8-Day Lemosho Route – Kilimanjaro Climbing Tour
Often considered the most beautiful route up Kilimanjaro, the Lemosho Route offers incredible scenery, low foot traffic in the early days, and excellent acclimatization for a successful summit
Why Choose the 8-Day Lemosho Route?
The Lemosho Route begins on the remote western side of Kilimanjaro and gradually ascends across the scenic Shira Plateau before merging with the Machame trail. With its low traffic, rich landscapes, and extra acclimatization day, the 8-day option offers the best balance of beauty, challenge, and summit success. This is a camping-only route, fully supported by our expert mountain crew.
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Duration | 8 Days |
| Route Distance | 67 km (42 miles) |
| Difficulty | Moderate |
| Accommodations | Tented Camps |
| Best Months | Jan–Mar & Jun–Oct |
8-Day Lemosho Route Itinerary
Altitude: 2,100m to 2,650m
Time: 3–4 hours
Habitat: Rainforest
Description: After registration at Londorossi Gate, a short drive takes you to the trailhead. Trek through lush rainforest to Mti Mkubwa (Big Tree) Camp.
Altitude: 2,650m to 3,610m
Hiking Time: 5–6 hours
Habitat: Moorland
Description:
Ascend gradually into the moorland zone, passing giant heathers and volcanic formations. Reach the Shira Plateau and overnight at Shira 1 Camp.
Altitude: 3,610m to 3,850m
Hiking Time: 4–5 hours
Habitat: Moorland
Description:
Trek across the open plateau with panoramic views of Kibo peak. Arrive at Shira 2 Camp and acclimatize before continuing to higher elevations.
Altitude: 3,850m to 4,630m (then down to 3,960m)
Hiking Time: 7–9 hours
Habitat: Alpine desert to valley
Description:
Climb toward Lava Tower for high-altitude acclimatization, then descend to the scenic Barranco Valley. Overnight at Barranco Camp.
Altitude: 3,960m to 4,035m
Hiking Time: 4–5 hours
Habitat: Alpine desert
Description:
Scramble up the Barranco Wall with stunning views, then descend into Karanga Valley. A short climb brings you to Karanga Camp.
Altitude: 4,035m to 4,673m
Hiking Time: 3–4 hours
Habitat: Alpine desert
Description:
A gradual climb takes you to Barafu Camp, your base before the summit. Rest and hydrate to prepare for the early morning ascent.
Altitude: 4,673m to 5,895m (then down to 3,100m)
Hiking Time: 10–14 hours
Habitat: Arctic to rainforest
Description:
Begin your summit push just after midnight. Reach Uhuru Peak at sunrise, then descend via Barafu to Mweka Camp for your final overnight.
Altitude: 3,100m to 1,640m
Hiking Time: 3–5 hours
Habitat: Rainforest
Description:
Complete your descent through rich rainforest to Mweka Gate. Collect your summit certificate and transfer back to Moshi or Arusha.
What’s Included in the 8-Day Trek
Kilimanjaro park fees Rescue and camping fees Experienced guide, cook, and porters Mountain tents and sleeping mats All meals and drinking water Transfers to/from Kilimanjaro gate
What’s Not Included
Flights to Tanzania Visa fees Gratuities for crew Personal gear (clothes, boots, sleeping bag, etc.)
| Group Size | Price per Person |
|---|---|
| 1 Trekker | $1,800 |
| 2–3 Trekkers | $1,600 |
| 4+ Trekkers | $1,400 |
Discounts available for larger groups. Contact us for custom quotes.
Ready to Climb Kilimanjaro?
Why Trek Kilimanjaro With Tanzania Trip Service?
Local experienced guides
Focus on safety and proper acclimatization
High summit success rate
24/7 WhatsApp support
Faqs
A: The best route depends on your goals. Lemosho and Northern Circuit are great for acclimatization and scenery. Machame is popular and scenic, Marangu has huts, Rongai is dry and quiet, and Umbwe is very steep and challenging.
A: The Lemosho and Northern Circuit routes are considered the most scenic, offering panoramic views from all sides of Kilimanjaro.
A: The Northern Circuit has the highest summit success rate due to its long duration and excellent acclimatization profile.
A: Marangu offers hut accommodations and a gentle trail, but its shorter duration makes acclimatization more difficult. It's more comfortable but not necessarily easier to summit.
A: All routes except Marangu require camping. Marangu is the only route with mountain huts along the way.
A: 6 to 9 days is ideal. Shorter routes are possible but reduce summit success rates due to limited acclimatization time.
A: The best months are January to March and June to October, which are dry seasons with clear skies and stable weather.
A: Yes, guides are mandatory. Kilimanjaro National Park regulations require all climbers to be accompanied by licensed guides and a mountain crew.
A: You don’t need technical climbing skills, but you should be in good physical shape with strong endurance and mental determination.
A: Rongai, Northern Circuit, and parts of Lemosho are quieter and more remote, making them great options for avoiding crowds.