Tanzania · Trekking

9-Day Kilimanjaro Lemosho Route Climb to Uhuru Peak with Acclimatization

9 Days Round trip from Moshi Moderate pace

The journey

Trip highlights

01 Enjoy a scenic 9-day trek on Kilimanjaro via the beautiful Lemosho Route
02 Experience diverse landscapes, from lush rainforest to the picturesque Shira Plateau
03 Summit Uhuru Peak at 5,895 meters and witness a breathtaking sunrise over Africa
04 Benefit from excellent acclimatization opportunities that increase your chances of success

Embark on a 9-day adventure on Kilimanjaro's stunning Lemosho Route, crossing lush rainforest, heath and moorland, alpine desert, and high-altitude camps as you gradually acclimatize for the summit. This scenic climb combines panoramic views from the Shira Plateau, the challenge of the Barranco Wall, and a midnight ascent to Uhuru Peak at 5,895 meters. With expert mountain guides, daily health monitoring, and full mountain support, this trek offers a rewarding path to Africa's highest point.

This scenic climb combines panoramic views from the Shira Plateau, the challenge of the Barranco Wall, and a midnight ascent to Uhuru Peak at 5,895 meters.

From the itinerary

At a glance

What this trip includes

Duration 9 Days

Tour type Private

Activity level Moderate

Accommodation Included · Budget

Transport Included

Wheelchair access No

Cities Moshi, Mount Kilimanjaro

Languages English, French, German

Day by day

The itinerary

Day 01

Arrival in Moshi and Pre-Climb Briefing

Altitude: 3,690m -> 1,830m -> 1,387m
Distance: 101 km
Descent Duration: 5 hours
Upon landing at Kilimanjaro International Airport, you'll be welcomed and transferred to your hotel in Moshi Town. Later, meet your expert mountain guide for a comprehensive briefing and equipment check, ensuring you are well prepared for the adventure ahead.

Day 02

Lemosho Gate Through Rainforest to Mti Mkubwa Camp

Starting Point: Lemosho Gate (2,100m)
Ending Point: Mti Mkubwa Camp (2,820m)
Hiking Duration: 4-5 hours
After breakfast, a scenic drive takes you to Lemosho Gate, where your trek begins. The first section leads through the lush rainforest, home to unique wildlife such as colobus and blue monkeys. A steady climb brings you to Mti Mkubwa Camp, where you'll spend the night.

Day 03

Mti Mkubwa to Shira Camp 1 Across the Moorland

Starting Point: Mti Mkubwa (2,820m)
Ending Point: Shira Camp 1 (3,505m)
Hiking Duration: 5-6 hours
Venture out of the forest into the heath and moorland zone, where vast landscapes and panoramic views over the Shira Plateau unfold. The day ends at Shira Camp 1, offering stunning sights of Kilimanjaro's rugged beauty.

Day 04

Shira Camp 1 to Moir Hut for Acclimatization

Starting Point: Shira Camp 1 (3,505m)
Ending Point: Moir Hut (4,200m)
Hiking Duration: 5-7 hours
Today's journey heads east across the semi-arid landscapes toward the famous Lava Tower. The Moir Hut campsite, set at a higher elevation, provides an excellent acclimatization opportunity.

Day 05

Moir Hut via Lava Tower to Barranco Camp

Starting Point: Moir Hut (4,200m)
Ending Point: Barranco Camp (3,976m)
Hiking Duration: 6-7 hours
Hike through the alpine desert, reaching Lava Tower (4,640m) for acclimatization before descending to Barranco Camp. This descent helps your body adjust to the altitude while offering breathtaking views of glacier formations.

Day 06

Climb the Barranco Wall to Karanga Camp

Starting Point: Barranco Camp (3,976m)
Ending Point: Karanga Camp (4,035m)
Hiking Duration: 4-5 hours
Climb the Barranco Wall, an exciting yet achievable section that rewards trekkers with spectacular views. The trail continues through Karanga Valley before arriving at Karanga Camp for the night.

Day 07

Karanga Camp to Barafu Base Camp

Starting Point: Karanga Camp (4,035m)
Ending Point: Barafu Camp (4,673m)
Hiking Duration: 4-5 hours
Trek across a barren alpine landscape to Barafu Camp, your final stop before the summit attempt. After an early dinner, rest well in preparation for the most demanding part of the journey.

