Private 8-Day Kilimanjaro Trek on Lemosho Route from Moshi

Climbing Mount Kilimanjaro is often dubbed a “once-in-a-lifetime” opportunity—and for good reason. This review explores a highly-rated 8-day private trek along the Lemosho Route offered by Takims Holidays, one of the most scenic and successful paths to Africa’s highest peak. While we haven’t personally summited, the detailed itinerary, glowing reviews, and comprehensive descriptions paint a vivid picture of what travelers can expect.

What we love about this experience? First, the route’s stunning panoramic vistas promise some of the most breathtaking views on Kilimanjaro. Second, the route’s excellent acclimatization strategy—walking high, sleeping low—boosts your chances of reaching the summit. Third, the support team of knowledgeable guides, chefs, and porters significantly elevates the experience, making the climb not only safer but more enjoyable.

A possible consideration is the price point—$3,335 per person—which, while reflecting a comprehensive package, may seem steep for budget travelers. However, considering what’s included—private transportation, expert guides, camping gear, meals, and all fees—the value is quite compelling. This tour caters best to those in good physical condition seeking a guided, scenic, and well-supported Kilimanjaro adventure.

Key Points

• High success rate due to excellent acclimatization opportunities on the route.
• Scenic vistas from the Western side starting at Londorossi Gate.
• Expert guides and support staff enhance safety and experience.
• All-inclusive package covers transportation, gear, meals, and permits.
• Great for non-technical climbers as Kilimanjaro is the highest free-standing mountain in the world.
• Travelers should be prepared for long days and altitude challenges.

Why the Lemosho Route? A Scenic Path to the Summit

The Lemosho Route is famed for its stunning views and gentle acclimatization profile. Starting on the mountain’s western side at Londorossi Gate, it offers a more remote and less crowded experience compared to other routes like Machame or Marangu. This trek is especially popular among seasoned hikers and first-timers alike because of its high success rate and scenic variety.

The route is characterized by lush forests, expansive moorlands, and dramatic volcanic formations. As you ascend, you’ll witness panoramic vistas of the surrounding landscape, including views of Kibo, Mount Meru, and the volcanic cones. The route’s design allows for “walk high, sleep low,” which helps your body adjust more effectively to the altitude.

Day-by-Day Breakdown: What You Can Expect

Day 1: From Moshi to Forest – The Start of Your Journey

Your adventure begins with a 3-hour drive from Moshi to the Londorossi Gate, where you’ll complete park entry formalities. From there, a 1-hour ride on a 4WD track takes you to the Lemosho trailhead at 2,000 meters.

Once you start walking, expect to trek through lush montane forest, possibly spotting Colobus monkeys—an exciting first wildlife encounter. The hike covers about 5.4 km and takes roughly 3.5 hours, setting a gentle pace to ease you into mountain life.

Day 2: Into the Moorlands – Ascending to Shira One

The trail shifts from dense forest to the volcanic landscape as you climb to Shira One Camp at 3,500 meters. Expect a vigorous hike of about 8.1 km over 4-5 hours. The terrain opens up to rolling hills and lava flows, with views of the Shira Plateau—a volcanic cone filled with ancient lava.

This day is crucial for acclimatization; the altitude gain is manageable but significant enough to prepare your body for higher elevations.

Day 3: Shira Plateau and Optional Climb

Today involves trekking across the vast Shira Plateau. An optional climb to Shira Cathedral (3,880m) is available, adding roughly an hour but offering a valuable altitude boost. The main route ends at Shira 2 Camp after about 3 hours of walking, with 7.5 km covered.

The scenery here is arguably some of the most striking on the mountain, with expansive views and a chance to stretch your legs and lungs.

Day 4: Lava Tower and Barranco Valley – A Day for Acclimatization

This day features a steady ascent over high desert ridgelines to Lava Tower—a 300-foot volcanic plug. After reaching Lava Tower, you’ll enjoy a steep descent into the Barranco Valley, passing large flowering plants that resemble trees—a surreal sight.

The full day involves approximately 8 hours of hiking, but this ‘climb high, sleep low’ approach significantly benefits your adaptation process.

Day 5: Barranco Wall and Karranga Valley – The Climb

The day’s highlight is the scramble up Barranco Wall, an exhilarating challenge that rewards you with panoramic views. From the top, you’ll descend into Karranga Valley before climbing again to Karranga Camp at 4,000 meters.

