8 Days Kilimanjaro Climbing Lemosho Route

Description
Tanzania is home to the highest mountain in Africa, Mount Kilimanjaro (5895 meters), which is also the highest free-standing mountain in the world. Despite its height, Kilimanjaro is one of the world’s most accessible high summits, with most climbers reaching Uhuru Peak with little more than a walking stick, proper clothing, and determination.

Ascend Kilimanjaro Lemosho (Shira) Route
8-day Kilimanjaro Lemosho Route trek is perhaps the least used initial ascent route on Kilimanjaro, partly because of its remote location and the difficult roads leading to the trailhead. Accessible only by 4-wheel drive vehicles, the road can be impassable during wet periods. Starting at a relatively high elevation, we begin slow and easy on this route. Buffalo and elephant sightings are possible on the first day trekking through the forest, and the trail is often overgrown due to lack of use.

The Lemosho (Shira) route is the longest distance to trek up Kilimanjaro, so fitness plays a crucial role in the enjoyment and success of this trek. The route takes 6 days/5 nights or 7 days/6 nights on the mountain. The many changes of scenery and the spectacular hike across the Shira Plateau make this trek truly special. There are no huts on this route; the accommodation is in mountain tents.

Full Detailed Itinerary

Day 0: Arrive at Airport

Upon arrival, you will be picked up from the airport and transferred to Moshi town for an overnight stay at the hotel. You will meet your guide, who will brief you and check your equipment to ensure you have all necessary climbing gear. Any missing gear can be rented on this day. You will also receive information about the next day’s hike and final checks on your climbing gear.

Day 1: Londrossi Gate to Mti Mkubwa Camp

• Distance: 4.8 km / 3 mi
• Hiking Time: 3-4 hours
• Habitat: Rainforest
• Elevation: 2389m/7838ft to 2785m/9137ft

Departing from Moshi, a 3-hour drive will take you through welcoming mountainside villages to the Kilimanjaro National Park Gate. After getting permits, enjoy the beautiful rainforest scenery and winding trails. At lower elevations, the trail can be muddy and slippery, so gaiters and trekking poles are recommended.

Day 2: Mti Mkubwa Camp to Shira 1 Camp

After breakfast, drive to the Lemosho route on the western side of Kilimanjaro. Registration of clients, porters, and guides will take place at the Londorosi Gate. After lunch, transfer to Moramu Point and start walking through shrub and giant heather to Shira 1 Camp.

• Distance: 4 km
• Hiking Time: 1-2 hours
• Elevation: 2785m/9137ft to 3610m/11840ft

Day 3: Shira 1 Camp to Shira 2 Camp via Cathedral Point

Explore the Shira Plateau with a gentle walk east toward Kibo’s glaciated peak, crossing the plateau to Shira 2 Camp. Visit Shira Cathedral for acclimatization with clear views of Mount Meru if weather permits.

• Distance: 7 km
• Hiking Time: 3-4 hours
• Elevation: 3610m/11840ft to 3850m/12630ft

Day 4: Shira 2 Camp to Barranco Camp

Continue east up a ridge, heading southeast towards the Lava Tower, and then descend to Barranco Camp. This day helps with acclimatization, keeping you at the same elevation as you started.

• Distance: 3 km
• Hiking Time: 2-3 hours
• Elevation: 3850m/12630ft to 3976m/13044ft

Day 5: Barranco Camp to Karanga Camp

Cross desolate scree slopes with no vegetation. The steep walk becomes more challenging due to altitude. From the top of Barranco Wall, cross a series of hills and valleys, then descend into Karanga Valley before a steep climb to Karanga Camp.

• Distance: 5 km
• Hiking Time: 4-5 hours
• Elevation: 3976m/13044ft to 3995m/13106ft

Day 6: Karanga Camp to Barafu Camp

After breakfast, continue to the junction connecting with Mweka Trail, then proceed to Barafu Hut. Complete the Southern Circuit, offering excellent views of the mountain from different angles. Prepare for the summit attempt at midnight.

• Distance: 4 km
• Hiking Time: 4-5 hours
• Elevation: 3995m/13106ft to 4640m/15223ft

Day 7: Barafu Camp to Uhuru Peak, then down to Mweka Camp

Start at midnight, climbing steeply to the summit glaciers. Arrive at Stella Point as the sun rises, then proceed to Uhuru Peak. After celebrating at the summit, descend to Barafu Camp for breakfast and lunch before heading to Mweka Camp.

• Distance: 5 km ascent, 12 km descent
• Hiking Time: 7-8 hours ascent, 4-6 hours descent
• Elevation: 4640m/15223ft to 5895m/19341ft (ascent), then 4640m/15223ft to 3100m/10170ft (descent)

Day 8: Mweka Camp to Mweka Gate

The final day involves a gentle trek through the rainforest to Mweka Gate for park formalities and receiving your certificate. Meet your vehicle and drive back to Moshi for lunch and farewells. Book with us 8-day Kilimanjaro Lemosho Route trek.

• Distance: 10 km
• Hiking Time: 3-4 hours
• Elevation: 3100m/10170ft to 1630m/5348ft

Inclusions

• Transportation to & from Kilimanjaro gate
• Park entry fees
• Camping fees
• Rescue fees
• 18% VAT on tour fees & services
• 4-season mountain tents
• Double-layered sleeping mats
• Friendly and professional mountain guides, cook, and porters
• 3 hot meals daily on the mountain, hot drinks, and snacks
• Enough treated & filtered drinking water throughout the trek
• Hot water for washing
• Fair wages for the mountain crew
• Government taxes
• Mountain equipment (tents, tables, chairs, mattresses)
• Portable oxygen tank & ox meter

Not Included

• Travel insurance
• Flights, arrival, and departure accommodations
• Laundry (available at the hotel)
• Personal items and toiletries
• Surcharge for online payment of balance (5%)
• Tips for guides, porters, and cook