8 Day Mount Kilimanjaro Trekking Lemosho Route

Exploring the 8-Day Mount Kilimanjaro Trek via the Lemosho Route

This detailed review focuses on the 8-day Lemosho Route offered by Afrishare Trekking and Safaris, a trek that promises a balanced mix of stunning scenery, high success rates, and a more peaceful ascent. While we haven’t personally scaled Kilimanjaro, the feedback from travelers and the itinerary itself suggest this is an adventure worth considering.

What makes this trek stand out? First, it’s one of the best routes for acclimatization, giving your body more time to adjust to high altitudes. Second, the route’s less crowded nature offers a more intimate experience with nature and the mountain’s beauty. Lastly, the itinerary includes extra days for rest and acclimatization, which many agree significantly boosts your chances of reaching Uhuru Peak.

A potential consideration? The price of $2,250 might seem high at first glance, but when you factor in the length, inclusiveness, and success rate, it offers solid value. This tour is ideal for travelers who want a well-paced, immersive climb with knowledgeable guides and a good chance of reaching the summit. If you’re seeking a challenging but rewarding adventure in a relatively quiet setting, this could be a perfect fit.

Key Points

• High success rate: The extra days for acclimatization boost your chances of reaching the summit.
• Less crowded trail: The route’s popularity is lower, offering a more serene experience.
• Excellent guides and safety: The route is often led by experienced guides, with optional armed ranger accompaniment for safety.
• Stunning scenery: From Montane forests to alpine deserts, expect diverse landscapes.
• Included amenities: All fees, park entry, and meals are covered, making planning easier.
• Authentic experience: The route offers access to wildlife and breathtaking views, often praised by previous trekkers.

A Closer Look at the Itinerary

Day 1: To the Forests of Lemosho

Your adventure begins in Moshi, where you’ll be picked up and driven to the Lemosho Park Gate. The journey involves a scenic 4WD ride into the forests, which are inhabited by wildlife like buffalo and elephants, giving you a taste of the untouched wilderness. The hike itself is about 6 km and takes 2-5 hours, passing through lush montane forests to the Mti Mkubwa (Big Tree) campsite at 1830 meters.

Travelers often mention this first day as quite gentle but immersive, with a chance to spot wildlife if lucky. The guides’ knowledge about flora and fauna adds an educational layer to the trek. Expect to have a hearty lunch and dinner at camp, preparing your body for the days ahead.

Day 2: Reaching Shira Plateau

The trail gradually steepens as you ascend into the giant heather moorland zone. You’ll cross streams and traverse the Shira Ridge, finally reaching Shira 1 camp at 3500 meters—about 8 km from the previous camp. The hike takes 4-5 hours, with many describing the landscape as otherworldly, with vast, rolling plains and distant views of the mountain.

This day’s highlight is the transition from forest to moorland. The change in scenery usually excites trekkers, who enjoy the fresh mountain air and panoramic vistas. It’s also a key day for acclimatization, setting a good pace for the upward journey.

Day 3: Acclimatization on the Plateau

On day three, we move across the Shira Plateau to Shira 2 camp. Here, the terrain remains moorland, but you’ll find a variety of hikes available on the plateau—perfect for acclimatization. Many reviewers praise this day for helping bodies adapt, citing that the extra time on the plateau makes a notable difference.

Expect to hike about 8 km in 4-5 hours, with the altitude rising to 3850 meters. The views of the surrounding landscape and opportunity to explore the area make this a rewarding day.

Day 4: Approaching Lava Tower and Barranco

The route shifts eastward, passing by the iconic Lava Tower (Sharks Tooth) at 4650 meters. This day involves crossing a few junctions, including one towards the summit of Kibo and another leading to Arrow Glacier. The descent to Barranco Camp at around 4000 meters helps your body acclimate further.

This day is often described as the most critical for acclimatization, with hikers experiencing a mix of semi-desert landscapes and dramatic volcanic formations. Some reviewers note that walking at this elevation can be challenging but crucial for success.

Day 5: Barranco Wall and Karanga Valley

Starting from Barranco, the climb is steep up the Barranco Wall, a highlight for many—offering a fun challenge and incredible views. The day continues to Karanga Valley, where you’ll camp at 4050 meters after about 3-5 hours of hiking.

The ascent involves some scrambling and is physically demanding but rewarding, with many describing the wall as a memorable adventure in itself. The consistent praise for guides’ expertise in navigating this part makes it a safer, more enjoyable experience.

Day 6: Up to Barafu Camp

From Karanga, the route leads upward to Barafu Camp, at 4700 meters—your staging point for the summit. This short, steep trek takes around 3-4 hours and marks the beginning of your final push.

