Kilimanjaro Climb Lemosho Route 8 days

Planning a trek up Mount Kilimanjaro is no small feat, and choosing the right route can make or break your experience. Based on feedback and detailed itineraries, the 8-day Kilimanjaro Climb via the Lemosho Route offers an excellent blend of scenic beauty, success potential, and a less crowded trail. While we haven’t personally done it, the glowing reviews, experienced guides, and meticulous itinerary make it stand out as a top option for adventurers seeking a true challenge with rewarding views.

What we particularly love about this tour? First, the spectacular scenery on nearly every step, including the dramatic Shira Plateau. Second, the high success rate thanks to its gradual ascent and good acclimatization days. Third, the small group or private format ensures personalized attention. The only caveat? It’s a longer, more physically demanding trip, which might not suit everyone’s pace or budget. But for those ready to tackle one of Africa’s most iconic peaks, this route offers a well-balanced, authentic adventure.

This trek is ideal for travelers with a moderate fitness level who want to maximize their chances of summiting while enjoying breathtaking landscapes with fewer crowds. If you’re after a scenic, well-organized climb with experienced guides, this is a route worth considering.

Key Points

• Scenic and less crowded trail through the Shira Plateau and Barranco Wall.
• High success rate due to gradual ascent and acclimatization days.
• Expert guides and porters who prioritize safety and hospitality.
• All-inclusive package covering meals, permits, and accommodations.
• Longer itinerary provides better chances of acclimatization.
• Private tour option offers flexibility and personalized support.

The Ultimate Guide to the 8-Day Kilimanjaro Lemosho Route

Why Choose the Lemosho Route?

For many climbers, the decision often boils down to the terrain, success rates, and overall experience. The Lemosho Route used to be considered the best trail to summit Kilimanjaro, thanks to its scenic splendor and high success rate—before the Northern Circuit opened. It remains one of the most beautiful paths, offering panoramic views from multiple angles and avoiding the early crowds that pack the Machame Route.

This route begins on the western side of Kilimanjaro at Londorossi Gate, taking you through lush rainforests, across the Shira Plateau, and up to the iconic Barranco Wall. The journey is carefully paced over 8 days, giving your body ample time to adjust to altitude and reducing the risk of altitude sickness—crucial for a successful summit.

The Itinerary: A Day-by-Day Breakdown

Day 1: Londorossi Gate to Mti Mkubwa
You start from Moshi and head about four hours to Londorossi Gate to clear entry formalities. From there, a scenic drive takes you to the trailhead. The first hike is through undisturbed rainforest, winding to your first camp at Mti Mkubwa. Expect lush greenery, birdcalls, and the thrill of leaving civilization behind. It’s a gentle start, lasting around 3-4 hours, and the perfect way to ease into the high-altitude adventure.

Day 2: Mti Mkubwa to Shira 1 Camp
Leaving the rainforest, the trail quickly transforms into open savannah with tall grasses, heather, and volcanic rocks. We loved the way this day introduces you to the mountain’s diverse terrain, with stunning views of the surrounding landscape. The 5-6 hour trek takes you across rolling hills, crossing streams, and finally arriving at Shira 1 Camp, where you’ll catch the first glimpses of Kibo across the plateau. The wide-open vistas here are a highlight.

Day 3: Shira 1 Camp to Moir Hut
This day is dedicated to exploring the Shira Plateau, one of the highest on Earth. The walk is gentle but extended—around 6 hours—over moorland and meadows. The highlight? Visiting Moir Hut at the base of Lent Hills, which offers superb acclimatization opportunities. As one reviewer noted, this area allows for a variety of walks, helping your body adapt for the days ahead. The scenery here is surreal, with expansive views and a sense of being on top of the world.

Day 4: Moir Hut to Lava Tower and Barranco Camp
The ascent starts with a ridge walk leading to the striking Lava Tower, a volcanic formation at 15,190 ft. The climb is challenging but manageable, and the descent into Barranco Camp through the Senecio Forest is striking. This day balances elevation gain with acclimatization benefits, as you spend time at high altitude before descending again. We’re told that acclimatization is a key factor for success, and this day is designed to optimize it.

Day 5: Barranco to Karanga Camp
This stage features the famous Barranco Wall—a steep but non-technical climb that many find exhilarating, and a real highlight. The wall is nearly 900 ft of steep scrambling that tests your strength and confidence. Reviewers mention that guides are excellent at providing encouragement and safety. After conquering the wall, you descend into Karanga Valley, a shorter but intense day with stunning scenery.

Day 6: Karanga to Barafu Camp
From Karanga, you ascend to Barafu Camp, marking the end of the Southern Circuit. The views of Mawenzi and Kibo peaks from this rocky camp are breathtaking. Here, you’ll rest and prepare for the final push. The 4-5 hour climb is about steady ascent with incredible panoramas—an ideal spot to gather mental strength.

