Unforgettable 8 Days Lemosho Route Trekking on Kilimanjaro

Climbing Mount Kilimanjaro via the Lemosho Route is often regarded as one of the most scenic and rewarding ways to conquer Africa’s tallest peak. While I haven’t personally tackled this journey, I’ve gathered detailed insights from those who have, along with the comprehensive tour overview, to give you a clear picture of what to expect.

This 8-day adventure combines breathtaking vistas, a lower crowd density, and a well-balanced itinerary designed for high success rates. We love the route’s gradual acclimatization, diverse landscapes, and the expert guidance that seems to make all the difference. However, a possible consideration is the physical demand — this trek is serious and requires good preparation.

Perfect for those with a taste for adventure, a love of nature, and a desire to take on Africa’s highest mountain, this tour offers both challenge and charm. It’s especially suitable for trekkers who appreciate scenic routes and want a more intimate experience than the busier trails.

Key Points

• Scenic and Less Crowded: The Lemosho route offers stunning views and fewer climbers, making the experience more personal.
• High Success Rate: Its gradual ascent and good acclimatization days boost your chances of reaching the summit.
• Expert Guides and Support: Guides like Nalisis and others are highly praised for their professionalism and knowledge.
• Comfortable and Delicious: The included food and attentive service, especially the praise for the chef, add value.
• Balanced Itinerary: The route combines trekking, acclimatization, and rest days for a safer, more enjoyable climb.
• Affordable for What You Get: At $1,500, the price is reasonable considering the comprehensive 8-day experience, including all fees and permits.

A Comprehensive Look at the 8-Day Lemosho Route Trek

Why Choose the Lemosho Route?

Most climbers prefer the Lemosho route because it strikes a fine balance between scenic beauty, lower crowds, and a high chance of success. Starting from the west and crossing the Shira Plateau, it’s known for its lush rainforests initially, then gradually opening up to panoramic views. Unlike the more popular Machame route, the Lemosho is less congested, giving you a more peaceful experience.

Travelers frequently mention that the views from this trail are some of the best on Kilimanjaro, with expansive vistas on multiple sides of the mountain. Many report loving the variety of landscapes—from rainforests to moorlands to rocky paths—and the chance to see authentic flora and fauna along the way.

The Itinerary Breakdown

Day 1: From Moshi to Londorossi Gate and Mti Mkubwa Camp

The journey begins with a 2.5-hour drive from Moshi to Londorossi Park Gate, located at 2,250m. This initial leg involves getting park permits and briefing with your guide — a crucial step to understand the rules and safety measures. From there, a short 45-minute walk through the rainforest leads to Mti Mkubwa campsite.

Seasoned guides, such as those praised in reviews, emphasize how important this first day is for setting expectations. The lush greenery and sounds of forest animals help you settle into the adventure.

Day 2: Trekking Across the Shira Plateau to Shira Camp One

The second day sees your trail gradually steepen and cross the Shira Ridge, reaching 3,600m. The trek takes around 11 hours, which sounds long but is designed to aid acclimatization. The Shira Plateau, with its expansive views and streams, provides a scenic backdrop that guides highlight as a highlight.

Reviewers like those from Tripadvisor emphasize how well this day prepares you for the altitude and acclimatization, making it a beneficial part of the climb. The moderate pace and varied terrain help reduce fatigue.

Day 3: Moving to Shira Camp Two

A lighter day of about 7 hours, this section is perfect for acclimatization. Walking across the plateau to Shira Camp Two, you’ll experience a landscape dotted with meadows and streams. Many travelers appreciated this day for its less strenuous walk and the opportunity to enjoy the scenery, with some even choosing to do optional short walks for better acclimation.

Day 4: Ascending to Lava Tower and Barranco Camp

This is a pivotal day. The ascent begins early, passing through rocky terrain and eventually reaching Lava Tower at 4,630m. For the adventurous, scrambling to the top of Lava Tower is a rewarding challenge. After lunch, there’s a descent to Barranco Camp, which sits at 3,950m.

The reviews praise guides like Nalisis for their expertise in navigating this challenging terrain, especially at altitude. The combination of ascend and descend helps your body adapt, but the climb up Lava Tower remains one of the more physically demanding parts.

Day 5: To Camp at 4,640m (Barafu)

This day involves a tough walk across scree slopes, with the aim of reaching Barafu Camp. The terrain is barren, and the altitude can make even walking feel strenuous. Reviewers like those from Tripadvisor mention the importance of hydration, warm clothing, and mental resilience during this phase. The ascent prepares you for the summit push, which is scheduled for the night.

