10 Days Mount Kilimanjaro Lemosho Route Trekking Tour
The Lemosho Route is widely regarded as one of the most scenic, rewarding, and successful routes to the summit of Mount Kilimanjaro. Approaching the mountain from the remote western side, the route offers a gradual ascent profile and excellent acclimatization opportunities, making it one of the preferred choices for climbers seeking a higher summit success rate. Throughout the journey, trekkers experience an extraordinary variety of landscapes, from lush rainforest and expansive moorlands to alpine deserts and the icy Arctic zone near the summit.
This 10-day adventure follows the recommended "climb high, sleep low" acclimatization principle, maximizing your chances of reaching Uhuru Peak (5,895m), the highest point in Africa. Along the way, you will cross the spectacular Shira Plateau, conquer the famous Barranco Wall, and witness breathtaking views of glaciers, volcanic formations, and endless African landscapes. Combined with experienced mountain guides, a dedicated support crew, and carefully planned trekking days, the Lemosho Route offers an unforgettable Kilimanjaro experience and one of the finest mountain adventures in the world.
map Expedition Route
Daily Expedition Log
Arrival Day – Welcome to Tanzania
Upon arrival at Kilimanjaro International Airport, you will be warmly welcomed by our professional team and transferred to your hotel in Arusha or Moshi, where your Kilimanjaro adventure officially begins.
After checking in, you will have time to relax and recover from your journey while enjoying the comfort of your hotel and the beautiful surroundings of northern Tanzania. Depending on your arrival time, you may choose to rest, explore the local area, or simply prepare mentally for the adventure ahead.
Later in the day, you will meet your professional mountain guide for a comprehensive pre-climb briefing. During this important session, your guide will review the entire route, explain daily trekking expectations, discuss altitude awareness and safety procedures, inspect your equipment, and answer any questions you may have. This is also the perfect opportunity to make final gear adjustments and ensure you are fully prepared for the days ahead.
Meals
Breakfast
Lodging
Kibo Palace Moshi
Transport
Private Tourist Vehicle
Mti Mkubwa Camp to Shira 1 Camp
Elevation: 2,820m – 3,500m
Distance: 8 km
Trekking Time: 6–7 hours
Habitat Zone: Moorland
Leaving the rainforest behind, today's trek ascends steadily into the heath and moorland zone. The landscape begins to transform dramatically as giant heathers, volcanic rock formations, and open mountain vistas replace the dense forest canopy.
The trail offers magnificent views of the surrounding wilderness, and on clear days, Mount Meru rises impressively on the horizon. As you gain altitude, the vegetation becomes increasingly sparse, providing uninterrupted views across the Shira Plateau and the western slopes of Kilimanjaro.
Upon arrival at Shira 1 Camp, you will be rewarded with one of the mountain's most spectacular sunset viewpoints. Enjoy dinner and overnight while taking in the vast wilderness surrounding you.
Meals
Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Lodging
Shira 1 Camp
Transport
By Foot
Londorossi Gate to Mti Mkubwa Camp
Elevation: 2,250m – 2,820m
Distance: 6 km
Trekking Time: 3–4 hours
Habitat Zone: Rainforest
After breakfast, depart for Londorossi Gate, passing through picturesque villages, coffee farms, and fertile countryside surrounding Mount Kilimanjaro. Upon arrival, registration formalities are completed while your mountain crew prepares equipment and supplies for the trek ahead.
Following a short drive to the trailhead, your climb begins through the dense rainforest that blankets the lower slopes of Kilimanjaro. The forest is rich in biodiversity and offers an excellent introduction to the mountain's unique ecosystems. Towering trees draped with moss create a magical atmosphere, while colorful birds and playful black-and-white colobus monkeys can often be spotted among the branches.
The gentle ascent allows your body to begin adjusting to the altitude while you immerse yourself in the sights and sounds of the rainforest. Upon reaching Mti Mkubwa Camp, also known as Big Tree Camp, you will settle into camp, enjoy a freshly prepared dinner, and spend your first night on Africa's highest mountain.
