Your cart is empty
Kilimanjaro Climb
Lemosho Route – Southern Circuit
The Most Scenic Path to Uhuru Peak
About
The Lemosho Route offers a quieter and more scenic approach to Mount Kilimanjaro, beginning in the lush rainforest of the western slopes and gradually ascending through a variety of ecological zones.
With excellent acclimatisation and stunning views across the Shira Plateau, this route is ideal for trekkers seeking a more gradual ascent and a higher chance of summit success. The extended duration allows additional time for altitude adjustment, making it one of the most effective routes for reaching the summit.
Key Information
Duration
7 or 8 days
Best Season
January – March, June – October
Starts At
Moshi, Tanzania
Success Rate
94–96%
Group Size
1–8 people
Itinerary
Day 1 of 8
Day 1: Lemosho Glades to Big Tree Camp (Mti Mkubwa)
Your adventure begins after breakfast, when your guide collects you from your hotel for the drive (approximately 113 km / 70.5 miles) to Lemosho Gate on the western side of the mountain.
After registration and lunch at the gate, the trek begins through dense rainforest. This section is rich in wildlife - keep an eye out for colobus monkeys moving through the canopy.
The trail is short and gentle, leading to Mti Mkubwa (Big Tree Camp), where your tents will already be set up and dinner prepared. After a hot meal, you will settle in for the night.
2,389m to 2,785m
4.8km
3-4 hours
Lunch & Dinner
Tent
Day 2: Big Tree Camp (Mti Mkubwa) to Shira 2 Camp
The day begins with another scenic walk beneath the forest canopy, although this section is brief as you soon transition into the heath and moorland zone.
A steady ascent through the forest brings you onto the northern slopes of the Shira Plateau. As you emerge above the treeline, the landscape opens up, offering expansive views across the plateau.
If you are feeling strong and have extra energy, an optional hike to the Cathedral Area can be arranged. This adds approximately 4 km to the day\'s trek and provides a deeper exploration of the plateau. Please discuss this option with your guide.
2,785m to 3,895m
~8-10km
5-7 hours
Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
Tent
Day 3: Shira 2 Camp to Barranco Camp via Lava Tower
Kibo Peak remains in view ahead as you continue eastward. The trail climbs steadily toward Lava Tower (4,530m), where you will stop for lunch and acclimatisation.
After reaching this high point, you descend to Barranco Camp. This "climb high, sleep low" strategy is essential for proper acclimatisation and significantly improves your chances of summit success.
Dinner is served in the evening at camp.
3,895m to 3,986m (Lava Tower 4,530m)
10.1km
6-7 hours
Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
Tent
Day 4: Barranco Camp to Karanga Camp
Today begins with the ascent of the iconic Barranco Wall - a rewarding scramble that offers spectacular views.
After reaching the top, the trail descends into the Karanga Valley before a short but steep climb leads to Karanga Camp. This shorter trekking day allows for a more relaxed pace and continued acclimatisation.
3,986m to 4,035m
8.5km
4-5 hours
Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
Tent
Day 5: Karanga Camp to Barafu Camp
The trail traverses the southern slopes of Kibo through a dry, lunar-like landscape on the way to Barafu Camp, located on the south-eastern shoulder of the mountain.
The climb to Barafu is short but steep. Upon arrival, you will rest, hydrate, and enjoy an early dinner before attempting to sleep ahead of the summit push.
This shorter day is designed to conserve energy for the demanding night ahead.
4,035m to 4,640m
3.8km
3-4 hours
Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
Tent
Night 5: Barafu Camp to Uhuru Peak (Summit)
Your summit attempt begins around midnight. The climb is steep, slow, and physically demanding, requiring both determination and endurance.
After 5-6 hours, you will reach Stella Point (5,745m) on the crater rim, often at sunrise. From here, you continue along the rim to Uhuru Peak (5,895m) - the highest point in Africa.
4,640m to 5,895m
4.86km
7-8 hours
Day 6: Uhuru Peak to Mweka Camp
After celebrating at the summit and taking a short rest, you descend back to Barafu Camp - a demanding section following the long ascent.
At Barafu, you will have breakfast and rest briefly before continuing down the Mweka Trail to Mweka Camp. Depending on your condition, your guide may adjust the final stopping point between Millennium Camp and Mweka Camp.
