Lemosho Route Description
Considered by many to be the most beautiful route on Kilimanjaro, the Lemosho route offers an unparalleled trekking experience. Starting on the west side of the mountain, it ensures quiet early days away from the crowds, winding through lush tropical rainforest. This longer itinerary is the best choice for optimal acclimatization, significantly increasing your chances of reaching the summit.
You will traverse the spectacular Shira Plateau before joining the Machame route, allowing you to enjoy the mountain's most varied and grandiose landscapes. It is the ideal itinerary for photographers and wilderness enthusiasts.
- Guides, porters & cook
- Meals & purified water on the mountain
- Quality camping equipment
- All transport and park fees
- Hyperbaric bag & oxygen
- International flights and visa
- Travel insurance
- Personal gear (rental available)
- Pre/post-trek hotels
- Tips for the team
Ready to Take on the Challenge
of the Lemosho Route?
Our team of experts is ready to answer all your questions and start creating your custom ascent.
Customize this trekEight Days Towards
the Roof of Africa
Start of the Trek
in Virgin Forest
After a scenic drive to Londorossi Gate on the west side of Kilimanjaro, you begin your trek. This first stage immerses you in a magnificent, dense, and humid tropical rainforest. The trail is rarely traveled, offering an immediate sense of isolation and adventure.
Exiting the Forest
towards Shira
The climb continues as you leave the forest to enter the moorland and giant heather zone. The landscape opens up, revealing spectacular views of the plains below. You will reach the edge of the Shira Plateau, a massive collapsed volcanic caldera, to camp at Shira Camp 1.
Crossing the
Shira Plateau
A relatively easy day to facilitate acclimatization. You cross the magnificent Shira Plateau, enjoying constant views of the Kibo peak. This is an opportunity to explore this unique landscape, the remnant of an ancient volcano, and prepare for the higher altitudes ahead. Overnight at Shira Camp 2, renowned for its spectacular sunsets.
Acclimatization via
Lava Tower
A crucial day for acclimatization based on the "climb high, sleep low" principle. You climb gradually to Lava Tower (4600m) before descending to the magnificent Barranco Camp (3900m), nestled at the foot of the impressive Barranco Wall. This stage, though difficult, is essential for a successful summit.
The Barranco
Wall
The day begins with the challenge of the Barranco Wall, a small easy scramble that requires no technical skills but offers great thrills. The rest of the day is a series of ups and downs through spectacular valleys until you reach Karanga Camp, the last stage before base camp.
Arrival at
Base Camp
A short day of walking leads you to the Barafu base camp ("ice" in Swahili). An early arrival allows you to rest, stay hydrated, and prepare mentally and physically for the final ascent that will begin in the middle of the night.
The Summit and
the Long Descent
This is the moment you have been waiting for. The midnight departure slowly leads you towards the summit. The sunrise from the crater rim is a magical reward. You continue to Uhuru Peak (5895m) to celebrate your achievement. The day is far from over, as a long descent awaits you down to Mweka Camp, at a much lower altitude.
Final Descent
and Celebration
Your last walk is a pleasant descent through the rainforest to Mweka Gate. This is where you will receive your summit certificate and say goodbye to your wonderful team. Your driver will be waiting to take you back to your hotel for a hot shower and well-deserved rest.
