9 Days Lemosho Route - 9 Days

The Lemosho Route is renowned for its scenic beauty and diverse landscapes, offering a less crowded approach to Kilimanjaro. The extended nine-day itinerary allows for excellent acclimatization, increasing your chances of successfully reaching the summit while also allowing time to appreciate the stunning surroundings.
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 will register and meet your guide and porters. The trek starts through lush rainforest, characterized by tall trees, vibrant vegetation, and diverse wildlife. The ascent is gentle, allowing for acclimatization.
You’ll enjoy the sounds of the forest, including bird calls and rustling leaves. At Mti Mkubwa Camp, you’ll set up tents and enjoy dinner with your team in a serene forest setting, a perfect opportunity to relax and reflect on the day’s hike.
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 to Shira Camp 1. The trail takes you out of the rainforest and into the moorland zone, offering spectacular views of Kibo Peak and the surrounding landscapes. Expect a steady ascent with some rocky sections.
Look out for unique flora, including giant heathers and lobelias. Upon reaching Shira Camp 1, take time to relax and enjoy the views of the plateau, which is 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, with a detour to explore Shira Cathedral, a remarkable rock formation. The terrain includes moorland and rocky paths, providing opportunities for stunning photography and enjoying the unique landscape.
Once you arrive at Shira Camp 2, you’ll have the afternoon to relax and acclimatize. Take advantage of this time to explore your surroundings and appreciate the breathtaking views of Kibo and the Shira Plateau.
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 towards Barranco Camp. The route includes a gradual ascent and then a descent, allowing for proper acclimatization. As you hike, you’ll pass through the alpine desert zone, characterized by sparse vegetation and rocky paths.
As you approach Barranco Camp, the impressive Barranco Wall comes into view. This camp is known for its stunning scenery, making it an excellent place to relax and enjoy the evening.
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 ascent that requires some scrambling. This section is one of the highlights of the Lemosho Route, offering breathtaking views as you climb.
After reaching the top of the wall, continue to Karanga Camp. The trail is rocky and winding, but the stunning vistas make it worthwhile. Once at camp, you can relax, hydrate, and prepare for the next day’s ascent.
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 fantastic views of Kibo Peak. The terrain is rocky and exposed, so be prepared for wind and changing weather conditions.
Barafu Camp is situated on a ridge and can be windy, so ensure your tent is secure. It’s essential to rest and hydrate well, as you’ll start 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.
Focus on your breathing and take regular breaks as you ascend. Aim to reach Stella Point by sunrise for breathtaking views. 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.
Day 9: Optional Extra Day for Acclimatization or Rest
This additional day can be used for extra acclimatization, rest, or exploring the area. Consider a short hike to a nearby viewpoint or simply relax and enjoy the beautiful surroundings before concluding your trek.
Additional Tips for the Lemosho Route
• Acclimatization: The nine-day itinerary allows for optimal acclimatization, which is crucial for summit success. Stay hydrated and listen to your body.
• Preparation: Training is essential! Focus on 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: Drink plenty of water throughout the trek to prevent altitude sickness. Aim for 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!