Lemosho Route 8 Days

8-Day Lemosho Route: A High-Success Path to Kilimanjaro's Summit

The Lemosho Route is renowned as one of the most scenic and successful paths to ascend Mount Kilimanjaro, Africa’s highest peak. This 8-day trek offers a gradual ascent through diverse landscapes, minimizing altitude sickness risks and maximizing your chances of summit success. This route, starts on the western side of the Mount Kilimanjaro, guides climbers through a diverse tapestry of ecosystems, from lush rainforests to the stark beauty of the alpine desert.

Key Features of the Lemosho Route:

Unparalleled Scenery: Experience a breathtaking array of landscapes, including vibrant rainforests, expansive moorlands, and the otherworldly desolation of the alpine desert.

Gradual Acclimatization: The meticulously designed itinerary prioritizes gradual altitude gain, allowing your body to adapt effectively and significantly increasing your chances of reaching Uhuru Peak.

Serene Hiking Experience: Compared to more popular routes like Machame Route, Lemosho Route often presents a more tranquil hiking experience with fewer fellow climbers encountered along the trail.

Flexible Options: Choose from 6, 7, or 8-day itineraries to best suit your fitness level, time constraints, and desired pace.

Uhuru Peak Kilimanjaro6

8-Day Lemosho Route Itinerary: Climbing Kilimanjaro

The Lemosho Route is a scenic and less crowded option for climbing Mount Kilimanjaro, offering a gradual ascent through diverse landscapes. This itinerary provides a general overview of an 8-day trek:

Day 1: Arrival in Tanzania

  • Arrive at Kilimanjaro International Airport.
  • Transfer to your hotel in Moshi.
  • Meet your guide and discuss the trek details .
  • Gear check and any necessary last-minute preparations.

Day 2: Lemosho Gate (2100m) to Mti Mkubwa Camp (2650m)

  • Transfer from your hotel to Lemosho Gate.
  • Begin your trek through the lush rainforest.
  • Reach Mti Mkubwa Camp Kilimanjaro (Big Tree Camp).
  • Enjoy the evening at the campsite.
  • Distance: 6km / 4 miles
  • Walking Time: 2-3 hours
  • Habitat: Rainforest

Day 3: Mti Mkubwa Camp (2650m) to Shira 1 Camp (3550m)

  • Trek through the heather and moorland zones.
  • Enjoy views of the surrounding mountains.
  • Reach Shira 1 Camp Kilimanjaro.
  • Distance: 8km / 5 miles
  • Walking Time: 6-7 hours
  • Habitat: Heather and Moorland

Day 4: Shira 1 Camp (3550m) to Shira 2 Camp (3840m)

  • Continue through the moorland, acclimatizing to the altitude.
  • Enjoy panoramic views of Kibo Peak.
  • Reach Shira 2 Camp Kilimanjaro.
  • Distance: 8km / 5 miles
  • Walking Time: 4-5 hours
  • Habitat: Heather and Moorland

Day 5: Shira 2 Camp (3840m) - Lava Tower (4550m) to Barranco Camp (3900m)

  • Hike towards the Lava Tower, offering stunning views.
  • Descend into the Barranco Valley.
  • Reach Barranco Camp Kilimanjaro.
  • Distance: 11km / 6 miles
  • Walking Time: 5-7 hours
  • Habitat: Alpine Desert

Day 6: Barranco Camp (3900m) to Karanga Camp (4100m)

  • Descend into the Great Barranco.
  • Ascend the Barranco Wall, a challenging section.
  • Reach Karanga Camp Kilimanjaro.
  • Distance: 5km / 3 miles
  • Walking Time: 4-5 hours
  • Habitat: Alpine Desert

Day 7: Karanga Camp (4100m) to Barafu Camp (4600m)

  • Hike steeply towards Barafu Camp.
  • Acclimatize at Barafu Camp Kilimanjaro.
  • Early dinner and rest in preparation for the summit attempt.
  • Distance: 4km / 2 miles
  • Walking Time: 3-4 hours
  • Habitat: Alpine Desert

Day 8: Kilimanjaro Summit Attempt (Barafu Camp - Stella Point - Uhuru Peak Kilimanjaro - Mweka Camp)

  • Begin the summit attempt around midnight.
  • Reach Stella Point Kilimanjaro (5735m).
  • Continue to Uhuru Peak Kilimanjaro (5895m), the highest point in Africa.
  • Descend to Mweka Camp Kilimanjaro.
  • Distance: 13km / 8 miles
  • Walking Time: 11-14 hours
  • Habitat: Summit Zone

Day 9: Mweka Camp (3100m) to Mweka Gate

  • Descend to Mweka Gate Kilimanjaro (1650m).
  • Complete exit formalities and receive your summit certificate.
  • Transfer back to your hotel in Moshi.

Day 10: Departure

  • Transfer to Kilimanjaro International Airport for your departure.

Why Choose the Lemosho Route?

The Lemosho Route is a renowned choice for climbers seeking a balanced blend of stunning scenery, effective acclimatization, and a high probability of reaching the summit of Mount Kilimanjaro.

Lemosho Scenic Beauty: Experience breathtaking vistas, from lush rainforests teeming with wildlife to the stark beauty of the alpine desert and the otherworldly summit.
Lemosho Success Rate: The gradual ascent and acclimatization schedule contribute to a high success rate for reaching Uhuru Peak.
Lemosho Less Crowded: Compared to popular routes like Marangu, Lemosho offers a more tranquil and less crowded climbing experience.
Lemosho Diverse Landscapes: Explore rainforests, moorlands, alpine deserts, and glaciers, providing a unique and unforgettable journey.

