8 Days Mount Kilimanjaro Climbing via Lemosho Route

Planning a Kilimanjaro ascent can feel overwhelming, with countless routes, operators, and varying levels of difficulty. Our review explores the 8-day Mount Kilimanjaro climb via the Lemosho route offered by Kentau Safaris, a tour that promises stunning scenery, a high success rate, and a well-supported trek. While we haven’t personally trekked it, real travelers describe this experience as memorable, thanks to its balance of adventure, comfort, and natural beauty.

What we love about this tour is its scenic appeal, with panoramic views on multiple sides of the mountain, the reassurance of experienced guides, and the thoughtful itinerary that prioritizes acclimatization. The only potential consideration might be the cost, but when you factor in the level of support, quality equipment, and expert guides, it offers true value. This tour is perfect for those who want a well-organized, immersive climb and are comfortable with a moderate physical challenge.

Key Points

• Scenic Route: The Lemosho route offers some of the most stunning vistas on Kilimanjaro, making it ideal for photography lovers and nature enthusiasts.
• High Success Rate: The itinerary emphasizes acclimatization with varied terrain, increasing your chances of reaching the summit.
• Expert Guidance: Guides are experienced and supportive, with reviews emphasizing their knowledge and team spirit.
• Comfort and Equipment: Modern, high-quality tents and safety gear enhance comfort during the multi-day trek.
• Balanced Itinerary: The route combines challenging climbs with adequate rest days, preventing exhaustion.
• Value for Price: At $2,500 per person, the experience provides comprehensive support, gear, and professional services, making it a solid investment for serious trekkers.

Introduction to the Kilimanjaro Lemosho Route

The Lemosho route is often called the most scenic trail on Mount Kilimanjaro, and it’s easy to see why. It cruises through lush rainforests, offers sweeping views of the mountain’s glacial peaks, and tends to be less crowded than some other routes. For climbers seeking a mix of natural beauty and a higher chance of success, this route strikes a fantastic balance.

Kentau Safaris specializes in guiding on this route, and their focus on experienced leadership and carefully planned logistics make this tour stand out. It’s particularly suitable for those who value guided expertise, comfortable gear, and a route that carefully manages altitude sickness risk while delivering breathtaking scenery.

The Itinerary in Detail

Day 1: Arrival and Forest Trekking

Your journey begins in Moshi, with a 3-hour drive through welcoming Tanzanian villages to the Kilimanjaro National Park Gate. The first part of the trek takes you into the rainforest, where the trail can be muddy and slippery—definitely gaiters and trekking poles territory here. Watching the busy preparations at the park entrance and chatting about flora and fauna set a lively tone for the adventure ahead.

Travelers report that the lower rainforest canopy is lush and alive, providing a green, humid start. The guide’s explanations about local plants and animals add educational value early on, making the walk more engaging. Expect around 5 hours of trekking, with admission included, and the promise of a peaceful camp to rest up.

Day 2: From Rainforest to Moorland

Leaving the dense forest behind, the trail begins to climb steadily, offering views of the surrounding landscape and the mountain looming in the distance. The focus at this stage is on altitude gain—about 719 meters—and acclimatization. The walk takes about 6 hours, and you’ll pass through varied scenery as you ascend into the moorlands.

Travelers love the transition from jungle to alpine zones, noting how the changing environment keeps the experience fresh. The guide’s commentary on the mountain’s ecology enriches the trek, and the view from the rim of the Shira Plateau hints at the grandeur to come.

Day 3: Exploring Shira Plateau

This full day is dedicated to exploring the Shira Plateau, one of the highest on Earth, offering panoramic views of the glaciered peaks. The walk is gentle but long, about 6 hours, crossing moorlands and streams, with a stop at Moir Hut for acclimatization.

Reviewers highlight that the full day on the plateau is key for altitude adjustment, with some describing it as “a gentle walk” that still feels adventurous. The environment here is open and windswept, with plenty of photo opportunities and opportunities for optional walks on Lent Hills, adding flexibility and extra acclimatization.

Day 4: Ascending to Lava Tower and Barranco Camp

Day 4 involves a modest 91-meter altitude gain but is critical for acclimatization. The route heads east up a ridge, passing the iconic Lava Tower (called Shark’s Tooth at 4,650 meters). From there, the group descends to Barranco Camp, a surprisingly lush spot to rest after a day of varied terrain.

Travelers mention that this day’s highlights include passing the Lava Tower and the feeling of being on a mini expedition with impressive views. The descent helps reduce altitude pressure, increasing your chances of summit success. Expect about 5 hours of trekking.

Day 5: Barranco Wall and Karanga Valley

The morning begins with a steep and exhilarating climb over the Barranco Wall, a favorite among climbers for the sense of adventure and the impressive display of guide and crew agility. After conquering the wall, the trek continues to Karanga Camp, with the route connecting with the Mweka Trail.

Reviewers note that the Barranco Wall demonstrates the strength and skill of the guides, who manage complex sections confidently. The day’s terrain is rugged but rewarding, with plenty of spectacular views—an essential part of the acclimatization process.

Day 6: Up to Barafu Camp

Progressing to Barafu Camp marks the start of the final push. The route offers views of the summit from many angles, thanks to the South Circuit. The terrain here is rocky and exposed, so expect early dinner and rest in preparation for the night ascent.

