Lemosho Route

The most scenic route on Kilimanjaro, offering excellent acclimatisation and one of the highest summit success rates

The Lemosho Route is one of the most scenic and rewarding ways to climb Mount Kilimanjaro, offering excellent acclimatisation and one of the highest summit success rates when completed over 8 days. Beginning on the mountain’s western slopes, the route crosses lush rainforest, the expansive Shira Plateau, alpine desert and the iconic Barranco Wall before ascending to Uhuru Peak (5,895m), the highest point in Africa. Accompanied by experienced, English-speaking mountain guides and a dedicated support crew, you’ll enjoy diverse landscapes, exceptional support and the unforgettable achievement of standing on the Roof of Africa.

Why choose the Lemosho route?

Beautiful Scenery

The route crosses rainforest, moorland, lava fields and alpine desert before reaching the arctic zone of Uhuru Peak.

Excellent Acclimatisation

A gradual ascent allows your body more time to adapt to altitude. The rule is to “climb high, sleep slow”.

High Summit Success

One of the highest success rates on the mountain when climbed over 8 days, making it a popular choice for first-time climbers.

The route at a glance

Duration

7-8 Days

Difficulty

Moderate to Challenging

Best For

Excellent acclimatisation

Summit Success

Up to 90%*

Crowds

Moderate

Start Point

Lemosho Gate

*Estimated summit success rate. Success rates vary between operators and are influenced by itinerary length, acclimatisation, weather conditions and individual circumstances.

*Map not to scale. Route shown for illustrative purposes only*

Compare your Lemosho options

Both itineraries follow the same scenic Lemosho Route, with the 8-day option adding an extra day for a more gradual ascent and improved acclimatisation. Lets compare each route and see which one best suits your pace, trekking experience and summit goals.

7-Day Lemosho Route

For a faster paced ascent

Duration: 5 Days / 4 Nights
Difficulty: Moderate to Challenging
Starting Point: Lemosho Gate
Accommodation: Mountain Camping
Acclimatisation: Very Good
Summit: Uhuru Peak - 5,895m
Distance: Approximately 70-72km

8-Day Lemosho Route

For a more gradual ascent with extra acclimatisation

Duration: 8 Days / 7 Nights
Difficulty: Moderate to Challenging
Starting Point: Lemosho Gate
Accommodation: Mountain Camping
Acclimatisation: Excellent
Summit: Uhuru Peak - 5,895m
Distance: Approximately 70km

7-Day Lemosho Route Itinerary

Distance: Approximately 70km

Meals: Full board (Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner)

Accommodation: Mountain camping (6 nights)

Day 1 - Lemosho Gate to Mti Mkubwa Camp

Elevation: 2,100m → 2,650m

Walking time: 3-4 hours

Distance: Approximately 7km

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner

Accommodation: Mti Mkubwa Camp

After breakfast at Green Mountain Hotel, you will meet your mountain team and begin your transfer from Arusha to Lemosho Gate to complete park registration and formalities. Accompanied by your professional guides and dedicated mountain crew, your adventure begins through the lush rainforest on Kilimanjaro’s western slopes. As you follow the gentle forest trail, keep an eye out for black-and-white colobus monkeys, blue monkeys and colourful birdlife before arriving at Mti Mkubwa Camp, where you’ll enjoy your first evening on the mountain.

Day 2 - Mti Mkubwa Camp to Shira 2 Camp via Shira 1 Camp

Elevation: 2,650m → 3,610m → 3,850m

Walking time: 7-9 hours

Distance: Approximately 16km

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner

Accommodation: Shira 2 Camp

Leaving the rainforest behind, today’s trail climbs steadily through heath and moorland as the landscape begins to open up. You will hike towards Shira Ridge, enjoying a scenic and less forested environment as the terrain becomes more open and dramatic. You will stop for lunch at Shira 1 Camp (3610m), taking time to rest and refuel. You will then continue to hike across the Shira Plateau, one of the most beautiful and expansive high-altitude plateaus in the world and one of the oldest volcanic features on Mount Kilimanjaro. The route is relatively steady, allowing your body time to adjust to the altitude. On a clear day, you’ll be rewarded with breathtaking views of Kibo Peak before reaching Shira 2 Camp for the night.

