8 Days Climbing Kilimanjaro Lemosho Route Trekking Experience

We depart from Moshi and arrive at Londorossi Gate after a 4-hour drive. After completing the necessary formalities and enjoying a delicious lunch, we continue our journey for another hour to the Lemosho trailhead. From there, we start on a 6 km climb through undisturbed rainforest, gradually ascending 395 meters. The climb typically takes 3-4 hours, and we set up camp at Big Tree Camp (2780m) for the night.

Destination: Londorossi Gate To Lemosho Gate To Big Tree (Mti Mkubwa) Camp

Accommodation: Big Tree (Mti Mkubwa) Campsite

  public camp site

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Meals & Drinks: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner, Drinking water

Leaving Big Tree Camp, we continue our climb through a stunning landscape of tall grasses, heather, and volcanic rock adorned with lichen. As we ascend through lush rolling hills and cross several streams, we reach the magnificent Shira Ridge. Descending gently, we arrive at Shira 1 Camp (3500m) after an 8 km climb, which usually takes 5-6 hours. The view of Kibo Peak from the plateau is truly awe-inspiring.

Destination: Big Tree (Mti Mkubwa) Camp To Shira 1 Camp

Accommodation: Shira 1 Campsite

  public camp site

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Meals & Drinks: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner, Drinking water

Today, we have the option to explore the Shira plateau extensively. We can choose to continue towards Shira 2 Camp (3900m) on the moorland zone, with a gentle walk eastward toward Kibo's glaciered peak across the plateau. Alternatively, we can venture to the lesser-known Moir Hut (4175m), nestled at the base of Lent Hills. This day offers excellent acclimatization opportunities, with incredible views and varied walking options on the Lent Hills.

Destination: Shira 1 Camp To Shira 2 Camp

Accommodation: Shira 2 Campsite

  public camp site

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Meals & Drinks: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner, Drinking water

Continuing our journey, we proceed eastward, ascending a ridge and passing the junction towards Kibo's peak. The landscape changes as we head southeast toward the Lava Tower, a distinctive rock formation also known as the "Shark's Tooth." Afterward, we descend to Barranco Camp (3960m) at the same elevation as when we started the day. This day is crucial for acclimatization, allowing our bodies to adjust and prepare for the upcoming summit day.

Destination: Shira 2 Camp To Lava Tower To Barranco Camp

Accommodation: Barranco Campsite

  public camp site

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Meals & Drinks: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner, Drinking water

Leaving Barranco Camp, we face the challenge of the Barranco Wall, a steep climb requiring both skill and determination. After conquering the wall, we traverse a series of hills and valleys, surrounded by the stunning beauty of the alpine desert habitat. Our destination is Karanga Camp, situated at an elevation of 4035m, a short day meant for further acclimatization.

Destination: Barranco Camp To Karanga Camp

Accommodation: Karanga Campsite

  public camp site

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Meals & Drinks: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner, Drinking water

Leaving Karanga Camp, we continue our ascent, eventually reaching the junction that connects with the Mweka Trail. We climb up to Barafu Hut (4640m), marking the completion of the South Circuit. From here, we enjoy views of the magnificent peaks of Mawenzi and Kibo. We make camp, rest, have dinner, and prepare ourselves mentally and physically for the summit day ahead.

Destination: Karanga Camp To Barafu Camp

Accommodation: Barafu Campsite

  public camp site

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Meals & Drinks: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner, Drinking water

On this challenging day, we start in the early morning hours, between midnight and 2 am, continuing towards the summit. We navigate between glaciers, heading in a northwesterly direction, ascending through heavy scree towards Stella Point on the crater rim. This section is the most mentally and physically demanding part of the trek. At Stella Point (5730m), we take a short rest and witness a magnificent sunrise, weather permitting. From there, we continue for about an hour, encountering snow as we ascend to Uhuru Peak, the highest point in Africa at 5895m. After celebrating our accomplishment, we begin our descent, passing through Barafu Camp for lunch, and continue to Mweka Camp (3080m) located in the upper forest. The late afternoon might bring mist or rain, creating a mystical atmosphere. We enjoy our last dinner on the mountain and rest.

Destination: Barafu Camp To Uhuru Peak To Mweka Camp

Accommodation: Mweka Campsite

  public camp site

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Meals & Drinks: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner, Drinking water

After breakfast, we continue our descent from Mweka Camp to the Mweka Park Gate, where we receive our summit certificates. The lower elevations can be wet and muddy, so gaiters and climbing poles are helpful. Expect rain gear to be useful too. From the gate, we drive for approximately two hours to reach the hotel , concluding our incredible Mount Kilimanjaro adventure.