Kilimanjaro Lemosho Route 8 Days
Explore Tours
Kilimanjaro Lemosho Route 8 Days path is a traditional track that has gained prominence in recent years. And deservedly so: it provides breathtaking vistas, an excellent acclimatization profile, and among of the greatest summit success rates of any route.
Starting on Kilimanjaro’s western side, the Kilimanjaro Lemosho Route 8 Days is accessible in two itineraries: seven and eight days on the summit. One of Lemosho’s attractions is Cathedral Peak, one of the Shira Volcano’s highest elevations (3872 m). The Lemosho route is one of the most effective acclimatization routes. This less-traveled trail leads to the Shira Plateau and provides breathtaking vistas.
Because buffalo, elephants, and other species live in the forests around the Lemosho Glades, this route is one of the few where groups may be escorted on the first day by an armed ranger.
Eight days Among the highest success percentages is Lemosho. The extra days let your body adjust to the higher altitude, lessening the symptoms of altitude sickness and providing you with more time to recover before making the summit attempt.
Duration: 7 to 8 days.
Level of difficulty: Medium
Scenery: Excellent
Traffic: Medium.
Tour Highlights:
- Departure and Return Place: Arusha Town to Lemosho Gate and then back to Kilimanjaro International Airport (Google Map)
- Departure Time: Please be ready by 8:15 AM for a prompt departure at 9:30 AM.
- Return Time: Approximately 10:30 AM on the last day.
- Dress Code: Casual. Comfortable athletic clothing, hiking shoes, hats, cold-weather jackets, gloves, pants, and spare clothing.
- Accommodation: Two nights of accommodations based on bed and breakfast at a 3-star hotel (upgrades on request).
- Customizations: Can be customized upon request to meet travelers’s needs
- Extensions: Trip Extensions are available on request.
- Trip Availability: All year round.
- You may also see Lemosho Route 7 Days
Included/Exclude
- Ground transfers with pick up and drop of at Kilimanjaro airport and the base hotel in Moshi
- Park entrance fees,
- Camping/Hut fees
- Rescue fees,
- Emergency Oxygen at not extra charge
- Medical / First aid Kit.
- Fingertip Pulse Oximeter, to measure clients oxygen saturation and pulse rate.
- 24 Hours standby radio Communication
- 3 litres of Mineral water on the first day per client
- Hot meals (except first day) served in the mess tent.
- 4 season sleeping tents
- 2 inches mattress 1 per client
- Professional Mountain Guide, Park Fees and Salaries
- Porters,
- First and last night accommodation
- Flying Doctor membership cover
- Forest fees for clients and crews
- Personal gears
- climbing equipment
- sleeping bags
- drinks
- tipping and all other expenses of personal nature.
Tour Amenities
Tour Plan
We leave Moshi for Londorossi Gate, which takes around 4 hours, where you will complete entrance requirements. Then, travel to the Lemosho Trailhead. Upon arrival at the trailhead, we continue trekking through undisturbed woodland to the first camp site.
Elevation: 7,742 to 9,498 feet.
HikingDuration: 3-4 hours.
Distance: 6 km (4 miles)
Habitat: Rain Forest
We proceed down the track that leads out of the rain forest and into a savannah of tall grasses, heather, and volcanic rock adorned with lichen beards. As we travel through the beautiful rolling hills and pass multiple streams, we arrive at Shira Ridge before gradually descending to Shira 1 Camp. Here we get our first view of Kibo over the plateau.
Elevation: 9,498 to 11,500 feet.
Hiking Duration: 5-6 hours.
Distance: 8 kilometres (5 miles)
Habitat: Heath
Today is a shorter and easier day, allowing you to acclimatize while exploring the stunning Shira Plateau, a volcanic caldera formed during Mount Kilimanjaro’s ancient eruptions. The trail is relatively flat, offering magnificent views of Mount Meru and the rugged landscape of Kilimanjaro’s western side.
Arrive at Shira 2 Camp in the afternoon, where you’ll have plenty of time to rest, acclimatize, and take in the beauty of your surroundings. This camp is an excellent spot for stargazing on clear nights.
Elevation: 11,483 to 12,631 feet.
Hiking Duration: 3-4 hours.
Distance: 7 kilometres (4.3 miles)
Habitat: Moorland
This is a challenging yet rewarding day as you ascend to the iconic Lava Tower at 4,630m, a massive rock formation that offers incredible panoramic views. Spending time at this altitude helps your body adjust to the thinner air, a crucial step for a successful summit.
After lunch at Lava Tower, descend to Barranco Camp at 3,960m. The descent offers relief from the altitude and takes you through the lush Barranco Valley, home to giant groundsels and senecio plants. The dramatic views of the towering Barranco Wall make this camp one of the most scenic on the mountain.
Elevation: 12,779 to 13,077 feet.
Hiking Duration: 7-8 hours.
Distance: 10 kilometres (6.2 miles)
Habitat: Semi-desert
The day begins with a thrilling climb up the Barranco Wall, often referred to as the “Breakfast Wall.” While it may look intimidating, the climb is non-technical and incredibly rewarding, with breathtaking views of the valleys below.
Once at the top, the trail gently undulates through a series of ridges and valleys, leading to Karanga Camp. This is a shorter trekking day, giving you plenty of time to relax and prepare for the higher altitudes ahead.
Elevation: 13,044 to 13,106 feet.
Hiking Duration: 4-5 hours.
Distance: 6 kilometres (3.7 miles)
Habitat: Alpine Desert
Today’s hike takes you to Barafu Camp, the final stop before your summit attempt. The trail is a steady ascent through alpine desert terrain, with striking views of Mawenzi Peak and the summit ridge of Kibo.
Upon reaching Barafu Camp, settle in for an early dinner and rest as much as possible. Your guides will brief you on what to expect for the summit push, which begins in the early hours of the next day.
Elevation: 13,106 to 15,091 feet.
Hiking Duration: 3-4 hours.
Distance: 4 kilometres (2.5 miles)
Habitat: Alpine Desert
Your summit day begins before midnight. With headlamps lighting the way, you’ll make a slow and steady ascent up the steep slopes of Kibo. As dawn approaches, you’ll reach Stella Point (5,739m) and be rewarded with breathtaking views of the surrounding glaciers.
From Stella Point, it’s a final push to Uhuru Peak (5,895m), the highest point in Africa! Celebrate your incredible achievement and capture unforgettable photos at the summit.
After savoring the moment, descend back to Mweka Camp via Barafu. This long day ends with a well-deserved rest at a lower altitude.
Elevation: 15,091 to 19,341 (summit) to 10,065 feet.
Hiking Duration: 10-14 hours.
Distance: 17 kilometres (10.5 miles)
Habitat: Arctic to Rainforest
The final leg of your journey takes you through the rainforest to Mweka Gate, where you’ll receive your summit certificate. A vehicle will be waiting to transfer you back to Moshi or Arusha, marking the end of an unforgettable adventure.
Elevation: 10,065 to 5,380 feet.
Hiking Duration: 3-4 hours.
Distance: 10 kilometres (6.2 miles)
Habitat: Rainforest
Related Tours
Booking Tour
