9 Days Lemosho Crater Route

Experience an extended Kilimanjaro expedition that combines the scenic Lemosho Route with an overnight stay at Crater Camp. Cross the Shira Plateau, follow the southern circuit to Barafu, reach Uhuru Peak at 5,895 metres and explore Kilimanjaro’s high-altitude crater environment before descending through Mweka.

GENERAL

ITINERARY

ALLOCATION

WHY US?

9 DAYS LEMOSHO CRATER ROUTE OVERVIEW

The 9 days Lemosho Crater Route is an extended Kilimanjaro itinerary combining the mountain’s scenic western approach with an overnight stay inside Kibo’s summit crater. It follows the Lemosho trail through rainforest and across the Shira Plateau before joining the southern circuit towards Lava Tower, Barranco, Karanga and Barafu.

The itinerary provides a gradual approach through Kilimanjaro’s different ecological zones. Climbers move from montane rainforest into heath, moorland, alpine desert and the exposed Arctic environment surrounding the summit.

From Shira 2 Camp, the trail climbs towards Lava Tower at approximately 4,630 metres before descending to Barranco Camp. This higher daytime elevation followed by a lower sleeping altitude forms an important part of the route’s acclimatization profile.

The journey continues over the Barranco Wall and through Karanga Camp to Barafu Camp. Although the Barranco Wall appears steep, it is a guided, non-technical scramble. Climbers use their hands for balance in several places, but technical rock-climbing equipment is not normally required.

The principal difference between this itinerary and the standard eight-day Lemosho Route occurs after the summit. Instead of descending directly towards Mweka Camp, climbers continue from Uhuru Peak to Crater Camp at approximately 5,730 metres.

Crater Camp is situated below Uhuru Peak near the Furtwängler Glacier. Depending on conditions and the guides’ assessment, climbers may explore part of the crater area or walk towards Reusch Crater and the inner ash pit.

Sleeping at this elevation places considerable stress on the body. The itinerary is therefore offered only to appropriately acclimatized climbers and remains subject to the approval of Almighty Kilimanjaro’s mountain operations team. Weather, health or safety conditions may require the guides to cancel the Crater Camp overnight and begin an immediate descent.

This expedition is suitable for experienced trekkers seeking a more demanding Kilimanjaro experience rather than travellers simply looking for an additional day on the standard Lemosho Route.

Price Per Person


Solo Trekker	Group of 2	Group of 3	Group of 4	Group of 5+
$3,100	$2,800	$2,650	$2,540	$2,380

Trekking Highlights

Summary Route Description

Summit success rates

Summit outcomes vary for each climber and trip. Reaching Uhuru Peak is not guaranteed. Ask our guides how this itinerary compares with a longer route before booking.

Route Map

DAY TO DAY ITINERARY

Upon arrival at Kilimanjaro International Airport, you will be met by an Almighty Kilimanjaro representative and transferred to Summit View Retreat.

Your head guide will meet you for a detailed expedition briefing and equipment inspection. The briefing will cover the Lemosho itinerary, Crater Camp conditions, altitude risks, emergency procedures and the circumstances under which the planned crater overnight may be cancelled.

Because Crater Camp is situated at an extreme elevation, your guide must review your trekking experience, preparation and general suitability for the itinerary. Final participation remains subject to the company’s safety requirements.

If essential equipment is missing, the team can assist with arranging suitable rental items before departure.

Accommodation: Summit View Retreat

Meals: According to your accommodation arrangement

Elevation: Approximately 2,250 metres to 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 national park registration procedures while the porters organize the expedition equipment, food and group supplies.

The journey then continues to the Lemosho trailhead. From here, you will begin trekking through Kilimanjaro’s montane rainforest.

This part of the mountain supports tall trees, mosses, ferns and other tropical vegetation. Blue monkeys, black-and-white colobus monkeys and numerous bird species inhabit the forest, although sightings cannot be guaranteed.

The trail climbs gradually to Mti Mkubwa Camp, also known as Big Tree Camp, where you will have dinner and spend your first night on the mountain.

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, the trail leaves the rainforest and climbs into Kilimanjaro’s heath and moorland zone.

The vegetation becomes shorter as the route crosses a series of ridges and enters more open terrain. When conditions are clear, you may begin seeing Kibo and the surrounding plains.

The trail reaches the western edge of the Shira Plateau before descending gently towards Shira 1 Camp.

The plateau is the remains of one of Kilimanjaro’s ancient volcanic centres. Its open terrain and extensive mountain views make it one of the most distinctive sections of 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 trail crosses the Shira Plateau from west to east. The relatively gradual walk allows time to adjust to the increasing elevation before entering Kilimanjaro’s alpine desert.

