Tanzania · Trekking

8-Day Kilimanjaro Trek via Lemosho Route to Uhuru Peak at Sunrise

8 Days Round trip from Tanzania Challenging pace

The journey

Trip highlights

01 Ascend across the scenic Shira Plateau with vast moorland views
02 Acclimatize effectively with gradual elevation gains and extra hikes
03 Conquer the striking Barranco Wall and traverse high alpine ridges
04 Summit Uhuru Peak at sunrise for breathtaking views over Africa
05 Experience diverse ecosystems, from jungle to glacier

Embark on a life-changing 8-day adventure along the Lemosho Route, one of Mount Kilimanjaro's most scenic and least-crowded trails. Begin in the dense rainforests of the western slopes, then ascend through dramatic moorlands and alpine deserts with breathtaking views across the Shira Plateau. Conquer the striking Barranco Wall, acclimatize along the Southern Circuit, and reach Uhuru Peak at sunrise - the highest point in Africa.

Conquer the striking Barranco Wall, acclimatize along the Southern Circuit, and reach Uhuru Peak at sunrise - the highest point in Africa.

From the itinerary

At a glance

What this trip includes

Duration 8 Days

Tour type Shared

Activity level Challenging

Accommodation Included · Budget

Transport Included

Wheelchair access Not applicable

Cities Moshi, Mount Kilimanjaro

Languages English, French, German, Italian

Day by day

The itinerary

Day 01

Hotel Transfer and Rainforest Trek to Mti Mkubwa Camp

Begin the day with a trek briefing and equipment check at your hotel.
Drive 3-4 hours to Lemosho Gate for park registration and permits.
Continue by 4WD to Lemosho Glades, the trailhead.
Hike through lush montane rainforest teeming with wildlife.
Arrive at Mti Mkubwa (Big Tree) Camp for overnight camping.
Hiking Distance: 6 km
Hiking Time: 3-4 hours
Vegetation Zone: Rainforest

Day 02

Mti Mkubwa Camp to Shira 1 Camp

Trek through heather and moorland as the trail ascends steadily.
Cross several small streams and ascend the Shira Ridge.
Descend gently to Shira 1 Camp on the plateau.
Enjoy views of Kibo Peak in the distance.
Hiking Distance: 8 km
Hiking Time: 5-6 hours
Vegetation Zone: Moorland

Day 03

Across Shira Plateau to Shira 2 Camp

Continue across the scenic Shira Plateau with minimal elevation gain.
Trek through open moorland and grassy meadows.
Arrive at Shira 2 Camp beside a mountain stream.
Use the afternoon for rest or short acclimatization hikes.
Hiking Distance: 7 km
Hiking Time: 3-4 hours
Vegetation Zone: Moorland

Day 04

Lava Tower Acclimatization and Descent to Barranco Camp

Ascend gradually toward the imposing Lava Tower.
Pause at Lava Tower for acclimatization and lunch.
Descend into the Barranco Valley, home to giant groundsels and senecios.
Camp below the dramatic Barranco Wall.
Hiking Distance: 10 km
Hiking Time: 6-8 hours
Vegetation Zone: Alpine Desert

Day 05

Barranco Wall Climb to Karanga Camp

Climb the Barranco Wall using a non-technical scrambling route.
Traverse several ridges and valleys across alpine terrain.
Reach Karanga Camp for rest and acclimatization.
Hiking Distance: 5 km
Hiking Time: 4-5 hours
Vegetation Zone: Alpine Desert

Day 06

South Circuit Ascent to Barafu Camp

Ascend over rocky slopes and volcanic scree.
Join the South Circuit Trail with views of both Kibo and Mawenzi.
Arrive at Barafu Camp in time to rest and prepare for the summit attempt.
Eat an early dinner and prepare your gear for the midnight trek.
Hiking Distance: 4 km
Hiking Time: 3-4 hours
Vegetation Zone: Alpine Desert

Day 07

Midnight Summit Push to Uhuru Peak and Descent to Mweka Camp

Begin the summit push around midnight using headlamps.
Climb steep scree slopes to Stella Point on the crater rim.
Reach Uhuru Peak, the highest point in Africa, at sunrise.
Take photographs and enjoy breathtaking views.
Descend back to Barafu Camp for rest, then continue down to Mweka Camp.
Hiking Distance: 17 km
Hiking Time: 12-15 hours
Vegetation Zones: Arctic to Moorland

Day 08

Rainforest Descent to Mweka Gate and Return to Moshi

Complete the final descent through dense rainforest.
Arrive at Mweka Gate and collect your summit certificates.
Meet your transfer vehicle and return to your hotel in Moshi.
Celebrate your success and rest.
Hiking Distance: 10 km
Hiking Time: 3-4 hours
Vegetation Zone: Rainforest

Where this trip takes you

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

The route

Where you'll travel

Tour route map — Round trip from Tanzania 2 cities · 8 Days

The fine print

Trip details

What's Included

Park fees and permits: These are mandatory and cover entry into Kilimanjaro National Park.
Guides and porters: Licensed guides are essential for navigation and safety, while porters carry equipment and supplies.
Accommodation: This usually includes tents (or huts on the Marangu Route).
Meals: All meals on the mountain are typically included, often prepared by a mountain chef.
Transfers: Transfers to and from the mountain, and sometimes to and from the airport, are usually included.
Safety equipment: Basic safety equipment, such as first-aid kits and emergency oxygen, may be included.
Pre- and post-climb support: Some packages include briefings, gear checks, and celebration dinners.

What's Not Included

Flights: International flights to and from Tanzania are generally not included.
Visas: Tanzanian visas are typically the climber's responsibility.
Tips: Tips for guides, porters, and other support staff are rarely included.
Personal gear: Climbers need to bring their own gear, such as appropriate clothing, boots, and a sleeping bag.
Travel insurance: Comprehensive travel insurance, including medical and evacuation coverage, is usually not included.
Pre-/post-climb accommodation and meals: Unless specifically stated, accommodation and meals in Moshi before and after the trek are not included.
Personal spending money: Expenses such as souvenirs, drinks, and snacks are not included.

What to bring

Hiking Boots: Waterproof and broken-in hiking boots are a must.
Waterproof Jacket and Pants: Essential for protection against rain and wind.
Fleece Jacket: Provides insulation and warmth.
Insulated Jacket: Necessary for colder conditions, especially at higher altitudes.
Down Parka: Required for extremely cold temperatures near the summit.
Hiking Pants: Comfortable and durable pants for trekking.
Baselayers: Moisture-wicking fabrics to keep you dry and comfortable.
Hiking Socks: Several pairs of wool or synthetic socks.
Hat and Gloves: A warm hat to cover your head and ears, and gloves or mittens for your hands.
Sunglasses: Protect your eyes from the sun.
Buff/Scarf: Versatile for sun protection or neck warmth.