Meals
Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Lodging
Mti Mkubwa Camp
Transport
By Foot
Shira 1 Camp to Shira 2 Camp
Elevation: 3,500m – 3,840m
Distance: 7 km
Trekking Time: 5–6 hours
Habitat Zone: Moorland
Today's trek crosses the magnificent Shira Plateau, one of the largest high-altitude plateaus in the world and among Kilimanjaro's most scenic regions.
The relatively gentle terrain provides an excellent acclimatization opportunity while allowing you to fully appreciate the mountain's volcanic origins. Your guide will share fascinating insights into Kilimanjaro's geological history and point out unique alpine vegetation adapted to the harsh mountain environment.
Throughout the day, expansive views stretch across the plateau, while Kibo Peak becomes increasingly prominent in the distance. Upon arrival at Shira 2 Camp, enjoy dinner and rest while preparing for the important acclimatization stage ahead.
Meals
Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Lodging
Shira 2 Camp
Transport
By Foot
Shira 2 Camp to Lava Tower to Barranco Camp
Elevation: 3,840m – 4,630m – 3,960m
Distance: 10 km
Trekking Time: 7–8 hours
Habitat Zone: Alpine Desert
This is one of the most important acclimatization days of the entire climb. You will ascend steadily toward the iconic Lava Tower, a dramatic volcanic rock formation standing at 4,630 meters above sea level. As you climb higher, the landscape becomes increasingly rugged and barren, resembling a lunar environment shaped by ancient volcanic activity.
After reaching Lava Tower and spending valuable time at higher altitude, you will enjoy lunch before descending into the spectacular Barranco Valley. This descent is a crucial part of the "climb high, sleep low" strategy and greatly assists acclimatization.
The valley is famous for its giant senecio plants, towering cliffs, and breathtaking scenery. Arriving at Barranco Camp, you will enjoy dinner surrounded by some of the most beautiful landscapes on the mountain.
Meals
Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Lodging
Barranco Camp
Transport
By Foot
Barranco Camp to Karanga Camp
Elevation: 3,960m – 4,035m
Distance: 5 km
Trekking Time: 4–5 hours
Habitat Zone: Alpine Desert
The day begins with the famous Barranco Wall, one of the most exciting and memorable sections of the Lemosho Route.
Although steep in appearance, the climb is non-technical and manageable with the support of your experienced guides. As you ascend, spectacular panoramic views open across the valleys and peaks surrounding you.
After conquering the wall, the trail traverses ridges and valleys before reaching Karanga Camp. This shorter trekking day allows additional acclimatization and valuable recovery time before moving higher toward base camp.
Meals
Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Lodging
Karanga Camp
Transport
By Foot
Karanga Camp to Barafu Camp
Elevation: 4,035m – 4,680m
Distance: 4 km
Trekking Time: 4–5 hours
Habitat Zone: Alpine Desert
Today's trek leads you to Barafu Camp, the final staging point before your summit attempt. The landscape becomes increasingly rugged and barren as you traverse rocky terrain beneath towering peaks. Views of Mawenzi Peak, distant glaciers, and the surrounding mountain ranges create an unforgettable backdrop.
Upon arrival at Barafu Camp, you will have an early dinner and participate in a detailed summit briefing. Your guides will explain the ascent strategy and provide final preparations for the challenging but rewarding climb ahead.
An early rest is essential as you prepare to begin your summit attempt shortly after midnight.
Meals
Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Lodging
Barafu Camp
Transport
By Foot
Barafu Camp to Uhuru Peak to Mweka Camp
Elevation: 4,680m – 5,895m – 3,100m
Distance: 16 km
Trekking Time: 12–15 hours
Habitat Zone: Arctic / Moorland
Shortly after midnight, your summit journey begins beneath a sky illuminated by countless stars. Moving slowly and steadily, you ascend steep scree slopes toward Stella Point on the crater rim. This is the most physically and mentally demanding stage of the trek, requiring determination, resilience, and focus.
As dawn approaches, the first rays of sunlight illuminate the glaciers and volcanic landscape, creating one of the most unforgettable moments of the entire expedition.
