and experience on the mountain.
Porters: Porters carry your gear (except for your daypack), so pack light and ensure your gear is divided into manageable portions.
9. Tipping
Tipping Guidelines: Tipping is common on Kilimanjaro. You’ll typically tip your guide, cook, and porters at the end of the trek. On average, tips can range from $10–$20 per day for the head guide, and $5–$10 per day for porters and cooks.
10. Travel Logistics
Visa and Permits: Make sure to check visa requirements for Tanzania (you can get a visa on arrival for most nationalities). Your trek operator will also arrange the necessary park permits.
Travel Insurance: Comprehensive travel insurance is a must, covering evacuation, medical expenses, and trip cancellation.
Arrival & Departure: Plan to arrive in Arusha a day or two before your trek begins. The drive to the Lemosho Gate (where the trek starts) takes about 3-4 hours.
11. Communication
Limited Connectivity: Expect limited or no mobile phone signal during the hike. The focus is on disconnecting and immersing yourself in nature.
Safety Communication: Guides will have radios or satellite phones for emergencies, and there will be a communication protocol with the park rangers in case of an emergency.
12. Environmental Responsibility
Leave No Trace: Ensure you leave the mountain as you found it—take all trash with you, avoid using disposable plastics, and respect the local environment and wildlife.
Eco-Friendly Trekking: Some tour operators have a strong commitment to responsible tourism, supporting sustainable practices, including conservation efforts and supporting local communities.
As a newer route, it is more remote and arguably more beautiful, but a bit longer and slightly more expensive. It starts on the Western side of the mountain at the Londorossi Gate which is a further drive from town, and was introduced as an alternative to the Shira route. After beautiful forests and moorlands it crosses the Shira Plateau on day 3 to connect with the Machame Route at Lava Tower and down towards Barranco Valley via the Southern Circuit. You may be lucky enough to see buffalo, elephant and other game. Because this route can be done over a longer period of time for acclimatization, it has a higher success rate of summit.
What To Bring
When hiking Mount Kilimanjaro via the Lemosho Route for 8 days, it's essential to pack carefully. The weather can vary greatly at different altitudes, ranging from hot and humid in the lower rainforest to freezing cold at the summit. Here’s a summary of what to bring for your 8-day hike on the Lemosho Route:
Clothing (Layering is Key)
Base Layers (Moisture-wicking):
Long-sleeve moisture-wicking shirts (avoid cotton).
Thermal underwear (top and bottom) for cold nights at higher altitudes.
Mid-Layers:
Fleece jacket or down jacket for warmth.
Lightweight insulating layer (like a soft-shell or down vest).
Outer Layer (Weather Protection):
Waterproof, windproof jacket (breathable) for rain and wind.
Waterproof pants for wet conditions.
Pants & Shorts:
Convertible pants (zip-off for warmth or comfort).
Knee-length shorts for lower altitudes (optional).
Headwear:
Wide-brimmed hat (for sun protection in lower altitudes).
Beanie or warm hat (for summit night and cold evenings).
Buff or scarf (for protecting your face from dust or cold).
Gloves:
Lightweight gloves for the lower altitudes.
Insulated gloves for summit day (it gets freezing).
Socks:
Moisture-wicking socks (bring 5-6 pairs).
Wool socks for summit day to keep feet warm.
Boots:
Sturdy, waterproof hiking boots (with ankle support and proper break-in).
Camp shoes (like sandals or lightweight sneakers for the evenings at camp).
Essential Gear
Backpack (30-40L) for daily hikes.
Daypack to carry snacks, water, and camera during day treks.
Sleeping Bag (for high-altitude, cold weather):
4-season sleeping bag rated for temperatures as low as -10°C to -20°C (14°F to -4°F).
Trekking Poles:
Collapsible poles (help with stability on rocky paths, especially on the Barranco Wall).
Hydration:
Water bottles (2-3L capacity) or a hydration system like Camelbak (with insulating sleeve to prevent freezing on summit night).
Water purification tablets or filters in case you run out of clean water.
Headlamp (with extra batteries) for early starts, nighttime walks, or summit push.
Personal Items:
Sunglasses (with UV protection for high altitudes).
Sunblock (high SPF, broad-spectrum for sun exposure).
Lip balm with SPF to protect lips from wind and sun.
Insect repellent (for lower altitudes, especially rainforest areas).
Health & Safety
First-Aid Kit:
Include bandages, pain relievers, anti-inflammatory tablets, blister treatment, and personal medications.
Altitude sickness meds (such as Diamox), if prescribed by your doctor.
Hand Sanitizer and wet wipes for hygiene, as facilities may be limited.
Personal Toilet Paper and Tissues (some camps may have limited or no toilets).
Water Purification tablets or water bottle filter, just in case.
Summit Day Essentials
Summit Clothing:
Down jacket (essential for freezing temperatures at the summit).
Thermal pants and an extra pair of warm socks for summit day.
Gaiters (to protect against snow and scree).
Balaclava or face mask (to protect against wind chill).
Snacks:
High-energy snacks (e.g., energy bars, chocolate, nuts, dried fruit) for quick energy on summit night and long hikes.
Personal Items
Passport & Copies (for entry permits).
Travel Insurance (especially for trekking and evacuation).
Camera and extra batteries (cold weather can drain batteries quickly).
Notebook/Journal for recording your experience.
Optional Items
Camera with extra memory cards and power bank.
Hiking gaiters for added comfort and protection in snow and scree.
Group Gear (provided by your operator)
Tents (shared).
Cooking equipment and mess tents.
Porters carry the majority of the weight (including shared camping gear), so you'll only need to carry your personal items and daypack.
Meeting Point
Kilimanjaro International Airport, Kilimanjaro Airport Road, Tanzania
Cancellation Policy
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For cancellations upto 2 days before the tour -
Refund of 80% of the tour price.
Price
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