Climb Mount Kilimanjaro via the beautiful 7-Day Lemosho Route with Chacha Safaris, a locally operated Tanzania tour company. This adventure takes you from the western slopes of Kilimanjaro through beautiful rainforest, open moorlands, the Shira Plateau and dramatic alpine landscapes before reaching Uhuru Peak at 5,895 metres above sea level.
The Lemosho Route is known for its beautiful scenery and varied landscapes. During this seven-day trek, you will experience the challenge of climbing Africa’s highest mountain with the support of our experienced mountain guides and crew.
Our team will take care of your mountain arrangements, including accommodation on the mountain, meals, camping equipment and transfers as specified in your package.
Are you ready to take on Kilimanjaro? Contact Chacha Safaris for the latest prices, availability and a personalised climbing arrangement.
Why Choose the 7-Day Lemosho Route?
- Beautiful and Diverse Scenery
The Lemosho Route is one of the most scenic ways to climb Mount Kilimanjaro. The journey takes you through rainforest, open moorlands, the beautiful Shira Plateau and the dramatic alpine desert before reaching the glaciers near the summit.
- A Remote and Peaceful Beginning
The trek starts on the western side of Kilimanjaro, offering a quieter experience during the early stages of the climb. As the route progresses, it joins other popular trails on the mountain.
- An Acclimatisation Opportunity
The route includes different elevations and a climb to Lava Tower before descending to Barranco Camp. This provides an opportunity to experience the mountain’s altitude changes. However, seven days is a relatively shorter schedule than the eight-day option, and altitude sickness remains a possibility.
- An Unforgettable Summit Experience
The highlight of the journey is reaching Uhuru Peak at 5,895 metres, the highest point in Africa. Enjoy the incredible mountain views and the satisfaction of completing this challenging adventure with the support of your mountain crew.
Itinerary | Day to day
Arrival at Kilimanjaro International Airport ā Transfer to Moshi
Upon arrival at Kilimanjaro International Airport, our friendly Chacha Safaris team will warmly welcome you and transfer you to your hotel in Moshi. In the evening, enjoy a delicious welcome dinner, meet your expert mountain guides, and receive a detailed briefing about your upcoming trek. Weāll also help check your gear and assist with any last-minute rentals to ensure youāre fully prepared.
Day 1: Londorossi Gate to Forest Camp
ā¢Elevation (ft): 7,800ft to 9,500ft
ā¢Distance: 6 km
ā¢Hiking Time:3-4 hours
ā¢Habitat: Rain Forest
We depart Moshi for Londorossi Gate, which takes about 4 hours, where you will complete entry formalities. Then drive to the Lemosho trailhead (another hour to reach the trailhead). Upon arrival at trailhead, we eat lunch, then commence through undisturbed forest which winds to the first camp site.
Day 2: Forest Camp to Shira Camp 1
ā¢Elevation (ft): 9,500ft to 11,500ft
ā¢Distance: 8 km
ā¢Hiking Time 5-6 hours
ā¢Habitat: Moorland
We continue on the trail leading out of the forest and into a savannah of tall grasses, heather, and volcanic rock draped with lichen beards. As we ascend through the lush rolling hills and cross several streams, we reach the Shira Ridge before dropping gently down to Shira 1 camp. The view of Kibo from across the plateau is amazing.
Day 3: Shira Camp 1 to Shira 2 to Moir Hut
ā¢Elevation (ft): 11,500ft to 13,800 ft
ā¢Distance: 14 km
ā¢Hiking Time: 5-7 hours
ā¢Habitat: Moorland
We explore the Shira plateau for a full day. It is a gentle walk east toward Kiboās glaciered peak, across the plateau which leads to Shira 2 camp on moorland meadows by a stream. Then we continue to Moir Hut, a little used site on the base of Lent Hills. A variety of walks are available on Lent Hills making this an excellent acclimatization opportunity. Shira is one of the highest plateaus on earth.
