Lemosho Route: 7 or 8 days
Lemosho Route: A Premier Trek to the Summit of Mount Kilimanjaro
The Lemosho Route is widely regarded as one of the most beautiful and rewarding ways to summit Mount Kilimanjaro. Known for its stunning landscapes, lower foot traffic, and high success rates, this route offers a longer trek with gradual acclimatization, making it a top choice for climbers seeking a well-rounded experience. Starting from the western side of the mountain, the Lemosho Route provides a scenic and less-traveled path to the summit.
Route Overview
The Lemosho Route typically takes 7 to 8 days to complete, though some itineraries may extend to 9 days for additional acclimatization. The extra time spent at higher altitudes increases the likelihood of success and helps to minimize the risk of altitude sickness. Climbers traverse various ecological zones, from lush rainforests to barren alpine deserts, offering an immersive experience of Kilimanjaro’s diverse environment.
Unlike the busier Machame or Marangu routes, Lemosho starts in a remote and pristine part of Kilimanjaro’s western foothills. The route eventually merges with the Machame Route on the third or fourth day, but the initial days are far quieter, offering trekkers a more peaceful journey. This makes Lemosho ideal for those seeking solitude and a deeper connection with nature.
Key Highlights of the Lemosho Route
Stunning Scenery and Wildlife: The Lemosho Route is famous for its scenic diversity. Trekkers begin in the Montane forest, where dense vegetation and tall trees create a lush environment. Wildlife sightings are common in the early stages, with chances to spot colobus monkeys, blue monkeys, and various bird species. As the trek progresses, hikers pass through moorlands, alpine deserts, and volcanic landscapes, with breathtaking views of Mount Kilimanjaro’s snow-capped summit.
High Success Rate: One of the major benefits of the Lemosho Route is its longer itinerary, which allows for better acclimatization. The gradual ascent reduces the risk of altitude sickness, one of the primary reasons climbers fail to reach the summit. With more time to adjust to the thinning air, the Lemosho Route boasts one of the highest success rates for reaching Uhuru Peak, Kilimanjaro’s summit.
Remote and Less Crowded: While the Lemosho Route eventually merges with the Machame Route, the early stages are far less crowded, offering a quieter and more remote experience. For the first two days, trekkers encounter fewer people, making the journey more intimate and peaceful. The route’s remoteness adds to its appeal, providing a greater sense of adventure.
Difficulty Level
The Lemosho Route is considered a moderate to difficult trek. While no technical climbing skills are required, the physical demands are significant, especially as the altitude increases. Trekkers should be in good physical shape and prepared for long days of hiking. The trek involves steady uphill climbs, and the final push to the summit is challenging due to both the steepness and the effects of high altitude.
Climbers need to be aware of the risk of altitude sickness, as it can affect anyone, regardless of fitness level. Guides carefully monitor trekkers for symptoms, and it’s essential to pace yourself and follow the “pole pole” (slowly, slowly) mantra used by Kilimanjaro guides.
We offer both 7 and 8-day itineraries. The 7-day variation combines days 5 and 6, going from Barranco Camp to Barafu Camp without spending a night at Karanga Camp.
ITINERARY
Day 1 : Londorossi Gate – Forest Camp
After breakfast, you will be picked up at your hotel in Moshi and driven to Kilimanjaro National Park’s Londorossi Gate- the starting point of your trek. Upon arrival, you will register with park authorities and meet with your climbing team before beginning your ascent of Mount Kilimanjaro. The first leg of the route will take you through the montane forests to Forest Camp where you will stop for the night.
Please note that in rainy conditions, the muddy roads sometimes prevent vehicles from driving all the way to the trailhead, which means there can be some extra hiking to do. After a picnic lunch, you will hike for approximately 4 hours to the camp.
- Hiking: 3-4 hours
- Camp Altitude : 2,895m
Day 2 : Forest Camp – Shira 1 Camp
As we leave the montane forest and enter the Hagenia zone, you will get your first glimpse of Kibo peak. This is a good acclimatization hike, as you will go up and down several ridges along the way. The highest altitude of the day will reach 11,500’ before descending towards the camp.
- Hiking: 6-9 hours
- Camp Altitude 3,610m
Day 3 : Shira 1 Camp – Moir Camp
Today, you will cross the heath zone of Shira Plateau and begin climbing the western slope of the Kibo Massif. We will then continue on to the upper heath zone and to Moir Hut. Depending on the weather and your energy level, an acclimatization hike can be arranged in the afternoon.
- Hiking: 5-6 hours
- Camp Altitude: 4,200m
Day 4 : Moir Hut – Barranco Camp
Today, we exit the heath zone and enter the alpine zone on our 4 to 6-hour hike. We will trek through the volcanic landscapes and past Lava Camp before descending a little into the picturesque Barranco Valley towards our camp.
- Hiking: 4-6 hours
- Camp Altitude: 3,950m
Day 5 : Barranco Camp – Karanga Camp
Today, you will climb the steep Baranco Wall and then trek up and down several ridges and valleys before arriving at Karanga camp.
- Hiking: 3-5 hours
- Overnight Altitude: 3,995m
Day 6 : Karanga Camp – Barafu Camp
Today’s hike will take 3 to 5 hours and will lead you up and down across small valleys to Barafu Camp. Upon arrival at the camp, you will be served an early dinner and then have time to sleep, as your wake-up call to start your summit ascent will happen at 11pm.
- Hiking: 3-5 hours
- Camp Altitude: 4,673m
Day 7 : Barafu Camp – Summit – Mweka Camp
You will be woken up at around 11pm and served a small meal before heading out into the darkness around midnight for the final leg of your ascension. Many hikers consider this the most difficult part of the climb and one that requires great will power. Using your headlamp to lead the way, you will climb 6 to 7 hours up to Stella Point, and then another 1 to 2 hours reach the summit. You will hike very slowly due to the altitude and you will need to dress extremely warmly.
As you reach the summit at an altitude of 5,895 meters, you can congratulate yourself as you experience the breath taking views and take some pictures in front of the Uhuru Peak Sign.
After a very brief rest, it will be time to head back down to Barafu Camp for lunch, before continuing your descent towards Mweka Camp.
- Hiking: Very variable on both the up and the down; 12-17 hours typical
- Summit: 5,895m
- Camp Altitude: 3,050m
Day 8 : Mweka Camp – Mweka Park Gate
Today, you will make your final descent to the trailhead, hiking around 3 to 5 hours. Here you will have lunch and say goodbye to your mountain crew before leaving Mount Kilimanjaro and heading back to town. You will arrive at your hotel in Moshi at around 3pm.
- Hiking: 3-5 hours
