The Lemosho route is one of the newer routes on Mount Kilimanjaro. The route begins in the west and rather than simply intersecting Shira Plateau (like Machame), Lemosho crosses it from Shira Ridge to Shira Camp. Climbers encounter low traffic until the route joins the Machame route. Afterwards, Lemosho follows the same route through Lava Tower, Barranco and Barafu, known as the southern circuit.

The minimum number of days required for this route is six days, although seven to eight days is ideal.

Lemosho is considered the most beautiful route on Kilimanjaro and grants panoramic vistas on various sides of the mountain. It is our favorite route because it offers a great balance of low traffic, scenic views and a high summit success rate. Thus, Lemosho comes highly recommended.

The route approaches Mount Kilimanjaro from the west, beginning with a long drive from Moshi to Londorossi Gate. From there, the first two days are spent trekking through the rainforest to Shira Ridge.

Unlike the popular Machame route, which simply intersects the Shira Plateau, the Lemosho route crosses the entirety of the plain from west to east in a pleasant, relatively flat hike. An added bonus is that climbers will encounter low traffic until the route joins the Machame route. Afterwards, Lemosho follows the same route through Lava Tower, Barranco and Barafu, known as the southern circuit. Descent is made via the Mweka route. Well acclimatization route as you take more days and high successful route to the summit. Some wildlife can be seen at the forest zone.

Day 1: Moshi to Londorossi Park Gate to Mti Mkubwa Camp

Visiting: Moshi to Kilimanjaro
After breakfast and briefing, drive to Londorossi Park Gate (7,380 ft / 2,250 m, 2.5 hours). From here a forest track requiring a 4WD vehicle leads to Lemosho Glades (7,830 ft / 2,390 m, 11km, 45 minutes) and a possible campsite (park fees are not paid to camp here). Walk along forest trails to Mti Mkubwa (big tree) campsite.

Meals: LD
Budget Lodging: Mti Mkubwa Camp

Day 2: Mti Mkubwa Camp to Shira 1 Camp

Visiting: Kilimanjaro
After breakfast, we continue as the trail gradually steepens and enters the giant heather moorland zone. After several streams are crossed we continue over the Shira Ridge (11,810 ft / 3,600 m) then gently downwards to Shira 1 camp located by a stream on the Shira Plateau.

Meals: BLD
Budget Lodging: Shira 1 Camp

Day 3: Shira 1 Camp to Shira 2 Camp

Visiting: Kilimanjaro
After breakfast, a gentle hike across the plateau leads to Shira 2 camp on moorland meadows by a stream. A variety of hikes are available on the Plateau, making this an excellent acclimatization day.

Meals: BLD
Budget Lodging: Shira 2 Camp

Day 4: Shira 2 Camp to Barranco Hut

Visiting: Kilimanjaro
From the Shira Plateau we continue to the east, passing the junction near the peak of Kibo. As we continue, our direction changes to the South East towards the Lava Tower, called the "Shark's Tooth." Shortly after the tower, we come to the second junction which brings us up to the Arrow Glacier (15,997 ft / 4,876 m). We now continue down to the Barranco Hut (12,664 ft / 3,860 m). Although you end the day at the same elevation as when you began, this day is very important for acclimatization.

Meals: BLD
Budget Lodging: Barranco Hut

Day 5: Barranco Hut to Karanga Hut

Visiting: Kilimanjaro
After breakfast, we leave Barranco and continue on a steep ridge passing the Barranco Wall to the Karanga Valley campsite (13,780 ft / 4,200 m).

Meals: BLD
Budget Lodging: Karanga Valley Camp

Day 6: Karanga Hut to Barafu Hut

Visiting: Kilimanjaro
After breakfast, we leave the Karanga Valley and pass the junction which connects with the Mweka Trail. We continue to the Barafu Hut (15,092 ft / 4,600 m). You have completed the South Circuit, which offers views of the summit from many different angles. Here we make camp, rest, enjoy dinner, and prepare for the summit day. The two peaks of Mawenzi and Kibo can be seen from our campsite.

Meals: BLD
Budget Lodging: Barafu Hut

Day 7: Barafu Hut to Summit then Mweka Hut

Visiting: Kilimanjaro
Waking up very early (midnight to 2 am) we continue our way to the summit of Uhuru Peak (19,636 ft / 5,985 m). This part of the climb takes about 6 hours. It can be very cold at night at these elevations, but it will be quite warm by the end of the hiking day. You will want clothing for both extremes with you. At Uhuru Peak, we have reached the highest point on Mount Kilimanjaro and the continent of Africa. Faster hikers may be able to see the sunrise from the summit. From the summit, we make our descent, continuing straight down to the Mweka Hut camp site (10,171 ft / 3,100 m). This part of the descent takes about 5 hours. You will want gaiters and trekking poles for the loose gravel going down. Later in the evening, we enjoy our last dinner on the mountain and a well-earned rest. Beer and soda may be available for purchase at the Mweka Hut.

Meals: BLD
Budget Lodging: Mweka Hut

Day 8: Mweka Hut to Moshi

Visiting: Kilimanjaro to Moshi
After breakfast, we continue the descent down to the Mweka Park Gate. At lower elevations, it can be wet and muddy. Gaiters and trekking poles will help. Shorts and t-shirts will probably be plenty to wear (keep rain gear and warmer clothing handy).

A vehicle will meet you at Mweka village to drive you back to your hotel. Don't forget to tip your guides and porters. It is time for celebration!

Meals: B