Travelers say that arriving at Barafu feels like reaching the base camp of a major expedition, with anticipation building for the summit night. The early evening is spent resting and fueling up for the challenge ahead.

Day 7: The Summit Night

This is the most physically demanding part of the climb, starting between midnight and 2 a.m. As you work your way through scree and snow towards Stella Point, the sense of anticipation grows. The climb to the crater rim is a test of stamina, but the reward—the magnificent sunrise over Africa—is unforgettable.

Reviewers describe the summit night as both tough and exhilarating, emphasizing the importance of proper pacing and mental resilience. The guides help keep spirits high and provide support as you battle fatigue and cold.

Day 8: Descent and Celebration

After a celebratory moment at Uhuru Peak, you descend to the Mweka Gate, where your summit certificate awaits. The descent is muddy and steep, so gaiters and trekking poles are highly recommended. The drive back to Moshi, about 30 minutes, is a time to reflect on your achievement.

Travelers often mention the emotional high of completing the climb and the heartfelt team goodbye during the celebration ceremony.

What Sets This Tour Apart?

Expert Guides and Support Team: Reviews consistently highlight the guides’ knowledge, professionalism, and supportive attitude. Many mention that the team’s teamwork and skill made the climb more manageable and enjoyable.

Stunning Scenery: From rainforest to alpine moorlands, lava formations, and glaciers, the route offers unrivaled visual diversity. Photographers will find plenty of opportunities for breathtaking shots.

Comfortable Equipment: The tents provided are top-quality North Face VE-25 models, and the entire gear setup ensures a more comfortable experience in the often harsh mountain environment.

Acclimatization-Focused Itinerary: The carefully planned stops and gradual altitude gain help reduce fatigue and increase success chances, as seen from feedback about the full day on Shira Plateau and the ascent profile.

Value for Money: At $2,500, the package includes permits, all meals, tents, guides, and transfers. While not the cheapest, the level of service and equipment justifies the price for most climbers seeking a hassle-free experience.

Practical Details and Considerations

Transportation and Timing: The journey begins with a 3-hour drive from Moshi to the park gate, followed by scheduled daily walks averaging 5-6 hours. The start time is at midnight for the summit push, which means you should be prepared for a long, cold night.

Group Size and Support: The tour caters to a maximum of 15 travelers, ensuring personalized attention. The guides and crew are praised for their professionalism, knowledge, and team spirit—key to a successful climb.

What to Bring: While equipment is provided, travelers should bring personal gear, warm clothing, headlamps, and snacks. The weather can be unpredictable, so layers are essential.

Insurance and Tips: Mountaineering insurance isn’t included, and tipping the crew is customary but not obligatory. Travelers often appreciate a tip for guides and support staff, which rewards their effort and expertise.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This climb is best suited for those with moderate physical fitness who are prepared for a multi-day challenge. The itinerary’s focus on acclimatization and expert guides makes it a good choice for first-timers with some trekking experience. It’s also ideal for travelers who want spectacular scenery combined with a high success rate in reaching the summit.

If you’re looking for a well-supported, scenic, and less crowded route, the Lemosho via this tour is a strong contender. The quality of gear, thoughtful planning, and dedicated guides make it a memorable adventure worth the investment.

The Sum Up

The 8-day Mount Kilimanjaro climb via the Lemosho route offered by Kentau Safaris offers a compelling package for adventure seekers eager to conquer Africa’s highest peak. Its stunning scenery, excellent guide team, and well-structured itinerary make it stand out among Kilimanjaro tours. While the price reflects the quality and support involved, many reviewers agree that it’s a worthwhile investment in an unforgettable experience.

This tour is perfect for travelers who want to balance natural beauty, safety, and support, all while challenging themselves physically and mentally. Whether it’s your first big mountain or you’re aiming for a high success rate, this climb provides a safe, scenic, and authentic Kilimanjaro adventure.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is included in the tour?
The package includes pickup and drop-off at the park, permits, tents, safety and hiking equipment, guides, and all meals during the trek.

How long is the trekking each day?
Most days involve around 5-6 hours of trekking, with some days shorter and others slightly longer, depending on acclimatization needs and terrain.

What should I bring personally?
You’ll need personal gear, warm clothing, headlamps, and snacks. The gear provided by the tour includes tents and safety equipment.

Is this route suitable for beginners?
While the route is designed to maximize success with acclimatization, some prior trekking experience and moderate fitness are recommended.

When does the summit attempt happen?
The summit night starts between midnight and 2 a.m., requiring an early bedtime and good preparation the night before.

How does the price compare to other Kilimanjaro tours?
At $2,500, this tour offers a good balance of quality, support, and scenery, especially given the inclusion of gear, permits, and expert guides.

What kind of support will I have during the climb?
You’ll have a professional guide, a team of support staff, and high-quality gear to help you through the challenging sections.

Can I get a refund if I cancel?
Yes, cancellations made at least 24 hours in advance are fully refundable. Less notice may incur charges, so plan accordingly.

For anyone craving an authentic, scenic, and well-supported climb, this Kilimanjaro tour stands out as a great choice. It combines adventure with comfort, led by experienced guides and supported by quality equipment—making that dream of standing on Africa’s highest point more achievable than ever.