8 Days /7 Nights climb Kilimanjaro

via Lemosho Route

Mount Kilimanjaro Lemosho Route Tour

Begin your unforgettable Mount Kilimanjaro tour via the Lemosho Route with a warm welcome at Kilimanjaro International Airport and a smooth transfer to Springlands Hotel. Our experienced guides deliver a comprehensive briefing to prepare you for your Kilimanjaro trek. Unwind with the hotel’s amenities, including a pool, scenic garden, bar, and restaurant, ensuring a relaxing start to your adventure.

Your Mount Kilimanjaro tour starts with a picturesque drive to Lemosho Park Gate for registration, followed by a hike through lush forest trails to Mti Mkubwa Camp. Over the next few days, journey through diverse landscapes, visiting Shira 1 and Shira 2 camps, the dramatic Lava Tower, and the renowned Barranco Wall. Each day of this Kilimanjaro tour offers new challenges and stunning views, building up to the exhilarating summit ascent to Uhuru Peak. After conquering the peak, descend to Mweka Camp and return to Springlands Hotel for a warm meal and time to reflect on your triumph. Enhance your Mount Kilimanjaro tour with optional extensions, such as safaris or a visit to Zanzibar, to discover more of Tanzania’s vibrant landscapes and culture.

What's Included

What's Not Included

Your adventure begins

Day 1

Transfer from Kilimanjaro Airport to Moshi Town

Upon landing at Kilimanjaro International Airport, our dedicated driver will warmly greet you, holding a sign with your name for easy recognition. From there, enjoy a smooth and comfortable transfer to the inviting Springlands Hotel.

At the hotel, savor a delightful meal before joining our seasoned mountain coordinators and guide for an engaging pre-trek briefing, where you’ll discover the exciting details of your upcoming Mount Kilimanjaro tour.

Relax in the serene ambiance of Springlands Hotel, complete with a refreshing swimming pool, a charming garden, a cozy bar, and a welcoming restaurant, setting the perfect tone for your adventure.

Day 2

Day 1: Lemosho Park Gate to Mti Mkubwa Campsite

After breakfast and a guide briefing at Springlands Hotel, you’ll travel 1.5 hours by vehicle to Lemosho Park Gate (2,100m). At Londorossi Gate, you’ll register before embarking on a 3-hour trek through scenic forest trails to Mti Mkubwa Campsite (2,750m). Upon arrival, porters will set up tents, and the chef will prepare lunch. After eating, you can relax until dinner. In the evening, your guide will brief you on the next day’s trek.

Altitude: 2,100 m – 2,750 m
Hiking distance: 7 km
Hiking time: 3 hours

Day 3

Mti Mkubwa Campsite to Shira 1 Campsite

After breakfast at Mti Mkubwa Campsite, you’ll begin a 5-6 hour trek through the rainforest, transitioning into the heath and moorland zone, to Shira 1 Campsite (3,500m). The trail offers stunning views of the Shira Plateau. Upon arrival, porters will set up tents, and the chef will prepare lunch. After eating, you can relax and enjoy the scenic surroundings until dinner. In the evening, your guide will provide a briefing for the next day’s trek.

Altitude: 2,750 m – 3,500 m
Hiking distance: 8 km
Hiking time: 5-6 hours

Day 4

Shira 1 Campsite to Shira 2 Campsite

After breakfast at Shira 1 Campsite, you’ll embark on a 4-5 hour trek across the Shira Plateau, moving through the moorland zone to Shira 2 Campsite (3,850m). The trail offers expansive views of Mount Kilimanjaro and the surrounding landscape. Upon arrival, porters will set up tents, and the chef will prepare lunch. After your meal, you can relax and acclimatize to the altitude while enjoying the scenic surroundings. In the evening, were guide will provide a briefing for the next day’s trek.

Altitude: 3,500 m – 3,850 m
Hiking distance: 7 km
Hiking time: 4-5 hours

Day 5

Shira 2 Campsite to Barranco Campsite

After a delightful breakfast, embark on a scenic three-hour drive to the world-famous Ngorongoro Crater, a highlight of your Tanzania honeymoon tour, renowned for hosting Africa’s iconic Big 5. Descend into the crater for a thrilling game drive, weaving through its breathtaking landscapes teeming with diverse wildlife. Savor a romantic picnic lunch by the renowned hippo pool, enveloped by the crater’s awe-inspiring beauty, before continuing your unforgettable journey through this extraordinary natural wonder.

Day 6

Barranco Campsite to Barafu Campsite

After breakfast at Barranco Campsite, you’ll begin a 6-7 hour trek through the alpine desert zone to Barafu Campsite (4,670m). The trail starts with a steep climb up the Barranco Wall, offering breathtaking views, followed by a gradual ascent through rugged terrain. Upon arrival, porters will set up tents, and the chef will prepare lunch. After your meal, you’ll rest and acclimatize to prepare for the summit attempt. In the evening, your guide will provide a detailed briefing for the next day’s summit push.

Altitude: 3,900 m – 4,670 m
Hiking distance: 9 km
Hiking time: 6-7 hours

Day 7.

Barafu Campsite to Uhuru Peak and Descent to Mweka Campsite

After a midnight wake-up and light breakfast at Barafu Campsite, you’ll begin the summit attempt, trekking 6-8 hours to Uhuru Peak (5,895m), the highest point on Mount Kilimanjaro. The challenging ascent through the arctic zone offers stunning views at sunrise. After celebrating at the summit, you’ll descend 2-3 hours to Barafu Campsite for a short rest and lunch. Then, continue descending 3-4 hours to Mweka Campsite (3,100m) through the moorland zone. Upon arrival, porters will set up tents, and the chef will prepare dinner. In the evening, your guide will provide a briefing for the final day.

