9 DAYS/ 8 NIGHTS KILIMANJARO TREKKING LEMOSHO ROUTE

The 9 Days / 8 Nights Lemosho Route on Mount Kilimanjaro is one of the most scenic and successful ways to reach the summit of Africa’s highest peak. This extended itinerary allows for excellent acclimatization, significantly increasing your chances of reaching Uhuru Peak (5,895m).

Starting on the quiet western side of the mountain, the trek begins in lush rainforest before opening onto the breathtaking Shira Plateau. The route then crosses diverse landscapes including moorland, alpine desert, and high-altitude valleys, offering spectacular views at every stage. Along the way, climbers tackle highlights such as the Lava Tower and the iconic Barranco Wall, while following a “climb high, sleep low” approach to help the body adjust to altitude.

With its gradual ascent, fewer crowds at the beginning, and extra acclimatization days, the Lemosho Route is ideal for both first-time trekkers and experienced hikers seeking a safer and more enjoyable climb. The journey culminates in a midnight summit push, rewarding climbers with an unforgettable sunrise from the Roof of Africa.

This 9-day adventure combines comfort, scenery, and a high summit success rate making it one of the best choices for trekking Mount Kilimanjaro.

DAY 1: Arrival in Tanzania
On arrival at Kilimanjaro or Arusha Airport, your private driver-guide will meet you and transfer you to your lodge for dinner and overnight. Later, your mountain guide will visit you for a detailed briefing and equipment check, ensuring you are fully prepared for the climb ahead.

DAY 2: Arusha (1,400m) – Lemosho Gate (2,150m) – Big Tree Camp (2,800m)

Hiking time: 3 hrs | Habitat: Rainforest
After breakfast, drive about 2.5 hours to Londorossi Gate for registration and supply distribution. Enjoy a hot lunch before beginning your trek through lush rainforest, home to Colobus monkeys and rich birdlife. By evening, arrive at Big Tree Camp where porters will have set up tents. Dinner and overnight here. Expect cold night temperatures.

DAY 3: Big Tree Camp – Shira 1 Camp (3,610m)
Hiking time: 5–6 hrs | Distance: ~5 km | Habitat: Moorland
After breakfast, continue through the last stretch of rainforest before entering the open moorland zone. The trail gradually ascends with views of the Western Breach glaciers and Kibo Peak. Arrive at Shira 1 Camp in time for a hot lunch, dinner, and overnight.

DAY 4: Shira 1 Camp – Shira 2 Camp via Cathedral Point (3,872m)
Hiking time: 4–5 hrs | Distance: ~8 km | Habitat: Moorland
Cross Shira Ridge, a gentler and more open section with sweeping views of the Great Rift Valley and Mount Meru. The moorland is dotted with giant lobelias and unique highland flora. Stop at Cathedral Point for acclimatization before proceeding to Shira 2 Camp for dinner and overnight.

DAY 5: Shira 2 Camp – Lava Tower (4,640m) – Barranco Camp (3,960m)
Hiking time: 6–8 hrs | Distance: 10 km | Habitat: Semi-desert
Climb gradually east toward Lava Tower, known as the “Shark’s Tooth.” At 4,640m, this section aids acclimatization. From here, descend to Barranco Camp at 3,960m, with spectacular views of the southern glaciers. Dinner and overnight at Barranco.

DAY 6: Barranco Camp – Karanga Camp (3,995m)
Hiking time: 4 hrs | Distance: 7 km | Habitat: Semi-desert
Today begins with the thrilling climb of the Barranco Wall. Though steep, it requires no technical climbing—just a bit of scrambling with the support of your guide. Traverse ridges and descend into the Karanga Valley before arriving at Karanga Camp. Dinner and overnight.

DAY 7: Karanga Camp – Barafu Camp (4,667m)
Hiking time: 3 hrs | Distance: 2 km | Habitat: Alpine desert
Hike through a dry alpine desert with rocky terrain to Barafu Camp. This final staging point offers incredible views of Mawenzi Peak and the summit trail ahead. After an early dinner, prepare for your summit attempt and get some rest.

DAY 8: Summit Attempt – Barafu Camp – Uhuru Peak (5,895m) – Mweka Camp (3,100m)
Hiking: 12–14 hrs | Distance: ~14 km | Habitat: Scree, ice, forest
Wake at 11:00 PM for tea and biscuits before beginning your climb under the stars. Ascend through scree to Stella Point (5,757m), the most challenging part of the trek. From here, continue along the rim to Uhuru Peak, Africa’s highest point, reaching the summit at sunrise. After celebrating briefly, descend to Barafu for rest, then continue down to Mweka Camp for dinner and overnight.

DAY 9: Mweka Camp – Mweka Gate (1,980m)
Hiking time: 3 hrs | Distance: ~2 km | Habitat: Forest
Enjoy your final breakfast before descending through lush rainforest to Mweka Gate. Here, climbers receive summit certificates—green for Stella Point, gold for Uhuru Peak. Celebrate with your crew before being transferred to Arusha or Moshi for a hot shower, dinner, and overnight. Alternatively, transfer directly to Kilimanjaro Airport for your onward flight.

What’s included?

• 1^st Night accommodation on arrival.
• All camping equipment (including tents, mattress, sleeping bags, & pillows)
• private mountain guide
• private chef
• porters
• trekking poles
• first aid kit
• rescue fees
• portable toilet
• Kilimanjaro National Park Fees & camping fees
• All Government Tax.

What’s not included?

• Other trekking gears except trekking poles
• Tips
• Personal items (souvenirs, travel insurance, visa fees and other personal items)