5,895m to 3,106m
11.5km
6-7 hours
Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
Tent
Day 7: Mweka Camp to Mweka Gate
The final day is a gentle descent through lush rainforest to Mweka Gate.
Upon arrival, you will receive your summit certificate and enjoy a well-deserved rest. A vehicle will then transfer you for a celebratory lunch before returning to your hotel - marking the end of your Kilimanjaro journey.
3,106m to 1,633m
9.1km
3-4 hours
Breakfast & Lunch
Pricing
Per person in USD.
| Group Size | 6 Days |
|---|
| Group Size | 7 Days |
|---|---|
| 1 person | USD 3,784 |
| 2 people | USD 2,898 |
| 3 people | USD 2,582 |
| 4 people | USD 2,346 |
| 5 people | USD 2,291 |
| 6 people | USD 2,266 |
| 7 people | USD 2,234 |
| 8+ people | USD 2,219 |
| Group Size | 8 Days |
|---|---|
| 1 person | USD 4,127 |
| 2 people | USD 3,197 |
| 3 people | USD 2,856 |
| 4 people | USD 2,604 |
| 5 people | USD 2,548 |
| 6 people | USD 2,515 |
| 7 people | USD 2,485 |
| 8+ people | USD 2,459 |
Prices include all services listed under "What's Included". International flights and personal equipment are not included.
What's Included
Inclusions & Exclusions
Included
- Two nights accommodation on a bed & break fast basis (one night before the trek and one night after the climb)
- Airport pick-up and drop-off transfers
- Transportation to and from the Kilimanjaro National Park gate
- All Kilimanjaro National Park fees and permits
- Camping or hut accommodation fees (depending on the route selected)
- Crater camping fees (where applicable)
- Emergency rescue service fees
- Premium-quality four season mountain tents
- Comfortable high-density sleeping mattresses
- Experienced, professional and friendly mountain crew, including certified Wilderness First Responder guides, cooks and porters
- Three freshly prepared and nutritious meals per day during the trek
- Safe, filtered, and treated drinking water throughout the climb
- Hot water for basic washing during the expedition
- Fair wages and Ethical treatment of all mountain staff in accordance with KINAPA & KIPAP standards
- All government taxes and statutory charges
- Emergency Oxygen Cylinder
- Certified English-speaking mountain guide (other language available upon request)
- Pulse Oximeter and first aid kit
- Private portable toilet with privacy tent
- Mountain communication radio for safety and emergency support
- Official Mount Kilimanjaro Summit Certificate
Not Included
- International flights to and from Tanzania
- Tanzania visa fee (approx. $50–100 depending on nationality)
- Personal trekking gear and equipment rentals
- Tips for guides and porters (recommended $300–450 per participant)
- Personal expenses and souvenirs
- Lunch & dinner in the hotel
Photos
FAQ
What is the difference between the 7-day and 8-day Lemosho Route?
The 7-day route offers a well-balanced acclimatisation profile and is suitable for trekkers with good fitness and some prior high-altitude experience. The 8-day route provides additional time for altitude adjustment, resulting in a higher summit success rate and a more comfortable experience — making it our most recommended option for first-time Kilimanjaro climbers.
How difficult is the Lemosho Route?
The Lemosho Route is rated as moderate to challenging. The Barranco Wall involves a hands-on scramble but is manageable for most trekkers. The summit night is the most demanding section, requiring sustained effort at high altitude over many hours.
What is the success rate on the Lemosho Route?
The Lemosho Route has one of the highest summit success rates of all Kilimanjaro routes, typically above 90% for guided expeditions. The 8-day option provides the best acclimatisation profile and therefore the highest summit success rate.
What is included in the price?
All transfers, accommodation before and after the climb, camping equipment, all meals on the mountain, professional guides and porters, park fees, and emergency oxygen are included. International flights, visa fees, tips, and personal equipment are not included.
When is the best time to climb the Lemosho Route?
The best times are January to March and June to October, which are the dry seasons. These periods offer the clearest skies and most stable weather on the mountain. The rainy seasons (April–May and November) are possible but trails can be muddy and views are limited.
Ready to go?
Book Your Adventure
Fill in the form and we'll confirm within 24 hours.
Quick Facts
- Duration7 or 8 days
- Best SeasonJanuary – March, June – October
- Starts AtMoshi, Tanzania
- Success Rate94–96%
- Group Size1–8 people