Day 3 - Shira 2 Camp to Barranco Camp via Lava Tower

Elevation: 3,850m → 4,600m → 3,900m

Walking time: 6-8 hours

Distance: Approximately 10km

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner

Accommodation: Barranco Camp

Today’s trek follows the important “climb high, sleep low” acclimatisation principle. You will begin a steady ascent towards Lava Tower (4,600m). The trail gradually climbs through alpine desert, where the landscape becomes more rugged, with sparse vegetation and striking volcanic rock formations. Upon reaching Lava Tower, you will stop for lunch and take time to adjust to higher elevation. After reaching your highest point of the day, you will descend approximately 700m into the beautiful Barranco Valley, known for its giant senecio plants and dramatic surrounding, before reaching Barranco Camp beneath the impressive Barranco Wall.

Day 4 - Barranco Camp to Karanga Camp

Elevation: 3,900m → 3,995m

Walking time: 4-5 hours

Distance: Approximately 5km

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner

Accommodation: Karanga Camp

Begin the day with a scramble up the famous Barranco Wall, a fun and rewarding section with incredible views. Although steep in places, it is a straightforward climb guided by your experienced mountain team and isn’t as daunting as it looks! You will follow your guide closely as you navigate narrow paths and rocky ledges, including the famous “kissing rock” section, where you briefly lean in to the rock face. Once at the summit of the wall, you will be rewarded with views across the Karanga Valley and towards the southern glaciers of Kibo Peak. Continue across rolling ridges and valleys before making a final short ascent to Karanga Camp. This is a shorter trekking day, allowing extra time for rest and acclimatisation.

Day 5 - Karanga Camp to Barafu Camp

Elevation: 3,995m → 4,673m

Walking time: 3-4 hours

Distance: Approximately 4km

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner

Accommodation: Barafu Camp

Today is a shorter trekking day with the trail climbing steadily towards Barafu Camp, your base for the summit attempt. The landscape becomes increasingly rugged as you gain altitude, with incredible views stretching across the mountain. Although the distance is short, the altitude gain makes this a more challenging trek, and a slow, steady pace is essential. After lunch at Barafu Camp, you will have time to rest and prepare for your midnight summit attempt. After an early dinner, we will gather you for a pre-summit briefing before preparing your gear for the night, before retiring to your tent for a few hours sleep.

Day 6 - Barafu Camp to Uhuru Peak to Mweka Camp

Elevation: 4,673m → 5,895m → 3,100m

Walking time: 11-15 hours

Distance: Approximately 17km

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner

Accommodation: Mweka Camp

At around midnight, you’ll set off under a sky full of stars for the most challenging and rewarding day of the climb. The summit climb begins in darkness, ascending steep scree towards Stella Point (5,756m). Continuing with a slow and steady pace, you will follow the crater rim to Uhuru Peak (5,895m), the highest point in Africa. While the trek itself is fairly simple, the high altitude makes even regular physical exercise feel strenuous. After celebrating your incredible achievement and taking in the unforgettable sunrise, you will descend back to Barafu Camp for a short rest and lunch, before passing back through the different ecological zones to Mweka Camp for your final night on the mountain.

Day 7 - Mweka Camp to Mweka Gate

Elevation: 3,100m → 1,640m

Walking time: 3-4 hours

Distance: Approximately 10km

Meals: Breakfast & Lunch

Accommodation: Green Mountain Hotel, Arusha

After breakfast, you will begin your final descent through the lush rainforest of Mount Kilimanjaro. This trail is well-defined but can be steep and slippery, so careful footing is required as you make your way down. You may once again spot colobus monkeys and a variety of birdlife along the way. Upon arrival at Mweka Gate, you will complete park formalities before heading for a well-deserved lunch with the team, where you will receive your summit certificates and celebrate your achievement. After lunch, you will be transferred back to Green Mountain Hotel in Arusha, marking the end of your Kilimanjaro adventure.

