8 Days Lemosho Route Kilimanjaro Trek

Follow the Lemosho Route over eight days on a scenic and carefully paced Kilimanjaro trek. Cross the rainforest and Shira Plateau before joining the southern circuit through Lava Tower, Barranco, Karanga and Barafu, then climb to Uhuru Peak at 5,895 metres.

GENERAL

ITINERARY

ALLOCATION

WHY US?

8 DAYS LEMOSHO ROUTE TREK OVERVIEW

The 8 days Lemosho Route is a scenic Kilimanjaro itinerary that approaches the mountain from the west. It begins near Londorossi Gate, passes through montane rainforest and crosses the Shira Plateau before joining the southern circuit leading towards Uhuru Peak.

Unlike the seven-day itinerary, this eight-day Lemosho Route divides the journey between Mti Mkubwa and Shira 2 into two separate trekking days. Climbers stay at Shira 1 before continuing to Shira 2, creating a more gradual early elevation profile and additional time to adjust to the mountain environment.

The opening trail passes through rainforest inhabited by blue monkeys, black-and-white colobus monkeys and several bird species, although wildlife sightings cannot be guaranteed. As the route climbs higher, the forest gives way to heath, moorland and the open volcanic landscapes of the Shira Plateau.

From Shira 2, the trek continues towards Lava Tower at approximately 4,630 metres before descending to Barranco Camp. Reaching a higher elevation during the day and sleeping lower at Barranco is an important part of the itinerary’s acclimatization profile.

The route then crosses the Barranco Wall and Karanga Valley before reaching Barafu Camp. Although the Barranco Wall appears steep, it is a guided, non-technical scramble. Climbers use their hands for balance in some places, but technical rock-climbing equipment is not normally required.

The final ascent begins from Barafu Camp, usually around midnight. Climbers ascend to Stella Point and then follow the crater rim to Uhuru Peak. At 5,895 metres, Uhuru Peak is the highest point on Mount Kilimanjaro and the African continent.

After reaching the summit, the route descends through Mweka Camp and exits Kilimanjaro National Park at Mweka Gate. Accommodation before and after the climb is provided at Summit View Retreat.

Price Per Person


1 to 2 People	3 to 4 People	Group of 5+
$2,500	$2,450	$2,400

Trekking Highlights

Summary Route Description

Summit success rates

Lemosho 8 – Crater Rim: 95.0%, Uhuru Peak: 93.8%

Route Map

DAY TO DAY ITINERARY

When you arrive at Kilimanjaro International Airport, an Almighty Kilimanjaro representative will welcome you and transfer you to Summit View Retreat.

After checking in, you will meet your mountain guide for a detailed pre-climb briefing. The guide will explain the 8 days Lemosho Route itinerary, expected trail conditions, altitude considerations and safety procedures followed on Mount Kilimanjaro.

Your personal trekking equipment will also be checked. This ensures that you have suitable clothing, footwear and equipment for the rainforest, alpine desert and freezing summit conditions.

If any essential items are missing, the team can assist with arranging appropriate rental equipment before the climb. You will then have time to rest and prepare for the following morning.

Accommodation: Summit View Retreat

Meals: According to your accommodation arrangement

Accommodation Options (Before and After the Hike):

Elevation: 2,250 metres to approximately 2,820 metres

Distance: Approximately 7 kilometres

Trekking time: 3–4 hours

Habitat: Montane rainforest

After breakfast at Summit View Retreat, you will meet the mountain crew and drive towards Londorossi Gate on Kilimanjaro’s western side.

Your guide will complete the required Kilimanjaro National Park registration procedures while the porters organize the camping equipment, food and group supplies.

The journey then continues to the Lemosho trailhead, where the trek begins through dense montane rainforest. This lower section of Kilimanjaro receives considerable rainfall and supports tall trees, mosses, ferns and other tropical vegetation.

