8 Days Lemosho Route – Kilimanjaro Trekking

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Mount Kilimanjaro Trekking

Tour Overview

The Lemosho Route is widely considered the most scenic and least crowded route to the summit of Mount Kilimanjaro. With gradual altitude gain and ample time for acclimatization, this 8-day route increases your chances of successfully reaching Uhuru Peak (5,895m/19,341 ft). Ideal for adventurers who want a quieter trail and panoramic views from multiple sides of the mountain.

This trek includes two nights at a mid-range hotel in Arusha, all park fees, meals, camping gear, experienced guides, and a dedicated support crew. After the climb, you can opt for a safari extension to celebrate your success.

From $4,095 USD per person
Private and group departures available
Duration: 10 Days (8 days trekking + 2 nights hotel stay)
Starting point: Arusha, Tanzania
Route Highlights: High summit success rate, beautiful remote trails, excellent acclimatization profile

Detailed Itinerary

Day 1: Arrival at Kilimanjaro International Airport – Transfer to Arusha

Upon arrival at Kilimanjaro International Airport, you will be greeted by a representative holding a sign with your name. Transfer to your hotel in Arusha for rest and pre-trek orientation with your Kilimanjaro guide. You’ll review your gear and rent any additional items if needed.

Meals Included: None
Accommodation: Lodge (or similar – mid-range)

Day 2: Arusha – Londorossi Gate – Trek to Mti Mkubwa Camp

After breakfast, depart Arusha for Londorossi Gate (2.5-hour drive) to complete park formalities. Continue by 4WD to Lemosho Glades, the trailhead. Begin your trek through lush montane forest, where you may spot black-and-white colobus monkeys.

Elevation: 1830m to 2650m (6,000ft to 8,700ft)
Distance: 6 km (4 mi)
Trekking Time: 2–3 hours
Habitat: Montane Forest
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Overnight: Mti Mkubwa Camp (tent)

Day 3: Mti Mkubwa Camp – Shira 1 Camp

Today the trail climbs steeply, transitioning from forest into the heather and moorland zone. Cross several streams before ascending the Shira Ridge and gently descending to the expansive Shira Plateau.

Elevation: 2650m to 3500m (8,700ft to 11,500ft)
Distance: 8 km (5 mi)
Trekking Time: 4–5 hours
Habitat: Moorland
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Overnight: Shira 1 Camp (tent)

Day 4: Shira 1 Camp – Shira 2 Camp

A relatively easy day with time for acclimatization. Trek eastward across the Shira Plateau, with excellent views of Kibo Peak and Mount Meru in the distance. Optional acclimatization hikes are available near camp.

Elevation: 3500m to 3850m (11,500ft to 12,600ft)
Distance: 8 km (5 mi)
Trekking Time: 4–5 hours
Habitat: Moorland
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Overnight: Shira 2 Camp (tent)

Day 5: Shira 2 Camp – Lava Tower – Barranco Camp

Ascend to the Lava Tower at 4,650m for lunch and acclimatization, then descend into the scenic Barranco Valley, surrounded by towering cliffs and the famous Breach Wall. Despite ending at a similar elevation to the previous night, this day is critical for acclimatization.

Elevation: 3850m to 4000m (12,600ft to 13,000ft) via Lava Tower
Distance: 10 km (6 mi)
Trekking Time: 5–6 hours
Habitat: Semi-desert
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Overnight: Barranco Camp (tent)

Day 6: Barranco Camp – Karanga Camp

Begin the day with a thrilling scramble up the Barranco Wall, offering spectacular views. Continue through alpine desert terrain to reach Karanga Camp. This shorter trekking day allows rest and further acclimatization.

Elevation: 4000m to 4050m (13,000ft to 13,250ft)
Distance: 5 km (3 mi)
Trekking Time: 3–4 hours
Habitat: Alpine Desert
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Overnight: Karanga Camp (tent)

Day 7: Karanga Camp – Barafu Camp

Continue ascending on the South Circuit Trail to reach Barafu Camp, the base for your summit attempt. Views of Mawenzi Peak are outstanding. Eat dinner early and rest in preparation for the early morning summit push.

Elevation: 4050m to 4700m (13,250ft to 15,350ft)
Distance: 4 km (2 mi)
Trekking Time: 3–4 hours
Habitat: Alpine Desert
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Overnight: Barafu Camp (tent)

Day 8: Summit Day – Barafu Camp to Uhuru Peak, Down to Mweka Camp

Begin the summit ascent around midnight, reaching Stella Point (5,756m) around sunrise. A final push takes you to Uhuru Peak, the highest point in Africa. After celebrating, descend to Barafu Camp for brunch, then continue down to Mweka Camp for a well-deserved rest.

Elevation: 4700m to 5895m to 3090m (15,350ft to 19,340ft to 10,150ft)
Distance: 18 km (11 mi)
Trekking Time: 11–13 hours
Habitat: Arctic to Forest
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Overnight: Mweka Camp (tent)

Day 9: Mweka Camp – Mweka Gate – Transfer to Arusha

Complete the descent through lush rainforest to Mweka Gate where you’ll receive your summit certificate. Afterward, transfer to your hotel in Arusha for a hot shower and relaxation.

Elevation: 3090m to 1680m (10,150ft to 5,500ft)
Distance: 10 km (6 mi)
Trekking Time: 3–4 hours
Habitat: Rainforest
Meals Included: Breakfast
Accommodation: Lodge

Day 10: Transfer to Kilimanjaro Airport – Departure

After breakfast, transfer to Kilimanjaro Airport for your departure flight or begin a safari extension.

Meals Included: Breakfast

Pricing – Valid through December 31, 2025

Group Size	Price Per Person (USD)
2–3 people	$4,095
4–5 people	$3,595
6+ people	$3,395

Prices based on double/triple occupancy. Private rooms or single tents available for a supplement.

Included in the Price	Not Included in the Price
2 nights mid-range hotel accommodation in Arusha	International and domestic flights
All park fees, camping fees, and government taxes	Meals not specified in itinerary
Professional English-speaking guides, porters, and cooks	Alcoholic beverages and soft drinks
One-way airport transfer (arrival only)	Travel insurance and personal medical expenses
Transport to and from the trailhead	Personal trekking equipment (e.g., sleeping bag, pad)
All meals during the trek	Optional portable toilet rental
High-quality mountain tents, cooking and dining equipment	Tips for guides, porters, cooks ($400–600 recommended)
Use of oximeters and emergency oxygen	Visa fees and airport taxes
Filtered drinking water	Internet or phone use at lodges/huts
First aid kit and emergency evacuation support	Single supplement or private tent fees