Tanzania · Trekking

7-Day Kilimanjaro Lemosho Route Trek with Uhuru Peak Sunrise

7 Days Round trip from Kilimanjaro Airport Rd Moderate pace

The journey

Trip highlights

01 Hike through the undisturbed forest from the Lemosho trailhead to Mti Mkubwa
02 Cross from rainforest into savannah with rolling hills, streams, and Shira Ridge
03 Climb to the Lava Tower and descend through the beautiful Senecio Forest
04 Scale the Great Barranco Wall and continue to Karanga Camp for acclimatization
05 Take in views of Mawenzi and Kibo from Barafu Camp on the Southern Circuit
06 Reach Uhuru Peak after a midnight summit push and witness sunrise near Stella Point

Embark on a scenic 7-day trek on Kilimanjaro's Lemosho Route, hiking from the lush forest of the trailhead to Mti Mkubwa, across savannah and rolling hills to Shira 2 Camp, and up to the Lava Tower before descending through the beautiful Senecio Forest. Continue over the Great Barranco Wall to Karanga Camp and on to Barafu Camp, where views of Mawenzi and Kibo set the stage for summit night. The final push to Uhuru Peak begins around midnight and rewards you with a breathtaking sunrise near Stella Point before your descent to Mweka Gate.

Near Stella Point (18,900 ft), you will be rewarded with the most magnificent sunrise you will ever see coming over Mawenzi Peak.

From the itinerary

At a glance

What this trip includes

Duration 7 Days

Tour type Private

Activity level Moderate

Accommodation Included · Standard

Transport Included

Wheelchair access Yes

Cities Moshi, Mount Kilimanjaro

Languages English

Day by day

The itinerary

Day 01

Londorossi Gate to Mti Mkubwa Camp

We depart Moshi for Londorossi Gate, a drive of about 4 hours, where you will complete the entry formalities.
We then continue by vehicle to the Lemosho trailhead.
Upon arrival at the trailhead, begin hiking through undisturbed forest as the trail winds to the first campsite at Mti Mkubwa.

Day 02

Mti Mkubwa Through Moorland to Shira 2 Camp

We continue on the trail leading out of the rainforest and into a savannah of tall grasses, heather, and volcanic rock draped with lichen beards. As we ascend through the lush rolling hills and cross several streams, we reach the Shira Ridge before dropping gently down to Shira 1 Camp for a hot lunch.
After lunch, we proceed on a flat stretch for 3 hours to Shira Camp 2.

Day 03

Shira 2 Camp to Lava Tower and Barranco Camp

We begin the day by climbing up a ridge and then heading southeast towards the Lava Tower - a 300-foot-tall volcanic rock formation.
We then descend to Barranco Camp through the strange but beautiful Senecio Forest to an altitude of 13,000 ft. Although you begin and end the day at the same elevation, the time spent at a higher altitude benefits acclimatization.

Day 04

Barranco Wall to Karanga Camp

We begin the day by descending into a ravine to the base of the Great Barranco Wall. Then we climb the non-technical but steep, nearly 900 ft cliff. We cross a series of hills and valleys from the top of the Barranco Wall until we descend sharply into Karanga Valley. One more steep climb leads us up to Karanga Camp. This is a shorter day meant for acclimatization.

Day 05

Karanga Camp to Barafu Camp

We leave Karanga and reach the junction that connects with the Mweka Trail. From here, we continue up to the rocky section of Barafu Hut.
At this point, you have completed the Southern Circuit, which offers views of the summit from many different angles. Here, we make camp, rest, and enjoy an early dinner to prepare for summit day. The two peaks of Mawenzi and Kibo are viewable from this position.

Day 06

Midnight Summit Push to Uhuru Peak

We begin our push to the summit early in the morning, around midnight. This is the most mentally and physically challenging portion of the trek. The wind and cold at this elevation and time of day can be extreme.
We ascend in the darkness for several hours while taking frequent but short breaks. Near Stella Point (18,900 ft), you will be rewarded with the most magnificent sunrise you will ever see coming over Mawenzi Peak.

Day 07

Descent to Mweka Gate and Return to Moshi

On our last day, we continue the descent to Mweka Gate and collect the summit certificates. At lower elevations, it can be wet and muddy.
From the gate, we continue another hour to Mweka Village.
A vehicle will meet us at Mweka Village to drive us back to the hotel in Moshi.