The trail climbs gradually towards Mti Mkubwa Camp, also known as Big Tree Camp. Blue monkeys, black-and-white colobus monkeys and forest birds inhabit this area, although sightings depend on trail and weather conditions.

At camp, the mountain crew will prepare dinner while you rest and begin adjusting to your first night at elevation.

Accommodation: Mti Mkubwa Camp

Meals: Breakfast, lunch and dinner

Accommodation:

Meal Plan:

Elevation: Approximately 2,820 metres to 3,500 metres

Distance: Approximately 8 kilometres

Trekking time: 5–6 hours

Habitat: Rainforest, heath and moorland

After breakfast, you will leave Mti Mkubwa Camp and continue climbing through the upper sections of the rainforest. The vegetation gradually becomes shorter as the route enters Kilimanjaro’s heath and moorland zone.

The trail follows a series of ridges and becomes steeper in some sections. As you gain elevation, the dense forest opens into grassland, heather and exposed volcanic terrain.

When conditions are clear, the route provides views across the surrounding plains and towards the higher slopes of Kibo. Your guide will maintain a slow and steady pace to support acclimatization.

The trail eventually reaches the western side of the Shira Plateau and continues to Shira 1 Camp. The plateau is the remains of an ancient volcanic formation and forms one of the most distinctive landscapes on the Lemosho Route.

Accommodation: Shira 1 Camp

Meals: Breakfast, lunch and dinner

Accommodation:

Meal Plan:

Elevation: Approximately 3,500 metres to 3,850 metres

Distance: Approximately 7 kilometres

Trekking time: 3–4 hours

Habitat: Moorland

Today’s shorter trek continues east across the Shira Plateau towards Shira 2 Camp. The gradual elevation increase distinguishes this eight-day itinerary from the faster seven-day Lemosho Route.

The trail crosses open moorland with views of Kibo, Mount Meru and the surrounding plateau when weather conditions permit. Vegetation becomes increasingly sparse as you approach the alpine desert zone.

Your guide may recommend a short acclimatization walk after reaching camp, depending on the weather, available time and the condition of the group. This may involve walking to a slightly higher elevation before returning to Shira 2 to rest.

The shorter distance provides time to recover, hydrate and prepare for the following day’s climb towards Lava Tower.

Accommodation: Shira 2 Camp

Meals: Breakfast, lunch and dinner

Accommodation:

Meal Plan:

Starting elevation: Approximately 3,850 metres

Lava Tower elevation: Approximately 4,630 metres

Sleeping elevation: Approximately 3,950 metres

Distance: Approximately 10 kilometres

Trekking time: 6–8 hours

Habitat: Moorland and alpine desert

After breakfast, you will leave Shira 2 Camp and begin climbing east towards Lava Tower. The route enters Kilimanjaro’s alpine desert, where vegetation becomes limited and the landscape is dominated by exposed volcanic rock.

Lava Tower is a prominent volcanic formation situated at approximately 4,630 metres. Reaching this altitude provides valuable exposure to the thinner air found higher on the mountain.

After spending time near Lava Tower, you will descend into the Barranco Valley. This higher daytime elevation followed by a lower sleeping elevation supports the acclimatization process.

As you descend, giant groundsels and other high-altitude plants become visible in the sheltered valley. Barranco Camp sits below the southern slopes of Kibo and directly beneath the Barranco Wall.

Accommodation: Barranco Camp

Meals: Breakfast, lunch and dinner

Accommodation:

Meal Plan:

Elevation: Approximately 3,950 metres to 3,995 metres

Distance: Approximately 5 kilometres

Trekking time: 4–5 hours

Habitat: Alpine desert

The day begins with the ascent of the Barranco Wall. Despite its steep appearance, the wall is a guided scramble rather than a technical rock climb.

You will follow your guide carefully and use your hands for balance in several sections. The mountain crew will provide assistance where the trail becomes narrow or exposed.

