10-Day Kilimanjaro Lemosho Trek with Uhuru Peak Summit Attempt

10 Days Easy pace

The journey

Trip highlights
  • 01 Highest summit success rate on Kilimanjaro (about 95%)
  • 02 Excellent acclimatization profile over 8 days
  • 03 Scenic and less-crowded approach from the western side
  • 04 Starts in lush rainforest at 2,200 m
  • 05 Spectacular views from Cathedral Peak (3,872 m)
  • 06 Home to the unique Dendrosenecio kilimanjari giant groundsel, found only on Kilimanjaro
  • 07 Diverse landscapes ranging from rainforest to alpine desert and arctic summit zone
  • 08 Outstanding panoramic views throughout the trek

The Lemosho trail deserves its growing popularity for its stunning views, effective acclimatization profile, and one of Kilimanjaro's highest summit success rates at about 95%. This 10-day expedition follows the 8-day Lemosho route, beginning in lush rainforest at 2,200 m and crossing diverse landscapes from rainforest to alpine desert and the arctic summit zone. Along the way, you'll enjoy a scenic, less-crowded approach from the western side, spectacular views from Cathedral Peak at 3,872 m, and the chance to see the unique Dendrosenecio kilimanjari plants found only on Kilimanjaro.

At a glance

What this trip includes

Duration 10 Days
Tour type Private
Activity level Easy
Accommodation Included · Standard
Transport Included
Wheelchair access Yes
Cities Arusha, Mount Kilimanjaro, Mount Meru, Machame
Languages English, French, Spanish

Day by day

The itinerary

1
Day 01

Arrival at Kilimanjaro and Hotel Transfer

Welcome to Kilimanjaro International Airport, where your thrilling adventure begins. A Kiliclimb driver will meet you and take you to your hotel. After you settle in, the Kiliclimb guide will meet with you to talk about the climb and make sure you're all set and excited for your upcoming trek.

On a private tour, group airport rides are included in the package. If anyone arrives separately from the group, this individual transfer is subject to an extra cost.

Check-in at the hotel starts at 2:00 PM. Let us know in advance if you need an earlier check-in, which can be arranged at an extra cost.

Aishi Machame Hotel

  • Mid-range hotel located at the foothills of Mt Kilimanjaro

Meals & Drinks:

  • Meals at own expense
  • Drinks not included
2
Day 02

Londorossi Gate to Mti Mkubwa Camp

In the morning, your guide and mountain support crew will meet you at the hotel before you embark on your adventure to Kilimanjaro National Park's western gate: Londorossi Gate. This drive, spanning roughly 3-4 hours, is merely a glimpse of the wonders that await you.

Don't forget your rain ponchos for this day's adventure, as you'll be trekking through a lush rainforest. As you arrive at Mti Mkubwa Camp, you'll find everything ready and waiting, thanks to our dedicated mountain crew. Tents will be set, and a nourishing lunch will be under preparation.

Fuel up, because after lunch, it's time to take on an exhilarating acclimatization hike. This expedition towards Shira 1 Camp will see you conquer a thrilling 300-meter (984-foot) altitude gain. But don't worry - what goes up must come down. You'll descend back to Mti Mkubwa Camp, where a warm dinner awaits to reward your day's effort.

Budget camping

Meals & Drinks:

  • All meals included
  • Non-alcoholic drinks
3
Day 03

Mti Mkubwa Camp to Shira 1 Camp

Rise and shine early, fuel up with breakfast, and gear up for a thrilling hike. Your group will ascend to a breathtaking altitude of 3,500 m / 11,483 ft, unveiling the views of the Shira Plateau and the majestic Kibo Volcano for the very first time.

The day's journey from Mti Mkubwa Camp to the lofty Shira 1 Camp (3,610 m / 11,841 ft) is a gentle climb, taking around 5-6 hours. This pace makes for an ideal, gradual acclimatization process, crucial for a successful trek.

