The Lemosho Route is widely regarded as one of Kilimanjaro’s most scenic, rewarding, and successful trekking paths. Traversing the western slopes, it offers an extended approach that allows trekkers to experience diverse ecosystems, breathtaking vistas, and gradual acclimatization, increasing the likelihood of a successful summit.
This route takes you through dense rainforest, then into heath and moorlands adorned with giant lobelias and groundsels, before reaching the alpine desert zone, where stark volcanic terrain meets dramatic glaciers. The 8-day itinerary provides extra acclimatization, reducing fatigue and allowing for optional side hikes and photography stops, while the 7-day itinerary is slightly faster-paced but still offers a fulfilling and achievable summit experience.
Trekking the Lemosho Route with Savanna Legacy Safaris gives climbers the chance to explore pristine wilderness, enjoy spectacular mountain panoramas, and witness unique wildlife. The gradual ascent ensures a comfortable journey, culminating in a life-changing sunrise at Uhuru Peak, Africa’s highest point. Beyond the physical challenge, this trek is a journey through one of the continent’s most iconic landscapes, leaving lasting memories of adventure, resilience, and natural beauty.
Upon arrival at Kilimanjaro International Airport (JRO), a Savanna Legacy Safaris representative will meet you and transfer you to your hotel in Moshi or Arusha. During the drive, enjoy your first glimpses of Kilimanjaro rising majestically above the farmlands, with the silhouette of Mount Meru visible in the distance.
Check into your hotel, relax, and recover from your journey. Later in the evening, attend a comprehensive briefing with your professional climbing guide. This session will cover all Lemosho Route details, safety protocols, trekking strategies, and equipment checks, ensuring you are fully prepared. Dinner and early rest set the stage for the trek’s start the following morning.
Recommended Properties to Stay
The trek officially begins at Londorossi Gate, where registration and security checks are completed. You step into pristine rainforest, a lush and vibrant ecosystem alive with exotic birdlife, colobus monkeys, and occasional wildlife such as elephants or bushbucks on the lower slopes. Shaded trails, moss-covered trees, and small waterfalls create an enchanting introduction to Mount Kilimanjaro.
After 4–5 hours of steady trekking, you reach Big Tree Camp, your first overnight stop. The camp is surrounded by the forest’s serene beauty, allowing trekkers to unwind, enjoy a hot meal, and prepare for the next day’s ascent. This day sets the pace for the journey, emphasizing gradual acclimatization and full immersion in nature.
Today’s trail leaves the rainforest and climbs into the heath and moorland zone, revealing stunning panoramic views of Kibo and Mawenzi peaks. The landscape transitions to open plains dotted with giant lobelias, groundsels, and wildflowers, offering ample opportunities for photography.
You arrive at Shira 1 Camp, a high-altitude plateau providing spectacular sunsets and mountain vistas. The afternoon is ideal for short acclimatization walks, allowing your body to adjust and improving your chances of a successful summit. Dinner is served in a communal tent, where climbers can share stories and rest.
The trail continues across the rolling Shira Plateau, crossing volcanic ridges and rocky outcrops. Views of Kibo, Mawenzi, and the surrounding Serengeti plains provide breathtaking photo opportunities. Birdwatchers may spot the rare Malachite Sunbird, while botanists can admire the alpine flora unique to Kilimanjaro.
Arrive at Shira 2 Camp, an expansive plateau offering incredible mountain panoramas. Optional afternoon walks help improve acclimatization and endurance while exploring nearby ridges and valleys. Dinner is served, and climbers rest in preparation for the longer trekking days ahead.
The trail now ascends higher into alpine desert, leaving lush moorlands behind. Trekkers experience dramatic terrain changes, including rocky ridges, volcanic scree, and sparse vegetation. This section emphasizes stamina and mental preparation for summit day.
Arrive at Barranco Camp, located at the base of the famous Barranco Wall, one of Kilimanjaro’s most exciting features. Afternoon is dedicated to optional acclimatization hikes and rest, providing time to take in towering peaks, deep valleys, and volcanic formations.
The day starts with the Barranco Wall climb, a challenging but manageable scramble offering panoramic views of Kibo, Mawenzi, and the Karanga Valley. Reaching the top is both exhilarating and scenic.
The trail then descends slightly into Karanga Valley, where Karanga Camp, a tented campsite, awaits. This stop is crucial for acclimatization and energy conservation. Optional walks in the afternoon allow trekkers to explore the valley while taking in dramatic mountain views and volcanic landscapes.
8-Day itinerary: Extra acclimatization day enhances summit success.
The trail ascends through the alpine desert, approaching Barafu Camp, the last campsite before summit. The barren landscape and surrounding peaks evoke a sense of isolation and grandeur, emphasizing the mountain’s majesty.
Arriving at Barafu Camp, climbers rest, hydrate, and enjoy a hearty meal. Guides provide a detailed summit briefing, reviewing timing, pacing, and safety procedures. Early rest is essential for the midnight climb to Uhuru Peak.
Summit day begins around midnight. Climbers ascend steep scree slopes and rocky terrain, guided by headlamps. After 5–7 hours, reach Gillman’s Point, then continue to Uhuru Peak, witnessing the sunrise over Africa’s highest point, an experience few will ever forget.
After photos and celebration, descend carefully to Barafu Camp, then continue down to Mweka Camp, where tents are ready for a well-deserved rest and meal.
7-Day itinerary: Summit and descent completed today.
8-Day itinerary: Extra acclimatization ensures a more relaxed summit day and higher success rate.
Complete the descent through rainforest trails to Mweka Gate. Certificates of achievement are presented. A private vehicle transfers you back to Moshi or Arusha, concluding your epic Lemosho adventure.
7-Day itinerary: Day 7 marks completion of descent.
8-Day itinerary: Day 8 allows for additional acclimatization and a more comfortable pace.
Recommended Properties to Stay
After an unforgettable Mount Kilimanjaro experience, your last day begins with breakfast at your hotel in Moshi or Arusha. You will then be transferred to Kilimanjaro International Airport, ensuring plenty of time for your flight and departure procedures.
This marks the conclusion of your Lemosho Route adventure, leaving you with lifelong memories of Africa’s highest peak, breathtaking landscapes, and a rewarding high-altitude achievement. Many climbers reflect on their journey during the transfer, reliving the stunning views, summit sunrise, and unique ecological zones they experienced along the way.
All transfers as outlined in the itinerary.
Camping accommodation with tents, sleeping mats, and dining tents.
Meals as specified during the trek.
Tea, coffee, and clean drinking water included.
Certified Machame Route guides and armed park rangers.
Porters and cooks to carry gear and prepare meals.
All park fees, rescue fees, and first-aid coverage included.
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