After reaching the top, the route continues across a series of ridges and valleys along Kilimanjaro’s southern circuit. This section provides impressive views of Kibo and the surrounding alpine landscape when the mountain is clear.

The trail descends into the Karanga Valley before climbing to Karanga Camp at approximately 3,995 metres. The shorter trekking day provides additional time for rest and acclimatization before the climb to Barafu.

Accommodation: Karanga Camp

Meals: Breakfast, lunch and dinner

Accommodation:

Meal Plan:

Elevation: Approximately 3,995 metres to 4,673 metres

Distance: Approximately 4 kilometres

Trekking time: 4–5 hours

Habitat: Alpine desert

After breakfast, you will leave Karanga Camp and begin the steady ascent towards Barafu Camp. The terrain becomes increasingly dry, rocky and exposed as the route moves higher into Kilimanjaro’s alpine desert.

Barafu means “ice” in Swahili, reflecting the cold conditions commonly experienced at this elevation. The camp is positioned on a rocky ridge and serves as the base for the final ascent.

After arriving, you will eat, hydrate and organize the clothing and equipment required for summit night. Your guide will explain the planned departure time, trail conditions, recommended clothing layers, safety procedures and expected pace.

The remainder of the afternoon and early evening should be used for rest. The summit attempt normally begins around midnight.

Accommodation: Barafu Camp

Meals: Breakfast, lunch and dinner

Accommodation:

Meal Plan:

Starting elevation: Approximately 4,673 metres

Summit elevation: 5,895 metres

Sleeping elevation: Approximately 3,100 metres

Distance: Approximately 5 kilometres ascending and 12 kilometres descending

Trekking time: Approximately 11–14 hours

Habitat: Arctic zone, alpine desert and moorland

You will wake around midnight, have a light meal and prepare for the final ascent. Following your guide, you will begin climbing slowly over the steep volcanic scree above Barafu Camp.

This is the most physically and mentally demanding stage of the 8 days Lemosho Route. Temperatures may fall well below freezing, and the reduced oxygen available at high altitude makes a slow, controlled pace essential.

The trail climbs towards Stella Point at approximately 5,756 metres. From Stella Point, you will continue around the crater rim towards Uhuru Peak, passing glaciers and exposed volcanic terrain.

At 5,895 metres, Uhuru Peak is the highest point in Africa. Time at the summit depends on the weather, temperature and your guide’s safety assessment.

You will then descend to Barafu Camp for a short rest and meal. The descent continues towards Mweka Camp, where you will spend the night at a significantly lower elevation.

Accommodation: Mweka Camp

Meals: Breakfast, lunch and dinner

Accommodation:

Meal Plan:

Elevation: Approximately 3,100 metres to 1,640 metres

Distance: Approximately 10 kilometres

Trekking time: 3–4 hours

Habitat: Montane rainforest

After breakfast, you will begin the final descent through Kilimanjaro’s montane rainforest. The trail can become muddy and slippery, particularly after rainfall, so footwear with reliable grip and trekking poles can be useful.

At Mweka Gate, your guide will complete the national park exit procedures. Climbers who reached Stella Point or Uhuru Peak will receive the corresponding summit certificate.

You will say goodbye to the mountain crew before being transferred back to Summit View Retreat. The remainder of the day can be spent resting and recovering after your eight-day Kilimanjaro trek.