Upon reaching the camp and having lunch, you can either unwind in your tent or explore the intriguing vicinity at your leisure. The day is yours to enjoy.

Budget camping

Meals & Drinks:

  • All meals included
  • Non-alcoholic drinks
4
Day 04

Shira 1 Camp to Shira 2 Camp via Cathedral Peak Option

As dawn breaks at Shira 1 Camp, prepare for a trek to your next camp - Shira 2. It is a true spectacle of Kilimanjaro that offers, weather permitting, sweeping vistas of Mount Meru, the fifth-highest peak in Africa and Tanzania's second loftiest point.

During the day's trek, our guides may propose a detour to Cathedral Peak - standing at an impressive 3,872 meters (12,703 feet), one of the highest points of the extinct Shira volcano. This is more than just a hike; it's a journey into the heart of Kilimanjaro's breathtaking landscape. On a clear day, the summit of Cathedral Peak unveils a sprawling valley vista that resembles a hidden paradise, a sight that tops our list of favorite views.

This is a low-risk trek with no technical challenges. If you prefer a more straightforward path or if the weather is not on our side, you can hike directly to Shira 2. This won't affect your acclimatization, as both Cathedral Peak and Shira 2 share a similar elevation.

Budget camping

Meals & Drinks:

  • All meals included
  • Non-alcoholic drinks
5
Day 05

Shira 2 Camp to Barranco Camp via Lava Tower

After breakfast, brace yourself for a lengthy journey from Shira 2 Camp towards the Lava Tower. This leg of your adventure is a rollercoaster of ascents and descents, culminating at a camp perched over 4,600 m / 15,088 ft above sea level. This trek might challenge you, and it's normal to feel uncomfortable.

However, spending at least 1-2 hours here is crucial for successful altitude acclimatization. You will be resting during lunch at the summit of Lava Tower, aiding your body's adjustment to the high altitude.

Post-lunch, you'll start your descent towards Barranco Camp. Here, you'll get your first glimpse of the awe-inspiring Barranco Wall. Its immense size and steep incline are a sight to behold. While it may seem daunting now, rest easy. Your ascent up this giant the next day is via a straightforward hiking trail, posing no significant challenges.

Budget camping

Meals & Drinks:

  • All meals included
  • Non-alcoholic drinks
6
Day 06

Barranco Camp to Karanga Camp

This morning, prepare for the ascent up the iconic Barranco Wall. To stay ahead of the other trekkers and maintain a steady pace, we suggest an early departure from the camp. Scaling the towering wall is less daunting than it appears, typically taking merely an hour.

Once you conquer the wall, reward yourself with a well-deserved break, capturing memories against the backdrop of the magnificent Kibo volcano.

Next comes a more challenging trek to Karanga Camp. This trail features a few small ascents and descents over the hilly and vast Karanga valley. But our experienced guides are adept at setting a pace that suits the group's capabilities.

After a brief rest at the camp, it's time for another acclimatization hike, this time aiming towards Barafu Camp. Expect to gain an altitude of 200 m / 656 ft before you descend back to the camp.

Budget camping

Meals & Drinks:

  • All meals included
  • Non-alcoholic drinks
7
Day 07

Karanga Camp to Barafu Summit Camp

As the morning sun rises, fill up on a warming breakfast and gear up for the journey to Barafu Summit Camp. This camp serves as the launchpad for your final night ascent to Uhuru Peak (5,895 m / 19,340 ft) - the crowning glory of your adventure.

Our mountain team will advance ahead, ensuring that by the time you arrive, your tents are pitched and everything is in place for you to relax at Barafu Summit Camp.

We recommend that you spend the remaining daylight hours resting and replenishing your energy, preparing both body and mind for the thrilling, starlit climb to the summit that lies ahead. It's not every day one gets to sleep beneath the stars, on the threshold of conquering the tallest peak in Africa.

