The 8-day Mount Kilimanjaro climb via Lemosho Route is considered one of the most scenic trails on Mount Kilimanjaro, offering a high success rate due to its gradual ascent and good acclimatization profile. The journey begins on the western side of the mountain. It traverses through lush rainforests, the Shira Plateau, and the breathtaking Barranco Wall before summiting Uhuru Peak (5,895m).
The 8-day Lemosho itinerary allows ample acclimatization, significantly reducing the risk of altitude sickness and increasing your chances of a successful summit. This route is not just about reaching the peak—it’s about enjoying the journey and experiencing the diverse landscapes.
TOUR HIGHLIGHTS:
Tour Name: 8-Day Lemosho Route Kilimanjaro Climb.
Duration: 8 Days / 7 Nights on the mountain
Total Distance: 70 km
Difficulty Level: Moderate to challenging
Success Rate: 90%-95%% (with proper acclimatization)
Scenery: Stunning landscapes, diverse ecosystems, and breathtaking views
Best Time to Climb: June – October & December – March
The eight-day option Mount Kilimanjaro climb via the Lemosho Route is highly recommended because:
| 1. Optimal Acclimatization: The 8-day itinerary provides ample time for acclimatization, which is crucial for successfully summiting Kilimanjaro. Spending more time at higher altitudes helps your body adjust to thin air, significantly lowering the risk of altitude sickness. Proper acclimatization is vital for a safe summit. | 2. Less Physically Demanding Per Day: The 8-day trek offers shorter daily hiking distances, making it less physically demanding than the 6-day Lemosho route. This makes the climb more manageable for those with less hiking experience or those seeking a more leisurely trek. |
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| 3. Higher Success Rate: The 8-day route allows climbers to ascend gradually, providing more time for their bodies to adapt. This approach and extra rest days lead to a higher summit success rate and enhance the overall experience while safely reaching Uhuru Peak at 5,895 meters. | 4. More Time to Enjoy the Journey: The extended itinerary lets you fully immerse in the experience, appreciating the beauty of your surroundings and enjoying the transition through different mountain ecosystems. It's a more rewarding journey that fosters a deeper connection to the mountain. |
If you're looking for an adventurous climb that offers the ultimate Kilimanjaro experience with a higher success rate, the 8-day Lemosho Route is ideal. This route allows for the time and gradual ascent needed to fully appreciate the mountain while maximizing your chances of standing triumphantly at the summit of Mount Kilimanjaro.
Arrival in Tanzania.
Your adventure begins when we pick you up from Kilimanjaro International Airport and transfer you to your comfortable hotel in Moshi. Our Taste of Kilimanjaro Adventures expert guide will brief you on the 8-day Lemosho route trek, and conduct a gear check, and ensure you are well-prepared. Any Missing equipment? No worries—you can rent gear on this day.
Day 1: Lemosho Gate to Mti Mkubwa Camp
-Elevation: 2,100m to 2,790m
-Distance: 6 km
-Hiking Time: 3-4 hours
-Habitat: Rainforest
Your journey begins as we drive to Lemosho Gate (4 hours), where you will complete park entry formalities before heading to the Lemosho trailhead. From there, we embark on a scenic hike through the pristine rainforest, where you might spot colobus monkeys and exotic birds. We will reach Mti Mkubwa Camp for our first night under the African sky.
Accommodation: Mti Mkubwa Camp
Day 2: Mti Mkubwa Camp to Shira 1 Camp
-Elevation: 2,750m to 3,500m
-Distance: 8 km
-Hiking Time: 5-6 hours
-Habitat: Moorland
Leaving the rainforest behind, we ascend into a land of rolling hills, volcanic rock formations, and lush heather. Crossing the Shira Ridge, we are rewarded with breathtaking views of Kilimanjaro’s glaciers. A gentle descent leads us to Shira 1 Camp for the night.
