8 Days Lemosho Route - 8 Days

The Lemosho Route is known for its stunning scenery and diverse landscapes, offering one of the most beautiful approaches to Kilimanjaro. This route is less crowded and allows for excellent acclimatization with a longer trek. The eight-day itinerary maximizes your chances of summiting successfully while providing ample time to enjoy the journey.
Day 1: Lemosho Gate to Mti Mkubwa Camp
• Elevation: 2,100 m (6,890 ft) to 2,750 m (9,022 ft)
• Walking Time: 4-5 hours
• Distance: 6 km (3.7 miles)
• Terrain: Rainforest
Detailed Overview: Your adventure begins at Lemosho Gate, where you’ll register and meet your guide and porters. The trail leads you through lush rainforest, characterized by towering trees, ferns, and vibrant wildlife. Expect a relatively gentle ascent, allowing you to acclimatize to the altitude.
As you hike, listen for the sounds of birds and the rustling of wildlife. Upon reaching Mti Mkubwa Camp, set up your tents and enjoy dinner with your trekking team. This camp is situated in a serene forest setting, making it a great place to relax and prepare for the trek ahead.
Day 2: Mti Mkubwa Camp to Shira Camp 1
• Elevation: 2,750 m (9,022 ft) to 3,610 m (11,847 ft)
• Walking Time: 5-6 hours
• Distance: 8 km (5 miles)
• Terrain: Moorland
Detailed Overview: After breakfast, you’ll continue your trek toward Shira Camp 1. The trail leads you out of the rainforest and into the moorland zone, providing stunning views of Kibo Peak and the surrounding landscapes. The ascent is steady, with some rocky sections.
Keep an eye out for unique flora, including giant heathers and lobelias. Upon arriving at Shira Camp 1, take time to explore the area and enjoy the breathtaking views. This camp is located on the Shira Plateau, known for its expansive vistas.
Day 3: Shira Camp 1 to Shira Camp 2 (via Shira Cathedral)
• Elevation: 3,610 m (11,847 ft) to 3,850 m (12,600 ft)
• Walking Time: 4-5 hours
• Distance: 8 km (5 miles)
• Terrain: Moorland and rocky
Detailed Overview: Today, you’ll hike to Shira Camp 2, taking a detour to explore Shira Cathedral, a stunning rock formation with panoramic views. The terrain includes moorland and rocky paths, providing opportunities for photography and appreciating the unique landscape.
Once you arrive at Shira Camp 2, you’ll have the afternoon to relax, acclimatize, and enjoy the spectacular views of Kibo and the surrounding plateaus. This is a good day to rest and prepare for the higher altitudes.
Day 4: Shira Camp 2 to Barranco Camp
• Elevation: 3,850 m (12,600 ft) to 3,960 m (13,000 ft)
• Walking Time: 6-7 hours
• Distance: 10 km (6.2 miles)
• Terrain: Alpine desert
Detailed Overview: Today’s trek takes you toward Barranco Camp. The route includes a gradual ascent and then a descent, allowing for proper acclimatization. You’ll pass through the alpine desert zone, characterized by sparse vegetation and rocky paths.
As you approach Barranco Camp, you’ll see the impressive Barranco Wall. This camp is known for its stunning views of the wall and the surrounding landscapes. Take time to relax and enjoy the beauty around you.
Day 5: Barranco Camp to Karanga Camp
• Elevation: 3,960 m (13,000 ft) to 4,035 m (13,250 ft)
• Walking Time: 4-5 hours
• Distance: 5 km (3.1 miles)
• Terrain: Rocky and steep
Detailed Overview: Today, you’ll tackle the Barranco Wall, a challenging climb that requires some scrambling. This section is one of the highlights of the Lemosho Route, offering breathtaking views from the top.
After conquering the wall, you’ll continue to Karanga Camp, where you can relax and hydrate. This camp is situated in a scenic area, providing beautiful views and a comfortable place to rest.
Day 6: Karanga Camp to Barafu Camp
• Elevation: 4,035 m (13,250 ft) to 4,673 m (15,300 ft)
• Walking Time: 4-5 hours
• Distance: 4 km (2.5 miles)
• Terrain: Alpine desert
Detailed Overview: The trek to Barafu Camp is short but steep. As you ascend into the alpine desert zone, you’ll enjoy stunning views of Kibo Peak. The terrain is rocky and exposed, so be prepared for wind and changing weather conditions.
Barafu Camp is located on a ridge and can be windy, so ensure your tent is secure. It’s essential to rest and hydrate well, as you’ll be starting your summit attempt later that night. After an early dinner, try to get some sleep before your midnight wake-up call.
Day 7: Summit Day - Barafu Camp to Uhuru Peak and descent to Mweka Camp
• Elevation: 4,673 m (15,300 ft) to 5,895 m (19,341 ft), then descend to 3,100 m (10,171 ft)
• Walking Time: 12-15 hours (round trip)
• Distance: Approximately 22 km (13.7 miles) (round trip)
• Terrain: Scree and rocky path
Detailed Overview: You’ll wake up around midnight for the final push to Uhuru Peak. After a light snack and some hot drinks, you’ll start the ascent. The climb is steep and challenging, with loose scree and rocky paths.
As you ascend, focus on your breathing and take regular breaks. Aim to reach Stella Point by sunrise for breathtaking views of the horizon. From Stella Point, it’s about an hour to Uhuru Peak, the highest point in Africa. Celebrate your achievement and take plenty of photos.
Afterward, begin your descent back to Barafu Camp for a brief rest before continuing down to Mweka Camp for the night. This long day will test your endurance, but the sense of accomplishment will make it worthwhile.
Day 8: Mweka Camp to Mweka Gate
• Elevation: 3,100 m (10,171 ft) to 1,640 m (5,380 ft)
• Walking Time: 3-4 hours
• Distance: 10 km (6.2 miles)
• Terrain: Rainforest
Detailed Overview: On the final day, you’ll descend from Mweka Camp back to Mweka Gate. The trail is well-marked and surrounded by beautiful rainforest, allowing you to appreciate the diverse flora and fauna one last time.
As you approach the gate, feelings of accomplishment will set in. Once at Mweka Gate, you’ll receive your summit certificate, marking your successful journey. Many climbers enjoy a celebratory meal or drink in the nearby village, reflecting on their incredible experience on Kilimanjaro.
Additional Tips for the Lemosho Route
• Acclimatization: The eight-day itinerary allows for optimal acclimatization, which is essential for summit success. Ensure you drink plenty of water and listen to your body.
• Preparation: Training is crucial! Focus on building endurance and hiking in similar terrains to prepare for the challenges ahead.
• Gear: Bring appropriate clothing for varying weather conditions, including thermal layers, waterproof gear, and good-quality hiking boots.
• Hydration: Stay hydrated throughout the trek to prevent altitude sickness. Aim to drink 3-4 liters of water daily.
• Guides: Always trek with experienced guides and porters for safety, support, and to enhance your experience with local knowledge.
This detailed itinerary provides a comprehensive guide to the Lemosho Route, allowing you to prepare adequately for an unforgettable adventure on Kilimanjaro! Enjoy your trek!