Altitude: 4,670 m – 5,895 m (Uhuru Peak) – 3,100 m
Hiking distance: 5 km (ascent), 12 km (descent)
Hiking time: 6-8 hours (ascent), 5-7 hours (descent)

Day 8.

Mweka Campsite to Mweka Gate and Transfer to Moshi

After breakfast at Mweka Campsite, you’ll begin a 3-4 hour descent through the lush rainforest to Mweka Gate (1,650m). The trail offers scenic views and opportunities to spot wildlife. Upon arrival at Mweka Gate, you’ll complete exit formalities and receive your summit certificate if you reached Uhuru Peak. Afterward, you’ll be transferred by vehicle (approximately 1 hour) back to your hotel in Moshi town, where you can relax and celebrate your achievement.

Altitude: 3,100 m – 1,650 m
Hiking distance: 10 km
Hiking time: 3-4 hours

Read From Other Travellers

"Climbing Kilimanjaro via the Lemosho Route was a life-changing adventure! The guides were incredibly knowledgeable, and the porters made every campsite feel like home. The views from the Shira Plateau and the Barranco Wall were breathtaking, and reaching Uhuru Peak at sunrise was unforgettable. The team’s support made all the difference!"

mount kilimanajro tour
Sarah Mira New York, USA

"This trek was beyond my expectations. The Lemosho Route offered stunning landscapes, from lush rainforests to the arctic summit. The daily briefings and delicious meals kept us energized and motivated. Our guide’s expertise and encouragement helped me conquer the summit. Highly recommend this journey!"

Mathew Lane Milan, Italy

"As a first-time trekker, I was nervous, but the team made the Lemosho Route trek seamless and enjoyable. The gradual ascent helped with acclimatization, and the camaraderie among the group was heartwarming. Standing on Uhuru Peak was a moment of pride I’ll cherish forever!"

mount Kilimanjaro tour
Austin Robert Paris, France

"The Lemosho Route is the way to go for Kilimanjaro! The scenery was spectacular, especially at Lava Tower and the summit. The porters and chef went above and beyond, and the organization was flawless. It’s a challenging but rewarding experience I’d do again in a heartbeat!"

Eric Richardson Paris France
Frequenctly Asked Questions

1. What is the best route for climbing Mount Kilimanjaro?

The best route depends on your preferences. The Lemosho Route (8 days) is scenic and less crowded, with good acclimatization. Marangu Route (5-6 days) offers hut accommodations but is busier. Machame Route (6-7 days) is challenging and popular. Rongai Route (6-7 days) is quieter, approaching from the north. Your fitness, time, and budget will guide your choice.

2. How physically demanding is a Kilimanjaro trek?

Climbing Kilimanjaro is strenuous due to high altitude (up to 5,895m at Uhuru Peak), long hiking days (3-8 hours), and varying terrain. No technical climbing skills are needed, but good physical fitness, endurance, and mental resilience are essential. Pre-trek training (hiking, cardio, strength exercises) is highly recommended.

3. What is the risk of altitude sickness, and how is it managed?

Altitude sickness is a risk due to rapid elevation gain. Routes like Lemosho and Machame include acclimatization days (e.g., Lava Tower on Lemosho Day 5). Guides monitor symptoms, encourage slow pacing (“pole pole”), ensure hydration, and may administer oxygen or descend if needed. Diamox is sometimes used as a preventive medication.

4. What gear and clothing should I bring for the trek?

Pack layered clothing (base layers, fleece, waterproof jacket), sturdy hiking boots, a warm sleeping bag (rated for -10°C or lower), trekking poles, a headlamp, sunglasses, sunscreen, a water bottle, and personal medications. A daypack is needed for daily essentials, as porters carry most gear. Tour operators often provide detailed packing lists.

5. Are meals and accommodations included in Kilimanjaro treks?

Most treks include all meals (breakfast, lunch, dinner) prepared by a chef, designed to be nutritious and energy-rich. Accommodations are typically tents set up by porters, except on the Marangu Route, which uses huts. Treks usually start and end with hotel stays in Moshi or Arusha.

6. How safe is trekking Kilimanjaro, and what support is provided?

Trekking is generally safe with reputable operators. Professional guides monitor health and weather, provide daily briefings, and are trained in first aid. Porters carry gear, and cooks prepare meals. Emergency evacuation plans are in place, and some operators carry oxygen or portable altitude chambers.

7. When is the best time to climb Kilimanjaro?

The best times are the dry seasons: January-March and June-October. These periods offer clearer skies and less rain, improving views and trail conditions. July-September is popular but busier. Avoid the rainy seasons (April-May and November) due to muddy trails and reduced visibility.

8. Do I need a visa or vaccinations for Tanzania?

Most travelers need a visa for Tanzania, obtainable on arrival at Kilimanjaro International Airport or online in advance. Check with the Tanzanian embassy for your country’s requirements. Vaccinations like yellow fever (if coming from an endemic area), typhoid, and hepatitis A are recommended. Consult a travel clinic for advice.

9. How much does a Kilimanjaro trek cost, and what does it include?

Costs vary ($1,500-$3,500 USD) depending on the route, duration, group size, and operator. Prices typically include guides, porters, meals, camping equipment, park fees, and transfers to/from Moshi or Arusha. Exclusions may include tips, personal gear, and international flights.

10. What happens if I can’t reach the summit?

Safety is prioritized. If you experience altitude sickness, fatigue, or other issues, guides will assess your condition and may descend to a lower altitude. You’ll receive a certificate for the highest point reached (e.g., Stella Point at 5,739m). Guides and porters ensure a safe return to the gate.