Mt. Kilimanjaro Climb – 8 Day Lemosho Route

Climbing Mount Kilimanjaro is on many travelers’ bucket lists, but with so many routes to choose from, deciding where to start can be daunting. This review takes a close look at the 8-Day Lemosho Route offered by Roam Wild Adventure, a company praised for its knowledgeable guides and memorable scenery. We won’t pretend to have personally summited, but from the reviews and itinerary, it’s clear this journey offers a mix of natural beauty, careful planning, and supportive leadership.

What we love most about this experience is how the scenery varies from lush rainforest to high-altitude desert, the expertly led guides who prioritize safety and comfort, and the impressive success rate of around 95%. One note to consider is that the price of $3,099 per person, while not cheap, covers most essentials—making it a good value for a well-organized, guided ascent. If you’re seeking an adventure that balances challenge with support, this trek is likely ideal for you.

Key Points

• Excellent success rate with experienced guides ensuring safety and encouragement.
• Beautiful scenery spanning forest, savannah, and alpine zones.
• Extra acclimatization days increase your chances of reaching Uhuru Peak.
• All-inclusive support with tents, meals, and porters.
• Small group sizes maximize personalized attention.
• Highly positive reviews praising professionalism and care.

An Introduction to the Lemosho Route Experience

The 8-Day Lemosho Route is celebrated for its combination of stunning vistas, less crowded trails, and high trekking success. This route begins on the western slopes of Kilimanjaro, offering lush forests and diverse habitats that change as you ascend. The itinerary spreads out over eight days, giving your body more time to adapt—an important factor considering Kilimanjaro’s altitude challenges.

Roam Wild Adventure is known for their qualified guides, small group sizes, and attention to detail, making this climb accessible and safe. With a success rate of about 95%, this trek leans on its extra days and strategic acclimatization to help even less experienced hikers reach the summit.

The Itinerary: From Forest to Summit

Day 1: Into the Forests and Lemosho Trailhead

Your journey kicks off with a 4-hour drive from Moshi to Londorossi Gate, where you’ll complete entry formalities. Once inside the park, your vehicle heads to the Lemosho trailhead, where the real adventure begins. The first day’s walk takes you through dense rainforest, and you’re likely to spot blue monkeys swinging through the trees—a delightful sign that you’re entering a truly wild environment.

Traveling through undisturbed jungle sets the tone for the trek: lush, quiet, and teeming with life. The initial day is about acclimatizing to the forest atmosphere and preparing your body for the terrain ahead. The walk is approximately 16 hours of total activity including logistics and travel.

Day 2: Into the Savannah and Shira Ridge

The trail begins leaving the rainforest behind, opening up to striking savannah landscapes dotted with volcanic rock and lichens. As you climb, you’ll cross streams and hills, with sweeping views towards Mount Meru and Moshi. The highlight? Approaching the Shira Ridge—an impressive high-altitude plateau with breathtaking vistas. Reaching Shira 1 Camp, you’ll get your first glimpses of Kibo’s glaciers across the plateau, fueling your excitement for the days to come.

Day 3: Exploring the Shira Plateau

This full day is dedicated to acclimatization and exploration, moving east along the moorland meadows to Shira 2 Camp. The route diverts to Moir Hut near the Lent Hills—an excellent spot for gentle walking and altitude adjustment. Reviewers highlight this day as a key acclimatization opportunity, with some calling it “an excellent chance to prepare for the higher elevations.” Expect to enjoy panoramic views and a calmer pace, helping your body adapt gradually.

Day 4: Climbing Lava Tower and Barranco Camp

A standout feature of this day is the ascent to Lava Tower, a volcanic rock formation approximately 300 feet tall. Climbing up and then descending to Barranco Camp through the Senecio Forest offers a mix of challenging terrain and unique scenery. The ascent to Lava Tower is a strategic move to aid acclimatization, while the descent allows your body to adjust to altitude changes. Many reviews mention that the “strange, beautiful Senecio Forest” feels like walking through a different planet.

Day 5: Barranco Wall and Karanga Valley

The highlight here is the famous Barranco Wall—a steep, nearly 900-foot climb that, despite its intimidating reputation, is often described as “not nearly as bad as it looks.” Several reviewers mention how the guides help make this portion manageable, with some quoting the tradition of giving a kiss to the rock at the top of the wall! After conquering the wall, you’ll descend into Karanga Valley, where a shorter day concludes with a camp that’s well-positioned for the final push.

Day 6: Into the Snow Line at Barafu Hut

Leaving Karanga, you’ll follow the trail connecting with the Mweka route, heading to Barafu Hut. Here, you’ll be at the start of the final ascent, with views of Mawenzi and Kibo peaks. The day involves a rocky climb and rest, as you prepare for the midnight summit attempt. Reviewers often describe this as the “calm before the storm,” with many noting the importance of resting well and fueling up for the long night ahead.

Day 7: The Summit Push and Sunrise

The most physically demanding day begins around midnight, with a slow ascent in darkness. You’ll pass through scree and snow, taking frequent short breaks for energy. The reward: arriving at Stella Point just before dawn for a stunning sunrise, casting light on Mawenzi Peak. After this, the climb to Uhuru Peak is steep but manageable, with most people describing the feeling of standing on the “Rooftop of Africa” as unforgettable. From the summit, you’ll take in panoramic views that stretch as far as the eye can see—an emotional highlight captured by many reviewers.

