Joining Kilimanjaro Trekking Tour: Lemosho Route – 6 Days

Planning a trek to the roof of Africa is no small feat, and choosing the right route and operator can make all the difference. The 6-day Lemosho Route offered by KILINGE -ADVENTURES promises an exhilarating journey with a focus on scenic beauty, safety, and efficiency. While it’s an ambitious schedule, it’s designed for those wanting to conquer Kilimanjaro quickly without sacrificing the experience.

What we love about this tour? First, the expert guides truly stand out — they’re seasoned, knowledgeable, and committed to your safety. Second, the spectacular landscapes from lush rainforests to breathtaking alpine views make each day unforgettable. Third, the opportunity to spot unique flora and fauna adds an authentic touch of wilderness to the trek. On the flip side, a possible challenge may be the rapid ascent, which requires good acclimatization and physical readiness. This trip suits adventurous travelers who are physically prepared, eager for a shorter but intense climb, and want to experience Kilimanjaro in a manageable timeframe.

Key Points

• Short but challenging: Six days to reach the summit, ideal for seasoned trekkers.
• Beautiful landscapes: From rainforests to alpine deserts, the scenery is stunning at every turn.
• Expert guides: Knowledgeable, safety-conscious, and supportive throughout the journey.
• All-inclusive value: Accommodation, meals, transportation, and camping gear are covered.
• Not included: Park fees, flights, insurance, visas, and alcohol are extras.
• Flexible booking: Change plans with a 24-hour cancellation window and reserve now, pay later.

You can check availability for your dates here:

The Overall Experience

The Lemosho Route is celebrated for its natural beauty and relatively gentle start, making it a popular choice for travelers seeking a scenic safari-like trek. The 6-day itinerary condenses the climb, focusing on key highlights and efficient acclimatization, but demands good fitness and mental resilience. You’ll trek through some of Kilimanjaro’s most varied habitats, enjoying lush rainforests on Day 1 and expansive moorlands on Days 2 and 3, culminating in the challenging Barranco Wall on Day 5.

What makes this route particularly appealing is the progressive acclimatization it offers, which increases your chances of reaching the summit. The early days around Londorossi Gate and the rainforest are a gentle introduction, where you might spot black-and-white colobus monkeys and exotic birds. As you ascend onto the Shira Plateau, the scenery opens up with panoramic views, and the landscape becomes more stark and dramatic.

Day-by-Day Breakdown

Day 1: Londorossi Gate to Mti Mkubwa Camp

Starting at Londorossi Gate, the journey begins with a walk through dense, vibrant rainforest. This first day is relatively short—just 6 kilometers—but packed with sights. You’ll be accompanied by your expert guides, who are well-versed in local flora and fauna. Expect to see black-and-white colobus monkeys and colorful birdlife. The trail’s lush greenery is a calming contrast to what lies ahead.

Most reviews praise the professional guidance here. One reviewer noted, “Our guide, Joseph, was fantastic — he kept us entertained, informed, and safe, even spotting wildlife I’d miss on my own.” The day concludes at Mti Mkubwa Camp, where camping equipment and mattresses ensure a comfortable night amid nature.

Day 2: Mti Mkubwa to Shira 1 Camp

The trek from rainforest to moorland marks a key transition. The ascent becomes steeper as you climb out of the jungle, revealing expansive views of Mount Meru in the distance. The 8 km hike takes about 5-6 hours, and the terrain becomes sparser and more rugged.

Travelers often comment on the stunning vistas on this leg. One noted, “The landscape changed so dramatically — it’s like stepping onto a different planet.” The camp is situated on the Shira Plateau, providing a perfect base for acclimatization and further exploration.

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Day 3: Shira 1 to Shira 2 Camp

This day is shorter—around 7 km—and designed to help your body adjust to higher elevations. The route crosses the plateau, offering breathtaking views of Kibo Peak and surrounding landscapes. It’s a day for gentle walking, but the altitude is noticeable, so hydration and rest are key.

Reviewers appreciated the panoramic scenery. A hiker shared, “The flatness of the plateau combined with the views made it an easy, enjoyable day.” The camp at Shira 2 sets a solid base for the next stage, with well-maintained facilities and a good chance to stretch your legs.

Day 4: Shira 2 to Barranco Camp via Lava Tower

This is the most physically demanding day. You’ll trek about 10 km, climbing up to Lava Tower (4,600 meters) for a crucial acclimatization stop, then descend to Barranco Camp at 3,960 meters. The ascent to Lava Tower is a volcanic highlight, giving you a taste of the mountain’s geothermal activity.