8-Day Lemosho Route Itinerary

Distance: Approximately 70km

Meals: Full board (Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner)

Accommodation: Mountain camping (7 nights)

Day 1 - Lemosho Gate to Mti Mkubwa Camp

Elevation: 2,100m → 2,650m

Walking time: 3-4 hours

Distance: Approximately 7km

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner

Accommodation: Mti Mkubwa Camp

Day 2 - Mti Mkubwa Camp to Shira 1 Camp

Elevation: 2,650m → 3,610m

Walking time: 5-6 hours

Distance: Approximately 8km

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner

Accommodation: Shira 1 Camp

Today’s trek see’s the dense rainforest gradually thinning as you climb into Kilimanjaro’s heath and moorland zone. As you gradually gain altitude, you’ll enjoy increasingly expansive views across the mountain’s western slopes and the surrounding plains. The steady pace allows you to settle into the rhythm of the trek while beginning to acclimatise to the higher elevation. You’ll arrive at Shira 1 Camp by the afternoon, where you can relax and take in the spectacular mountian scenery.

Day 3 - Shira 1 Camp to Shira 2 Camp

Elevation: 3,610m → 3,850m

Walking time: 3-4 hours

Distance: Approximately 7km

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner

Accommodation: Shira 2 Camp

A shorter and more relaxed day allows you to fully appreciate the vast Shira Plateau, one of the most beautiful and expansive high-altitude plateaus in the world and one of the oldest volcanic features on Mount Kilimanjaro. The gradual ascent provides valuable time for acclimatisation while offering incredible panoramic views of Kibo Peak and the surrounding wilderness before reaching Shira 2 Camp.

Day 4 - Shira 2 Camp to Barranco Camp via Lava Tower

Elevation: 3,850m → 4,600m → 3,900m

Walking time: 6-8 hours

Distance: Approximately 10km

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner

Accommodation: Barranco Camp

Day 5 - Barranco Camp to Karanga Camp

Elevation: 3,900m → 3,995m

Walking time: 4-5 hours

Distance: Approximately 5km

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner

Accommodation: Karanga Camp

Day 6 - Karanga Camp to Barafu Camp

Elevation: 3,995m → 4,673m

Walking time: 3-4 hours

Distance: Approximately 4km

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner

Accommodation: Barafu Camp

Day 7 - Barafu Camp to Uhuru Peak to Mweka Camp

Elevation: 4,673m → 5,895m → 3,100m

Walking time: 11-15 hours

Distance: Approximately 17km

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner

Accommodation: Mweka Camp

Day 8 - Mweka Camp to Mweka Gate

Elevation: 3,100m → 1,640m

Walking time: 3-4 hours

Distance: Approximately 10km

Meals: Breakfast & Lunch

Accommodation: Green Mountain Hotel, Arusha

Pricing

Travelling with a group? Save more per person with our group discounts.

*Prices shown are per person. Our lowest rates are available for larger groups.

7-Day Lemosho Route

8-Day Lemosho Route

Group Size

Price Per Person

Group Size

Price Per Person

A typical day on the Lemosho Route

Each day on the Lemosho Route is carefully paced to help you enjoy the journey while allowing your body time to adjust to the altitude. From warm drinks delivered to your tent in the morning to regular breaks on the trail and nourishing meals prepared by your mountain chef, your dedicated crew will be there to support you every step of the way.

Morning | Wake Up & Breakfast

Start the day with tea or coffee delivered to your tent, along with a basin of warm water to freshen up. After a hearty breakfast, your guides will brief you on the day’s route before you set off on the trail.

