Itinerary Overview:

The 8-day Lemosho Route is considered one of the most scenic paths to the rooftop of Africa, offering a panoramic journey with optimal acclimatization time. This route starts off from the western side of Mount Kilimanjaro, gradually ascending through the lush rainforest to the Shira Plateau, then intersecting with the Machame Route and approaching the summit from the east. This extended version allows for a gentler pace and a higher chance of successfully reaching the summit, Uhuru Peak.

Day by Day Itinerary:

Day 1: Londorossi Gate to Mti Mkubwa Camp

• Elevation: 2,250m to 2,650m
• Hiking Time: 3-4 hours
• Distance: 6 km
• Habitat: Rainforest

Your adventure begins at Londorossi Gate after a drive through the agricultural market town of Monduli. The first day’s hike is a gentle trek through the dense rainforest, rich with wildlife, to your first campsite, Mti Mkubwa, also known as Big Tree Camp. This evening, acclimate and rest up for the days ahead.

Day 2: Mti Mkubwa Camp to Shira 1 Camp

• Elevation: 2,650m to 3,610m
• Hiking Time: 4-6 hours
• Distance: 8 km
• Habitat: Heath

The day starts with a steady climb through the remaining rainforest toward the giant heath and moorland zone. Enjoy the dramatic scenery changes as you approach the Shira Plateau and your camp for the night, Shira 1, where you’ll be rewarded with a broad view of Kilimanjaro’s ridges.

Day 3: Shira 1 Camp to Shira 2 Camp

• Elevation: 3,610m to 3,850m
• Hiking Time: 3-4 hours
• Distance: 7 km
• Habitat: Moorland

Today, you’ll hike across the Shira Plateau, which provides a relatively flat and easy path. You’ll traverse fields of volcanic rock and potentially witness some of the mountain’s endemic plant life. After reaching Shira 2 Camp, take the chance to acclimatize with a brief walk to higher altitude before settling for the night.

Day 4: Shira 2 Camp to Barranco Camp via Lava Tower

• Elevation: 3,850m to 3,960m
• Hiking Time: 6-7 hours
• Distance: 10 km
• Habitat: Semi-desert

Ascend to the Lava Tower at 4,630m for acclimatization, then descend to Barranco Camp. This ‘climb high, sleep low’ strategy aids acclimatization. The Barranco Camp lies in a valley below the Western Breach and Great Barranco Wall, which presents a dramatic backdrop for your rest.

Day 5: Barranco Camp to Karanga Camp

• Elevation: 3,960m to 3,995m
• Hiking Time: 4-5 hours
• Distance: 5 km
• Habitat: Alpine desert

Conquer the Great Barranco Wall, an imposing but climbable obstacle. Upon reaching the top, you’ll be rewarded with magnificent views. Then traverse valleys and ridges to Karanga Camp, an ideal spot for additional acclimatization, and where you can refresh with water from the Karanga Valley.

Day 6: Karanga Camp to Barafu Camp

• Elevation: 3,995m to 4,673m
• Hiking Time: 4-5 hours
• Distance: 4 km
• Habitat: Alpine desert

The trail to Barafu Camp follows a path that intersects with the Mweka Route, which is your descent path. Barafu Camp is located on a rocky, exposed ridge. Prepare your equipment and rest early in the evening for the upcoming midnight summit attempt.

Day 7: Barafu Camp to Uhuru Peak to Mweka Camp

• Elevation: 4,673m to 5,895m (summit) and down to 3,100m
• Hiking Time: 7-8 hours to summit; 4-6 hours to descend
• Distance: 5 km ascent, 12 km descent
• Habitat: Arctic

You’ll begin your summit attempt at midnight. The route heads northwest into the dark night, with the aim to reach Stella Point on the crater rim for sunrise – a truly unforgettable moment. From Stella Point, it’s a less demanding hike to Uhuru Peak, the highest point in Africa. After taking in the summit views, you’ll make the descent to Mweka Camp for the final night on the mountain.

Day 8: Mweka Camp to Mweka Gate

• Elevation: 3,100m to 1,640m
• Hiking Time: 3-4 hours
• Distance: 10 km
• Habitat: Rainforest

The descent continues through the lush forest to Mweka Gate. The underfoot conditions can be damp and slippery, so trekking poles are helpful. Upon arrival at the gate, you’ll receive your summit certificates. A vehicle will be waiting to take you back to your hotel, marking the end of your epic journey.