“The Ultimate Scenic Trail to the Roof of Africa”
The Lemosho Route is widely regarded as the most beautiful and well-balanced path to climb Mount Kilimanjaro. Beginning on the remote western slopes, this route offers unparalleled scenery, low traffic, and a gradual ascent profile—making it ideal for both experienced climbers and first-time trekkers seeking a less crowded adventure.
Starting at Londorossi Gate, the trail crosses lush rainforest inhabited by colobus monkeys before rising into heath and moorland, eventually merging with the Machame Route near the Shira Plateau. Trekkers enjoy breathtaking views of Kibo and Mount Meru, as well as dramatic landscapes such as the Lava Tower, Barranco Valley, and the iconic Barranco Wall.
With eight days on the mountain, climbers benefit from an excellent acclimatization schedule and a higher success rate. The longer itinerary allows for a relaxed pace, cultural interaction, and the unforgettable experience of reaching Uhuru Peak (5,895 m)—the highest point in Africa.
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Tour Highlights
This 8-day itinerary includes two acclimatization points—Shira Plateau and Karanga Camp—to ensure optimal adaptation to altitude and increased summit success.
The 7-day version of this route skips one acclimatization day at Shira or Karanga, making it slightly more challenging.
Day by Day Experience
Mount Kilimanjaro
Day 1: Londorossi Gate (2,250 m) – Mti Mkubwa Camp (2,820 m)
Depart from Arusha or Moshi after breakfast and drive to Londorossi Gate for registration. Begin your trek through dense, vibrant rainforest, where you may spot blue monkeys, colobus monkeys, and colorful bird species. The trail is gentle as it winds through giant ferns, mossy trees, and wildflowers. Arrive at Mti Mkubwa (Big Tree) Camp in the late afternoon. Enjoy a freshly prepared dinner, a briefing for the next day, and your first night under the stars on Kilimanjaro.
(Hiking time: 3–4 hours)
Popular Facilities
Mount Kilimanjaro.
Day 2: Mti Mkubwa Camp – Shira 1 Camp (3,610 m)
After breakfast, continue climbing out of the rainforest into the heath and moorland zone, where the vegetation begins to thin and the views open up. The trail passes through rolling hills and open ridges with spectacular vistas of Shira Ridge and Mount Meru in the distance. You’ll stop for lunch along the way before making your gradual approach to Shira 1 Camp on the vast Shira Plateau. Dinner is served as the sun sets, painting the mountain in warm evening colors.
(Hiking time: 5–6 hours)
Popular Facilities
Mount Kilimanjaro.
Day 3: Shira 1 Camp – Shira 2 Camp (3,850 m)
Today’s trek is a gentle and scenic walk across the Shira Plateau, one of the highest plateaus in the world. You’ll enjoy a gradual climb with panoramic views of Kibo Peak and the dramatic volcanic landscapes that define Kilimanjaro’s western flank. Along the way, your guide will share insights into the unique flora and geology of the area. Arrive at Shira 2 Camp in the afternoon, where you’ll enjoy lunch, rest, and watch a breathtaking sunset over Mount Meru.
(Hiking time: 3–5 hours)
Popular Facilities
Mount Kilimanjaro.
Day 4: Shira 2 Camp – Lava Tower (4,630 m) – Barranco Camp (3,960 m)
This is a crucial acclimatization day following the “climb high, sleep low” principle. Begin with a gradual ascent toward the Lava Tower, a volcanic formation rising dramatically from the alpine desert. Stop here for lunch at 4,630 meters before descending into the lush Barranco Valley, filled with giant groundsels and lobelias. This descent helps your body adjust to the altitude. Arrive at Barranco Camp, beautifully situated beneath the towering Barranco Wall, where you’ll enjoy dinner and overnight rest.
(Hiking time: 6–8 hours)
Popular Facilities
Mount Kilimanjaro.
Day 5: Barranco Camp – Karanga Camp (3,995 m)
After breakfast, conquer the famous Barranco Wall, an exhilarating climb that rewards you with sweeping views of Kibo’s glaciers and the expansive valley below. Once at the top, follow a series of ridges and valleys, passing through alpine terrain dotted with hardy vegetation. The trek to Karanga Camp is shorter, designed to help with acclimatization. Enjoy lunch upon arrival, followed by rest and a scenic sunset view over the Shira Plateau. Dinner and overnight stay at Karanga Camp.
(Hiking time: 4–5 hours)
Popular Facilities
Mount Kilimanjaro.
Day 6: Karanga Camp – Barafu Camp (4,673 m)
After breakfast, begin your steady ascent through the stark alpine desert toward Barafu Camp, your final stop before the summit attempt. The landscape becomes barren yet striking, with views of Mawenzi Peak to the east. Upon arrival, set up camp, have an early dinner, and rest. Your guides will give a detailed briefing for the summit climb. Go to bed early to prepare for the midnight ascent to the Roof of Africa.
(Hiking time: 3–5 hours)
Popular Facilities
Mount Kilimanjaro.
Day 7: Barafu Camp – Uhuru Peak (5,895 m) – Mweka Camp (3,100 m)
Wake around midnight for your summit push under a star-filled sky. The steep climb to Stella Point (5,756 m) is challenging but deeply rewarding. From there, continue along the crater rim to Uhuru Peak, the highest point in Africa. Witness a magnificent sunrise over the glaciers and vast plains below. Celebrate your achievement, then descend to Barafu Camp for breakfast before continuing to Mweka Camp for a well-deserved rest.
(Total hiking time: 10–14 hours)
Popular Facilities
Mount Kilimanjaro.
Day 7: Mweka Camp – Mweka Gate – Arusha/Moshi
Enjoy your final breakfast on the mountain before descending through the lush rainforest, alive with birdsong and tropical aromas. The trail can be slippery, so take your time and enjoy the last stretch of your Kilimanjaro adventure. At Mweka Gate, you’ll receive your summit certificates and celebrate with your crew before transferring back to Arusha or Moshi. This marks the end of an unforgettable journey to the Roof of Africa.
(Hiking time: 3–4 hours)
Popular Facilities
● Park fees, camping fees, and rescue fees
● Professional English-speaking mountain guide, cook, and porters
● All meals during the climb (breakfast, lunch, dinner)
● Accommodation in mountain tents
● Drinking water and hot beverages
● Transfers to and from the park gate
● Government taxes and fees
● Accommodation in Arusha/Moshi before or after the climb (unless requested)
● Sleeping bags and personal trekking equipment
● International and domestic flights
● Tanzania visa and travel insurance
● Tips for the guide, cook, and porters
● Alcoholic drinks and personal expenses
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