Tanzania · Trekking

9-Day Kilimanjaro Lemosho Route Trek to Uhuru Peak

9 Days Round trip from Moshi Moderate pace

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The journey

Trip highlights

01 Trek Tanzania's majestic Kilimanjaro via the scenic Lemosho Route
02 Conquer lush rainforests, expansive plateaus, and rocky alpine terrain
03 Reach Uhuru Peak, Africa's highest point, on your summit push
04 Gradually acclimatize to altitude as you traverse Kilimanjaro's varied landscapes
05 Descend through verdant rainforest after your high-altitude adventure

Conquer Africa's rooftop on this 9-day Lemosho Route trek up Kilimanjaro, Tanzania's majestic peak. Ascend through diverse landscapes, from lush rainforests and expansive plateaus to alpine desert and challenging summit terrain. Acclimatize gradually as you take in breathtaking scenery before standing triumphant on Uhuru Peak, Africa's highest point. Descend through verdant forests, forever marked by this unforgettable adventure.

Begin the summit push around midnight, navigating steep and rocky terrain.

From the itinerary

At a glance

What this trip includes

Duration 9 Days

Tour type Private

Activity level Moderate

Accommodation Not included

Transport Included

Wheelchair access Yes

Cities Arusha, Moshi, Mount Kilimanjaro

Languages English

Day by day

The itinerary

Day 01

Arrival in Tanzania and Pre-Climb Briefing

Arrive at Kilimanjaro International Airport and transfer to your hotel in Moshi or Arusha.
Meet with your tour operator for a pre-climb briefing and gear check.
Rest and acclimatize to the altitude. Explore the local area if time permits.

Day 02

Lemosho Gate to Mti Mkubwa Camp

Drive to the Lemosho Gate (2100m) for registration and permits.
Begin the trek through lush rainforests, spotting various flora and fauna.
Hike to Mti Mkubwa Camp (2780m) for your first night on the mountain.
Approximate hiking time: 3-4 hours.

Day 03

Mti Mkubwa Camp to Shira 1 Camp

Continue through the rainforest, gradually ascending into the heath and moorland zones.
Reach Shira 1 Camp (3500m), enjoying panoramic views of Kilimanjaro's western side.
Approximate hiking time: 5-6 hours.

Day 04

Across the Shira Plateau to Shira 2 Camp

Trek across the Shira Plateau, an expansive high-altitude desert with stunning views.
Ascend to Shira 2 Camp (3850m), where you'll spend the night.
Approximate hiking time: 4-5 hours.

Day 05

Shira 2 Camp to Barranco Camp via Lava Tower

Hike through the rocky terrain of the alpine desert, passing the Lava Tower (4630m) for acclimatization.
Descend to Barranco Camp (3950m) via the scenic Barranco Wall.
Enjoy breathtaking views of the surrounding landscape.
Approximate hiking time: 6-7 hours.

Day 06

Barranco Camp to Karanga Camp

Traverse the Karanga Valley, crossing several ridges and valleys.
Ascend to Karanga Camp (4035m), nestled beneath the southern glacier of Kibo.
Rest and prepare for the summit push.
Approximate hiking time: 3-4 hours.

Day 07

Karanga Camp to Barafu Base Camp

Ascend steadily to Barafu Camp (4600m), your base camp for the summit attempt.
Rest, hydrate, and mentally prepare for the challenging ascent.
Enjoy stunning views of the summit and surrounding glaciers.
Approximate hiking time: 3-4 hours.

Day 08

Summit Attempt to Uhuru Peak and Descent to Mweka Camp

Begin the summit push around midnight, navigating steep and rocky terrain.
Reach Stella Point (5685m) at the crater rim, then continue to Uhuru Peak (5895m), the highest point in Africa.
Descend back to Barafu Camp for a short rest before continuing to Mweka Camp (3100m) for the night.
Approximate hiking time: 12-15 hours.

Day 09

Mweka Camp to Mweka Gate

Descend through lush rainforests, enjoying the sights and sounds of the forest.
Arrive at Mweka Gate (1630m), where you'll receive your summit certificates.
Say goodbye to your guides and porters, then transfer back to your hotel in Moshi or Arusha.
Approximate hiking time: 3-4 hours.