Budget camping

Meals & Drinks:

  • All meals included
  • Non-alcoholic drinks
8
Day 08

Uhuru Peak Summit and Descent to Millennium Camp

Your group will depart from Barafu Camp and begin the ultimate ascent to the top of Kilimanjaro - the majestic Uhuru Peak, standing tall at 5,895 m / 19,340 ft. While technically the climb isn't overly complex, the sheer altitude can make even simple physical efforts feel challenging.

To ensure your wellbeing during this critical phase, climbers will pair up, each duo under the eye of a personal guide. This allows us to closely monitor your physical and mental condition. At Uhuru Peak, if you wish, you can hike to the closest glacier for a captivating sight.

You will then descend back to Barafu Camp where, after a 2-hour rest, the descent towards Millennium Camp continues.

Bear in mind that 90% of all accidents occur during the descent, which includes the majority of broken or twisted arms and legs. Extreme caution is needed, especially with regard to your feet, as the risk of toenail damage is high. Stay alert and safe as you navigate this final stage of your epic Kilimanjaro adventure.

Budget camping

Meals & Drinks:

  • All meals included
  • Non-alcoholic drinks
9
Day 09

Millennium Camp to Mweka Gate and Return to Hotel

Nestled amidst lush tropical rainforest, Millennium Camp offers a much-needed respite from the high altitudes and an overwhelming sense of accomplishment from conquering the summit. Today, you journey towards the national park's exit: Mweka Gate.

Upon reaching the gate, a grand celebration awaits. After lunch, the whole team will assemble to congratulate you on your achievement. Finally, we will arrange a transfer back to the comfort of your hotel, concluding your epic Kilimanjaro adventure on a high note.

Aishi Machame Hotel

  • Mid-range hotel located at the foothills of Mt Kilimanjaro

Meals & Drinks:

  • Breakfast & lunch (dinner not included)
  • Non-alcoholic drinks
10
Day 10

Departure from Arusha

Take some time to unwind in the comfort of your hotel before the drive to the airport for your journey home.

You'll need to check out of the hotel by 11:00 AM. If your flight isn't until later in the evening and you'd like to extend your stay, there's an option to book the room for a little while longer at an additional cost.

No accommodation (End of tour)

Meals & Drinks:

  • Breakfast (lunch & dinner not included)
  • Non-alcoholic drinks

The route

Where you'll travel

Tour route map
4 cities · 10 Days

The fine print

Trip details

What's Included

  • Porterage
  • Rescue fee
  • Park fees (for non-residents)
  • All activities (unless labeled as optional)
  • All accommodation (unless listed as an upgrade)
  • Camping equipment
  • A professional driver/guide
  • All transportation (unless labeled as optional)
  • All taxes/VAT
  • Roundtrip airport transfer
  • Meals (as specified in the day-by-day section)
  • Drinks (as specified in the day-by-day section)

What's Not Included

  • Climbing gear
  • International flights (from/to home)
  • Additional accommodation before and at the end of the tour
  • Sleeping bag
  • Bath towels
  • Tips (tipping guideline: US$10.00 pp per day)
  • Personal items (souvenirs, travel insurance, visa fees, etc.)
  • Government-imposed increases in taxes and/or park fees
  • Some meals (as specified in the day-by-day section)

What to bring

  • Waterproof jacket and pants
  • Warm layers and down jacket
  • Hiking boots and extra socks
  • Daypack and sleeping bag
  • Headlamp and trekking poles
  • Water bottles (3L capacity)
  • Sunglasses, sunscreen, and hat
  • Personal medications and toiletries
  • Snacks, power bank, and camera

Know before you go

  • Hike slowly ("pole pole")
  • Drink plenty of water
  • Eat well and rest adequately
  • Follow acclimatization hikes
  • Report any altitude sickness symptoms
  • Dress in layers for changing weather
  • Listen to your guide's instructions
  • Enjoy the scenery and take photos

Logistics

Meeting & route

Meeting point
Arusha, Tanzania
End of the journey

Your 10 days finish where they began.

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