Trekking | Walking at a Steady Pace

Begin your climb through changing landscapes. You’ll walk slowly with your guides, allowing your body time to adjust to the altitude. Regular breaks are taken throughout the day to rest, hydrate and take in the incredible views.

Lunch Break | Refuel & Rest

Enjoy a freshly prepared lunch surrounded by mountain the scenery. Your trekking team will provide a balanced meal to help keep your energy levels up for the afternoon.

Afternoon | Arrive at Camp

Arrive at your next camp and unwind after the day’s trek. You’ll be greeted with a hot drink and a basin of warm water to freshen up before dinner is served.

Evening | Dinner and Preparation

End the day by sharing stories and preparing for tomorrow’s adventure. Your guides will check on your wellbeing, discuss the next day’s route and encourage an early night to help you recover.

Meet your mountain crew

Behind every successful climb is a dedicated team working together to support you from the first step to the summit.

Lead Guide

Leadership · Safety · Experience

Your lead guide oversees your trek from start to finish, setting a comfortable pace, monitoring your wellbeing and helping you navigate the mountain safely.

Assistant Guides

Support · Encouragement · Expertise

Working alongside your lead guide, our assistant guides provide additional support on the trail and encouragement throughout your climb.

Porters

Strength · Support · Dedication

Our dedicated porters carry equipment, camping supplies and your main luggage, allowing you to trek comfortably with just your daypack. They also set up camp!

Mountain Chef

Fresh · Nourishing · Prepared

Your mountain chef prepares fresh, nourishing meals throughout your trek, helping keep you fuelled and ready for each day’s adventure.

Supporting our mountain crew

A Mount Kilimanjaro climb is made possible by a dedicated team of professional guides, porters and chefs who work hard behind the scenes to ensure your safety, comfort and success on the mountain.

At A Travelling Soul Adventure, we believe in responsible and ethical tourism. We are committed to ensuring our mountain crews are treated with respect, paid fairly, and provided with good working conditions. Your trek directly supports local employment and communities in Tanzania.

Tipping is not compulsory, but it is a valued tradition in Tanzania and a meaningful way to show appreciation for the incredible effort and care provided by your mountain crew. Tips are shared among the guides, porters and chefs who contribute to making your adventure unforgettable.

Recommended Tipping Guidelines

While tipping is always optional, it is a valued tradition and a wonderful way to thank your mountain crew.

These are general guidelines and can be adjusted depending on your group size and experience.

We believe tips should be rewarded for exceptional service, not a substitute for fair wages. Our goal is to ensure every member of our mountain team is valued and respected.

What is included?

Professional, English-speaking mountain guides
Assistant guides, porters and chefs
All park fees, camping fees and rescue fees
Accommodation during the trek (plus 2 nights in Arusha)
Three meals a day (breakfast, lunch and dinner)
Mineral drinking water and hot beverages
Camping equipment
Private toilet
Airport transfers
Group medical kit and emergency oxygen

What is not included?

International flights
Travel insurance
Visa fees
Personal trekking gear (including sleeping bag)
Personal expenses
Tips for guides ($25), chef ($17) and porters ($12 per porter) per day
Additional hotel nights and meals outside itinerary
Medical expenses
Emergency evacuation insurance

Frequently asked questions

How difficult is the Lemosho Route?

The Lemosho Route is considered moderate to challenging, with the main challenge being the altitude rather than the technical climbing. The route includes long trekking days, steep sections and a demanding summit night, but there is no technical climbing experience required. A good level of fitness, a steady pace and proper acclimatisation will help you enjoy the trek and give you the best chance of reaching Uhuru Peak (5,895m).

Is the Lemosho Route suitable for beginners?

Yes. The Lemosho Route is a good choice for first-time trekkers with a reasonable level of fitness. It’s gradual ascent and longer itinerary allow more time to adjust to the altitude, while your experienced mountain crew will support and guide you throughout the climb. The 8-day option is particularly well suited to beginners who prefer a more gradual pace and additional time for acclimatisation.