Accommodation: Summit View Retreat

Meals: Breakfast and lunch

Accommodation:

Meal Plan:

COST BREAKDOWN

Trekking Cost Covers

Kilimanjaro International Airport transfers according to the confirmed itinerary
Accommodation at Summit View Retreat before and after the climb
Transportation between the hotel and Kilimanjaro’s entry and exit gates
Kilimanjaro National Park entry fees
Camping fees and applicable rescue fees
Professional Kilimanjaro guides
Assistant guides where required by group size
Mountain cooks and porters
Mountain crew salaries
Meals during the trek
Drinking water on the mountain
Mountain tents and sleeping mattresses
Dining tent, table, chairs and eating utensils
First-aid equipment
Emergency oxygen
Pulse and blood-oxygen monitoring
Summit certificate for climbers reaching Stella Point or Uhuru Peak
Government taxes applicable to the included services

Does not Cover

International and domestic flights
Tanzania visa fees
Travel and medical insurance
Personal trekking clothing and equipment
Sleeping bag unless specifically included
Meals and drinks not listed in the itinerary
Alcoholic and bottled beverages
Tips for guides, cooks and porters
Personal expenses and laundry
Additional hotel nights
Optional excursions and itinerary extensions
Medical treatment or evacuation expenses not covered by the included services
Costs caused by delayed flights, illness, adverse weather or other circumstances outside the operator’s control

BOOK THIS TOUR

INQUIRIES & FAQ's

Inquiry Space

Your Trekking & Hiking Questions Answered

What is the difference between the 7-day and 8-day Lemosho Route?

The eight-day itinerary divides the journey from Mti Mkubwa to Shira 2 into two trekking days, with an overnight stay at Shira 1 Camp. The seven-day itinerary covers this section more quickly. The additional day creates a more gradual early elevation profile and more time on the mountain.

How difficult is the 8 days Lemosho Route?

The route is physically demanding because of the altitude, consecutive trekking days and long summit ascent. It does not normally require technical climbing experience, but climbers should have suitable fitness, preparation and hiking endurance.

Is the 8 days Lemosho Route suitable for beginners?

It can be suitable for physically prepared first-time high-altitude trekkers. The longer itinerary provides more time to adjust than shorter Kilimanjaro programmes, but no itinerary eliminates the risks or physical effects of altitude.

What is the best time to climb the Lemosho Route?

The main climbing periods are generally January to early March and June to October, when conditions are often drier. Mountain weather remains unpredictable, and rain, snow, wind and freezing temperatures can occur at any time.

Where does the Lemosho Route start?

The route approaches Kilimanjaro from the west. Registration is completed at Londorossi Gate before climbers continue to the Lemosho trailhead and begin trekking through the rainforest.

Does the Lemosho Route require technical climbing?

No specialist mountaineering equipment or rock-climbing experience is normally required. The Barranco Wall involves a guided scramble where climbers use their hands for balance, but it is not normally considered a technical climb.

What accommodation is used during the trek?

Climbers sleep in mountain tents at designated campsites throughout the route. Accommodation before and after the climb is provided at Summit View Retreat.

What is the highest point on the route?

The highest point is Uhuru Peak at 5,895 metres above sea level. It is located on Kibo’s crater rim and is the highest point on Mount Kilimanjaro and the African continent.

How should I train for the eight-day Lemosho Route?

Training should include cardiovascular exercise, hill walking, leg and core strength work and progressively longer hikes. Practising consecutive hiking days while carrying your planned daypack can help prepare you for the itinerary.

What should I pack for the Lemosho Route?

You will need layered clothing for warm, wet, windy and freezing conditions. Essential items include broken-in hiking boots, waterproof outerwear, insulated layers, warm gloves, a headlamp, trekking poles, a suitable sleeping bag and a comfortable daypack.

What happens if I develop altitude sickness?

You must report symptoms to your guide immediately. Your guide will monitor your condition and determine whether you should rest, descend or receive additional assistance. Summit ambitions must never take priority over safety.

Are crew tips included in the price?

No. Tips for guides, assistant guides, cooks and porters are generally separate from the package price. Tipping is voluntary but customary after a Kilimanjaro climb. Confirm the current tipping guidance before departure.