Expect a 4-hour trek covering 6.6 km. Many reviews praise this day for its scenery and the impressive rock scramble, which boosts confidence for the upcoming summit push.

Day 6: To Barafu – The Final Base Camp

Climbing from Karranga to Barafu Camp involves a steady 3-hour walk over 3.5 km, reaching 4,600 meters. The terrain transforms into an alpine desert, and from this vantage point, you’ll see the peaks of Mawenzi and Kibo.

This camp is your staging ground for the summit night. The focus here is rest and prep for the early start the next morning.

Day 7: Summit Night – Reaching Uhuru Peak

The early hours of Day 7 see you starting your final ascent, often in the dark and cold. Expect a very challenging climb, covering approximately 15 hours in total. The reward is standing at Uhuru Peak, the highest point in Africa, at 5,895 meters.

Along the way, you’ll pass Stella Point at 5,750 meters, where the sun often rises in a spectacular display. The descent back to Mweka Camp is swift but tiring, with lunch en route.

Day 8: Descending Through Lush Forest

After a final breakfast, you descend through dense forest, keeping an eye out for monkeys. The trek from Mweka Camp to the gate takes roughly 4-6 hours over 8.5 km. It’s a satisfying end to your climb, with a sense of achievement and breathtaking rainforest vistas awaiting.

The Support Team: Key to Success and Comfort

The tour’s team of professional guides, chefs, and porters significantly enhances the experience. Reviewers point out that guides like Abbas are notably knowledgeable, creating a safer, more enjoyable ascent by offering constant encouragement and expert advice.

The inclusion of dining and mess tents, camping gear, bottled water, and basic first aid means you won’t have to worry about logistics or gear. This makes the climb more accessible, especially for those unfamiliar with multi-day trekking.

Value for Price: Is It Worth It?

At $3,335 per person, this package covers almost everything—transportation, permits, guides, meals, and camping equipment. While it might seem steep, when you consider the inclusions and high success rate, the value becomes clearer. You’re paying not just for the climb but for peace of mind, expert guidance, and a well-managed experience.

For travelers who prioritize comfort, safety, and scenic diversity, this tour offers a comprehensive package that removes most logistical concerns, allowing you to focus fully on the climb.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This trek is ideal for active travelers in good physical shape, eager to tackle Kilimanjaro with professional support. Its scenic route suits those who appreciate striking landscapes and want a high chance of reaching the summit. Beginners and seasoned climbers alike will find the route’s manageable acclimatization and expert guides beneficial.

People seeking a private, fully supported experience—without the hassle of planning every detail—will find this package particularly attractive.

Final Thoughts

Climbing Kilimanjaro via the Lemosho Route with Takims Holidays is a well-supported, scenic, and promising adventure. The route’s natural beauty, combined with a knowledgeable team, offers a compelling reason to choose this tour. While the price might be a barrier for some, the inclusions, success rate, and overall comfort justify the investment.

This experience is perfect for those seeking a scenic, non-technical ascent with high chances of reaching the summit in a safe, supportive environment. Expect breathtaking views, expert guidance, and the thrill of conquering Africa’s tallest peak.

FAQs

How long is the trek each day?
Most days involve 3 to 6 hours of trekking, with the summit day being the longest, around 15 hours. Expect early starts and long days but plenty of time to enjoy the scenery.

What is included in the price?
The tour covers all fees and taxes, private transportation, professional guides, porters, meals, camping gear, and permit fees. It also provides bottled water and basic first aid.

Are there any optional activities?
Yes, an optional climb to Shira Cathedral is available on Day 3, adding about an hour to your trek but offering valuable acclimatization.

Is this suitable for beginners?
While Kilimanjaro is non-technical, it’s physically demanding. Good fitness and proper acclimatization are essential. Guides are experienced in supporting climbers of various levels.

What gear should I bring?
While the tour provides camping gear, travelers should bring personal essentials like layered clothing for temperature extremes, sturdy hiking shoes, and personal toiletries. Personal equipment such as sleeping bags and walking poles are not included.

What is the best time to climb?
The tour’s description doesn’t specify seasons, but Kilimanjaro’s dry seasons (around January to March and June to October) are generally ideal for trekking.

To sum it up, this 8-day Kilimanjaro trek on the Lemosho Route offers a scenic, well-supported, and high-success experience suited for those seeking unforgettable views and a manageable climb-to-success ratio. With expert guides, comprehensive logistics, and stunning landscapes, it represents a strong choice for anyone ready to take on Africa’s iconic summit.