Embark on an unforgettable adventure with our 8-day Lemosho Route Kilimanjaro climbing package, offering an extended, more leisurely climb to the roof of Africa. This longer route is ideal for maximizing your chances of reaching Uhuru Peak, with additional acclimatization time and breathtaking scenery along the way. The Lemosho Route is renowned for its beauty, starting in the lush rainforests on the western side of Kilimanjaro and transitioning through moorlands, alpine deserts, and finally, the icy summit zone.
With its gradual ascent profile and extra acclimatization day, this 8-day itinerary boosts your chances of success, ensuring you adapt to the altitude safely. Whether you are an experienced trekker or new to high-altitude climbing, the Lemosho Route is the perfect blend of challenge, scenery, and adventure.
Overview of the 8-Day Lemosho Route Kilimanjaro Climb
The 8-day Lemosho Route is a premium option for those looking for a less crowded, scenic, and highly successful way to summit Mount Kilimanjaro. Starting at Lemosho Gate on the mountain's western side, the trail winds through the pristine rainforest, across the Shira Plateau, and merges with the Machame Route before the Barafu Camp summit push.
This extra day makes all the difference, giving your body more time to acclimate, significantly reducing the risk of altitude sickness and increasing your chances of reaching the summit. The 8-day climb is suitable for all fitness levels and offers an unforgettable adventure through Kilimanjaro’s unique ecosystems.
Book your 8-day Lemosho Route Kilimanjaro climb now or send us an inquiry for more information.
8-Day Lemosho Route Kilimanjaro Itinerary Highlights
Climbing Day | Route Section | Climbing Distance |
Day 1 | Lemosho Gate to Mti Mkubwa Camp | 6 km |
Day 2 | Mti Mkubwa Camp to Shira 1 Camp | 8 km |
Day 3 | Shira 1 Camp to Shira 2 Camp | 7 km |
Day 4 | Shira 2 Camp to Barranco Camp via Lava Tower | 10 km |
Day 5 | Barranco Camp to Karanga Camp | 5 km |
Day 6 | Karanga Camp to Barafu Camp | 4 km |
Day 7 | Barafu Camp to Uhuru Peak to Mweka Camp | 17 km |
Day 8 | Mweka Camp to Mweka Gate, back to Moshi | 10 km |
Detailed 8-Day Lemosho Route Kilimanjaro Climbing Itinerary
Day 1: Lemosho Gate to Mti Mkubwa Camp
- Distance: 6 km
- Hiking time: 3-4 hours
- Elevation: 2,100m to 2,750m
After a short drive from Moshi or Arusha to Lemosho Gate, you’ll register and begin your Kilimanjaro adventure. The first day is a moderate hike through the lush rainforests of Kilimanjaro’s lower slopes, where you might encounter wildlife such as Colobus monkeys or even elephants. You’ll reach Mti Mkubwa Camp in the afternoon for a restful evening.
Day 2: Mti Mkubwa Camp to Shira 1 Camp
- Distance: 8 km
- Hiking time: 5-6 hours
- Elevation: 2,750m to 3,500m
Today’s trek leads you out of the dense rainforest and into the heath and moorland zone, where the landscape opens up with stunning views of Mount Meru and the surrounding plains. You’ll reach the expansive Shira Plateau by midday and set up camp at Shira 1 Camp.
Day 3: Shira 1 Camp to Shira 2 Camp
- Distance: 7 km
- Hiking time: 4-5 hours
- Elevation: 3,500m to 3,850m
This is a short, gentle day designed for acclimatization as you continue trekking across the vast Shira Plateau. The hike offers panoramic views of the plateau, the Kibo Peak, and the surrounding valleys. You’ll camp at Shira 2 Camp, enjoying an incredible sunset over the plains below.
Day 4: Shira 2 Camp to Barranco Camp via Lava Tower
- Distance: 10 km
- Hiking time: 7-8 hours
- Elevation: 3,850m to 3,960m (via 4,640m at Lava Tower)
This day is crucial for acclimatization. You’ll hike from Shira 2 Camp to the imposing Lava Tower at 4,640 meters, where you’ll stop for lunch. After spending time at this high altitude to help your body adjust, you’ll descend into the Barranco Valley, passing through surreal landscapes of giant lobelias and senecios. You’ll camp at Barranco Camp, with the towering Barranco Wall just ahead.
Day 5: Barranco Camp to Karanga Camp
- Distance: 5 km
- Hiking time: 4-5 hours
- Elevation: 3,960m to 4,035m
The day begins with a thrilling climb up the Barranco Wall, one of the most exciting and scenic sections of the trek. Although it may look intimidating, the climb is not technical, and you’ll be rewarded with stunning views from the top. The trail then descends into the Karanga Valley and climbs again to reach Karanga Camp, where you’ll spend the night.
Day 6: Karanga Camp to Barafu Camp
- Distance: 4 km
- Hiking time: 3-4 hours
- Elevation: 4,035m to 4,640m
A short yet steep climb takes you to Barafu Camp, your base for the summit attempt. You’ll arrive in the early afternoon, giving you plenty of time to rest and prepare for the final push to the summit. After an early dinner, you’ll head to bed to rest before the midnight wake-up call for summit day.
Day 7: Barafu Camp to Uhuru Peak to Mweka Camp
- Distance: 17 km
- Hiking time: 10-14 hours
- Elevation: 4,640m to 5,895m (Uhuru Peak), descent to 3,080m
Summit day begins around midnight with a long, steep ascent to Stella Point on the crater rim. From there, you’ll continue to Uhuru Peak at 5,895 meters, the highest point in Africa. As the sun rises, you’ll witness breathtaking views from the roof of Africa before beginning your descent to Mweka Camp for the night.
Day 8: Mweka Camp to Mweka Gate, back to Moshi/Arusha
- Distance: 10 km
- Hiking time: 3-4 hours
- Elevation: 3,080m to 1,640m
Your final day on Kilimanjaro takes you back through the beautiful rainforest to Mweka Gate, where you’ll receive your summit certificate and celebrate your achievement. You’ll then be driven back to your hotel in Moshi or Arusha, where a well-deserved rest awaits.
Package Inclusions and Exclusions
8-Day Lemosho Route Kilimanjaro Package Inclusions:
- Licensed and experienced Kilimanjaro guides and porters
- Park fees, camping fees, and all required permits
- Full camping gear (tents, sleeping pads, mess tent, etc.)
- Meals on the mountain (three meals daily)
- Drinking water and hot beverages
- Oxygen cylinders and medical kits
- Hotel accommodations (before and after the climb)
- Transfers to and from Lemosho Gate
8-Day Lemosho Route Kilimanjaro Package Exclusions:
- International flights
- Tanzanian visa fees
- Travel insurance
- Personal gear (sleeping bags, trekking poles, etc.)
- Tips for guides and porters (recommended)
- Personal expenses and souvenirs
- Additional hotel stays before or after the climb
Customization Options:
This package can be customized according to your preferences. Whether you want to add acclimatization days, upgrade accommodations, or adjust the itinerary, we can create a personalized experience.
The 8-day Lemosho Route Kilimanjaro climbing package offers the best chance to summit Uhuru Peak with an extended itinerary for proper acclimatization. From the rainforests of Lemosho Gate to the breathtaking views at the summit, every step of the journey is unforgettable.
Ready to conquer Kilimanjaro? Book now, send an inquiry, or ask us any questions! We’re here to help you achieve your goal of standing on Africa’s highest peak.
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