Kilimanjaro Lemosho Route 7 Days Itinerary
Climb Mount Kilimanjaro via the Lemosho Route with this 8 Days Itinerary from Jayva African Adventures. Offers excellent acclimatization and stunning scenery.
Climb Mount Kilimanjaro via the Lemosho Route with this 8 Days Itinerary from Jayva African Adventures. Offers excellent acclimatization and stunning scenery.
The 8 Days Lemosho Route is one of the most scenic and successful ways to climb Mount Kilimanjaro. Starting on the remote western side of the mountain, this route provides a longer acclimatization period and stunning vistas throughout the journey. With its low traffic, rich biodiversity, and excellent success rate, the 8-day itinerary gives climbers the best chance to safely reach the summit of Africa’s highest peak.
Drive from Moshi or Arusha to Londorossi Gate (2,250m) for registration, then continue to the Lemosho trailhead. Begin trekking through dense rainforest with possible sightings of monkeys and exotic birds. After 3–4 hours, arrive at Mti Mkubwa Camp (2,820m) for your first night on the mountain.
Hike through the last sections of rainforest and emerge into moorland. Ascend over ridges to reach Shira Ridge, followed by a gentle descent to Shira 1 Camp (3,610m) on the plateau. Trekking time is 5–6 hours with stunning views of Kilimanjaro’s glaciers.
A relaxed day of hiking across the expansive Shira Plateau. The trail offers panoramic views of Kibo and Mount Meru. You’ll arrive at Shira 2 Camp (3,850m) in 3–4 hours. This extra night improves acclimatization and helps prepare for higher elevations.
Ascend to the Lava Tower (4,630m) where you'll stop for lunch and acclimatization. Then descend to Barranco Camp (3,950m), located beneath the massive Barranco Wall. This 6–7 hour day follows the crucial “climb high, sleep low” principle for better acclimatization.
After breakfast, climb the impressive Barranco Wall. Though steep, the wall is not technical and offers amazing views. Continue through ridges and valleys to reach Karanga Camp (3,995m). A short 4–5 hour hike that gives you time to rest and acclimate.
Ascend steadily along rocky paths to Barafu Camp (4,673m). The environment is alpine desert with strong winds and cold temperatures. After a light dinner, rest early because your summit attempt begins just before midnight. Hiking time is 3–4 hours.
Begin your final ascent around midnight. Climb slowly but steadily to Stella Point (5,739m), then push to Uhuru Peak (5,895m), the highest point in Africa. Celebrate and take photos before descending to Barafu for a short rest. Continue down to Mweka Camp (3,100m) for your final night. Total trekking time is 12–15 hours.
Hike through the rainforest down to Mweka Gate (1,640m). After checking out and receiving your summit certificates, drive back to your hotel in Moshi or Arusha. Trek time: 3–4 hours.
"Take the longer way to the top — the 8-day Lemosho Route gives you the time, views, and altitude advantage to reach the summit confidently."
Yes. The 8-day option includes an extra day at Shira Plateau, providing better acclimatization and higher success rates — over 90% on average.
Absolutely. It’s one of the best routes for first-time climbers due to its gentle elevation gain, gradual pace, and scenic diversity.
You’ll sleep in mountain tents provided by your tour operator. Most services also offer foam sleeping mats, while you bring a warm sleeping bag.
Expect rainforest humidity at the base, cool moorlands, dry alpine zones, and freezing temperatures at higher altitudes, especially at night.
The 8-day Lemosho Route is a highly recommended option for climbers who want more time to enjoy Kilimanjaro’s scenery while maximizing their chances of reaching Uhuru Peak safely and successfully.