9 Days Lemosho Route
Itinerary Summary
The Lemosho Route is widely regarded as the most beautiful trail up Kilimanjaro, offering panoramic views, rich ecological variety, and a gradual ascent profile. The 9-day version includes two acclimatization days, dramatically increasing summit success rates. This route starts on the remote western side of the mountain and merges with the Machame Route on day four, giving climbers the best chance to enjoy the mountain’s scenic diversity and reach Uhuru Peak (5,895m) confidently.
Full Itinerary Overview
The 9-day Lemosho Route is considered the premier trekking route on Mount Kilimanjaro, offering the best balance of scenic beauty, acclimatization, and summit success. Starting from the western side of the mountain at Londorossi Gate, it begins in dense rainforest before crossing the vast and beautiful Shira Plateau, with sweeping views of the mountain and surrounding plains. Unlike shorter itineraries, the 9-day version includes two key acclimatization days, significantly increasing your chances of safely reaching Uhuru Peak (5,895m).
This route merges with the Machame Route near Lava Tower and follows the southern circuit, providing 360-degree views of the mountain. It concludes with the summit attempt via Stella Point and descent via the Mweka Route. With varied ecosystems, fewer crowds early on, and a steady altitude profile, the 9-day Lemosho Route is ideal for trekkers who want a slower-paced, immersive, and highly rewarding Kilimanjaro experience.
DAY 1 : Londorossi Gate (2,250m) to Mti Mkubwa Camp (2,820m)
After a drive from Moshi or Arusha to Londorossi Gate, you’ll complete registration and drive to the Lemosho trailhead. The trek begins through lush montane forest. The 6 km hike takes about 3–4 hours before arriving at Mti Mkubwa Camp (Big Tree Camp).
Overnight: Mti Mkubwa Camp | Meals: Lunch, Dinner
DAY 2 : Mti Mkubwa to Shira 1 Camp (3,500m)
Leaving the rainforest behind, the trail climbs steeply through the heather and moorland zone before crossing the Shira Plateau. You’ll hike 8 km in about 5–6 hours to reach Shira 1 Camp, with stunning views of Kibo Peak.
Overnight: Shira 1 Camp | Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
DAY 3 : Shira 1 to Shira 2 Camp (3,840m)
Today’s trek is a gentle hike across the expansive Shira Plateau. The trail stretches 7 km over 3–4 hours, offering incredible vistas and time to acclimatize.
Overnight: Shira 2 Camp | Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
DAY 4 : Acclimatization Day at Shira 2 (Optional Hike to Lava Ridge or Cathedral Point)
This extra day is designed to help your body adjust to the altitude. You can take a short acclimatization hike toward Lava Ridge or Cathedral Point, then return to Shira 2 Camp. This rest day significantly improves your chances of summit success.
Overnight: Shira 2 Camp | Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
DAY 5 : Shira 2 to Lava Tower (4,630m) to Barranco Camp (3,960m)
Climb to Lava Tower for lunch, reaching a high point of 4,630m, before descending to Barranco Camp. This “climb high, sleep low” day is key for acclimatization. You’ll cover 10 km in 6–7 hours.
Overnight: Barranco Camp | Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
DAY 6 : Barranco Camp to Karanga Camp (4,035m)
Start with a thrilling scramble up the Barranco Wall, then hike through scenic valleys and ridges to Karanga Camp. The 5 km trek takes around 4–5 hours.
Overnight: Karanga Camp | Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
DAY 7 : Karanga Camp to Barafu Camp (4,640m)
Ascend through rocky, alpine terrain to Barafu Camp, your base before the summit. The hike covers 4 km in 3–4 hours. Spend the afternoon resting and preparing for your midnight summit push.
Overnight: Barafu Camp | Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
DAY 8 : Barafu – Uhuru Peak (5,895m) – Mweka Camp (3,100m)
At midnight, begin your final ascent. Reach Stella Point (5,756m) at sunrise, then continue to Uhuru Peak, the summit of Africa. After celebrating, descend to Barafu for a rest, then continue to Mweka Camp. This demanding day covers 17 km in 11–15 hours.
Overnight: Mweka Camp | Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
DAY 9 : Mweka Camp to Mweka Gate (1,640m) – Transfer to Moshi/Arusha
Descend through the rainforest on a 10 km trek that takes about 3–4 hours. At Mweka Gate, receive your summit certificate before returning to your hotel for a well-earned rest.
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch
Experience Kilimanjaro’s most stunning and well-paced route with the 9 day Lemosho adventure designed for ultimate acclimatization and summit success. Beginning in the remote rainforest and traversing the vast Shira Plateau, this extended journey offers quieter trails, dramatic landscapes, and a vital extra day to adjust to the altitude. Ideal for trekkers who want to fully absorb the beauty of Kilimanjaro while maximizing their chances of reaching Uhuru Peak (5,895m), the 9 day Lemosho Route combines scenery, solitude, and success in perfect harmony.
INCLUDED
- Full board (breakfast, lunch & dinner) accommodation.
- All game drives viewing in a custom built 4×4 Safari Land Cruiser
- All park and entrance fees
- Transportation with 4×4 vehicles with viewing roofs
- Professional English-speaking driver/guide or other language as specified during the safari.
- Bottled water in safari vehicles
- Current Government taxes and levies
- 24-Hour support during the safari
NOT INCLUDED
- Internal or International flights
- Transfers to and from the airport
- Balloon excursion (US$600 pp)
- Entry visa to Tanzania.
- Travel and health insurance
- Gratuities to your guide, hotel staff, and porters
- Meals, drinks, and excursions not described in the itinerary
- Any other items of a personal nature, laundry, telephone and postage
- Item of personal Nature
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