When the weather is clear, the route provides views of Kibo, Mount Meru and the Western Breach. The plateau is exposed, and temperatures can fall sharply after sunset.

After reaching Shira 2 Camp, your guide may organize a short acclimatization walk to a higher elevation before returning to camp. The walk will depend on the weather, available time and the condition of the group.

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 leaving Shira 2 Camp, the trail climbs steadily towards Lava Tower. Vegetation becomes increasingly scarce as the route enters Kilimanjaro’s alpine desert.

Lava Tower is a prominent volcanic formation situated at approximately 4,630 metres. Reaching this elevation exposes your body to conditions similar to those encountered higher on the mountain.

After spending time near Lava Tower, you will descend into the Barranco Valley. This approach allows you to reach a higher elevation during the day before sleeping lower at Barranco Camp.

Giant groundsels and other distinctive high-altitude plants appear as the trail descends into the valley. Barranco Camp sits directly below the Barranco Wall and Kilimanjaro’s southern slopes.

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. Although the wall looks steep from camp, it is a guided, non-technical scramble.

You will follow your guide carefully and use your hands for balance in several places. The mountain team will assist you through narrow or exposed sections.

After reaching the top, the trail follows Kilimanjaro’s southern circuit across a series of ridges and valleys. When the weather is clear, this section provides extensive views of Kibo and the surrounding alpine landscape.

The route descends into the Karanga Valley before climbing to Karanga Camp. The shorter trekking day provides valuable time for recovery and acclimatization.

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 begin the steady ascent from Karanga Camp to Barafu Camp.

The environment becomes increasingly dry, cold and exposed as you move higher into the alpine desert. Barafu Camp is situated on a rocky ridge and serves as the base for the summit ascent.

After arriving at camp, you will eat, hydrate and prepare the clothing and equipment required for the upper mountain.

Your guide will conduct a detailed summit and Crater Camp briefing. This will cover the departure time, climbing pace, expected conditions, hydration, cold-weather protection and the safety criteria for continuing to Crater Camp.

You should rest during the afternoon and early evening before the summit attempt.

Accommodation: Barafu Camp

Meals: Breakfast, lunch and dinner

Accommodation:

Meal Plan:

Starting elevation: Approximately 4,673 metres

Uhuru Peak elevation: 5,895 metres

Crater Camp elevation: Approximately 5,730 metres

Trekking time: Approximately 7–9 hours

Habitat: Arctic zone

The summit ascent normally begins around midnight. Following your guide, you will climb slowly over steep volcanic scree towards Stella Point on Kibo’s crater rim.

This is a physically and mentally demanding ascent. Temperatures can fall well below freezing, while the reduced oxygen available at extreme altitude makes a controlled pace essential.

From Stella Point, the route follows the crater rim towards Uhuru Peak. At 5,895 metres, Uhuru Peak is the highest point on Mount Kilimanjaro and the African continent.

After photographs and a brief summit stop, subject to conditions, you will descend into the crater towards Crater Camp.

The camp is situated close to the Furtwängler Glacier at approximately 5,730 metres. Your guides will continue monitoring your physical condition closely because sleeping at this elevation carries significant altitude risk.

Accommodation:

Meal Plan:

Starting elevation: Approximately 5,730 metres

Sleeping elevation: Approximately 3,100 metres

Distance: Approximately 12 kilometres

Trekking time: 4–6 hours

Habitat: Arctic zone, alpine desert and moorland

Subject to weather and the guides’ assessment, the morning may include a short exploration of the crater area.

Possible points of interest include the Furtwängler Glacier and views towards Reusch Crater and the inner ash pit. Access depends on snow, ice, wind, visibility and the physical condition of the group.

You will then begin the substantial descent from Crater Camp. The route passes the summit trail and continues down towards Barafu Camp.

After a rest and meal at Barafu, you will descend further through the alpine desert and moorland to Mweka Camp.

The considerable loss of elevation generally brings warmer temperatures and denser vegetation as you approach the upper forest.

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 wet, muddy and slippery, particularly after rainfall. Trekking poles and footwear with reliable grip can be helpful.

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 to Summit View Retreat for a shower, rest and post-climb recovery.

