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Tanzania · Trekking
The journey
Approach Kili from the west on the Lemosho Route, a long and challenging trek favored by reputable Kili outfitters for its smaller crowds, scenic variety, and high success rates. Over 8 days, hike through forest trails, moorland, and high alpine landscapes on your way to Uhuru Peak, the highest point on Mount Kilimanjaro and in Africa. This route offers magnificent views of Kilimanjaro and a rewarding summit experience.
Approach Kili from the west on the Lemosho Route, a long and challenging trek favored by reputable Kili outfitters for its smaller crowds, scenic variety, and high success rates.
From the itinerary
At a glance
Day by day
After breakfast and a briefing, drive to Londorossi Park Gate (7,380 ft/2,250 m, 2.5 hours).
From here, take a 4WD vehicle up the forest track to Lemosho Glades (7,830 ft/2,390 m, 11 km, 45 minutes).
Walk along forest trails to Mti Mkubwa (Big Tree) Camp.
Meals: Lunch & Dinner
Budget Lodging: Mti Mkubwa Camp
After breakfast, continue as the trail gradually steepens and enters the giant heather moorland zone.
After crossing several streams, continue over the Shira Ridge (11,810 ft/3,600 m), then descend gently to Shira 1 Camp, located by a stream on the Shira Plateau.
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
Budget Lodging: Shira 1 Camp
After breakfast, take a gentle hike across the plateau that leads to Shira 2 Camp on moorland meadows by a stream.
Acclimatize yourself, as a variety of hikes are available on the plateau.
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
Budget Lodging: Shira 2 Camp
From the Shira Plateau, continue east, passing the junction near the peak of Kibo.
Notice the change in direction as you head southeast toward the Lava Tower, called the "Shark's Tooth."
Shortly after the tower, come across the second junction, which leads up to Arrow Glacier (15,997 ft/4,876 m).
Continue down to Barranco Hut (12,664 ft/3,860 m).
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
Budget Lodging: Barranco Hut
After breakfast, leave Barranco and continue on a steep ridge, passing the Barranco Wall to the Karanga Valley campsite (13,780 ft/4,200 m).
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
Budget Lodging: Karanga Valley Camp
After breakfast, leave the Karanga Valley and pass the junction that connects with the Mweka Trail.
Continue to Barafu Hut (15,092 ft/4,600 m).
Upon reaching Barafu Hut, you will have completed the South Circuit, which offers views of the summit from many different angles.
Make camp, rest, enjoy dinner, and prepare for summit day.
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
Budget Lodging: Barafu Hut
Wake very early (midnight to 2 am) and continue on your way to the summit of Uhuru Peak (19,636 ft/5,985 m).
By reaching Uhuru Peak, you will be at the highest point on Mount Kilimanjaro and on the continent of Africa.
Increase your pace for a chance to see the sunrise from the summit.
Begin your descent, continuing straight down to Mweka Hut Campsite (10,171 ft/3,100 m).
Later in the evening, enjoy your last dinner on the mountain and a well-earned rest.
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
Budget Lodging: Mweka Hut
After breakfast, continue the descent down to Mweka Park Gate.
Head back to your hotel.
Meals: Breakfast
Where this trip takes you
Lemosho Glades, Shira Plateau, Lava Tower, Uhuru Peak
The route
The fine print
Park fees
Rescue fee
Accommodation (tents)
Transfers
Meals
Government taxes
Mineral water
Tips & gratuities
Personal expenses
Logistics
Your 8 days finish where they began, in Moshi.
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