From Stella Point, continue along the crater rim to Uhuru Peak (5,895m), the highest point in Africa. Standing at the summit is a life-changing achievement and a moment of immense pride. Take time to celebrate, capture photographs, and absorb the incredible views stretching across the African continent.
After your summit celebration, begin the long descent back to Barafu Camp for a brief rest before continuing down to Mweka Camp. The significantly lower altitude provides much-needed relief and allows your body to begin recovering from the summit effort.
Meals
Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Lodging
Mweka Camp
Transport
By Foot
Mweka Camp to Mweka Gate – Return to Moshi
Elevation: 3,100m – 1,640m
Distance: 10 km
Trekking Time: 3–4 hours
Habitat Zone: Rainforest
After breakfast, begin your final descent through the lush rainforest that covers Kilimanjaro's lower slopes. The trail is gentle and scenic, offering a final opportunity to reflect on your incredible achievement while appreciating the mountain's remarkable biodiversity.
As you descend, the air becomes warmer and richer in oxygen, and the sounds of birds and forest wildlife gradually replace the silence of the high-altitude environment. The journey through this beautiful rainforest serves as a fitting conclusion to your mountain adventure.
Upon arrival at Mweka Gate, you will officially sign out of the national park and receive your summit certificate a treasured reminder of your accomplishment. Climbers who reach Uhuru Peak receive a Gold Certificate, recognizing their successful ascent to the highest point in Africa.
After celebrations, photographs, and farewells to your dedicated mountain crew, you will be met by our transfer team and driven back to Moshi or Arusha. Along the way, enjoy views of local villages, coffee plantations, and the surrounding countryside while reflecting on the extraordinary journey you have completed.
Back at your hotel, a well-deserved hot shower, comfortable bed, and celebratory dinner await. The remainder of the day is yours to relax, share stories with fellow climbers, review photographs, and celebrate your achievement of standing on the Roof of Africa.
Meals
Breakfast, Dinner
Lodging
Kibo Palace Hotel Moshi
Transport
By Foot and Private Tourist Vehicle
Moshi to Aiport - Departure
After breakfast, enjoy a relaxed morning at your hotel before check-out.
Depending on your flight schedule, you may have time for some final relaxation or last-minute shopping before being transferred to Kilimanjaro International Airport for your onward journey.
As you depart Tanzania, you take with you not only photographs and souvenirs, but also the pride of conquering Africa's highest mountain and memories of an adventure that will remain with you for a lifetime.
Meals
Breakfast
Transport
Private Tourist Vehicle
Inclusions & Essentials
check_circle What's Included
- done Tanzania VAT on tourism activities and park fees for Mount Kilimanjaro.
- done Kilimanjaro camping fees.
- done Return airport transfers.
- done Concession fees for Kilimanjaro National Park.
- done Hotel lodging the night before the climb, Bed and Breakfast (BB).
- done Transfer from your hotel to the starting point for your climb and back to the hotel on the last day.
- done Night after the climb, with dinner and breakfast included.
- done Kilimanjaro National Park rescue fees (Kilimanjaro Rescue Team).
- done Emergency oxygen (for use in emergencies only – not as summiting aid).
- done Basic first aid kit (for use in emergencies only).
- done Qualified mountain language speaking guide, assistant guides, porters, and cook.
- done Salaries for mountain crew as per guidelines set by Kilimanjaro National Park.
- done Breakfast, lunch, and dinner, as well as hot drinks on the mountain.
- done Water for washing up daily.
- done Porter to carry your duffel bag (max weight 15kg / 32 lbs) from one camp to the next camp.
- done Kilimanjaro National Park certificate for your successful summit attempt.
- done A comprehensive Climbing Kilimanjaro info pack.
cancel Not Included
- close International flight tickets.
- close Items of a personal nature.
- close Tips to our crews.
- close Travel insurance.
- close Travel visa.
- close Travel passport.
- close Alcoholic drinks.
- close Laundry.
- close Sleeping bags and mattresses