The 7-Day Lemosho Route is widely considered the most beautiful and rewarding path to the summit of Mount Kilimanjaro. Known for its low traffic, high success rate, and breathtaking panoramic views, it offers a more remote and immersive wilderness experience compared to the more crowded routes.
Why the Lemosho Route is the Gold Standard
Lemosho is a relatively new route that approaches the mountain from the west. It starts in the lush, undisturbed rainforest where you might spot Colobus monkeys and even signs of elephants. The route’s longer duration (7 or 8 days) provides excellent opportunities for acclimatization, which is why it boasts one of the highest summit success rates on the mountain. You’ll cross the entire Shira Plateau from west to east, offering a unique perspective of the mountain that few other trekkers experience.
Your 7-Day Lemosho Journey
Day 1: Londorossi Gate to Mti Mkubwa Camp
After a drive to the Londorossi Gate and registration, the trek begins at the Lemosho glades. You’ll hike through a beautiful, dense rainforest to Mti Mkubwa (Big Tree) Camp (2,820m). This area is rich in wildlife and offers a peaceful start to your adventure. Total trekking time: 3-4 hours.
Day 2: Mti Mkubwa Camp to Shira 2 Camp
The trail steepens as you leave the forest and enter the moorland zone. You’ll climb out of the trees and onto the vast Shira Plateau, one of the highest plateaus on earth. The views of Kibo across the plateau are simply magnificent. We camp at Shira 2 Camp (3,840m). Total trekking time: 5-7 hours.
Day 3: Shira 2 Camp to Lava Tower to Barranco Camp
Today is essential for acclimatization. You’ll trek east across the plateau and ascend towards the Lava Tower (4,630m), a massive volcanic plug. After lunch at the tower, you’ll descend into the beautiful Barranco Valley to Barranco Camp (3,950m). This “climb high, sleep low” day is a key factor in the route’s high success rate. Total trekking time: 6-8 hours.
Day 4: Barranco Camp to Karanga Camp
The day begins with the exciting scramble up the Great Barranco Wall. While it looks intimidating, it’s a non-technical climb that most trekkers find to be a highlight. From the top, you’ll have incredible views of the Heim Glacier. The trail then undulates across ridges and valleys to Karanga Camp (3,995m). Total trekking time: 4-5 hours.
Day 5: Karanga Camp to Barafu Camp
A shorter trekking day as we move towards the base of the summit cone. The landscape becomes increasingly desert-like and rocky. We reach Barafu Camp (4,600m) in the early afternoon, giving you plenty of time to rest, hydrate, and prepare for the midnight summit push. Total trekking time: 3-4 hours.
Day 6: Summit Day – Barafu Camp to Uhuru Peak to Mweka Camp
The ultimate challenge begins around midnight. You’ll climb through the night, reaching Stella Point (5,739m) on the crater rim as the sun begins to rise. The final push to Uhuru Peak (5,895m) is a test of will, but the reward of standing on the highest point in Africa is incomparable. After the summit, you’ll descend to Mweka Camp (3,100m). Total trekking time: 12-15 hours.
Day 7: Mweka Camp to Mweka Gate
A final, celebratory descent through the rainforest brings you to the Mweka Gate. You’ll receive your certificates and share a final meal with your incredible mountain crew before being transferred back to your hotel for a well-deserved rest and a hot shower. Total trekking time: 3-4 hours.
What’s Included in Our Lemosho Trek
- Professional Guides: Highly trained and experienced in high-altitude safety and first aid.
- Quality Equipment: Four-season mountain tents, comfortable sleeping mats, and a mess tent for meals.
- Nutritious Meals: Freshly prepared food designed to provide the energy needed for the climb.
- Safety First: We carry emergency oxygen and pulse oximeters on every trek.
The 7-Day Lemosho Route is more than just a climb; it’s a life-changing journey through some of the most spectacular scenery on earth. Join us and experience the magic of Kilimanjaro!