Mountain Kilimanjaro Climbing 9 Days Lemosho Route

Climbing Mount Kilimanjaro is often on many travelers’ bucket lists, and with good reason. It’s a journey filled with breathtaking scenery, physical challenge, and a sense of achievement like no other. While we haven’t personally summited, we’ve thoroughly researched the 9-day Lemosho route tour offered by Exceed Expectations Tours & Safari in Moshi, Tanzania, and it looks like a fantastic choice for those seeking a scenic, well-organized trek with excellent guides.

What we love about this tour? First, its scenic diversity—from lush rainforests to volcanic deserts and glacial ridges, it offers a truly varied visual experience. Second, the expert guidance—reviewers mention guides like Kilamia, with years of experience and genuine care making a real difference. Third, the value for money—for around $3,526, you get a comprehensive, well-paced 9-day adventure with accommodations, park fees, and logistical support included.

One potential consideration is the intensity of the ascent and the long days of trekking, especially during the final summit push. This isn’t a tour for those with limited physical fitness or those uncomfortable with altitude, but it’s perfect for adventurous travelers seeking a complete, immersive experience.

This trip appeals most to hikers who want to enjoy the mountain’s vistas at a comfortable pace, appreciate good organization, and are motivated by a challenge that combines natural beauty with cultural encounters. Now, let’s explore this tour in detail.

Key Points

• Scenic Diversity: The route covers lush rainforests, volcanic lava ridges, and glacial terrains.
• Expert Guides: Guides like Kilamia combine experience with genuine care, enhancing safety and morale.
• Excellent Value: The price includes permits, food, camping gear, and support, making it a transparent investment.
• Balanced Itinerary: The 9-day schedule prioritizes acclimatization, increasing the chances of summit success.
• Authentic Experience: The route exposes travelers to Kilimanjaro’s multiple ecological zones and stunning views.
• Group Size: Limited to a maximum of 15 travelers, offering a more personalized experience.

What Makes the Lemosho Route Special?

The Lemosho route is widely regarded as one of the most scenic and least crowded paths to Kilimanjaro’s summit. Starting from Londorossi Gate on the mountain’s western side, it traverses dense rainforests and opens onto the Shira Plateau, offering spectacular views of Mt Meru and the Great Rift Valley. What separates this route from others? Its emphasis on beautiful scenery and gradual altitude gain helps with acclimatization, which is crucial for a safe and successful summit.

The route can technically be completed in less than seven days, but the 9-day itinerary maximizes your chances of reaching the top by giving your body more time to adjust. As multiple reviews mention, guides are highly experienced, with one reviewer praising Kilamia for his kindness and knowledge, which significantly boosts confidence during the tough sections.

Day-by-Day Breakdown of the Itinerary

Day 1: From Hotel to Big Tree Camp

Starting early, your transfer from Moshi to Lemosho Gate sets the scene for what’s ahead. The initial trek through the rainforest is relatively gentle but lush and vibrant. Expect to see a variety of flora and possibly some primates. The 4-hour walk gives you an introduction to the mountain’s environment, and your first camp at Big Tree Camp is nestled among giant trees—an atmospheric start to your adventure.

Day 2: Across Grassy Moors to Shira 1 Camp

The second day takes you onto the Shira Plateau, a vast, open expanse with rolling grassy hills and volcanic rock formations. Reviewers love this section, noting the stunning views of Kibo peak and the considerable altitude gain, which helps with acclimatization. The 7-hour walk might be challenging, but it’s well worth it for the scenery and the sense of progress.

Day 3: Acclimatization Walk to Shira 2 Camp

Today provides a chance to view the northern ice fields and further adjust your body. The walk is a bit shorter, around 5 hours, with a gentle ascent. Many travelers mention that this day helps prevent altitude sickness by slowly increasing elevation, and the panoramic views are genuinely memorable.

Day 4: Ascend to Lava Tower and Camp in Barranco Valley

This day is a highlight, featuring an ascent to the Lava Tower (4640 m)—a dramatic volcanic formation—and a steep descent into the Barranco Valley. The climb up the Barranco Wall is described as “not technical but long and tiring,” yet many reviewers emphasize the sense of achievement after conquering this obstacle. The views of glaciers and the surrounding plains are breathtaking.

Day 5: Barranco, Karanga Valley, and Acclimatization

The route continues with a descent into the Karanga Valley, followed by a steep climb back up to Karanga Camp. If you’re feeling strong, there’s an optional afternoon trek to around 4200m, which aids further acclimatization. Reviewers highlight this day’s importance for increasing your summit chances.