Day 8: Descent and Celebration

After celebrating your achievement at Uhuru Peak, the descent begins straight away, taking you down the scree slopes to Mweka Camp and eventually to Mweka Gate. From here, your driver will transfer you back to Moshi, where you can relax, enjoy some refreshments, and receive your well-earned certificates. Many reviewers mention how muddy and wet the lower trails can be, but the sense of accomplishment outweighs the mess.

What Makes This Tour Stand Out

Expert Guides and Support Staff: Reviews consistently praise the guides, especially Ezekiel, for their professionalism, knowledge, and caring attitude. One reviewer notes, “The guides go above and beyond to ensure a safe and comfortable experience,” which really speaks to the level of support throughout the trek. Guides are trained with at least three years of experience and seem genuinely committed to safety and success.

Scenic Diversity: From lush forests and moorlands to high-altitude desert and glacier views, the route offers a variety of landscapes that keep the trek interesting and visually rewarding. Many say the views from the western slope are sweeping and awe-inspiring, making the long days more enjoyable.

Extra Acclimatization Day: An additional day for acclimatization is a game-changer, significantly boosting the chances of reaching the summit. This thoughtful approach is highlighted by reviews as a key factor in the high success rate.

Small Group Size: With a maximum of 12 travelers, the experience feels personalized, and guides can tailor the pace to fit your needs. This setup enhances the comfort and safety of everyone, especially during challenging sections like the Barranco Wall.

All-Inclusive Essentials: The price covers most needs—tents, sleeping mats, meals, support team, and park fees. Support staff includes porters, cooks, and guides ensuring a smooth experience. Travelers have praised the quality of the gear and the delicious meals prepared on the mountain, which makes a big difference over the long days.

Practical Details and What You Need to Know

Price Point and Value: At $3,099 per person, this trek isn’t inexpensive, but considering it includes all necessary support, experienced guides, and accommodations before and after the climb, it offers good value. Good guides and well-organized logistics can make or break a high-altitude trek, and reviewers frequently commend the professionalism of Roam Wild Adventure’s team.

Duration and Timing: The 8-day schedule is designed for comfort and success, allowing gradual altitude gain. The trek starts at 9:00 am, and each day involves about 16 hours of activity, including breaks and travel. This length is ideal for those who want a thorough experience with increased chances of reaching the summit.

Support and Safety: The focus on safety is clear. Guides are highly experienced, and the route is less crowded than other options, which reduces the risk of accidents or altitude sickness. The support team helps with everything from setting up tents to ensuring proper pacing.

Accessibility and Fitness: While the trek is suited for those with good physical condition, the extra acclimatization day helps make the challenge more manageable. Reviewers note that the guides are attentive to each climber’s pace and needs, making it accessible for most reasonably fit hikers.

The Sum Up: Is This Trek Right for You?

This 8-Day Lemosho Route with Roam Wild Adventure offers a well-rounded, scenic, and high-success-rate climb for those who value expert guidance and authentic experiences. The route’s diversity of landscapes, combined with thoughtful planning, makes it appealing for first-timers and seasoned trekkers alike. Expect breathtaking views, a supportive team, and a chance to tick off one of the world’s most iconic summits.

If you’re looking for a less crowded, scenic trek with a focus on safety and success, this tour is a fantastic choice. It suits travelers who are physically prepared, appreciate good organization, and want a meaningful adventure that balances challenge and comfort.

For those with a sense of adventure, a love for nature, and a desire to reach the “Rooftop of Africa,” this climb could be the experience of a lifetime.

FAQ

What is included in the price of $3,099?
The price covers certified guides, a support team of porters and cooks, tents, sleeping mats, meals (breakfast, lunch, dinner), park fees, hotel accommodations before and after the climb, and airport transfers.

Are meals provided on the trek?
Yes, support staff prepare three meals a day—breakfast, lunch, and dinner—ensuring you stay energized during the climb.

What gear do I need to bring?
While the tour provides tents and sleeping mats, you will need personal gear like sleeping bags, clothing suitable for various climates, and personal items. Rental gear is available if needed.

How physically demanding is this climb?
The route is challenging but manageable thanks to extra acclimatization days. Reviewers say that guides pace the group well, but a good level of fitness is recommended.

What is the success rate for reaching the summit?
Approximately 95%, thanks to the extra day for acclimatization and experienced guides who monitor and assist climbers along the way.

How crowded is the trail?
The Lemosho route is known for being less crowded than other routes, providing a more peaceful and personal experience.

What are the sleeping arrangements?
Support team sets up 3-person tents for climbers, with private toilet tents available nearby.

Can I do this if I’ve never been high-altitude trekking before?
Yes, the extra acclimatization day helps first-timers adapt better, but you should be in good health and prepared physically.

Is there any age restriction?
The tour expects travelers to have a strong physical fitness level, but specific age limits aren’t mentioned. Contact the provider for personalized advice.

What is the cancellation policy?
Full refunds are available for cancellations made 24 hours in advance of the start time. Less notice means no refund.

This climb on Kilimanjaro’s Lemosho route offers a carefully managed, scenic adventure for those ready to face the challenge. With expert guides, stunning landscapes, and a high success rate, it’s designed for travelers seeking an authentic, rewarding summit experience.