The descent to Barranco is steep but offers incredible views of the Barranco Wall, a steep scramble that many consider the day’s climax. Several reviews highlight the stunning scenery and the importance of acclimatization. One hiker mentioned, “The Lava Tower was tough but worth it for the views, and the descent through the alpine desert was surreal.”

Day 5: Barranco to Barafu, via Karanga and Barranco Wall

The day starts with tackling the Barranco Wall, a steep scramble with a safety chain, providing both an adrenaline rush and fantastic views. Once over it, the trail eases into the high-altitude desert as you approach Karanga Camp, then head to Barafu Camp, your base for the summit push.

This is considered the shortest but most intense day, with just 5 km to cover. Many praise the supportive guides who help manage the altitude challenges. “Their encouragement kept us going,” remarks a trekker. After reaching Barafu, you rest and prepare for the midnight climb.

Day 6: The Final Push and Summit

The ascent begins around midnight, with most climbers reaching Uhuru Peak by sunrise. The 17 km journey takes approximately 7-8 hours but is the ultimate reward. Expect to encounter arctic conditions at the summit, with a thin, cold air that tests your endurance.

Most reviews describe the feeling of standing on the summit as truly unforgettable. One experienced trekker shared, “The early morning climb was brutal, but the sunrise over Africa’s highest point made it all worthwhile.” After celebrating your success, the descent through the lush rainforest to Mweka Gate brings relief and a sense of achievement.

What’s Included and What’s Not

Included in the package are accommodation huts, professional guides, transfers from Moshi to the gate, all transportation during the trek, meals, drinking water, camping equipment, and a sleeping mattress. These essentials ensure comfort and safety, especially given the rugged terrain.

However, you’ll need to budget for national park fees, international flights, travel insurance, visa fees, and alcoholic beverages. It’s important to factor these into your overall trip cost for a smooth experience.

Practical Tips for Your Trek

Travelers often mention the importance of bringing proper gear—hiking shoes, rain gear, a sleeping bag, extra socks, a flashlight, and a daypack. The weather can change rapidly, and high-altitude conditions require preparation.

The timing of the climb — starting around midnight — is designed to maximize your chances of success and avoid daytime heat. Expect the final push to be physically demanding but immensely rewarding, especially when you glimpse the sun rising over Africa from the summit.

The Role of Guides and Support Staff

Many reviews emphasize the dedication and expertise of the guides. Names like Joseph and John are repeatedly praised for their patience, humor, and mountain knowledge. Their role isn’t just navigational; they help manage altitude sickness, keep morale high, and ensure safety at every step.

The staff’s experience often makes the difference between a successful summit and a missed opportunity. Their ability to read the mountain conditions and support climbers with encouragement is crucial, especially during the challenging summit night.

The Sum Up

This 6-day Kilimanjaro Lemosho Route trek offers a compact but comprehensive way to reach Africa’s highest point. It balances scenic diversity, good acclimatization, and expert support, providing a valuable experience for those with limited time but big ambitions.

While the pace is swift, the route’s varied terrain and stunning views make it a truly memorable adventure. The included services — from guides to camping gear — ensure comfort and safety, making it especially suitable for gear-savvy, physically prepared travelers who want a high-quality, guided climb.

For those looking to conquer Kilimanjaro without dedicating a full week, this tour offers excellent value. The stunning landscapes, expert guiding, and efficient itinerary make it a compelling choice for adventurous spirits eager to tick off a major bucket list goal.

FAQ

What is included in the tour package?
The package covers accommodation huts, professional mountain guides, transfers from Moshi to the gate, transportation during the trek, meals, drinking water, camping equipment, and sleeping mattresses.

Are park fees included?
No, the national park fees are not included in the price; you’ll need to pay these separately.

What should I bring for the trek?
Expect to bring hiking shoes, rain gear, a sleeping bag, socks, a flashlight, a daypack, and other trekking gear to stay comfortable and safe.

Is the itinerary suitable for beginners?
While suitable for those with good fitness and trekking experience, the 6-day pace may be tight for complete beginners. It’s best for physically prepared travelers.

How difficult is the ascent?
The route involves several high-altitude days, making the ascent challenging, especially during the summit push. Proper acclimatization and preparation are essential.

Who are the guides?
The guides are experienced professionals well-versed in mountain safety and local conditions, often praised for their support and knowledge.

Can I cancel or reschedule?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund. You also have the option to reserve now and pay later, offering flexibility in planning.

This detailed review aims to give you a clear picture of what to expect from the Kilimanjaro Lemosho Route in 6 days. Whether you’re chasing the thrill of the summit or soaking in the diverse landscapes, this adventure is designed to leave a lasting impression.

You can check availability for your dates here: