Day 1: Arrival day
Day 2–8: To be spent on the mountain
Day 9: Departure day
About Lemosho Route:
The Lemosho Route is one of the most scenic and rewarding trails on Mount Kilimanjaro. It is particularly known for its spectacular landscapes, panoramic mountain views, diverse vegetation, and relatively gradual approach to the summit. The route offers a quieter and more scenic start compared to some of the other popular trails, making it a great choice for climbers who want to experience the beauty and diversity of Kilimanjaro. The climb begins at Londorossi Gate on the western side of the mountain and starts with a beautiful trek through the lush rainforest. As you gain altitude, the vegetation changes gradually into open moorland, with expansive views of the surrounding landscape. The trail then continues across the Shira Plateau, one of the most beautiful areas of the route, before joining the southern circuit around the mountain.
As the trek progresses, climbers experience different landscapes and climatic zones, from dense rainforest and moorland to rocky alpine terrain and the high-altitude desert. The route provides impressive views of Kilimanjaro from different angles and includes opportunities for gradual altitude acclimatization before the final ascent to Uhuru Peak, the highest point in Africa.
The Lemosho Route is available in 6, 7, and 8-day itineraries:
6 Days: Recommended for experienced hikers and mountaineers who are already well acclimatized.
7 Days: Suitable for moderately experienced climbers seeking a good balance of trekking and acclimatization.
8 Days: Recommended for less experienced climbers who prefer a slower pace and more time for acclimatization.
No technical climbing skills are required to complete the Lemosho Route, but a good level of fitness, preparation, and determination are recommended. With its stunning scenery, varied terrain, and gradual approach to the summit, Lemosho offers a truly memorable Kilimanjaro experience.
Upon arrival at Kilimanjaro International Airport, you will be welcomed by our team and transferred to your hotel in Moshi. Later, you will meet your mountain guide for a detailed briefing about the upcoming trek, followed by an equipment check to ensure you have all the essential gear. Any missing equipment can be rented before the climb.
In the evening, you will enjoy dinner and relax at the hotel as you prepare for your Kilimanjaro adventure. Overnight at your hotel in Moshi.
After breakfast at your hotel, you will be picked up at around 8:00 AM and driven to Londorossi Gate, located on the western side of Mount Kilimanjaro. Upon arrival, you will complete the necessary registration and park formalities while your guides and porters prepare the equipment and supplies for the trek.
The hike begins with a gentle ascent through the lush rainforest of the Lemosho Glades. The trail offers a peaceful atmosphere and opportunities to spot wildlife along the way. After a steady walk through the forest, you will arrive at Mti Mkubwa (Big Tree) Camp, where you will enjoy dinner and spend the night.
Distance covered: 7km / 4.3mi | Approx. time taken: 4 hours
Today is a long and rewarding trekking day as you leave Mti Mkubwa Camp and continue toward Shira II Camp, passing through the beautiful heath and moorland zone. The trail gradually leaves the rainforest behind as you ascend across the Shira Ridge and enter the vast Shira Plateau, with sections of the route becoming steeper as you gain altitude.
As you cross the plateau, you will enjoy panoramic views of Kibo Peak, often appearing above the clouds, as well as unique views of the Northern Ice Fields from the western side of the mountain. The steady ascent provides excellent opportunities for acclimatization while taking in the spectacular volcanic landscape. You will arrive at Shira II Camp for dinner and an overnight stay.
Distance covered: 16.5km / 10.3mi | Approx. time taken: 9 - 11 hrs
After breakfast, you will continue your ascent across the open alpine desert toward Lava Tower (4,600 m). The trail offers spectacular panoramic views as you enter the high-altitude desert zone, with the route passing along rocky ridges beneath the Western Breach glaciers. Lava Tower will be the highest point of the day and an ideal place to stop for lunch. This climb also provides an important acclimatization opportunity by following the “walk high, sleep low” principle.
In the afternoon, you will make a steep descent toward Barranco Camp (3,960 m), located in a scenic valley beneath the impressive Barranco Wall. Along the way, you will enjoy magnificent views of the Western Breach and surrounding plains. After arriving at camp, you will have time to relax, enjoy the dramatic mountain scenery, and watch the sunset before dinner and overnight rest.
Distance covered: 10km / 6.2mi | Approx. time taken: 7 hrs
After breakfast, you will leave the campsite and begin the ascent of the impressive Barranco Wall, reaching around 4,200 m. The climb involves navigating rocky terrain and offers spectacular views of the surrounding landscape and the Heim Glacier.
