7 Days: Lemosho Route Kilimanjaro Climb

Overview, Itinerary, Price, Includes & Excludes

7 days Lemosho Route
Overview:

The Lemosho Route is widely considered the most scenic and visually rewarding trail on Mount Kilimanjaro. Beginning on the remote western side of the mountain, the route offers a gradual, steady ascent through lush rainforest, moorlands, alpine desert, and finally to the icy summit zone.
It joins the Southern Circuit around day three or four, giving climbers an extended period of traversing the mountain’s southern face before making the final summit push from Barafu Camp.
Though slightly shorter than the 8-day version, the 7-day Lemosho itinerary still offers excellent acclimatization, particularly for those with good fitness. It balances challenging trekking days with progressive altitude gain, making it one of the most popular and successful routes on Kilimanjaro.

Details:

• Duration: 7 days, 6 nights on the mountain
• Starting Elevation: 7,742 ft (Londorossi Gate) - Summit Elevation: 19,341 ft (Uhuru Peak)
• Difficulty Level: Moderate to challenging - Best Season: January to March and June to October

ITINERARY :

Arrival Day
On arrival in Moshi, you will be greeted by our team and transferred to your hotel. Once settled, we will conduct a detailed orientation and gear check to ensure you are well-prepared for the climb. You’ll meet your guide, who will explain the itinerary, safety protocols, and answer any questions. Enjoy dinner at the hotel and rest for the adventure ahead.

Day 1: Londorossi Gate to Mti Mkubwa
Elevation: 7,742 ft to 9,498 ft
Distance: 6 km (3.7 miles)
Hiking Time: 3–4 hours
Habitat: Rainforest

Depart Moshi and drive to Londorossi Gate (approx. 4 hours). After registration and permits, continue by vehicle to the Lemosho trailhead. Begin your trek through dense rainforest rich in flora and fauna to reach Mti Mkubwa Camp.

Day 2: Mti Mkubwa to Shira 2 Camp (via Shira 1)
Elevation: 9,498 ft to 12,500 ft
Distance: 16 km (10 miles)
Hiking Time: 8–9 hours
Habitat: Heath

A long but rewarding day. Hike through forest and heath zones to Shira Ridge, then pass through Shira 1 Camp for a short break before continuing to Shira 2 Camp. You’ll enjoy amazing views of Kibo and the Shira Plateau along the way.

Day 3: Shira 2 Camp to Barranco Camp (via Lava Tower) :
Elevation: 12,500 ft to 15,190 ft
Distance: 7 km (4.3 miles)
Hiking Time: 4–5 hours
Habitat: Alpine Desert

Lava Tower to Barranco Camp:
Elevation: 15,190 ft to 13,044 ft
Distance: 3 km (1.9 miles)
Hiking Time: 2–3 hours
Habitat: Alpine Desert

Ascend to the impressive Lava Tower for acclimatization, then descend to the beautiful Barranco Valley. This day is critical for acclimatization due to the “climb high, sleep low” approach.

Day 4: Barranco Camp to Karanga Camp
Elevation: 13,044 ft to 13,106 ft
Distance: 5 km (3.1 miles)
Hiking Time: 4–5 hours
Habitat: Alpine Desert

Start the day tackling the famous Barranco Wall—a non-technical climb with spectacular views. Continue through a series of valleys and ridges before reaching Karanga Camp, nestled in a sheltered valley.

Day 5: Karanga Camp to Barafu Camp
Elevation: 13,106 ft to 15,331 ft
Distance: 4 km (2.5 miles)
Hiking Time: 4–5 hours
Habitat: Alpine Desert

A short but steep trek leads to Barafu Camp, the base camp for your summit attempt. Arrive in time to rest, eat an early dinner, and prepare for the midnight ascent to Uhuru Peak.

Day 6: Barafu Camp to Uhuru Peak to Mweka Camp
Barafu to Uhuru Peak:

Elevation: 15,331 ft to 19,341 ft
Distance: 5 km (3.1 miles)
Hiking Time: 7–8 hours
Habitat: Arctic

Uhuru Peak to Mweka Camp:
Elevation: 19,341 ft to 10,065 ft
Distance: 12 km (7.5 miles)
Hiking Time: 4–6 hours
Habitat: Rainforest

Begin your summit attempt around midnight, reaching Stella Point for sunrise and then Uhuru Peak, Africa’s highest point. After celebrating, descend to Barafu Camp for a short rest, then continue to Mweka Camp for overnight.

Day 7: Mweka Camp to Mweka Gate
Elevation: 10,065 ft to 5,380 ft
Distance: 10 km (6.2 miles)
Hiking Time: 3–4 hours
Habitat: Rainforest

Descend through the lush rainforest to Mweka Gate, where you’ll receive your summit certificate. From the gate, transfer back to Moshi for rest and celebration.

PRICE (USD)

START FROM: $ 2,650

PRICE INCLUDES

- Dedicated Customer Satisfaction Associate: Personalized assistance throughout your climb, ensuring a smooth and enjoyable experience.

- Airport Pickup and Drop-off: Convenient transport to and from the airport at the start and end of your journey.

- Hotel Accommodation: One night before and one night after the climb in a comfortable hotel.

- Meals: All meals (breakfast, lunch, and dinner) during, the climb, including water on the mountain.

- Park Fees and Taxes: All applicable national park entry fees and taxes are covered.

- Transportation: Transfers between the hotel and the trailhead for the start and end of your climb.

- Camping Equipment: High-quality, 3-person mountaineering tents, sleeping mats, and a private toilet tent for your comfort.

- Support Team: A professional team of certified guides, porters, and cooks to assist and support you throughout the trek.

- Kilimanjaro SAR Evacuation Insurance: Comprehensive search and rescue evacuation coverage for peace of mind during your climb.

PRICE EXCLUDES

• Airfare to and from Tanzania
• Personal travel insurance
• Visa
• Tips for the support team
• Sleeping bags and other personal gear
• Rental gear
• Lunch and dinner at the hotel
• Drinks and snacks

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