Day 7: Summit Night to Uhuru Peak and Descent to Mweka Camp
The most demanding day begins around midnight, with a strenuous, hours-long climb to Uhuru Peak—Africa’s highest point. The cold, wind, and fatigue are real challenges, but the reward is in witnessing a sunrise from the summit that’s hard to match. We read that the early start and the night-time effort are well worth it, especially when you see the spectacular view of Mawenzi from the top. After celebrating your success, you descend quickly to Mweka Camp, where rest and recovery await.

Day 8: Descent to Mweka Gate
Your final walk involves a 3-4 hour trek through rainforests back to Mweka Gate. Along the way, you’ll collect your certificates, a tangible symbol of your achievement. From there, a short drive takes you back to Moshi, filled with pride and a new appreciation for your physical limits—and the stunning scenery of Kilimanjaro.

The Experience: What Sets This Tour Apart?

Expert Guides and Support
One reviewer praised the professional team, mentioning that the guides made everyone feel like family. Guides like Shungu are known for their experience and care, which directly impacts safety, morale, and the overall journey. Fair wages for guides, porters, and cooks also reflect a commitment to ethical tourism—a detail many travelers appreciate.

Scenic Diversity and Fewer Crowds
The route’s design means you’ll avoid the early crowds on other paths, allowing for more solitude and a more intimate experience with nature. The panoramic vistas on the Shira Plateau, Barranco Wall, and summit are unforgettable. These views, combined with the lush rainforest and volcanic formations, create a visually stunning ascent.

Acclimatization Strategy
Spending extra days on the plateau and at Lava Tower enhances your chances of reaching the summit. Multiple reviews noted that the longer itinerary significantly improves success rates, especially for those concerned about altitude sickness.

Comfort and Logistics
All necessary permits, park fees, tents, mattresses, and meals are included, easing logistical worries. Filtered water and hot wash water throughout the trek add comfort to the challenging days. Private transportation from Moshi simplifies planning, and the option for a private tour means flexibility.

Value for the Price
At $2,450 per person, this comprehensive package covers everything but personal expenses. While it’s not the cheapest option, the inclusion of experienced guides, good accommodations, and designated support makes it a solid investment for those serious about reaching the peak.

The Challenges and Considerations

While the itinerary’s length and gradual ascent are designed for success, it does mean a longer, more physically demanding trip. Travelers should have moderate fitness and be prepared for early mornings, challenging terrain, and cold summit conditions. The price point may seem high, but considering what’s included—permits, guides, meals, tents—it offers good value for a well-supported climb.

Some might find the logistics of a longer trip less appealing if time or budget is limited. But if you want a scenic, less crowded route with a high likelihood of success, this is one to seriously consider.

Final Thoughts: Is This Tour Right for You?

If you’re after a scenic, well-organized climb with a high success chance, the Lemosho Route in 8 days offers one of the most rewarding Kilimanjaro experiences. The route’s stunning landscapes, expert guides, and thoughtful itinerary make it an excellent choice for those with a moderate fitness level who want to maximize their chance of summiting.

For travelers craving authentic adventure without the chaos of busier routes, this trek provides a peaceful, breathtaking journey. The focus on ethical support for guides and porters adds peace of mind, knowing your climb supports local communities.

While it requires a significant time commitment and investment, the extra days and scenic diversity truly enhance your odds of success and create unforgettable memories. If you’re prepared for the challenge, this tour promises a Kilimanjaro journey you’ll never forget.

FAQ

What’s included in the price?
The $2,450 fee covers all park fees, permits, meals (breakfast, lunch, dinner), private transportation, tents, mattresses, filtered water, hot wash water, guides, cook, and porters—all the essentials for a supported climb.

Is this suitable for beginners?
A moderate fitness level is recommended. The longer duration and gradual pace help with acclimatization, but some physical endurance is necessary for the steep sections and summit push.

Are private tours available?
Yes, this is a private tour, which means your group will be the only participants, allowing for flexibility and personalized attention.

What about the success rate?
The itinerary’s design, with extra acclimatization days and a slower pace, aims to maximize the chances of reaching Uhuru Peak. Many reviewers found the route successful, especially with experienced guides.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, the tour offers free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance, providing flexibility if circumstances change unexpectedly.

What should I pack?
While the tour includes tents and mattresses, you’ll need to bring personal trekking gear, warm clothing, layered layers for summit cold, and essentials like headlamps, gloves, and sun protection.

To sum it up, this Kilimanjaro climb via the Lemosho Route offers an outstanding combination of scenic beauty, high success potential, and ethical support. Perfect for those looking for a rewarding challenge with a touch of adventure and serenity. If you’re prepared to commit and want the best chance to reach the top, this trip truly stands out.