- +255 762 704 704
- +255 762 704 704
- info@ecosafarisafrica.com
The 8-day Lemosho Route is widely regarded as the most beautiful and well-balanced trail to the summit of Mount Kilimanjaro (5,895m). Beginning on the remote western slopes, this route offers excellent acclimatization, fewer crowds, and a diverse range of landscapes—from lush rainforest and vast moorlands to alpine deserts and glacier-clad peaks.
With a longer itinerary, trekkers benefit from a higher summit success rate, making it ideal for those seeking both challenge and comfort on Africa’s tallest mountain.
8 Days / 7 Nights
Mountain Trekking
Mandara Hut, Horombo Hut, Horombo Hut, Kibo Hut, Uhuru Peak, Marangu Gate
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After a scenic drive from Moshi or Arusha to Lemosho Gate, you’ll complete registration and begin your trek. The trail starts with a gentle climb through a dense rainforest—humid and often misty—where you’ll walk under a canopy alive with birdsong and occasional monkey sightings. The path is narrow, muddy in places, and flanked by moss-covered trees and ferns. Trekking poles are helpful here.
You’ll reach Mti Mkubwa Camp (meaning “Big Tree”) by late afternoon, a compact site surrounded by forest. Expect cooler temperatures at night as you adjust to altitude.
Distance: 7 km | Trekking Time: 3–4 hours | Habitat: Rainforest
Meals Plan: Full Board
Today’s trail quickly leaves the forest, emerging into the heather and moorland zone, with expansive views and dry, open terrain. You’ll ascend steep ridges and volcanic rock paths, with Kilimanjaro’s Shira Ridge visible in the distance.
Expect more exposure to sun and wind, so sun protection and hydration are key. The trail becomes rocky and uneven, requiring steady footing. After cresting a ridge, you’ll descend slightly onto the Shira Plateau—an ancient caldera—before arriving at Shira 1 Camp, a windswept but scenic site with views of Mount Meru.
Distance: 8 km | Trekking Time: 5–6 hours | Altitude Gain: 680m
Habitat: Heath and Moorland
Meals Plan: Full Board
Today is shorter and focused on acclimatization. You’ll trek across the vast Shira Plateau, walking on relatively flat ground but at high altitude. The terrain consists of sandy, dry trails with occasional patches of lava rock and low vegetation.
The air becomes noticeably thinner here, so you’ll walk at a slower pace (“pole pole”) to allow your body to adjust. Afternoon acclimatization walks are optional but encouraged. This area offers beautiful sunset views and a sense of isolation unique to the western side of the mountain.
Distance: 7 km | Trekking Time: 3–4 hours | Altitude Gain: 350m
Habitat: Moorland
Meals Plan: Full Board
This is a key acclimatization day and one of the most physically and mentally challenging. You’ll ascend steadily to Lava Tower, a surreal volcanic rock formation at 4,630 meters. The trail is steep and exposed, with cold winds and thinner air. Many trekkers experience mild altitude symptoms here.
After lunch at Lava Tower, you’ll descend into the lush Barranco Valley, a well-earned reprieve with more oxygen and beautiful terrain, including towering lobelias and giant groundsels. You’ll camp at the foot of the Breach Wall, with the towering cliffs creating a dramatic backdrop.
Distance: 10 km | Trekking Time: 6–8 hours | Altitude Gain/Loss: +780m / -654m
Habitat: Alpine Desert to Valley Forest
Meals Plan: Full Board
You’ll start the day by climbing the Barranco Wall—a hands-on scramble that’s often the most exhilarating part of the trek. Though it looks intimidating, it’s safe and manageable with guide support. The climb offers exceptional photo opportunities.
After reaching the top (approx. 4,200m), you’ll follow a rollercoaster trail of ridges and valleys, navigating rocky paths and dry streambeds. Karanga Camp sits in a sheltered basin, where you’ll rest, rehydrate, and enjoy a stunning view of Kibo Peak.
Distance: 5 km | Trekking Time: 4–5 hours | Altitude Gain: 19m (net), but more in total ascent
Habitat: Alpine Moorland
Meals Plan: Full Board
The trail to Barafu Camp is steep, rocky, and dusty, with sparse vegetation. You’re now trekking through the alpine desert, where conditions are harsh and temperatures drop quickly, especially after sunset.
This is a short day to preserve energy for the summit push, which begins around midnight. Barafu means “ice” in Swahili, and you’ll feel the chill as the winds increase. Final briefings are given here, gear is checked, and you’ll have an early dinner before resting for summit night.
Distance: 4 km | Trekking Time: 3–4 hours | Altitude Gain: 678m
Habitat: Alpine Desert
Meals Plan: Half Board
Summit day begins around midnight under a star-filled sky. You’ll ascend slowly through switchbacks of loose scree, passing Stella Point (5,739m) at dawn—where many climbers shed tears of joy. The final stretch to Uhuru Peak, Africa’s highest point, is mentally and physically demanding but profoundly rewarding.
After celebratory photos, you’ll descend back to Barafu Camp for rest and brunch, then continue a further descent to Mweka Camp, where thicker air and forest vegetation return. This is a very long day—hydration and steady pacing are crucial.
Distance: 17 km | Trekking Time: 11–14 hours | Altitude Gain: +1,222m | Descent: -2,795m
Habitat: Arctic Zone to Rainforest Edge
Meals Plan: Full Board
Your final descent is a relaxed trek through the verdant rainforest, often misty and vibrant with birdlife and flora. The trail is well maintained but can be slippery—tread carefully, especially if wet.
At Mweka Gate, you’ll sign out of the park and receive your summit certificate. Your team will greet you with smiles, and after final photos, you’ll be driven back to your hotel for a well-deserved rest and celebration.
Distance: 10 km | Trekking Time: 3–4 hours | Descent: -1,460m
Habitat: Rainforest
Meals Plan: Half Board
AICC Plot, Block "3" Sekei, P.O. Box 1302, Arusha, Tanzania
+255 762 704 704
info@ecosafarisafrica.com
Shangarai, Mkapa Street, Plot 814 Block “B”, House No 426 P.O. Box 1302, Arusha, Tanzania
+255 762 704 704
info@ecosafarisafrica.com
