Climbing Mount Kilimanjaro is an unforgettable adventure, and the 8-day Lemosho Route is one of the best options for trekkers looking for spectacular scenery, a gradual ascent and more time to acclimatize.
Starting on the western side of Mount Kilimanjaro, this beautiful route takes you through lush rainforest, the spectacular Shira Plateau, alpine desert landscapes and the glaciers near Africa’s highest peak.
With Chacha Safaris, you will climb with experienced local mountain guides and a dedicated mountain crew who support you throughout your journey. Our team takes care of your mountain arrangements, meals, camping equipment and logistics, allowing you to focus on your adventure.
Whether this is your first Kilimanjaro climb or another mountain adventure, our 8-day Lemosho Route offers an incredible opportunity to experience the beauty of Africa’s highest mountain.
Start planning your Kilimanjaro adventure with Chacha Safaris. Request your personalised quotation today.
Why Choose the 8-Day Lemosho Route with Chacha Safaris?
- Better Acclimatization
Eight days on the mountain means your body adjusts gradually, reducing the risk of altitude sickness.
- Higher Summit Success Rate
The routeās longer duration and gradual climb improve your chance of successfully reaching the summit.
- Diverse Landscapes
Walk through Kilimanjaroās changing ecosystems ā from tropical rainforests and volcanic moorlands to the snow-capped summit.
- Less Crowded
Compared to routes like Machame or Marangu, Lemosho offers a quieter and more immersive trekking experience.
8-Day Lemosho Route Itinerary
Arrival in Tanzania ā Pre-Trek Briefing
Elevation: 900 m (2,953 ft)
Accommodation: Hotel in Moshi
Meals: Dinner
Upon arrival at Kilimanjaro International Airport (JRO), a friendly Chacha Safaris representative will greet you and transfer you to your hotel in Moshi. In the evening, youāll meet your mountain guide for a detailed briefing and gear check. If any equipment is missing, rentals can be arranged.
Enjoy a welcome dinner and rest before your adventure begins!
Day 1: Londorossi Gate ā Mti Mkubwa Camp
Elevation: 2,100 m ā 2,820 m (6,890 ft ā 9,250 ft)
Distance: 7 km / 4.3 miles
Hiking Time: 3ā4 hours
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
After breakfast, drive to Londorossi Gate for registration before starting your trek through Kilimanjaroās lush rainforest. Keep an eye out for colobus monkeys and tropical birds.
Arrive at Mti Mkubwa Camp (Big Tree Camp) by late afternoon for dinner and overnight rest.
Day 2: Mti Mkubwa ā Shira 1 Camp
Elevation: 2,820 m ā 3,505 m (9,250 ft ā 11,500 ft)
Distance: 8 km / 5 miles
Hiking Time: 5ā6 hours
Today, youāll leave the rainforest and enter the moorland zone. The trail opens up to wide views and volcanic formations.
Arrive at Shira 1 Camp, located on the scenic Shira Plateau, with your first close-up views of Kilimanjaroās snowcapped peaks.
Day 3: Shira 1 ā Shira 2 Camp
Elevation: 3,505 m ā 3,850 m (11,500 ft ā 12,630 ft)
Distance: 7 km / 4.3 miles
Hiking Time: 3ā4 hours
A relatively easy trek across the Shira Plateau, with stunning panoramic views. Youāll spot the unique Senecio plants, found only in East Africa. Optional short acclimatization walks are available in the afternoon before dinner at Shira 2 Camp.
Day 4: Shira 2 ā Lava Tower ā Barranco Camp
Elevation: 3,850 m ā 4,600 m ā 3,960 m (12,630 ft ā 15,090 ft ā 12,990 ft)
Distance: 10 km / 6.2 miles
Hiking Time: 6ā7 hours
This is your key acclimatization day. Ascend to Lava Tower (4,600 m) for lunch, then descend to Barranco Camp following the āclimb high, sleep lowā principle. The camp sits below the dramatic Barranco Wall, offering spectacular evening views.
Day 5: Barranco Camp ā Karanga Camp
Elevation: 3,960 m ā 4,035 m (12,990 ft ā 13,250 ft)
Distance: 5 km / 3.1 miles
Hiking Time: 4ā5 hours
Begin with a fun and scenic climb over the Barranco Wall, one of the most iconic parts of the trek. Trek through alpine desert terrain before reaching Karanga Camp, a great place for rest and acclimatization before your final ascent.
