Tour Overview
Craving a truly scenic and immersive Kilimanjaro experience? The Lemosho Route—also known as the Shira Route in its early sections—is widely regarded as one of the most beautiful and varied trails up Mount Kilimanjaro. Starting from the western side of the mountain, this route offers panoramic views, fewer crowds, and excellent acclimatization opportunities.
Typically completed in 7 to 8 days, the Lemosho Route begins in the lush rainforest before emerging onto the expansive Shira Plateau. From there, it merges with the Machame Route, crossing through dramatic alpine landscapes, volcanic ridges, and the famous Barranco Wall.
With its longer approach and gradual ascent profile, Lemosho is considered one of the highest success rate routes for reaching Uhuru Peak. Trekkers not only enjoy stunning and diverse scenery, but also have more time to adapt to altitude—making the summit experience more achievable and enjoyable.
If you're looking for a perfect balance of adventure, solitude, and breathtaking landscapes, the Lemosho Route is one of the finest choices on the mountain.
Karibu sana – you are most welcome!
Duration
9 days
Group Size
Up to 6 people
Locations
Kilimanjaro
Highlights
- Remote and scenic trail
- High success rate
- Starts in lush rainforest
- Crosses Shira Plateau
- Joins Machame route later
- Great for acclimatization
- Epic summit via Stella Point
What's Included
- All accommodations (2 nights)
- All transportation in 4x4 vehicles
- Daily breakfast, lunch and dinner
- Professional English-speaking guide
- All park entrance fees
- Airport transfers
What's Not Included
- International flights
- Travel insurance
- Personal expenses
- Visa fees
- Optional activities
9-Day Kilimanjaro Trek via Lemosho Route
Day 1
Arrival
Day 2
Rainforest Trek
Day 3
Heathlands
Day 4
Acclimatization
Day 5
Barranco Wall
Day 6
Alpine Desert
Day 7
Summit Day
Day 8
Victory Descent
Day 9
Departure
Day 1: Arrival in Tanzania – Transfer to Arusha
Welcome to Tanzania! Upon arrival at Kilimanjaro International Airport, a driver from our team will be there to greet you and transfer you to your hotel in Arusha. Spend the rest of the day unwinding at your lodge or exploring Arusha (taxi required). In the evening, join your mountain guide for a comprehensive trek briefing and gear check.
Day 2: Arusha – Londorossi Gate (2,250m) – Big Tree Camp (2,829m)
After breakfast, we'll drive to Londorossi Gate for registration with the Kilimanjaro National Park. From there, a bumpy ride takes you deeper into the lush rainforest. Your trek begins with a gradual ascent through dense jungle, home to exotic wildlife and rich flora. After 3–4 hours of hiking, arrive at Big Tree Camp for your first night under the stars.
Day 3: Big Tree Camp – Shira Camp 2 (3,900m)
Today's trail takes you out of the forest and into the open heathlands. As the vegetation shifts, you'll hike past volcanic rock formations, high moorlands, and incredible views of Mount Meru and the Rift Valley. Lunch will be at Shira Camp 1, then continue for a few more hours to Shira Camp 2, your campsite for the night. Expect surreal views of Kibo Peak at sunset.
Day 4: Shira Camp 2 – Lava Tower (4,637m) – Barranco Camp (3,976m)
Acclimatization is the goal today. You'll hike steadily up to Lava Tower, reaching 4,637m, then descend into the scenic Barranco Valley. This hike will help your body adjust to altitude while giving you stunning views of Kilimanjaro's diverse landscapes—from alpine desert to lush valleys with giant lobelias and senecios.
Day 5: Barranco Camp – Karanga Camp (4,033m)
Your day begins with a thrilling scramble up the Barranco Wall—one of the most iconic sections of the route. Though steep, your guides will assist you with every step. Once at the top, enjoy magnificent views of the Southern Glaciers before continuing through a series of ridges and valleys to reach Karanga Camp by lunchtime.
Day 6: Karanga Camp – Barafu Camp (4,673m)
A shorter but important acclimatization day. You'll hike across windswept alpine desert to reach Barafu Camp, the launch point for your summit attempt. After an early dinner, get some rest—you'll be woken around midnight for the final ascent to the Roof of Africa.
Day 7: Barafu Camp – Uhuru Peak (5,895m) – Mweka Camp (3,068m)
Summit day! You'll begin your climb under the stars, ascending over frozen scree toward Stella Point on the crater rim. After a brief rest, continue along the edge to reach Uhuru Peak, the highest point in Africa. Take in the sunrise, snap some photos, and begin your descent back to Barafu Camp for lunch, then onward to Mweka Camp for a well-earned rest.
Day 8: Mweka Camp – Mweka Gate (1,653m) – Arusha
Celebrate your final morning on the mountain with a farewell ceremony from the mountain crew. Then begin a leisurely descent through the rainforest to Mweka Gate, where you'll receive your summit certificates. A transfer will return you to your lodge in Arusha for a warm shower and some rest.
Day 9: Departure Day – Transfer to Kilimanjaro Airport
After breakfast, you'll be transferred to Kilimanjaro International Airport for your journey index. Not ready to leave? Ask us about extending your adventure with a safari in Serengeti or Ngorongoro or a relaxing beach getaway to Zanzibar.
Kilimanjaro Adventure Activities
Multi-Zone Hiking
Experience the dramatic transition from rainforest to arctic summit across five distinct ecosystems.
Rainforest Wildlife Spotting
Spot colobus monkeys, tropical birds, and unique flora in Kilimanjaro's lush lower slopes.
Summit Uhuru Peak
Conquer Africa's highest point (5,895m) with a sunrise celebration on the crater rim.
Lava Tower Ascent
Climb to this 4,600m volcanic rock formation, a key altitude test before summit push.
Alpine Desert Trek
Cross the surreal "Saddle" between Kibo and Mawenzi peaks in this high-altitude desert.
Glacier Sunrise Views
Watch golden light illuminate Kilimanjaro's shrinking glaciers from Gilman's Point (5,703m).