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       Posted on Tripadvisor  
   
   Peter B 
 
 
 
 Verified Overall, an incredible experience with a professional and friendly guide and team. A fantastic experience, made possible and truly enjoyable thanks to our excellent lead guide, Innocent, our guide Emanuel, and our dedicated team of porters. The food and accommodation were excellent, our privacy was respected, and we felt secure knowing that Innocent—who had lost count of his ascents after 200—prepared us well for each day ahead and for summit night.
  
 
      Posted on Tripadvisor  
   
   matildabond 
 
 
 
 Verified Best experience of my life! I don't know where to begin! My dad and I have just arrived back home and I want to start by saying that I already miss being on the mountain with our incredible team. From beginning to end, this trip has been the most incredible experience! We did the 8 day Lemosho route just the two of us with our amazing team. To say that I was nervous about this trip is an understatement as neither of us had any prior experience. The minute we met our lead guide, Innocent, all the nerves dropped. Innocent, as well as our team, all deserve a medal for everything they did for us during our time on the mountain! One of the things I valued the most with our team is how incredibly safe they made us feel. Innocent and Emanuel (assistant guide) both had so much experience and it felt like anything could have been thrown at us and I would've been calm in their presence. We were so well looked after and supported and for the last two days, when I wasn't feeling 100%, Innocent carried my bag for me (he did this all the way up to the summit!). Kindest man ever! We were so taken care of by everyone in the team! We got served delicious meals throughout the day (including what became our favourite snack - popcorn), hot water for tea and hot water for washing. Every night Innocent came to do our medical form and brief us on the next day. Side note: We think Innocent might be the weather-god. EVERY single day we got to the camp and inside our tents about 2 minute before the rain started. Huge thank you to Innocent, Emanuel, Ronaldi, Visent, Barak, Lutin, Ernest, Hamza, Jackson and Elisha! You made us feel like we were apart of a beautiful family and we would not have been able to make it without you! We will miss you all very, very much. Some tips: - Get a private toilet. This made a huge difference and was worth every penny. - Bring electrolytes to ensure you don't get dehydrated - Bring snacks that you know you'll eat even when your appetite is low - Bring an extra pair of thermals so you have a dry pair for summit night - Bring Dextro for summit night - Bring a small hot water bottle (this saved me on the colder nights) - Headphones for summit night (Me and dad had one headphone each. This was a treat) Matilda
  
 
      Posted on Tripadvisor  
   
   hel e 
 
 
 
 Verified Amazing experience for machame with Ladi and team I did the 6 days machame route with Ladi and the team from Almighty and it was an amazing experience. The team was very sweet and caring and Ladi took great care of me and managed the hiking schedule perfectly. I felt safe at all times, food was really tasty snd everyone was really caring.
  
 
      Posted on Tripadvisor  
   
   james s 
 
 
 
 Verified Great team Great experience. The team were great. They certainly helped me get to the top. The whole team work tirelessly to make sure your trip goes well. Thanks!
  
 
      Posted on Tripadvisor  
   
   Lauren 
 
 
 
 Verified Almighty Kilimanjaro Incredible! From start to finish, we were taken care of. Ombenni and his team were fantastic. The porters put the climbers to shame, running up and down the mountain and the chef cooked us a high class meal every day. I would recommend Almighty Kilimanjaro as the company to take you up Kilimanjaro everyday of the week. Thank you team for all you did in helping us achieve our dream!
  
 
      Posted on Tripadvisor  
   
   Dredre 
 
 
 
 Verified FIRST MOUNTAIN CLIMBING EXPERIENCE DONE RIGHT! A truly wonderful experience from start to end, coming from Singapore, a really busy city with lots of buildings and no mountains here. My first experience ever climbing a mountain with my wife (also her first time). The Head Guide John from Almighty was really professional and experienced, from his briefings, safety briefings, expert guidance and understanding symptoms of Altitude sickness etc made us feel safe in his hands. Also leading a superb team of chef and porters who are really hard working and strong, truly admire their resilience and also “happy go lucky” attitudes despite their tough jobs. Really didn’t think we could make it to the summit at Stella Point as I was suffering from fever, nausea, diarrhea etc and my wife was experiencing some difficulty breathing. We weren’t too used to the altitude, but our guide managed to push us through while still being very cautious about our symptoms and constantly checking in on us during Summit Night. After many long hours, we finally made it to Stella Point and that too us was really amazing as we just stood there and enjoyed the views surrounding us, thinking that we weren’t gonna make it tbh. Sunrise was beautiful and we were in awe of the views surrounding us. Highly recommend Almighty as they are affordable and truly professional for a locally owned Tanzanian Operator.
  
