Overview (Highlights)
The Lemosho Route is widely considered one of the most beautiful and successful routes on Mount Kilimanjaro. Beginning on the western slopes, this 8-day itinerary offers excellent acclimatization, diverse landscapes, fewer crowds, and breathtaking wilderness. The route merges with the Machame trail at Shira Plateau and continues around the southern circuit before reaching the summit via Stella Point. Descent follows the Mweka Route.
Expect lush rainforest, vast plateaus, volcanic deserts, glacier views, and a challenging but rewarding ascent to Uhuru Peak, the highest point in Africa.
Day-by-Day Itinerary
Day 1: Arrival in Moshi
Upon landing at Kilimanjaro International Airport, you are warmly welcomed by your Tanzania Parks Adventures driver guide and transferred to your lodge. In the late afternoon, you will meet with the expedition manager and head guide for a detailed trek briefing, equipment check, and final preparations. Dinner and overnight in Moshi.
Accommodation Options:
- Chanya Lodge, Moshi
Day 2: Moshi → Lemosho Gate → Forest Camp (Rainforest Zone)
After breakfast, drive approximately four hours to Londorossi Gate for entry formalities, then continue to the Lemosho trailhead. After lunch, begin trekking through untouched rainforest teeming with birdlife and wildlife until you reach Forest Camp.
Accommodation Options:
- Forest Camp
Day 3: Forest Camp → Shira 1 (Moorland Zone)
The trail exits the forest and enters savannah-like moorland filled with tall grasses, heather, and volcanic rock formations. Ascend gradually through rolling hills and stream crossings until reaching Shira Ridge and descending into Shira 1 Camp. The views of Kibo Peak across the plateau are spectacular.
Accommodation Options:
- Shira 1 Camp
Day 4: Shira 1 → Shira 2 → Moir Hut (High Plateau & Acclimatization)
Spend the day exploring the vast Shira Plateau—one of the highest plateaus on Earth. Trek gently eastward toward Kibo’s glaciered summit, passing Shira 2 Camp before continuing to the remote Moir Hut, located at the base of Lent Hills. Optional acclimatization hikes are available in this rugged environment.
Accommodation Options:
- Moir Hut
Day 5: Moir Hut → Lava Tower → Barranco Camp (Semi-Desert Zone)
Begin the morning hiking toward the iconic Lava Tower, a volcanic formation crucial for acclimatization. After reaching high elevation, descend into the Barranco Valley, surrounded by dramatic cliffs and giant Senecio plants. The day ends at Barranco Camp, famous for its stunning scenery.
Accommodation Options:
- Barranco Camp
Day 6: Barranco Camp → Karanga Camp
Start your day climbing the steep but exciting Barranco Wall, enjoying sweeping views of the mountain. Trek through ridges and valleys before descending into Karanga Valley and making a final ascent to Karanga Camp. This short but essential acclimatization day prepares you for the summit attempt.
Accommodation Options:
- Karanga Camp
Day 7: Karanga Camp → Barafu Camp
Continue climbing through the high-altitude alpine desert toward Barafu Camp, your base for the summit attempt. Here you complete the southern circuit, offering views of Mawenzi and Kibo peaks. Enjoy an early dinner and rest before your midnight summit push.
Accommodation Options:
- Barafu Camp
Day 8: Barafu Camp → Stella Point → Uhuru Peak → Mweka Hut
Begin your summit ascent between midnight and 2am, climbing through steep volcanic scree between the Rebmann and Ratzel glaciers. Reach Stella Point (18,600 ft) at sunrise—an unforgettable moment if weather allows. Continue for roughly one hour along the snowy ridge to Uhuru Peak, the highest point in Africa.
After celebrating and taking photos, descend to Barafu for lunch then continue down to Mweka Hut, where you will rest after a long, rewarding day.
Accommodation Options:
- Mweka Hut
Day 9: Mweka Camp → Mweka Gate → Moshi
Descend through the lush rainforest until reaching Mweka Gate, where you receive your summit certificate. Continue to Mweka Village for transfer back to Moshi, where a warm shower and celebration await.
Accommodation Options:
- Chanya Lodge, Moshi
Tour Inclusions & Exclusions
Included in the Package:
- Private airport transfers & trailhead transportation
- Two nights accommodation in Moshi
- Park entry fees, camping & rescue fees
- 4-season mountain tents & double-layer sleeping mats
- Professional guides, cooks & porters
- Three hot meals daily & treated drinking water
- Portable oxygen tanks, oximeter & first-aid kit
Excluded from the Package:
- Travel insurance & international flights
- Personal items, toiletries & laundry
- Tips for guides, porters & cooks