Day 6: Karanga ā Barafu Camp (Summit Base Camp)
Elevation: 4,035 m ā 4,673 m (13,250 ft ā 15,330 ft)
Distance: 4 km / 2.5 miles
Hiking Time: 4ā5 hours
The trail leads upward to Barafu Camp, your final stop before the summit. Rest early, eat well, and prepare mentally and physically for the upcoming summit night.
Day 7: Summit Day ā Barafu Camp ā Uhuru Peak ā Mweka Camp
Elevation: 4,673 m ā 5,895 m ā 3,100 m (15,330 ft ā 19,341 ft ā 10,170 ft)
Distance: 17 km / 10.6 miles
Hiking Time: 12ā15 hours
Wake up around midnight and begin your final ascent to Uhuru Peak, trekking under a blanket of stars.
Reach Stella Point (5,756 m) at sunrise ā an unforgettable moment ā before continuing to the summit of Africa.
After celebrating, descend to Barafu Camp for a short rest, then continue to Mweka Camp for overnight.
Day 8: Mweka Camp ā Mweka Gate ā Return to Moshi
Elevation: 3,100 m ā 1,640 m (10,170 ft ā 5,380 ft)
Distance: 10 km / 6.2 miles
Hiking Time: 3ā4 hours
Enjoy your last breakfast on the mountain before descending through the rainforest to Mweka Gate, where youāll receive your summit certificate.
Celebrate your success with your team before heading back to Moshi for a hot shower, a delicious dinner, and well-deserved rest.
Your Kilimanjaro Adventure Starts Here.
Ready to stand on the Roof of Africa? Let our experienced local team help you plan your eight-day Lemosho Route climb, from preparation to the summit.
8-Day Lemosho Route Price
Prices (quoted in USD/per person)
| No of Pax | Price Per Person |
|---|---|
| 1 Person | $2,355 USD |
| 2 People | $2,255 USD |
| 3-4 People | $2,195 USD |
| 5+ People | $2,145 USD |
What Is Included in the Climbing Package?
What Is Not Included?
- Two nights' accommodation at the hotel.
- Private transfers between Kilimanjaro International Airport and your hotel in Moshi.
- Qualified mountain guides and experienced mountain crew.
- National park fees
- 18% VAT on tour fees and services.
- All camping equipment, including mountain tents, sleeping bags, and sleeping mats.
- All meals on the mountain, including breakfast, lunch, and dinner.
- Accommodation and park entry fees for guides and porters on the mountain.
- Pulse oximeter for monitoring blood oxygen levels and pulse rate during the climb.
- First aid kit
- Emergency oxygen for use in case of altitude-related breathing difficulties.
- Katadyn-filtered drinking water throughout the trek.
- Fair wages for guides and porters in accordance with the rates approved by the Kilimanjaro National Park Authority (KINAPA).
- Flights
- Visa
- Insurance
- Tips to mountain crew
- Personal Items
- Laundry services (available at the hotel for cost)
Frequently Asked Questions About the 8-Day Lemosho Route
How much does the 8-day Lemosho Route cost?
The cost depends on the number of climbers, group size and services included. At Chacha Safaris, our current prices start at $2,150 per person for groups of 10 or more. Contact us for a personalised quotation.
Is the 8-day Lemosho Route good for beginners?
Yes. The route can suit first-time Kilimanjaro climbers who have prepared properly. It offers a gradual ascent and additional time for acclimatization. Good physical preparation is still important.
What is the success rate of the Lemosho Route?
The eight-day itinerary offers more acclimatization time than shorter climbs, which can improve your chances of reaching the summit. Success rates vary between operators and individuals. Ask us about our own verified climbing records.
When is the best time to climb the Lemosho Route?
January to early March and June to October are generally popular climbing periods. The mountain can be climbed throughout the year, although weather conditions vary.
How difficult is the Lemosho Route?
It is a challenging high-altitude trek. You do not need technical mountaineering skills, but good fitness, preparation and an understanding of altitude are important.
Where does the Lemosho Route start?
The route starts on the western side of Mount Kilimanjaro, at Londorossi Gate, before continuing towards Mti Mkubwa Camp.
What accommodation is available during the climb?
Accommodation on the mountain is in camping tents. Before and after the climb, you will stay in a hotel in Moshi.
Can I book a private Lemosho Route climb?
Yes. Chacha Safaris can arrange private climbs for couples, families, friends and individual travellers, subject to availability.
What happens if I cannot reach Uhuru Peak?
Your mountain guides monitor your condition throughout the climb. If altitude or health concerns arise, they follow appropriate safety procedures, including descent when necessary.