The Lemosho Route offers a 7-day adventure on Mount Kilimanjaro, known for its scenic beauty and excellent acclimatization opportunities. Starting in lush rainforests, you'll gradually ascend through heathlands, volcanic landscapes, and the iconic Barranco Wall. With proper acclimatization, the route leads to the summit via Uhuru Peak, where you’ll experience breathtaking views at Africa’s highest point. This route is ideal for those seeking a rewarding and stunning climb with a strong chance of reaching the summit.
Arrive at Kilimanjaro International Airport where you are met after passing through customs. Tulia Boutique Hotel & SPA Hotel and have a comprehensive briefing and equipment check with your climbing manager and your guide. Overnight at Tulia Boutique Hotel & SPA
Accommodations: Tulia Boutique Hotel & SPA
Meals Included: Breakfast
Arusha to Forest Camp
Altitude: 7,742 ft to 9,498 ft
Distance: 4 miles
Approx. Hiking Time: 3-4 hours
Departing from Arusha, you'll journey by vehicle on a scenic drive to the Londorossi Gate, the starting point of the Lemosho Trail. Approaching Kilimanjaro from the west, the route begins in the lush Afromontane Rainforest - the first of four distinct ecological zones you will experience on the mountain.
Here, you'll meet the rest of your trekking team before setting off at a relaxed pace, with plenty of opportunities to spot wildlife along the way. Lunch will be enjoyed on the trail, and you'll reach Forest Camp by mid-afternoon, where you'll spend your first night on the mountain.
Forest Camp to Moir Hut Camp
Altitude: 9,498 ft to 11,500 ft
Distance: 5 miles
Approx. Hiking Time: 5-6 hours
Climbing from the lush forests of Lemosho, you ascend through a landscape of podocarpus and juniper trees before emerging into a striking zone of heather and volcanic rock draped in lichen, leading you onto the expansive Shira Plateau — once Kilimanjaro's third summit before its collapse.
Lunch is enjoyed along the trail, and by mid-afternoon, you reach your campsite. From here, the sweeping view of Kibo, Kilimanjaro's towering peak, is truly breathtaking. Overnight at Moir Hut.
Forest Camp to Moir Hut Camp
Altitude: 9,498 ft to 11,500 ft
Distance: 5 miles
Approx. Hiking Time: 5-6 hours
Climbing from the lush forests of Lemosho, you ascend through a landscape of podocarpus and juniper trees before emerging into a striking zone of heather and volcanic rock draped in lichen, leading you onto the expansive Shira Plateau — once Kilimanjaro's third summit before its collapse.
Lunch is enjoyed along the trail, and by mid-afternoon, you reach your campsite. From here, the sweeping view of Kibo, Kilimanjaro's towering peak, is truly breathtaking. Overnight at Moir Hut.
Moir Hut Camp to Barranco Camp
Altitude: 13,800 ft to 15,223 ft (Lava Tower), down to 13,044 ft
Distance: 7km
Approx. Hiking Time: 4-6 hours
From Moir Hut, you traverse the slopes of Kibo, where only the hardiest flora and fauna manage to survive the harsh temperature extremes and challenging conditions of this zone. Lunch is typically enjoyed near the striking volcanic formation known as the Lava Tower. For those feeling strong, there's an option to climb the 300-foot-high Lava Tower before continuing your descent toward Barranco Camp.
Along the way, you pass through the surreal and enchanting 'Garden of the Senecios,' home to towering giant groundsels and impressive lobelias. The Barranco Valley is considered one of the most beautiful sections of the entire trail. Overnight at Barranco Camp.
Moir Hut Camp to Barranco Camp
Altitude: 13,800 ft to 15,223 ft (Lava Tower), down to 13,044 ft
Distance: 7km
Approx. Hiking Time: 4-6 hours
From Moir Hut, you traverse the slopes of Kibo, where only the hardiest flora and fauna manage to survive the harsh temperature extremes and challenging conditions of this zone. Lunch is typically enjoyed near the striking volcanic formation known as the Lava Tower. For those feeling strong, there's an option to climb the 300-foot-high Lava Tower before continuing your descent toward Barranco Camp.
Along the way, you pass through the surreal and enchanting 'Garden of the Senecios,' home to towering giant groundsels and impressive lobelias. The Barranco Valley is considered one of the most beautiful sections of the entire trail. Overnight at Barranco Camp.
Barranco Camp to Karanga Camp
Altitude: 13,044 ft to 13,123 ft
Distance: 3 miles
Approx. Hiking Time: 4-5 hours
Today's trek is relatively short as you make your way to Karanga Camp, but not before tackling the formidable Barranco Wall. Be ready to use both hands and feet as you climb the wall and ascend to the top of the Karanga Valley. From there, the trail winds through a series of ascents and descents before reaching Karanga Camp in the late afternoon.
Our choice of Karanga Camp is deliberate — spending extra time at this altitude is key for proper acclimatization. The sunsets here are truly breathtaking, with the southern glacial valleys and towering ice fields rising more than 3,000 feet above you. Overnight at Karanga Camp.
Karanga Camp to Barafu Camp
Altitude: 15,288 ft to 19,341 ft to 12,467 ft
Distance: 3 miles ascent, 7 miles descent
Approx. Hiking Time: 7-8 hours ascent, 4-6 hours descent
Today is another half day ascending to Barafu Camp. Once again lunch is taken in this high camp, allowing plenty of time to relax before the summit bid. Desolate alpine desert and, at times, strong winds rip over this camp.
A relatively early dinner is taken before resting for the evening. Overnight at Barafu Camp.
Barafu to the Summit to Mweka Camp
Altitude: 12,467 ft to 5,380 ft
Distance: 6 miles
Approx. Hiking Time: 3-4 hours
Just before midnight, you'll set out for the final push to the summit. This stretch demands patience and determination, as it is the coldest and windiest part of your journey. By dawn, as the first light spills across the Tanzanian plains, you'll reach the crater rim at Stella Point, standing at 18,652 feet.
Here, you'll witness one of the most breathtaking sunrises imaginable, casting its glow over the majestic Mawenzi Peak. From Stella Point, it's a relatively short climb to Uhuru Peak - the highest point in Africa! Be sure to capture as many photos as you can to commemorate the moment.
After a brief but joyful celebration at the summit, begin your spirited descent. Take it slow and savor the lush rainforest scenery as you make your way toward Mweka Camp, arriving before nightfall. With every step downward, the air grows richer in oxygen - your legs may be tired, but your spirit will soar. Overnight at Mweka Camp.
Mweka Camp to Arusha
After breakfast, you continue your descent through the lush montane forest. Around midday, after heartfelt farewells to your incredible crew, you'll be picked up and transferred back to your hotel, where a well-earned shower and a celebratory dinner await you!
Hours trekking: 4-7
Departure
Today you have a dayroom to pack, freshen up, and get ready for your flight home or your onward adventures to the safari Game Drive.
Hours trekking: 4-7