Where this trip takes you

Lemosho Gate rainforest, Shira Plateau high desert, Lava Tower, Uhuru Peak

The route

Where you'll travel

Tour route map — Round trip from Moshi 3 cities · 9 Days

The fine print

Trip details

What's Included

All transfers to the mountain and back to your Moshi hotel
Professional, experienced mountain guides
Guides, porters, cook salaries, and park fees
Sleeping mattress
Emergency oxygen cylinder
All meals while on the mountain
Large portions of fresh, healthy, nutritious food
Clean, purified drinking water
Conservation fees (part of park fees)
Camping or hut fees (part of park fees)
Rescue fees (part of park fees)
VAT (18% charged by the Government)
Kilimanjaro summit certificate

What's Not Included

Tanzania visa
International and domestic flights
Hotel (available as an optional add-on)
Transfers (available as an optional add-on)
Personal trekking equipment such as sleeping bags, hiking boots, clothes, etc. (available for rent)
Tips and gratuities
Travel insurance
Personal expenses (e.g. laundry, telephone, beverages, etc.)
Meals not listed in the itinerary
Liquors, beers, and bottled beverages
Surcharge for online payment of advance and balance (5% on each payment)

What to bring

Clothing:
- Moisture-wicking base layers (tops and bottoms)
- Insulating layers (fleece jacket, down jacket)
- Waterproof and windproof jacket and pants
- Trekking pants and shorts
- Long-sleeve shirts
- Thermal underwear (for summit night)
- Warm hat, gloves, and neck gaiter or scarf
- Hiking socks (wool or synthetic)
- Gaiters (to keep snow and debris out of boots)
Footwear:
- Sturdy and waterproof hiking boots with ankle support
- Camp shoes or sandals for resting at campsites
Gear:
- Backpack (40-60 liters) for carrying personal items and water
- Sleeping bag suitable for cold temperatures (rated to at least -10°C/14°F)
- Sleeping pad or mat for insulation and comfort
- Trekking poles for stability and reducing strain on knees
- Headlamp or flashlight with extra batteries
- Sunglasses with UV protection and glacier glasses for summit day
- Sun hat with a wide brim for sun protection
- Buff or bandana for sun protection and dust
- Personal first aid kit with essentials like blister treatments, pain relievers, and any prescription medications
- Toiletries (toothbrush, toothpaste, biodegradable soap, hand sanitizer, etc.)
- Quick-dry towel
- Insect repellent and sunscreen
Climbing Equipment (if not provided by tour operator):
- Warm and waterproof gloves for summit night
- Crampons (if needed for icy conditions)
- Ice axe (if required for steep sections)
- Helmet (for protection against falling rocks)
Miscellaneous:
- Water bottles or hydration system with a capacity of at least 3 liters
- Snacks and energy bars for quick energy boosts
- Personal identification and travel documents (passport, insurance information)
- Camera or smartphone for capturing memories
- Notebook and pen for journaling or taking notes
- Trash bags for carrying out waste and keeping gear dry
Optional Extras:
- Portable solar charger or power bank for electronic devices
- Lightweight camp chair or seat pad for comfort during breaks
- Book or e-reader for downtime at campsites

Know before you go

Physical Fitness: Kilimanjaro is a strenuous trek, and being in good physical shape will greatly increase your chances of success. Cardiovascular exercises, strength training, and hiking on varied terrain are recommended to prepare your body for the challenge.
Altitude Acclimatization: Altitude sickness is a real risk when climbing Kilimanjaro. The Marangu Route offers a more gradual ascent, which can aid in acclimatization, but it is essential to listen to your body, stay hydrated, and follow your guide's advice.
Packing Essentials: Make sure you have all the necessary gear for the trek, including sturdy hiking boots, warm layers, a sleeping bag suitable for cold temperatures, a headlamp, and plenty of snacks and water. Your tour operator will likely provide a detailed packing list.
Travel Insurance: It is highly recommended to purchase travel insurance that covers trekking at high altitudes, including medical evacuation in case of emergencies.
Permits and Guides: Climbing Kilimanjaro requires permits, and it is mandatory to be accompanied by a certified guide. Ensure that your tour operator takes care of all necessary permits and provides experienced guides.
Weather Conditions: Kilimanjaro's weather can be unpredictable, with temperatures ranging from hot at the base to freezing at the summit. Be prepared for varying weather conditions and dress accordingly in layers.
Environmental Considerations: Respect the natural environment by adhering to the