Day 6: To Barafu Camp

The final preparatory day involves trekking across scree slopes to reach Barafu Camp. Expect a challenging walk, with the high altitude making it tougher. The camp is often described as stark but with a sense of anticipation. This is the last night before the summit attempt, and the guides recommend staying hydrated and warm.

Day 7: The Summit Push to Uhuru Peak and Crater Camp

This is the most demanding day. Starting around midnight, you’ll hike in darkness, with the goal of reaching Uhuru Peak in the early afternoon. Reviewers mention this stretch is tough, but the sense of achievement and the chance to witness sunrise from the summit are unforgettable. A short additional trek to Crater Camp near the glaciers is an optional extension, offering the chance to sleep within the mountain’s crater—a rare and adventurous experience.

Day 8: Descent to Millennium Camp

After summiting, your descent is long but rewarding. Walking through scree and lush forests, you’ll reach the Millennium Camp for well-earned rest. Reviewers emphasize the emotional relief and satisfaction after completing this section.

Day 9: From Millennium Camp to Gate

On the final day, you’ll walk down through the forest to the park gate, where your vehicle awaits to take you back to Moshi. This last leg, about 5 hours, symbolizes the end of an epic journey. Many travelers comment on feeling a mix of exhaustion and exhilaration as they leave Kilimanjaro behind.

What Do Reviewers Say?

Multiple reviews praise the knowledgeable guides, particularly highlighting Kilamia’s kindness and expertise. One reviewer noted, “He was kind and informed,” which made the experience more enjoyable and safer. Many also highlight the scenic variety—from rainforest to glacial terrain—as a major plus, making the trek feel like multiple adventures in one.

The value for money is another recurring theme. For $3,526.16 per person, the package covers park fees, permits, camping gear, and support, which some travelers say makes it a cost-effective option considering the mountain’s complexity. The small group size (up to 15 travelers) ensures more personalized attention, which reviewers appreciate, especially during the more strenuous sections.

A reviewer from 2022 described their experience as “the adventure of a lifetime,” thanks to the guides’ professionalism and the route’s scenic beauty. Many also appreciated the smooth logistics—from pickup to drop-off—which allows them to focus purely on the climb.

Practical Details & Considerations

Transportation and logistics are well-managed, with pick-up from your hotel in Moshi and transfer to the mountain park. The tour’s duration of nine days is a thoughtful choice, balancing time for acclimatization with overall trip length. This longer schedule improves your odds of summit success and reduces the risk of altitude sickness.

Group size remains limited to 15 travelers, helping foster a more intimate experience and ensuring guides can provide plenty of support. The price includes park permits, camping gear, and meals, simplifying the planning process and removing hidden costs.

While the trek is demanding, the route’s scenic diversity and expert support mean your effort is rewarded with incredible views, memorable encounters, and a true sense of achievement. Expect early mornings, long days, and some steep sections, but also moments of awe and connection with nature.

The Sum Up

This 9-day Kilimanjaro climb via the Lemosho route offers a thoughtful, scenic, and well-supported adventure. It’s best suited for travelers who want a comprehensive experience with ample time for acclimatization, guided by knowledgeable professionals. The route’s breathtaking views and varied terrains make it more than just a climb—it’s a journey through some of Africa’s most stunning landscapes.

If you’re after a reliable, scenic, and rewarding Kilimanjaro experience that balances challenge with comfort, this tour ticks all the boxes. With great reviews emphasizing guide expertise and value for money, it’s a solid choice for those ready to take on Africa’s rooftop.

FAQs

What does the tour include? The tour covers park fees, permits, camping gear, meals, and transportation from Moshi to the mountain. Guides and support staff are also included, making it a comprehensive package.

How physically demanding is the trek? The route involves several steep and long days, especially during the final summit push. It’s suitable for those with good physical fitness and some trekking experience.

Is this route suitable for beginners? While not strictly for beginners, the longer schedule allows better acclimatization, increasing safety and success rates for less experienced hikers.

What is the group size? The maximum group size is 15 travelers, providing a more personal experience and better support from your guides.

How is the scenery? Expect a stunning variety—lush rainforests, volcanic landscapes, and icy glaciers—making every day visually rewarding.

What is the main challenge of this tour? The primary challenge is altitude and the physical effort required, particularly on ascent days and during the summit night.

Can I add extras like crater camping? Yes, the itinerary includes the option to sleep at Crater Camp near the glaciers, a unique experience for adventurous climbers.

In all, this Kilimanjaro tour from Exceed Expectations Tours & Safari delivers a well-rounded, scenic, and professionally guided experience for those eager to conquer Africa’s highest peak. Whether you’re after the adventure of a lifetime or a carefully supported route with excellent views and experienced guides, this trip offers genuine value and a chance to create unforgettable memories.