Lemosho Route Success Rate:

The Lemosho Route boasts a consistently high summit success rate, typically ranging from 85% to 95%, depending on the chosen itinerary and the quality of your guiding service.
8-Day Lemosho: Generally considered the most successful option, with a summit success rate of around 90-95%. The extended duration allows for optimal acclimatization.
7-Day Lemosho: Offers a slightly lower success rate of approximately 85%, still a strong probability of reaching the summit.
6-Day Lemosho: Less common and with a lower success rate of around 75%, this shorter itinerary may be more challenging for some.

Lemosho Route Cost

Variable: Cost fluctuates based on duration, group size, and level of service.

Typical Range: $1,500 to $5,000 per person.

Lemosho Route Distance:

Regardless of the chosen itinerary duration (6,7 or 8 days), the total distance covered on the Lemosho Route is approximately 70 kilometers (42 miles).

Lemosho Route Elevation Gain

Typical Range: 16,000 to 17,000 feet (4,877 to 5,182 meters)   

Variability: The exact elevation gain can fluctuate based on the starting point and specific itinerary. Some itineraries may begin at a higher altitude, resulting in a reduced overall elevation gain.

How hard is the Lemosho Route?

Generally Considered Easier: Gradual ascent and longer itinerary promote better acclimatization.   
Significant Physical Challenge: Climbing Kilimanjaro is a demanding endeavor regardless of the route.
Factors Influencing Difficulty: Fitness level, acclimatization, weather, gear, and mental preparation.

Conquering Kilimanjaro: The Ultimate Lemosho Route Packing List

Planning to tackle the Lemosho Route on Mount Kilimanjaro? This comprehensive guide will equip you with the essential gear to ensure a safe and successful summit attempt.

Lemosho Route Clothing:

Base Layers: Moisture-wicking long-sleeved shirts and pants (wool or synthetic)
Insulation Layers: Fleece jacket, puffy down jacket
Outer Layers: Waterproof and breathable rain jacket and pants
Headwear: Warm hat, beanie, sun hat
Handwear: Warm gloves, liner gloves
Socks: Wool hiking socks (multiple pairs)
Footwear: Broken-in hiking boots, camp shoes (sandals or lightweight shoes)
Gaiters: To keep dirt and debris out of your boots

Lemosho Route Essentials:

Backpack: Daypack for carrying essentials during day hikes
Hydration: Water bottles or hydration bladder
Trekking Poles: For stability and reducing strain on knees
Headlamp: With extra batteries
Sunglasses: With UV protection
Sunscreen: High SPF
Lip Balm: With SPF
Personal First-Aid Kit: Including any necessary medications, blister treatment, pain relievers
Toiletries: Biodegradable options recommended
Entertainment: Books, cards, or other activities for downtime

Additional Considerations:

Camera: To capture the breathtaking views
Cash: For tipping porters and guides (USD recommended)
Copies of Important Documents: Passport, insurance, etc.

Tips for Lemosho Route Packing

Pack Light: Carry only the essentials.
Layer Clothing: Adjust to changing temperatures throughout the day.
Waterproof Everything: Protect your gear from rain and moisture.
Break in Your Boots: Ensure comfort before the climb.
By following this packing list and prioritizing comfort and safety, you’ll be well-prepared to embark on your Kilimanjaro adventure and experience the thrill of reaching the “Roof of Africa.” 

The best time to climb Kilimanjaro via the Lemosho route on 8-day itinerary is during the dry seasons, which are:

December to February: This is the peak season, with clear skies, warm days, and cold nights. However, it can also be crowded and more expensive.
December to February weather in Kilimanjaro

June to August: This is another good option, with similar weather conditions to the peak season. However, it can be slightly wetter, especially in June.
June to August weather in Kilimanjaro

September to November: This is the shoulder season, with fewer crowds and lower prices. However, the weather can be more unpredictable, with a higher chance of rain and snow.
September to November weather in Kilimanjaro

Here is a table summarizing the pros and cons of each season:
Season Pros Cons

December to February Clear skies, warm days, cold nights Crowded, expensive June to August Clear skies, warm days, cold nights Slightly wetter than peak season
September to November fewer crowds, lower prices More unpredictable weather, higher chance of rain and snow.

September to November fewer crowds, lower prices More unpredictable weather, higher chance of rain and snow.

Important Notes:

  • Acclimatization is crucial for summit success.
  • Proper trekking gear and clothing are essential.
  • Climbing Kilimanjaro is a challenging endeavor. Proper planning and preparation are vital.

Remember to:

  • Train Properly: Engage in regular cardiovascular exercise and strength training to prepare for the physical demands of the climb.

  • Pack Appropriately: Pack layers of clothing suitable for various weather conditions, including rain gear, warm layers, and sturdy hiking boots.

  • Stay Hydrated: Drink plenty of fluids throughout the trek to prevent dehydration.

  • Listen to Your Body: If you experience any symptoms of altitude sickness, inform your Kilimanjaro guide immediately.

Enjoy your Kilimanjaro adventure!

Important Information About Climbing Mount Kilimanjaro

What's Included In Your Kilimanjaro Climbing Cost

Kilimanjaro climbing inclusions

Kilimanjaro Climb What's Not Included

Optional Tours:
Health Requirements:
×