Accommodation: Shira 1 Camp
Day 3: Shira 1 Camp to Shira 2 Camp
-Elevation: 3,500m to 3,840m
-Distance: 14 km
-Hiking Time: 5-7 hours
-Habitat: Moorland
We traverse the vast Shira Plateau, one of the highest plateaus on Earth. The landscape is otherworldly, with volcanic rock and alpine meadows stretching toward Kibo’s Glacier Peak. This is an excellent day for acclimatization as we make our way to Shira 2 Camp.
Accommodation: Shira 2 Camp
Day 4: Shira 2 to Lava Tower to Barranco Camp
-Elevation: 3,840m to 3,860m (via 4,600m)
-Distance: 7 km
-Hiking Time: 4-6 hours
-Habitat: Semi-Desert
Today is crucial for acclimatization! We ascend to the striking Lava Tower (4,600m), where we take a break before descending into the Barranco Valley. The landscape transforms as we navigate toward the spectacular Barranco Camp, known for its dramatic views.
Accommodation: Barranco Camp
Day 5: Barranco Camp to Karanga Camp
-Elevation: 3,860m to 4,200m
-Distance: 5 km
-Hiking Time: 4-5 hours
-Habitat: Alpine Desert
An exhilarating challenge awaits—the Barranco Wall! This steep but rewarding climb leads to Karanga Camp, where we rest for the evening. This shorter day is designed for acclimatization, ensuring you are prepared for the higher altitudes.
Accommodation: Karanga Camp
Day 6: Karanga Camp to Barafu Camp
-Elevation: 4,200m to 4,673m
-Distance: 4 km
-Hiking Time: 4-5 hours
-Habitat: Alpine Desert
We go to Barafu Camp, our base camp, for the summit push. From here, we admire stunning sunset views over Mawenzi and Kibo peaks. Early dinner and rest are essential—tomorrow is the big day!
Accommodation: Barafu Camp
Day 7: Barafu Camp to Uhuru Peak to Mweka Camp
-Elevation: 4,673m to 5,895m (Uhuru Peak) to 3,100m
-Distance: 5 km ascent / 12 km descent
-Hiking Time: 7-8 hours ascent / 4-6 hours descent
-Habitat: Arctic
Summit day begins at midnight! With headlamps illuminating the path, we trek through the starlit Arctic landscape, reaching Stella Point (5,756m) just in time for a breathtaking sunrise. The final push takes us to Uhuru Peak (5,895m)—the highest point in Africa!
After celebrating, we descend back to Mweka Camp for a well-earned rest.
Accommodation: Mweka Camp
Day 8: Mweka Camp to Mweka Gate to Moshi
-Elevation: 3,100m to 1,680m
-Distance: 10 km
-Hiking Time: 3-4 hours
-Habitat: Rainforest
A leisurely descent through lush rainforests takes us to Mweka Gate, where you receive your official summit certificate. This marks the end of your 8-day Kilimanjaro climb via the Lemosho route, and from here, we drive back to Moshi for a celebratory meal and a well-deserved rest.
Accommodation: Hotel in Moshi Town
Departure & Optional Safari
After an unforgettable Kilimanjaro experience, take time to relax before your flight. If you wish to continue exploring Tanzania, we offer safari extensions to Serengeti, Ngorongoro, and Zanzibar for the ultimate adventure!
Two nights’ accommodation in Moshi Town (Before & after the trek – B&B)
Airport pick up and drop off.
Qualified guides with mountain crew
Kilimanjaro National Park fees
All camping equipment: mountain tents, sleeping mats
Transport
Rescue fees
All meals on the mountain (breakfast, lunch, and dinner)
Guides and porters’ accommodations and their entry fees on the mountain
Pulse oximeter
First aid kit
Emergence oxygen
Katady filtered water through the trek
Fair wages to guides and porters as approved by Kilimanjaro National Park Authority.
Flights – Domestic and international flights
Visa
Insurance
Tips to mountain crew
Personal Items
Sleeping bags.
Laundry services (available at the hotel for an extra cost)
CONTACT US
Address:
Taste of Kilimanjaro Adventures
P.O. Box 8642.
Moshi – Tanzania
Email: info@tasteofkilimanjaro.com
Phone: +255622521909
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