Lemosho Route 7-8 Days
The Lemosho Route is one of the newer and longer routes for climbing Mount Kilimanjaro, offering a higher success rate due to its gradual ascent and ample opportunities for acclimatization. This scenic route approaches the mountain from the west, providing a unique perspective and diverse landscapes.
Route Overview:
The Lemosho Route begins at the Lemosho Glades, a lush and remote area on the western side of Kilimanjaro. The trail winds through dense rainforests, moorlands, and alpine deserts, offering a diverse range of ecosystems and breathtaking vistas. The route’s gradual ascent and descent along different paths allow for better acclimatization and scenic variety.
Day by Day Itinerary Lemosho Route 7-8 Days
Day 1: Arrival and Preparation
On the first day, you will arrive at Kilimanjaro International Airport or Arusha, where you will be met by your guide and transferred to your accommodation in Moshi or Arusha town. Here, you will have a briefing session and prepare for the upcoming trek.
Day 2: Lemosho Glades (2,100m) to Mti Mkubwa Camp (2,800m)
The trek begins at the Lemosho Glades, a lush and remote area on the western side of Kilimanjaro. The trail winds through the dense rainforest, offering glimpses of unique flora and fauna, such as colobus monkeys and various bird species. After approximately 3-4 hours of trekking, you will reach the Mti Mkubwa Camp, where you will spend the night.
Day 3: Mti Mkubwa Camp (2,800m) to Shira Camp 1 (3,500m)
On the third day, the trail continues through the rainforest before emerging into the moorlands. The landscape transforms into a unique and rocky terrain, with giant heathers and volcanic rocks dominating the scenery. After approximately 5-6 hours of trekking, you will arrive at Shira Camp 1, where you will spend the night.
Day 4: Shira Camp 1 (3,500m) to Shira Camp 2 (3,900m)
Today’s trek is relatively short but important for acclimatization. The trail takes you through the Shira Plateau, a unique and expansive alpine desert, before reaching Shira Camp 2. This day’s trek will take approximately 3-4 hours.
Day 5: Shira Camp 2 (3,900m) to Barranco Camp (3,960m)
The day begins with a steady ascent through the Lava Tower (4,600m), a challenging but rewarding section of the trek. After reaching the tower, you will descend into the Barranco Valley, where you will spend the night at the Barranco Camp. This day’s trek will take approximately 6-8 hours.
Day 6: Barranco Camp (3,960m) to Karanga Valley (4,200m) and Barafu Camp (4,600m)
The day begins with a steep climb up the Barranco Wall, a challenging but rewarding section of the trek. After conquering the wall, the trail continues through the Karanga Valley before ascending to the Barafu Camp, your final campsite before the summit attempt. This day’s trek will take approximately 7-9 hours.
Day 7: Barafu Camp (4,600m) to Uhuru Peak (5,895m) and descent to Mweka Camp (3,100m)
This is the most challenging and rewarding day of the trek. You will wake up around midnight to begin the final ascent to the summit, Uhuru Peak. The climb is steep and demanding, but the stunning views of the glaciers and the sunrise over the clouds make it all worthwhile. After reaching the summit and taking in the breathtaking panoramas, you will descend to the Mweka Camp, where you will rest and recuperate.
Day 8: Mweka Camp (3,100m) to Mweka Gate (1,640m) and departure
On the final day, you will descend through the rainforest, retracing your steps back to the Mweka Gate. The descent is relatively easier, and you will have the opportunity to spot wildlife and take in the lush surroundings one last time. After reaching the gate, you will be transferred back to your accommodation in Moshi or Arusha, where you can celebrate your achievements and prepare for your journey home.
Note: The Lemosho Route can also be completed in 7 days by combining Day 6 and Day 7, with the ascent to Barafu Camp and the summit attempt occurring on the same day. However, this itinerary is more challenging and provides less time for acclimatization.