 
      Posted on Tripadvisor  
   
   Meirion B J 
 
 
 
 Verified Kilimanjaro Kilimanjaro. I went on an epic adventure with Almighty Kilimanjaro The guide John and the whole team looked after me like family, they cater and support you in every step of the way up and down and made it exceptionally Amazing ???????? Thanks to the whole team Meirion
  
 
      Posted on Tripadvisor  
   
   Todev 
 
 
 
 Verified Magical Amazing experience with a wonderful team, always here for help and support ! Thanks a lot to Amiss, John, Devi, Panfi, Olaïs, Robinson and David ????????
  
 
      Posted on Tripadvisor  
   
   Samara L 
 
 
 
 Verified A truly life changing experience with Muntari and his team My friend and I undertook the 6 day Marangu Route with our lead guide Muntari and his incredible team. From the very start, everything was handled with professionalism and care. The support and encouragement that was provided to us throughout the hike was outstanding and I wouldn’t hesitate to recommend Muntari and his team to anyone interested. Hiking Mount Kilimanjaro is not for the faint hearted, but it was one of the most rewarding experiences of my life. The Marangu route accommodation is in huts and the fantastic Amani was always so caring and ensured that we had a warm drink when walking up in the morning and that we ate enough to fuel our hikes. The food also exceeded our expectations, our chef Shabani did a wonderful job providing us with nutritious and delicious meals. We never went hungry. We were always briefed daily and had our oxygen concentrations and pulse assessed to ensure that we were fit and well to continue our hike to the summit. Muntari and his team provided an abundance of knowledge when it came to experiencing symptoms of altitude sickness and were always there to reassure and provide us with the positive mindset that is necessary to conquer the summit. The chorus of singing and dancing as we walked in the dark on summit night really lifted our spirits. A special shout out to the porters! They are the magic behind the scenes who allowed us to complete this challenge by carrying our extra clothes and items from camp to camp. Vincent our assistant guide and Mparee one of our porters were the reason I managed to get to the summit. I couldn’t have done it without them. A last thanks to Almighty Kilimanjaro, Muntari and his team for a truly life changing experience.
  
 
      Posted on Tripadvisor  
   
   nikki27527 
 
 
 
 Verified Once in a lifetime experience with a great team! We had the best time celebrating my 30th birthday with a hike up Kilimanjaro with Muntas (Muntari) and his team. The hike was hard but the team encouraged and supported us along the way, always making sure we were taken care of and doing ok. They also were genuinely lovely people who we made memories with as a small group of 2 with a fantastic crew of 6. Special mentions to Amani who was one of our wonderful porters who brought a smile to our face every single day with his warm and caring service waking us with a hot drink. He was so kind, sincerely cared about how we were doing and joked with us ensuring we always ate enough to fuel all the exercise. He also supported me the entire way down the summit ensuring I was always safe. Muntas was also a great leader who really supported us in the hike and had great emotional intelligence to check in at the right times. They went out of their way to ensure we reached the peaks and even celebrated with a birthday cake at the end of the trip. Vincent, Shabani, Mparee and the rest of the team! We couldn’t have done it without you. Thank you. You all contributed to us having a great time and returning back after 6 days of hard work. We were sad to leave them all and would highly recommend them for any hikers in future. We didn’t feel like just any other customers but like family!