Most trekkers find this day a mix of anticipation and fatigue. The scenery here is stark, with views of the mountain’s glaciers. You’ll rest, hydrate, and prepare for the early start the next day.

Day 7: Summiting Uhuru Peak

The big day begins between midnight and 2 am. Your guides will lead you in the dark across scree and snow towards Stella Point and then Uhuru Peak, with the sunrise often providing an unforgettable backdrop. The ascent involves navigating heavy scree and snow, making it the most physically demanding part of the trek.

Many previous hikers speak fondly of the sense of achievement upon reaching the summit, with some noting that the sunrise from Stella Point is just as breathtaking as the summit views. The descent is quick but taxing, bringing you back to Mweka Camp after approximately 6 hours.

Day 8: Descent to Moshi

The final day is a descent down the forested trail back to Mweka Gate. Expect muddy, wet conditions at lower elevations, so gaiters and trekking poles are recommended. After signing out, your transport will take you back to Moshi, often with a sense of accomplishment and lush mountain scenery behind you.

What Travelers Say About This Trek

Reviewers consistently highlight the knowledgeable guides and excellent safety measures. Many mention guides such as Karim and Leokadia, who are praised for their punctuality, friendliness, and expertise—crucial for such a challenging climb. The presence of an armed ranger on the first day, especially in forested areas, adds an extra layer of safety appreciated by trekkers.

The scenery garners high praise—diverse landscapes from lush forests to alpine deserts and glaciers. One reviewer reflected, “The route’s popularity is lower, which meant fewer crowds and more personal connection to the mountain.” The extra days for acclimatization are frequently linked to higher success rates, with many climbers reaching Uhuru Peak confidently.

Practical Aspects of the Tour

The cost of $2,250 per person includes all fees, park entry, and meals, which streamlines planning and minimizes surprises. It’s an investment in a comprehensive, guided experience led by experts who prioritize safety and success.

Transportation is smooth, with pickups in Moshi and a 4WD transfer to the trailhead. The group size tends to be small and manageable, encouraging a personalized experience. The itinerary balances physical effort with ample rest, crucial for those concerned about altitude sickness.

Potential Drawbacks and Considerations

While the tour offers fantastic value, the price point might be steep for some budget travelers. Also, the physical demands are significant—this trek isn’t for everyone, especially those with mobility issues or lack of fitness.

Weather conditions can vary greatly; trekkers recommend dressing appropriately and being prepared for rain, cold, or sun. The early wake-up times, especially for the summit push, can be tough, but they’re necessary for safety and success.

Who Is This Tour Best Suited For?

This Kilimanjaro climb is ideal for adventurers looking for a well-organized, high-success route with extra time for acclimatization. It suits those who appreciate less crowded trails and are willing to invest in a safer, more comfortable experience.

If you’re after stunning scenery, knowledgeable guides, and a realistic shot at the summit, this trek ticks all boxes. It’s also perfect for travelers who value authentic wildlife encounters and want to enjoy the mountain’s natural beauty without the hustle of busier routes.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is transportation included?
Yes, the tour includes pickup in Moshi and transfer to the trailhead via 4WD vehicle.

Are meals provided during the trek?
All meals—breakfast, lunch, and dinner—are included throughout the 8 days, allowing you to focus on the climb.

Can I expect wildlife encounters?
While wildlife sightings aren’t guaranteed, the forests around Lemosho are inhabited by animals like buffalo and elephants, especially early in the trek.

What is the success rate of this route?
The additional days for acclimatization and the less crowded trail contribute to a higher success rate compared to some other routes.

What gear do I need to bring?
Though the tour provides meals and guidance, personal gear like trekking poles, warm clothing, rain gear, and comfortable hiking shoes are essential.

Is this tour suitable for children?
Children must be accompanied by adults, and the physical nature of the climb might not suit very young kids. Check specific age requirements with the provider.

What is the price covering?
The fee covers all park fees, meals, guides, and other necessary services. Tipping and personal expenses are not included.

Are the guides experienced?
Yes, guides like Karim and Leokadia are praised for their professionalism, punctuality, and friendliness—key to a successful climb.

Final Thoughts

The 8-day Lemosho Route offered by Afrishare Trekking and Safaris delivers a well-balanced package of natural beauty, safety, and higher success rates. Its slightly higher price is justified by the extra days for acclimatization, smaller group size, and experienced guides, making it a smart choice for serious adventurers.

If you’re looking for a more peaceful, scenic, and effective way to conquer Kilimanjaro—and you’re willing to invest in a premium experience—you’ll find this trek ticks all the right boxes. It’s particularly suited for those who value authenticity, safety, and a greater chance of reaching the summit.

Ready for an adventure of a lifetime? This route offers the perfect blend of challenge, scenery, and success—an experience you’ll remember long after the mountain is behind you.