About Lemosho Route
The Lemosho Route is a favorite among trekkers for its stunning scenery, lower crowd levels, and high summit success rates. Beginning on the western side of Mount Kilimanjaro, the trail winds through untouched rainforest and across the scenic Shira Plateau before joining the popular Machame Route near Lava Tower. This combination offers the best of both worlds—peaceful, off-the-beaten-path trekking early on, followed by a well-supported path to the summit. With a gradual ascent profile and ample time for acclimatization, especially on 7- or 8-day itineraries, Lemosho is ideal for climbers seeking a safer, more enjoyable journey to Uhuru Peak. Though slightly more expensive due to its length and remote start, it is widely regarded as one of the most rewarding routes on the mountain.
Day by Day Lemosho Route Itinerary
Day 1: Londorossi Gate – Mti Mkubwa Camp
Your Kilimanjaro adventure begins with a drive to the Londorossi Gate for registration. From here, enjoy a gentle trek through pristine rainforest as you head toward Mti Mkubwa Camp. Keep an eye out for black-and-white colobus monkeys and other forest wildlife.
Elevation gain: 2,100m to 2,650m | Hiking time: 3–4 hours
Day 2: Mti Mkubwa – Shira 1 Camp
Today the trail ascends out of the forest and into the moorland. You’ll trek across rolling hills and ridges before reaching Shira 1 Camp, set on a wide plateau with incredible views of Kibo Peak.
Elevation gain: 2,650m to 3,610m | Hiking time: 5–6 hours
Day 3: Shira 1 – Shira 2 Camp
A relaxed day to support acclimatization as you explore the vast Shira Plateau, one of Kilimanjaro’s most beautiful landscapes. The open terrain gives you time to absorb the mountain’s grandeur.
Elevation gain: 3,610m to 3,850m | Hiking time: 3–4 hours
Day 4: Shira 2 – Lava Tower – Barranco Camp
This is a key acclimatization day. You ascend to the striking Lava Tower (4,630m) for lunch and then descend into the sheltered Barranco Valley. The descent aids your body’s adjustment to altitude.
Elevation change: 3,850m to 3,960m (via 4,630m) | Hiking time: 6–7 hours
Day 5: Barranco Camp – Karanga Camp
Start the day with an exciting scramble up the Barranco Wall, a dramatic highlight of the route. Then continue through scenic ridges and valleys toward Karanga Camp.
Elevation gain: 3,960m to 4,035m | Hiking time: 4–5 hours
Day 6: Karanga Camp – Barafu Camp
A short but steady climb through alpine desert brings you to Barafu Camp, your base for the summit push. Early dinner and rest as you prepare for the most rewarding part of the trek.
Elevation gain: 4,035m to 4,640m | Hiking time: 3–4 hours
Day 7: Barafu – Uhuru Peak – Mweka Camp
Just after midnight, begin your final ascent to Uhuru Peak (5,895m). Witness the sunrise from the top of Africa before descending to Mweka Camp through changing landscapes and sheer accomplishment.
Elevation gain: 4,640m to 5,895m (then down to 3,080m) | Hiking time: 12–15 hours
Day 8: Mweka Camp – Mweka Gate
Your last day on the mountain features a descent through lush rainforest. Upon arrival at the gate, celebrate your achievement and receive your summit certificate.
Elevation loss: 3,080m to 1,640m | Hiking time: 3–4 hours
Lemosho Route FAQ’s
The Lemosho Route is considered one of the most scenic and successful routes up Mount Kilimanjaro. It offers a gradual ascent, making it ideal for acclimatization and increasing summit success rates. The trail starts on the remote western side of the mountain, passing through lush rainforest, the dramatic Shira Plateau, and later joining the Machame Route, combining solitude and support for a rich trekking experience.
While the Lemosho Route is not technically difficult, it does require good physical fitness and stamina. The trail involves long hiking days, some steep sections (like the Barranco Wall), and high altitude. However, its longer itinerary allows for better acclimatization, making it a safer and more manageable option for most trekkers.
The best times to climb the Lemosho Route are during Kilimanjaro’s two dry seasons: from January to mid-March and June to October. These months offer clearer skies, less rain, and more stable trail conditions—ideal for both climbing and photography.
The summit success rate for the Lemosho Route is among the highest on the mountain. On an 8-day itinerary, the success rate is between 90–95%, thanks to the route’s excellent acclimatization profile. Even the 7-day option sees significantly higher success than shorter routes.
With Amoa Tanzania Experience, your Lemosho climb includes professional mountain guides, porters, full camping equipment, park fees, meals, accommodation before and after the trek, and emergency support. We ensure your safety and comfort every step of the way—so you can focus on the adventure, not the logistics.
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+255 679 977 111
Email: info@amoaexperience.co.tz
P.O.Box 11429 Arusha, Tanzania