Day 6: Final Prep at Barafu and Descent to Mweka

After resting and preparing at Barafu, you’ll hike east to join the Mweka route. This day involves a long, 13-hour shift, including the descent from 4,640m to the lower camps. Many mention the “long haul,” but the relief of heading downhill is significant. A hot lunch at Mweka Village offers a much-needed reward.

Day 7: The Summit Night and Reaching Uhuru Peak

Starting around midnight, you’ll climb through heavy scree for about 6 hours up to Stella Point, catching the sunrise along the way. The final push from Stella Point to Uhuru Peak at 5,895m is steep and physically taxing — the most challenging part of the trip. Reviewers describe the experience as “tough but worth it,” with the view from the summit unforgettable.

Day 8: Descent and Return to Moshi

The final day is a scenic 3-hour walk back to Mweka Gate, where climbers celebrate their achievement with certificates. Following a hot lunch, you’ll be driven back to Moshi, with many noting how the combination of accomplishment and breathtaking scenery makes the trek truly memorable.

Why This Tour Offers Great Value

At $1,500, this package covers all necessary fees, taxes, and permits, which is quite competitive given the eight-day length. The inclusion of meals, pickups, and guided support means you won’t need to worry about extra costs or logistics, allowing you to focus on the climb.

The tour’s emphasis on expert guides and support staff shines through in reviews, where guides like Nalisis and the chef, Jackson, earn special mentions. Sharing stories of delicious food and attentive service, reviewers say that these small touches make a big difference in what can otherwise be a tough experience.

Plus, the balance of challenging days and rest periods helps prevent altitude sickness and fatigue, contributing to the impressive success rate of climbers. Many customers mention that their guides were incredibly knowledgeable about the mountain’s terrain and conditions, which reassures first-timers.

Practical Details That Matter

Transport: The journey begins with a drive from Moshi to Londorossi Gate, which takes about 2.5 hours. The use of a 4WD vehicle helps navigate the rough roads comfortably.

Group Size & Support: Most climbs are conducted in groups, with the tour accommodating up to 100 travelers, but the guided experience feels personal thanks to the support staff, including porters, cooks, and guides.

Timing & Duration: The 8-day schedule allows for a gradual ascent, reducing the risk of altitude sickness. The longer duration is a significant advantage over shorter treks, as many reviewers note increased comfort and success.

Food & Accommodation: Expect hearty meals and good-quality camping gear. The praise for the chef indicates that food is not only plentiful but also tasty, providing much-needed energy and morale boosts during the climb.

Final Thoughts

This 8-day Lemosho Route tour offers a well-rounded, authentic Kilimanjaro experience. Its scenic variety, high success rate, and the expertise of guides like Nalisis and Jackson make it an excellent choice for serious trekkers seeking a memorable adventure.

While the physical challenge is real, the route’s approach and support system aim to make the journey as smooth and rewarding as possible. The inclusive price, covering permits, meals, and guides, adds to its value, especially considering the length and quality of the experience.

If you’re looking for a less crowded, scenic route with a good chance of reaching the summit and enjoying authentic African hospitality, this tour is hard to beat. Just prepare yourself physically and mentally for a journey that’s as tough as it is breathtaking.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is included in the price of $1,500?
All fees and taxes, breakfast, lunch, and dinner for the entire 8 days, pickup, and park permits are included. You won’t need to worry about additional costs for these essentials.

Are there any optional activities during the trek?
The itinerary is structured to maximize acclimatization and scenic views; optional activities aren’t specified, but the route itself offers plenty of opportunities to enjoy the landscape, especially during acclimatization days.

What kind of support will I have during the climb?
You’ll be guided by experienced professionals, with support from porters, cooks, and guides. Many reviews highlight how guides like Nalisis are knowledgeable and attentive, making the climb safer and more enjoyable.

How physically demanding is this trek?
It’s a challenging adventure, especially the ascent to Barafu and the summit night. The route’s gradual approach helps, but good physical prep is recommended to handle the altitude and terrain.

What makes the Lemosho route different from others?
It’s less crowded, more scenic, and offers better acclimatization. The route crosses diverse landscapes, from rainforests to rocky terrains, providing a richer experience.

Is tipping expected?
While tips aren’t included, reviewers advise tipping your crew at the end of the climb as a sign of appreciation for their hard work and support.

Can I expect good food during the trek?
Yes, many travelers mention the chef’s delicious meals, which include hearty and tasty dishes that sustain you during the physically demanding days.

Final Words

Choosing the right Kilimanjaro route can make or break your adventure. This 8-day Lemosho tour, with its scenic beauty, knowledgeable guides, and supportive atmosphere, offers a solid chance at reaching the summit while truly enjoying every step. It’s a journey that combines nature’s grandeur with the satisfaction of a well-supported ascent—perfect for those ready for a rewarding challenge.