7 Days Lemosho Route
The Most Scenic Kilimanjaro Route with Highest Succes
INTRODUCTION
The 8 Days Lemosho Route is widely regarded as the best and most beautiful route on Mount Kilimanjaro. Approaching the mountain from the remote western side, this route offers exceptional scenery, low crowd density, and the highest success rate due to excellent acclimatization.
The longer duration allows your body to adapt naturally to altitude changes, dramatically improving safety and summit success. This route traverses four ecological zones, from untouched rainforest to alpine desert and glacial summit.
For trekkers who want the ultimate Kilimanjaro experience, the Lemosho Route represents the gold standard — and with Kiliski Trekking & Safari, it is executed with precision, professionalism, and ethical mountain practices.
7 Days Lemosho Route Itinerary
ARRIVAL DAY: Kilimanjaro International Airport → Moshi Upon arrival, you are met by our professional team and transferred to your hotel in Moshi. Later, you will have a comprehensive briefing, route overview, and equipment check with your climbing manager and lead guide. Accommodation: Leopard Hotel, Moshi Meals: Breakfast Altitude: 2,950 ft / 900 m
Day 1: Londorossi Gate → Forest Camp Altitude: 7,742 ft (2,360 m) → 9,498 ft (2,895 m) Distance: 4 miles / 6 km Hiking Time: 3–4 hours Habitat: Afromontane Rainforest After a scenic drive from Arusha to Londorossi Gate, formalities are completed before transferring to the trailhead. The trek begins through pristine rainforest, home to black-and-white colobus monkeys, blue monkeys, and rich birdlife. The pace is slow and relaxed, allowing your body to begin adapting to altitude. Accommodation: Forest Camp (Camping) Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Day 2: Forest Camp → Moir Hut Camp Altitude: 9,498 ft (2,895 m) → 11,500 ft (3,505 m) Distance: 5 miles / 8 km Hiking Time: 5–6 hours Habitat: Heather & Moorland Leaving the forest behind, the trail opens onto the Shira Plateau, a vast highland formed by the collapse of Kilimanjaro’s ancient volcanic peak. Giant heathers and volcanic rock dominate the landscape. From camp, enjoy stunning views of Kibo Peak rising above the plateau. Accommodation: Moir Hut Camp (Camping) Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Day 3: Moir Hut → Barranco Camp (via Lava Tower) Altitude: 1,500 ft → 15,223 ft (Lava Tower) → 13,044 ft Distance: 7 km Hiking Time: 4–6 hours Habitat: Alpine Desert This is a crucial acclimatization day. You trek high toward Lava Tower, where lunch is taken. For strong trekkers, an optional ascent of Lava Tower is possible. Descending to Barranco Camp, you pass through the surreal Garden of the Senecios, filled with giant groundsels and lobelias. Barranco Valley is one of the most scenic camps on the entire mountain. Accommodation: Barranco Camp (Camping) Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Day 4: Barranco Camp → Karanga Camp Altitude: 13,044 ft (3,976 m) → 13,123 ft (4,000 m) Distance: 3 miles / 5 km Hiking Time: 4–5 hours Habitat: Alpine Desert The day begins with the exhilarating climb up the Barranco Wall — a hands-on scramble that is safe and highly rewarding. From the top, panoramic views stretch across the southern ice fields. A series of ascents and descents leads to Karanga Camp, strategically positioned for continued acclimatization. Accommodation: Karanga Camp (Camping) Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Day 5: Karanga Camp → Barafu Camp Altitude: 15,288 ft (4,660 m) Distance: 3 miles / 5 km Hiking Time: 4–5 hours Habitat: Alpine Desert A steady ascent leads to Barafu Camp, your final base before the summit. The terrain is stark and dramatic, with strong winds common. After an early dinner, you rest and prepare for the summit attempt. Accommodation: Barafu Camp (Camping) Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Day 6: Barafu Camp → Uhuru Peak → Mweka Camp Altitude: 15,288 ft → 19,341 ft → 12,467 ft Distance: 6 miles / 10 km Hiking Time: 7–8 hours ascent, 4–6 hours descent Depart just before midnight for the summit push. This is the coldest and most demanding section of the climb. By dawn, reach Stella Point (18,652 ft), where the sunrise over Mawenzi Peak is unforgettable. Continue to Uhuru Peak (5,895 m) — the highest point in Africa. After photos and celebration, descend carefully to Mweka Camp. Accommodation: Mweka Camp (Camping) Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Day 7: Mweka Camp → Mweka Gate → Moshi Altitude: 12,467 ft (3,800 m) → 5,380 ft (1,640 m) Distance: 6 miles / 10 km Hiking Time: 4–7 hours Habitat: Montane Rainforest Descend through lush montane rainforest to Mweka Gate, where you receive your official Kilimanjaro summit certificates. After farewells and tipping your mountain crew, our driver transfers you back to Moshi for a hot shower, well-earned rest, and celebratory dinner. Accommodation: Leopard Hotel, Moshi Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
DEPARTURE DAY Transfer to Kilimanjaro International Airport or onward to a safari or Zanzibar beach extension arranged by Kiliski Trekking & Safari.
Moments Along the Lemosho Route
Voices from the Lemosho Route
Essential Questions About the Lemosho Route
Why is the 7 Days Lemosho Route considered the best?
It offers superior acclimatization, fewer crowds, and the most scenic landscapes, resulting in the highest summit success rate on Kilimanjaro.
Is camping comfortable on the Lemosho Route?
Yes. Kili Ski Trekking & Safari provides high-quality tents, sleeping mats, and full camp support, including a dedicated cook.
Who should choose the Lemosho Route?
Trekkers who prioritize success, scenery, and safety and want a premium Kilimanjaro experience.