Day 08

Midnight Summit Push to Uhuru Peak and Descent to Mweka Camp

Starting Point: Barafu Camp (4,673m)
Summit Point: Uhuru Peak (5,895m)
Ending Point: Mweka Camp (3,100m)
Hiking Duration: 10-15 hours (ascent & descent)
Begin the summit push around midnight, trekking under starlit skies toward Uhuru Peak, Africa's highest point. Witness the breathtaking sunrise over the vast landscape below before descending to Mweka Camp for a well-earned rest.

Day 09

Final Descent to Mweka Gate and Return to Moshi

Starting Point: Mweka Camp (3,100m)
Ending Point: Mweka Gate (1,640m)
Hiking Duration: 3-4 hours
The final descent leads through the lush rainforest, ending at Mweka Gate, where you'll receive your summit certificate. A transfer awaits to take you back to your hotel in Moshi, marking the successful completion of your climb.

Where this trip takes you

Shira Plateau, Lava Tower, Barranco Wall, Uhuru Peak sunrise

The route

Where you'll travel

Tour route map — Round trip from Moshi 2 cities · 9 Days

The fine print

Trip details

What's Included

2-way airport transfers (arrival & departure)
2 nights' hotel accommodation in Moshi Town (before and after the climb)
All transfers to Lemosho Gate and back to your hotel
Professional, first-aid-certified mountain guides with extensive experience
Twice-daily medical check-ups and monitoring for safety
Guides', porters', and cook salaries covered, including park fees
Accommodation in high-quality, four-season waterproof tents
A comfortable sleeping mattress
An emergency oxygen cylinder for altitude safety
All meals on the mountain - freshly prepared and nutritious
A quality mess tent with table and chairs for dining
Large portions of fresh, healthy food to sustain energy
Clean, purified drinking water throughout the trek
Conservation fees, camping fees, and rescue fees (part of park fees)
18% VAT (charged by the Tanzanian Government)
Official Kilimanjaro summit certificate upon completion

What's Not Included

Tanzania visa (required for entry)
International and domestic flights
Personal trekking gear (e.g. sleeping bags, hiking boots, clothing - available for rent)
Tips and gratuities for guides, porters, and cook (recommended but not included)
Travel insurance (strongly advised for all climbers)
Personal expenses (e.g. laundry, phone calls, souvenirs, etc.)
Meals not listed in the itinerary (e.g. extra hotel meals)
Alcoholic beverages and soft drinks (liquors, beers, bottled sodas)
Surcharge for online payments (5% on advance and balance payments)

What to bring

Layered clothing suitable for varying weather conditions
Waterproof gear
Quality hiking boots
A warm sleeping bag
Trekking poles
Gloves
Sunglasses
A hydration system

Know before you go

Proper acclimatization is key - the 8-day Lemosho Route allows for gradual altitude adjustment. However, it is important to hike slowly ("pole pole"), stay hydrated, and follow your guide's instructions to avoid altitude sickness.
Physical preparation is essential - while the Lemosho Route has a high success rate, it is recommended to train with cardio, strength, and endurance exercises to improve stamina and confidence for the climb.
Expect varying weather conditions - Kilimanjaro has five climate zones, ranging from rainforest to glaciers. Be prepared for diverse weather conditions, including hot, cold, windy, and possibly snowy temperatures, by bringing layered clothing and waterproof gear.
Good gear makes a difference - quality hiking boots, a warm sleeping bag, trekking poles, gloves, sunglasses, and a hydration system are essential. Renting gear is available, but owning your own equipment ensures comfort and reliability.
Summit night is the toughest challenge - the final ascent to Uhuru Peak starts at midnight in freezing temperatures. Stay mentally strong, pace yourself, and trust your guides for a successful summit.
Hydration and nutrition are crucial - drink 3-4 liters of water daily and eat even if you're not hungry. Proper hydration and nutrition are key to maintaining energy and tackling the altitude and long hiking hours.
Respect the mountain and your crew - follow Leave No Trace principles, respect your guides and porters, and tip fairly to show appreciation for their hard work in making your climb safe and successful.

Logistics