From the top of the Barranco Wall, you will continue toward Karanga Camp (3,963 m). The trek takes about 4 hrs, with the trail passing through the scenic Karanga Valley before reaching camp, where you will have time to rest and prepare for the next stage of your climb.
Distance covered: 5.5km / 3.4mi | Approx. time taken: 5 hours
After breakfast, you will begin your hike toward Barafu Camp (4,640 m), passing through a dry and barren alpine landscape with rocky scree slopes and little vegetation. Along the way, you will enjoy impressive views of the Kibo and Mawenzi Peaks as you gradually gain altitude. The trail is steep and challenging, but the scenery makes the journey rewarding.
Upon arrival at Barafu Camp, you will have lunch followed by a long period of rest as you prepare for the demanding summit attempt. An early dinner will be served, and you will then settle in for some sleep. You will wake around midnight to begin the final ascent toward Uhuru Peak.
Distance covered: 3km / 1.9mi | Approx. time taken: 3 hours
Your summit attempt begins around midnight, with hot tea and light snacks before setting off. You will ascend steadily over steep scree slopes toward the summit glaciers, gaining significant altitude over a relatively short distance. After approximately 4–5 hrs, you will reach Stella Point (5,756 m) on the crater rim, where you may witness the spectacular sunrise and enjoy views of the crater’s ice formations and the rugged peaks of Mawenzi.
From Stella Point, you will continue for about 1 hr along the crater rim to Uhuru Peak (5,895 m), the highest point in Africa. After taking photos and celebrating your achievement, you will begin the descent to Barafu Camp for lunch and a short rest. You will then continue downhill toward Millennium Camp, where you will have dinner and enjoy a well-earned overnight rest after this long and memorable day.
Distance covered: 13.4km / 8.3mi | Approx. time taken: 12 – 15 hours
After breakfast, you will begin your final descent through the lush Mweka rainforest toward Mweka Gate. Upon arrival, you will complete the remaining park formalities and receive your official Kilimanjaro summit certificate to commemorate your achievement.
You will then be met by your private vehicle and transferred back to your hotel in Moshi. After the long trek, you can enjoy a well-deserved hot shower, relax, and celebrate the successful completion of your Kilimanjaro adventure.
Distance covered: 12.1km / 7.5mi | Approx. time taken: 6 hours
After completing your Kilimanjaro adventure, you will be transferred to Kilimanjaro International Airport for your onward flight, according to your travel arrangements.
If you wish to extend your stay in Tanzania, we can arrange a cultural experience, a relaxing Zanzibar beach getaway, or an exciting wildlife safari. You can explore iconic destinations such as Tarangire National Park, the Ngorongoro Crater, or Serengeti National Park.
Novella Safaris has been running Tanzanian journeys. Our licensed guides, modern 4×4 Land Cruisers, and 24/7 in-country support make us the trusted choice for over 4,800 travellers to date. Group size is capped so every guest gets personal attention.
All in-destination transport is included: airport pickup, park drives in custom 4×4 vehicles, inter-park transfers. International and domestic flights are not included.
Tanzanian Shilling (TZS) is the local currency. USD is widely accepted at parks, lodges and shops. ATMs are available in Arusha, Moshi, Zanzibar and major hubs. We accept Visa, Mastercard, AMEX and bank wire.
Clothing: Layered, muted colours; light hiking pants, breathable shirts, warm fleece and waterproof shell.
Footwear: Broken-in walking shoes, sandals, warm socks.
Essentials: Sun hat, sunglasses, sunscreen, water bottle, insect repellent, small day pack, binoculars, camera with spare batteries, headlamp.
Documents: Passport (6+ months validity), visa, travel insurance, printed itinerary copies.
First-aid: Personal medication, ibuprofen, malaria prophylaxis, plasters, oral rehydration salts.
Departure: Novella Safaris office, Moshi, Tanzania.
Pickup available from: Kilimanjaro International Airport (JRO), Arusha Airport (ARK), Julius Nyerere International Airport (DAR).
Tipping is customary and appreciated. Guideline: USD 15 per day for driver-guides, USD 10 per day for cooks, USD 5 per day for camp staff. Tips are paid at the end of the trip.
Send us an enquiry — a Tanzania-based trip designer will reply within 24 hours with a tailored proposal, no obligation.
Deposit: 20% at reservation to confirm your booking.
Balance: Due 60 days before departure.
Accepted methods: Visa · Mastercard · AMEX · bank wire.
Documents required: Signed booking form, passport with 6+ months validity, valid visa, travel insurance.
30+ days before departure: 20% of the total trip cost retained.
14–29 days before departure: 50% retained.
Less than 14 days: 100% retained.
If you find a replacement 14+ days before departure, no cancellation fee applies.