Where this trip takes you

Mti Mkubwa, Shira Ridge, Lava Tower, Uhuru Peak at Stella Point

The route

Where you'll travel

Tour route map — Round trip from Kilimanjaro Airport Rd 2 cities · 7 Days

The fine print

Trip details

What's Included

Private transport to and from Kilimanjaro International Airport and your accommodations in Moshi
2 nights of accommodation in Moshi
Transportation to and from the Kilimanjaro gate
Park entry fees
Camping fees
Team Kilimanjaro rescue fees
18% VAT on tour fees and services
4-season mountain tents
Double-layered sleeping mats
3 hot meals daily while on the mountain
Enough treated and filtered drinking water throughout the trek
Hot water for washing
Fair wages for the mountain crew as approved by the Kilimanjaro National Park Authority (KINAPA) and Kilimanjaro Association of Tour Operators (KIATO)
Government taxes
Portable oxygen tanks and an oximeter
Emergency first-aid kit

What's Not Included

Lunches, dinners, and drinks at your hotel before and after the climb
Travel insurance
A portable flush toilet with a toilet tent is available for an extra charge of $70 for the entire trek
Flights
Laundry (available at the hotel)
Personal items and toiletries
Tips for guides, porters, and cooks (guide to tipping on the mountain)

What to bring

Trekking poles - help with stability and reduce strain on your knees
Backpack - a good-quality backpack (30-50 litres) to carry essentials
Daypack - for day hikes and carrying essentials
Hiking boots - sturdy, well-fitted, and broken-in waterproof boots
Gaiters - to protect against mud, stones, and scree
Base layers - moisture-wicking thermal tops and bottoms
Insulation layer - fleece or down jacket for warmth
Outer layer - waterproof and windproof jacket and pants
Trekking pants - lightweight, breathable, and quick-drying
Shorts - for warmer days at lower altitudes
Underwear - quick-drying and moisture-wicking
Warm hat - for warmth during summit night
Sun hat - wide-brimmed or cap to protect against sunburn
Gloves - insulated and waterproof
Buff or neck gaiter - for warmth and sun protection
Sleeping bag - rated for cold temperatures (comfort rating around -10°C/14°F)
Sleeping pad - for added comfort and insulation from the ground
Headlamp/flashlight - with extra batteries for night-time visibility
Water bottles/hydration system - 2-3 liters total capacity
Water purification tablets - to treat drinking water if needed
Sunscreen - high SPF for UV protection
Lip balm - with sunblock
Insect repellent - to protect against bugs
First aid kit - including personal medications
Toiletries - biodegradable soap, toothbrush, toothpaste, etc.
Wet wipes and hand sanitizer - for personal hygiene
Camera or smartphone - for capturing memories
Binoculars - for wildlife or scenic views
Kindle or book - for reading during downtime
Travel insurance documentation - keep a copy available
Energy bars or gels - for quick energy on the trail
Trail mix - nutritious and easy to carry
Cash - small denominations for tipping guides and porters
Maps/guidebook - if not provided by your tour company

Know before you go

Check with your trekking company for any specifics they recommend or provide.
Always acclimatize properly to avoid altitude sickness.
Pack light, but ensure you have everything essential for your safety and comfort.
Adjust your pack based on the season and expected weather conditions. Enjoy your trek on the Lemosho Route.
Start training several months in advance. Focus on cardiovascular fitness, strength training, and hiking.
Consider doing hikes with a weighted backpack to simulate the climbing conditions.
The Lemosho Route is known for its gradual ascent, which aids in acclimatization. However, it is still important to take it slow and listen to your body.
The Lemosho Route typically takes 7 to 8 days to reach the summit (Uhuru Peak), with descent taking another day.
Layered clothing is key; include moisture-wicking base layers, an insulating layer, and a waterproof outer layer.
Do not forget warm hats, gloves, and thermal wear.
Invest in good-quality hiking boots that are broken in but not worn out. Consider gaiters for mud and rain.
Use a good sleeping bag suitable for the temperatures, a reliable trekking pole, and a daypack.
Consider bringing a camera for the stunning landscapes.
Be aware of the symptoms of Acute Mountain Sickness (AMS). If you experience symptoms like headache, nausea, or dizziness, communicate with your guide and consider descending.
Drink plenty of water throughout the trek to help with acclimatization.
Make sure your travel insurance covers high-altitude trekking.
National Park fees are required, and they typically include the cost of a guide and porters. It is advisable to book with a reputable tour operator.
A licensed guide is mandatory for climbing Kilimanjaro. They not only provide safety but also share their local knowledge about the environment and culture.
Learn a few basic Swahili phrases. Greeting locals is a sign of respect.
Be mindful of cultural norms and practices in local communities.
Leave no trace. Follow guidelines to ensure that you respect the natural environment. Carry out all your waste.
The best months to hike are from June to October and December to February, when the weather is generally drier and more stable.
Take time to appreciate the various ecosystems along the way, from rainforest to alpine desert.
Communicate with your guide about the best spots for photographs, especially around sunset and sunrise.
Climbing the Lemosho Route on Kilimanjaro is rewarding, offering stunning views and unique ecosystems. Proper preparation, respect for the environment, and adherence to safety guidelines will ensure an unforgettable experience.