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 expedition
Transportation to the entry gate and from Mweka Gate
Kilimanjaro National Park conservation fees
Camping and applicable rescue fees
Crater Camp permits and associated park charges
Professional Kilimanjaro mountain guides
Assistant guides where required
Mountain cooks and porters
Mountain crew salaries
Meals and drinking water during the expedition
Four-season mountain tents
Sleeping mattresses
Dining tent, tables, chairs, crockery and cutlery
First-aid and medical equipment
Emergency oxygen and pulse oximeters
GPS tracking where included in the confirmed package
Summit certificate for qualifying climbers
Government taxes applicable to the included services

Does not Cover

Tanzania visa fees
International and domestic flights
Travel and high-altitude trekking insurance
Personal trekking clothing and equipment
Personal equipment rentals
Sleeping bag unless confirmed as included
Meals and drinks not listed in the itinerary
Alcoholic and bottled beverages
Tips for guides, cooks and porters
Personal expenses and laundry
Additional accommodation
Optional extensions and activities
Medical treatment or evacuation expenses not covered by the included services
Costs arising from flight delays, illness, adverse weather or other circumstances outside the operator’s control

INQUIRIES & FAQ's

Request Your 9-Day Lemosho Crater Quote

An extended western trek with a high-altitude overnight at Crater Camp. Ask our guides to assess suitability. Published prices per person are $3,100 for a solo trekker, $2,800 for two climbers, $2,650 for three, $2,540 for four and $2,380 for groups of five or more. Request an itemized quote and confirmation of suitability from our mountain operations team before booking. Compare our 8-day Lemosho route without Crater Camp.

Tell us your preferred dates and number of climbers. Our Moshi team will confirm route access, group or private availability and an itemized quote, including pre- and post-climb accommodation at Summit View Retreat. The 9 days refer to trekking; plan separately for arrival and departure.

Your Trekking & Hiking Questions Answered

What makes the 9 days Lemosho Crater Route different?

The itinerary includes an overnight stay at Crater Camp after reaching Uhuru Peak. Standard Lemosho itineraries descend towards Mweka after the summit instead of sleeping inside Kibo’s crater.

How high is Crater Camp?

Crater Camp is situated at approximately 5,730 metres above sea level, close to Uhuru Peak and the Furtwängler Glacier. It is one of the highest designated camps on Mount Kilimanjaro.

Is sleeping at Crater Camp safe?

Sleeping at approximately 5,730 metres carries significant altitude risks. Participation requires appropriate acclimatization and approval from the mountain operations team. Guides monitor climbers closely and may cancel the overnight if health, weather or safety conditions are unsuitable.

Is the Crater Camp itinerary suitable for beginners?

This expedition is better suited to experienced, physically prepared trekkers. First-time high-altitude climbers should discuss their experience, preparation and suitability with the operator before booking.

Can the Crater Camp overnight be cancelled?

Yes. The guides may cancel Crater Camp and begin an immediate descent if a climber shows concerning altitude symptoms or if weather and trail conditions make the overnight unsafe.

Can we visit Reusch Crater and the ash pit?

A guided exploration may be possible if weather, visibility, snow conditions, available time and the physical condition of the group permit. Access cannot be guaranteed.

Does this route require technical climbing experience?

The standard trail to Uhuru Peak does not normally require technical climbing. However, the expedition is more demanding because of the Crater Camp elevation, cold conditions and extended time near the summit.

What is the best time for the Lemosho Crater Route?

The main Kilimanjaro climbing periods are generally January to early March and June to October. Crater conditions remain unpredictable, and snow, ice, strong winds and extreme cold can occur at any time.

What insurance do I need?

Your insurance should specifically cover high-altitude trekking up to at least 6,000 metres, emergency evacuation, medical treatment, trip interruption and the activities included in the itinerary.

Where do we stay before and after the climb?

Accommodation before and after the expedition is provided at Summit View Retreat. On the mountain, climbers stay in tents at designated campsites.

What happens if I experience altitude sickness?

Report all symptoms to your guide immediately. The guide will determine whether you should rest, receive assistance or descend. Continuing to Crater Camp or the summit must never take priority over safety.

Are tips for the mountain crew included?

No. Tips for guides, assistant guides, cooks and porters are normally separate from the expedition price. Confirm the current tipping recommendations before departure.

WE'VE GOT YOU COVERED!

ALMIGHTY KILIMANJARO

Why Book with us?

Safety & Security

We aim to support all segments of your trip, and all safaris are 100% escorted and chauffeured from arrival to departure.

Self-Operated Fleet

Enhancing comfort, accommodating luggage, and ensuring a seamless journey to Tanzania’s most incredible destinations.

Group & Private Climbs

Ask our Moshi team about group departures or a private climb for your dates and party size. We will confirm availability and an itemized quote before booking.

Service Excellency

Benefit from our relationships with a trusted network of unique accommodations, incredible experiences, and reliable services.

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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!