Day 4: Moir Hut to Lava Tower to Barranco Camp
ā¢Elevation (ft): 13,800ft to 13,000ft
ā¢Distance: 7 km
ā¢Hiking Time: 4-6 hours
ā¢Habitat: Semi Desert
From the Shira Plateau, we continue to the east up a ridge, passing the junction towards the peak of Kibo. As we continue, our direction changes to the South East towards the Lava Tower, called the āSharkās Tooth.ā Shortly after the tower, we come to the second junction which brings us up to the Arrow Glacier at an altitude of 16,000ft. We now continue down to the Barranco Hut at an altitude of 13,000ft. Here we rest, enjoy dinner, and overnight. Although you end the day at the same elevation as when you started, this day is very important for acclimatization and will help your body prepare for summit day.
Day 5: Barranco Camp to Karanga Camp to Barafu Camp
ā¢Elevation (ft): 13,000ft to 15,000ft
ā¢Distance: 9km
ā¢Hiking Time: 8-10 hours
ā¢Habitat: Alpine Desert
After breakfast, we leave Barranco and continue on a steep ridge passing the Barranco Wall, to the Karanga Valley campsite. Then, we leave Karanga and hit the junction which connects with the Mweka Trail. We continue up to the Barafu Hut. At this point, you have completed the South Circuit, which offers views of the summit from many different angles. Here we make camp, rest, enjoy dinner, and prepare for the summit day. The two peaks of Mawenzi and Kibo are to be seen from this position.
Day 6: Barafu Camp to Summit to Mweka Hut
ā¢Elevation (ft): 15,300ft to 19,345ft (and down to 10,000ft)
ā¢Distance: 5 km ascent / 12 km descent
ā¢Hiking Time: 7-8 hours ascent / 4-6 hours descent
ā¢Habitat: Arctic
Very early in the morning (midnight to 2am), we continue our way to the summit between the Rebmann and Ratzel glaciers. You head in a northwesterly direction and ascend through heavy scree towards Stella Point on the crater rim. This is the most mentally and physically challenging portion of the trek.
At Stella Point (18,600 ft), you will stop for a short rest and will be rewarded with the most magnificent sunrise you are ever likely to see (weather permitting). From Stella Point, you may encounter snow all they way on your 1-hour ascent to the summit. At Uhuru Peak, you have reached the highest point on Mount Kilimanjaro and the continent of Africa. Faster hikers will see the sunrise from the summit.
From the summit, we now make our descent continuing straight down to the Mweka Hut camp site, stopping at Barafu for lunch. You will want gaiters and trekking poles for the loose gravel going down. Mweka Camp is situated in the upper forest and mist or rain can be expected in the late afternoon. Later in the evening, we enjoy our last dinner on the mountain and a well-earned sleep.
DAY 7 Mweka Camp to Moshi
ā¢Elevation (ft): 10,000ft to 5,400ft
ā¢Distance: 10 km
ā¢Hiking Time: 3-4 hours
ā¢Habitat: Rain Forest
After breakfast, we continue the descent down to the Mweka Park Gate to receive your summit certificates. At lower elevations, it can be wet and muddy. Gaiters and trekking poles will help. Shorts and t-shirts will probably be plenty to wear (keep rain gear and warmer clothing handy).
From the gate, you continue another hour to Mweka Village. A vehicle will meet you at Mweka village to drive you back to hotel in Moshi.
End of Your Kilimanjaro Adventure
Congratulations! Youāve conquered Africaās highest peak with Chacha Safaris. Our team will be happy to assist with any onward travel plans, whether itās a relaxing Zanzibar beach escape or a thrilling Tanzania wildlife safari.
Your Kilimanjaro Adventure Starts Here.
Ready to stand on the Roof of Africa? Let our experienced local team help you plan your seven-day Lemosho Route climb, from preparation to the summit.
7-Day Lemosho Route Prices
Our Kilimanjaro climbing prices depend on the number of people in your group. The rates below are quoted in USD per person and include the services listed in our package inclusions.
Whether you are planning a private climb as a couple, travelling with friends or organising a larger group adventure, Chacha Safaris can help arrange your Kilimanjaro experience.