What is the difference between the 7-day and 8-day Lemosho Route, and which is better?

Both itineraries follow the same scenic Lemosho Route to Uhuru Peak. The main difference is the pace of the ascent. The 7-day route follows a slightly faster-paced itinerary, while the 8-day route includes an additional overnight stay at Shira 1 Camp, allowing for a more gradual ascent and extra time to acclimatise to the altitude.

Both options offer an incredible Lemosho experience, but the 8-day route is our recommended option for those who have the time. The additional day gives your body more time to adjust to the altitude, providing a more relaxed and less rushed trekking experience and generally offering a higher chance of reaching the summit. The 7-day route is a great option for trekkers looking for a shorter itinerary and still provides an excellent chance of reaching the summit, while allowing you to experience the spectacular scenery and highlights of the Lemosho Route.

What is the summit success rate on the Lemosho Route?

The Lemosho Route has one of the higher summit success rates on Kilimanjaro, largely due to its gradual ascent and excellent opportunities for acclimatisation. The 8-day itinerary generally offers a higher chance of reaching the summit than the 7-day option, as the additional day allows more time for your body to adjust to the altitude. While individual results vary depending on fitness, acclimatisation, weather and preparation, both itineraries provide a good opportunity to reach Uhuru Peak.

What is the weather like on the Lemosho Route?

The weather on the Machame Route changes significantly as you gain altitude, with conditions ranging from warm and humid in the rainforest too cold and potentially below freezing near Uhuru Peak. The lower sections can experience rain, particularly during the wetter months (March to May and November to December), while higher up the mountain the air becomes much colder and drier. January to March and June to October generally offer the best trekking conditions, although weather can change quickly at any time of year. It is important to be prepared for a range of conditions, with good waterproofs and warm layers being essential for the trek and summit night.

What is the scenery like on the Lemosho Route?

The Lemosho Route is known for its spectacular variety of landscapes. Starting in lush rainforest, the trail gradually climbs through heath and moorland before reaching the expansive Shira Plateau. As you gain altitude, the scenery transforms into rugged alpine desert, with dramatic volcanic landscapes and views of Kibo Peak before reaching the arctic zone and the summit of Uhuru Peak (5,895m).

Is the Lemosho Route crowded?

The Lemosho Route is one of the more popular routes on Mount Kilimanjaro, so it can be busy, particularly during the peak trekking seasons of January to March and June to October, and once the route joins the southern circuit. While the early sections may feel more spacious, it’s no longer considered a quiet or secluded route. Its popularity comes from its scenic landscapes, gradual ascent and excellent acclimatisation profile, making it a great choice for trekkers who prioritise the overall experience and summit success.

What is the accommodation like on the Lemosho Route?

Accommodation on the Lemosho Route is in mountain camps, where you will sleep in comfortable, high-quality tents provided by our mountain crew. Your tent will be set up for you at each campsite, allowing you to focus on resting and enjoying the experience. You will have nourishing meals prepared by your dedicated mountain chef to help keep you fuelled throughout the trek.

How fit do I need to be for the Lemosho Route?

A good level of general fitness will help you enjoy the Lemosho Route and cope with long days on the mountain. You should be comfortable walking for several hours at a time and managing sustained uphill and downhill sections. Regular cardiovascular exercise, strength training and hill walking in the months before your trek can all help prepare you. The gradual ascent of the Lemosho Route allows more tikme to acclimatise, but good preparation is still important, particularly for the demanding summit night.

What happens if I become unwell or cannot continue?

Your safety and wellbeing are always our priority. Our professional guides will monitor you throughout the trek for signs of altitude sickness or other concerns and will assess the safest course of action if you become unwell. If you are unable to continue, your guide will assist with the descent and coordinate with the wider mountain team as needed. This is also why comprehensive travel insurance with appropriate mountain rescue cover is essential.

Still have questions?

We’re here to help. Get in touch with our team and we’ll be happy to answer any questions about your Kilimanjaro trek.

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