The Lemosho route is considered one of the most beautiful paths up Kilimanjaro, offering panoramic views, diverse vegetation, and a high success rate. This 7-day trek takes you through rainforest, heath, alpine desert, and finally the arctic summit – Uhuru Peak (5,895 m). Ideal for adventurous trekkers seeking a perfect balance of acclimatization and wilderness.
Highlights
Lush montane forest & wildlife (colobus monkeys)
Lava Tower (4,640 m) acclimatisation walk
Karanga Valley – last water point before summit
Experienced mountain guides & porters
Crossing the spectacular Shira Plateau
Challenging Barranco Wall & stunning views
Summit night under stars, sunrise at Uhuru Peak
All camping equipment, high-quality tents & meals
Day 1: Londerossi Gate - Mti Mkubwa Camp Accommodation: Mti Mkubwa (Big Tree) Camp Description: After registration at Londorossi Gate (2,250 m), a short drive takes you to the Lemosho trailhead. Trek through pristine montane forest on a winding trail, home to colobus monkeys and exotic birds. Arrive at Mti Mkubwa camp (2,820 m) for dinner and overnight. Distance: ~6 km | Trekking time: 3–4 hours Meals: Breakfast (if included), Lunch & Dinner
Sample Itinerary
Day 2: Mti Mkubwa - Shira 1 Camp Accommodation: Shira 1 Camp Description: The trail gradually leaves the forest belt and enters heath and moorland zone. Enjoy expanding views as you ascend to the edge of the Shira Plateau. Arrive at Shira 1 Camp (3,610 m) for a well-earned rest. Distance: ~8 km | Trekking time: 5–6 hours Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
Day 3: Shira 1 Camp - Shira 2 - Moir Hut (acclimatisation) Accommodation: Moir Hut / Shira 2 Camp Description: Trek across the plateau to Shira 2 (3,850 m). After lunch, a short acclimatisation walk towards Moir Hut (4,200 m) helps your body adjust. Return to camp for dinner. Spectacular views of Kibo and the Western Breach. Distance: ~10 km | Trekking time: 5–7 hours (including acclimatisation) Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
Day 4: Shira 12 - Lava Tower - Barranco Camp Accommodation: Barranco Camp Description: A challenging but rewarding day. Climb steadily to Lava Tower (4,640 m) for lunch and high-altitude exposure, then descend to Barranco Camp (3,960 m) nestled in the valley. The "climb high, sleep low" principle aids acclimatisation. Distance: ~8 km | Trekking time: 6–7 hours Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
Day 5: Barranco - Karanga Camp Accommodation: Karanga Camp Description: Start with the exciting Barranco Wall climb (non-technical but steep). After the wall, traverse up and down through the Karanga Valley, with stunning views of the southern icefields. Reach Karanga Camp (4,035 m) – the last water point before summit. Distance: ~5 km | Trekking time: 4–5 hours Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
Day 6: Karanga - Barafu Camp Accommodation: Barafu Camp Description: Follow the ridge to Barafu Camp (4,673 m). This is your last camp before the summit. Rest, hydrate, and prepare for an early start. Your guide will brief you on summit night. Distance: ~4 km | Trekking time: 4–5 hours Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
Day 7: Barafu - SUMMIT (Uhuru Peak) - Mweka Gate - Arusha Accommodation: Not included (drop-off in Arusha) Description: Start around midnight: ascend steeply in the dark to Stella Point (5,756 m) on the crater rim, then continue to Uhuru Peak (5,895 m) – the roof of Africa! Enjoy sunrise and glaciers. Descend to Barafu for a short rest, then continue down to Mweka Camp for a hot lunch. Finally hike to Mweka Gate (1,650 m) where you receive your summit certificates. Drive back to Arusha (arriving late afternoon/evening). Ascent/Descent: ~7 km ascent, ~15 km descent | Total time: 12–15 hours Meals: Breakfast (box), Lunch & Dinner
100 % private & customizable
Direct with local Maasai guides
Inclusions
All national park fees & government taxes
Porters & cook – all salaries included
Professional English-speaking mountain guide & assistant guides
High-quality mountain tents, sleeping mats, dining tent, camping furniture
All meals on the mountain (freshly prepared)
Filtered water throughout the trek
Emergency oxygen & pulse oximeter
Transfer from Arusha to gate and back
Exclusions
International flights & visa fees
Travel insurance (mandatory)
Tips for guides, porters & cook
Personal climbing gear (rental available)
Soft drinks, snacks, and alcoholic beverages
Accommodation in Arusha before/after trek