Contact us for a personalised quotation and availability.
| No of Pax | Price Per Person |
|---|---|
| 1 Person | $2,105 USD |
| 2 People | $2,045 USD |
| 3-4 People | $1,995 USD |
| 5+ People | $1,945 USD |
What's Included in the 7-Day Lemosho Route Package?
- Two nights of hotel accommodation in Moshi, according to the package arrangement.
- Airport transfers between Kilimanjaro International Airport and your hotel.
- Private transport to and from the mountain.
- Professional and experienced mountain guides.
- Mountain support crew, including porters and cooks.
- Kilimanjaro National Park entrance and applicable camping fees.
- Applicable rescue fees.
- 18% VAT on tour fees and services, as applicable.
- Mountain camping equipment, including tents, sleeping mats and sleeping bags, where confirmed in the package.
- All mountain meals: breakfast, lunch and dinner.
- Drinking water during the trek.
- Emergency oxygen equipment.
- First aid kit.
- Pulse oximeter for monitoring oxygen saturation.
- Crew accommodation and applicable mountain fees.
What's Not Included?
- International and domestic flights.
- Tanzania visa fees.
- Travel and trekking insurance.
- Tips for guides, cooks and porters.
- Personal trekking clothing and equipment.
- Laundry services.
- Personal expenses.
- Any services not specifically mentioned under the inclusions.
How Difficult Is the 7-Day Lemosho Route?
Climbing Mount Kilimanjaro is a challenging adventure that requires physical preparation, determination and a positive attitude. The 7-Day Lemosho Route involves several days of trekking at increasing altitudes, including a demanding summit night.
You do not need previous mountaineering experience, but good physical fitness and preparation are important.
Our experienced guides monitor climbers throughout the journey and provide guidance on walking pace, hydration and altitude awareness.
Please remember that altitude sickness can affect climbers regardless of age or fitness level. Reaching the summit cannot be guaranteed.
Frequently Asked Questions About the 7-Day Lemosho Route
How many days does the Lemosho Route take?
The Lemosho Route can be completed in different durations, including seven and eight days. This page describes our seven-day climbing itinerary. An additional day on the mountain may provide more time for acclimatisation.
How much does the 7-Day Lemosho Route cost?
Our current advertised prices start at USD 1,700 per person for groups of 10 or more. The price varies according to group size. Contact Chacha Safaris for a personalised quotation.
What is the highest point on Mount Kilimanjaro?
Uhuru Peak is the highest point on Mount Kilimanjaro, standing at 5,895 metres above sea level. It is also the highest point in Africa.
Is the Lemosho Route suitable for beginners?
The Lemosho Route can be suitable for beginners who are physically prepared and understand the challenges of high-altitude trekking. Previous hiking experience is helpful but not essential.
When is the best time to climb Mount Kilimanjaro?
The main dry climbing periods are generally January to early March and June to October. Conditions can change, and Kilimanjaro can be climbed at other times of the year with appropriate preparation.
What should I pack for the Kilimanjaro climb?
You should bring suitable hiking boots, warm clothing, thermal layers, waterproof clothing, gloves, a warm hat, a sleeping bag if not supplied, a headlamp, sunglasses and personal toiletries. Chacha Safaris can provide a detailed packing list before your climb.
Can I book a private Kilimanjaro climb?
Yes. You can enquire about a private climb with Chacha Safaris. We can help arrange a trip according to your preferred travel dates and group size.
Does the package include airport transfers?
Our advertised package includes airport transfers between Kilimanjaro International Airport and your hotel in Moshi, according to the arrangements confirmed at booking.
Is reaching Uhuru Peak guaranteed?
No. Reaching the summit depends on several factors, including altitude adaptation, weather, physical condition and safety decisions made by the mountain guides. Our priority is always the safety and well-being of our climbers.
How can I book the 7-Day Lemosho Route?
You can contact Chacha Safaris by WhatsApp or email. Share your preferred climbing dates and number of travellers, and our team will help you with availability, pricing and booking arrangements.