8 Days Mount Kilimanjaro Trek – Lemosho Route Overview
The Lemosho Route is celebrated as one of the most beautiful and well-balanced trails on Mount Kilimanjaro. Starting on the remote western side of the mountain, it offers a long, gradual approach that gives trekkers exceptional acclimatization opportunities and the chance to experience some of Kilimanjaro’s most diverse and breathtaking landscapes.
This 8-day itinerary is designed to maximize summit success while ensuring a steady pace and comfortable altitude adjustment. From dense rainforest and expansive heathlands to rugged alpine desert and icy glacial terrain, the route offers an incredible variety of scenery. Early days on the trail are quiet, giving trekkers a peaceful wilderness experience before joining the southern circuit and approaching the summit via Stella Point.
For climbers who appreciate both the journey and the achievement, the Lemosho Route delivers a truly unforgettable adventure. With dramatic panoramas, rewarding acclimatization days, supportive mountain crews, and an inspiring summit push at sunrise, this is one of the finest ways to reach Uhuru Peak, the Roof of Afric
📒 Please Note:
This trek begins and ends in Moshi, with transfers to and from Londorossi Gate included, personal gear, and accommodation before or after the climb are not included, but Leen Adventures can arrange these upon request.
8 Days Mount Kilimanjaro Trek – Lemosho Route Details
8 Days Mount Kilimanjaro Lemosho Route Highlights
8 Days Mount Kilimanjaro Lemosho Route – Detailed Itinerary
Arrival Day
Arrive at Kilimanjaro International Airport (JRO), where a friendly representative from Leen Adventures will welcome you and transfer you to your hotel in Moshi. In the evening, meet your mountain guide for a detailed briefing, equipment check, and final preparations. Take time to rest, hydrate, and prepare for the adventure ahead.
Day 1: Londorossi Gate to Mti Mkubwa Camp
After breakfast, drive to Londorossi Gate for registration and then continue to the Lemosho trailhead. Trek through the lush montane rainforest, home to blue monkeys, colobus monkeys, and vibrant birdlife. The trail ascends gently beneath a green canopy until you reach Mti Mkubwa (Big Tree) Camp, your first overnight stop in the forest zone.
Day 2: Mti Mkubwa Camp to Shira 1 Camp
Today’s hike transitions out of the forest and into heathland with expansive views. The trail climbs steadily up to the rim of the Shira Plateau, one of Kilimanjaro’s most impressive natural features. Arrive at Shira 1 Camp where you’ll settle in, enjoy dinner, and rest beneath the open skies.
Day 3: Shira 1 Camp to Shira 2 Camp
A short but essential acclimatization day. Cross the vast Shira Plateau, enjoying breathtaking views of Kibo Peak. Unique alpine vegetation surrounds you, and you may spot small wildlife adapted to this high-altitude environment. Arrive early at Shira 2 Camp, with the option of taking an additional acclimatization hike in the afternoon.
Day 4: Shira 2 Camp to Barranco Camp via Lava Tower
Begin a gradual ascent into the alpine desert, trekking toward the towering Lava Tower (4,600 m), where you’ll stop for lunch. Afterward, descend into the Barranco Valley—this “climb high, sleep low” strategy is excellent for acclimatization. Arrive at Barranco Camp, beautifully set beneath the dramatic Barranco Wall.
Day 5: Barranco Camp to Karanga Camp
Start the day with an exciting climb up the Barranco Wall, a highlight of the Lemosho Route. The trail then weaves across ridges and valleys before reaching Karanga Camp. A shorter day dedicated to acclimatization, preparing you for the final push toward the summit.
Day 6: Karanga Camp to Barafu Camp
Ascend steadily toward Barafu Camp, your base camp for summit night. The terrain is rugged and barren as you enter the alpine desert zone. Arrive early, enjoy an early dinner, and prepare your gear. Try to sleep early to rest before your midnight summit attempt.
Day 7: Barafu Camp to Uhuru Peak to Mweka Camp
Your summit adventure begins at midnight. Ascend slowly up the steep slopes toward Stella Point, then continue along the crater rim to Uhuru Peak (5,895 m)—the highest point in Africa. Celebrate at the top and take unforgettable sunrise photos.
Afterward, descend to Barafu for a brief rest, then continue down to Mweka Camp for your final night on the mountain.
Day 8: Mweka Camp to Mweka Gate → Transfer to Moshi
Enjoy a final breakfast before descending through the rainforest to Mweka Gate, where you’ll receive your summit certificate. Your Leen Adventures driver will transfer you back to Moshi for a hot shower, celebration dinner, and well-deserved rest.
Departure Day
After breakfast, enjoy a leisurely morning before being transferred to Kilimanjaro International Airport (JRO) for your flight home or onward journey. If you wish, Leen Adventures can arrange an extension to the Serengeti, Ngorongoro, or a relaxing Zanzibar getaway.
🎒 Optional Gear & Rentals
Enhance your Mount Meru trekking experience with these optional gear add-ons. All equipment is subject to availability, so early booking is recommended.
💰 Tipping Guidelines
Tipping is an important tradition on Mount Meru treks. Your mountain crew—including lead guides, assistant guides, cooks, and porters—work tirelessly to support you during the climb, and tips are a meaningful way to show appreciation for their dedication and effort.
Suggested Tipping Rates:
Tips are usually handed over at the farewell ceremony at the park gate on the last day of the trek. It is best to place tips in an envelope and give them to the lead guide, who will distribute fairly among the team.
Tips should be in US Dollars (clean, undamaged notes) or Tanzanian Shillings. While tipping is not mandatory, it is customary and greatly appreciated. For larger groups, tips are often shared equally among trekkers.
Are you Up for a Challenge?
