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Summit Stories from the Lemosho Route – A Journey of Scenic Beauty and True Challenge

In this blog, we’re not talking about maps or routes on Kilimanjaro. Instead, we’re sharing real summit stories from climbers who took on the Lemosho Route  one of the most scenic and peaceful Kilimanjaro Climbing Routes. Their journeys reveal what it truly means to face the challenge, embrace the beauty, and stand at the Roof of Africa.

These personal experiences show why so many choose our Kilimanjaro Climbing Packages not just for the climb, but for the story they carry home.

Lemosho Route
Lemosho Route

Linda’s Group – A Thoughtful Trek with Purpose

February 2025 | 8 Days Lemosho Route | Group of 3 from Belgium

Linda and her two friends from Belgium came to Tanzania with more than just a goal to reach the top of Kilimanjaro. They wanted to climb in a way that supported local people, respected porters, and cared for the environment. That is why why they chose African Scenic Safaris.

Kilimanjaro Climbing Routes
Kilimanjaro Climbing Routes

Before their climb, Nembris from our team helped them with all the planning. She answered every question quickly and kindly. When they started the trek, they were welcomed by two excellent guides, Godwin and Hiary, who were not only experienced but also made the group feel completely safe. The guides performed daily medical check-ups, carried safety equipment, and explained everything about the mountain and its surroundings.

Each day, the team made sure that everything was handled with care:

  • The tents and camping gear were strong and clean.
  • The food was plenty and delicious, with something new every day.
  • Special dietary needs were also taken care of without any issues.

But what touched Linda’s group the most was how the Kilimanjaro Porters were treated:

  • They were friendly, kind-hearted, and hard-working.
  • Our team made sure they were not overloaded, unlike porters from other companies.
  • The porters had proper clothing and equipment for the cold.
  • The company followed Porter’s welfare guidelines strictly.

“We wholeheartedly recommend African Scenic Safaris to anyone thinking of climbing Kilimanjaro,” Linda wrote.

Their trip was more than a climb—it was a journey made with respect and care.

 Read Linda’s full review on TripAdvisor

Giovanna’s Experience – Trusting the Guides Made All the Difference

September 2023 | 8 Days Lemosho Route | Group of 3

Giovanna’s adventure began with a Safari In Tarangire, but the heart of her trip was the climb up Kilimanjaro. She and her two friends chose African Scenic Safaris and found everything ran smoothly from start to finish.

8 Days Lemosho Route
Giovanna’s Experience

Before the climb, Nembris helped them with booking and answered all their questions. The day before they left for the trek, a staff member and their head guide visited them at the hotel for a full briefing and gear check. This helped the group feel calm and prepared.

Their climbing team included- Said, their head guide, and Lion, the assistant guide.

Giovanna said they were both friendly, professional, and incredibly helpful. As the climb got tougher, the group followed the guides’ advice closely, and it paid off.

“I am 100% sure that listening to their advice was the main key to reaching the summit,” she wrote.

Behind the scenes, the porter team did an amazing job:

  • They carried supplies, set up camp, and stayed positive the whole time.
  • Their support made every step easier.

Giovanna was especially impressed with the company’s values. African Scenic is a proud partner of KPAP – Kilimanjaro Porters Assistance Project, which protects porters’ rights and ensures they’re treated fairly.

“They have a strong attitude towards responsible travel and sustainability,” she said. “We would use them again.”

Her story shows how choosing the right team can make the journey feel safe, smooth, and full of heart.

Read Giovanna’s full review on TripAdvisor

Sean’s Story – Safety, Kindness, and a Smart Summit Push

July 2023 | 8 Days Lemosho Route | Couple (Ages 31 & 32)

Sean and his husband were both in their early 30s, fit, and ready for an adventure. But they also knew Kilimanjaro could be unpredictable, especially when it came to Kilimanjaro Altitude Sickness. That’s why they chose African Scenic Safaris, a company known for safety, experience, and flexibility.

Before their trek began, they met Aloyce, their head guide, and Nembris for a full briefing and gear check at their lodge. Aloyce noticed Sean didn’t have enough warm layers, so he arranged to rent ski pants the next morning a small change that made a big difference.

Their crew was strong and supportive. There were two guides Aloyce and August. There were a team of 11 people, including porters, a cook named Albert, and a waiter named Praygog

Each day was handled with care and attention:

  • The guides held daily medical checks and chats to make sure they were okay.
  • When Sean’s husband began to feel altitude sickness on Day 5, the team came up with new options.
  • They skipped Karanga Camp and made the summit push one day early, starting at 2:00 AM to avoid crowds.
  • It worked. They reached the top safely and proudly.

But what stood out most was the company’s ethics:

  • African Scenic is a verified KPAP partner.
  • Porters were paid fairly, ate the same food as the clients, and had the right clothing.
  • The team even carried trash bags, picking up litter along the way.

Even when they descended early, Aloyce helped arrange new lodging, showing how flexible and supportive the team truly was. For Sean, the mountain was unforgettable but the way African Scenic Safaris handled every detail made it extraordinary.

Read Sean’s full review on TripAdvisor

Reflections From the Mountain

There are moments from each climb that stay with our team forever. For example, after their trek, Sean shared something beautiful that still stays in our hearts: “Happy and healthy teams make for a successful trip.” All the appreciation we receive from our climbers stays in our hearts forever.

For us at African Scenic Safaris, that’s what every Kilimanjaro Climbing Package is about — caring for our climbers, looking after our porters, and making sure every step feels safe, supported, and meaningful.

If you’re ready to begin your own Mount Kilimanjaro Climbing journey, we would be honoured to guide you. Contact our team today and let’s plan your climb together.

Simbo Natai
Simbo Natai, founder of African Scenic Safaris, crafts sustainable, meaningful Tanzanian journeys rooted in his deep local knowledge and passion.
Director, African Scenic Safaris

7 Reasons to Choose the Lemosho Route for Your Kilimanjaro Trek

It is easy to picture the summit the moment you think about climbing Kilimanjaro. But long before you get there, you need to decide which route you’ll take. That choice can shape your entire experience, like how you feel on the mountain, what you see, and even whether you reach the top or not.

Many climbers who have walked these trails agree  the Lemosho Route stands out. With its quiet trails, incredible scenery, and gentle approach to the altitude, it offers something special for anyone serious about reaching the summit.

Every climb we organise on the Lemosho Route is carefully planned through our Kilimanjaro Climbing Packages, focusing on safety, comfort, and responsible travel. Let’s explore why this route continues to win the hearts of so many climbers.

Lemosho Route
Lemosho Route

1. The Lemosho Route Success Rate Is Higher

Kilimanjaro isn’t a technical climb, but the altitude tests every climber. Many who don’t make it to the top fall short because their bodies don’t have enough time to adjust. This is where the Lemosho Route Kilimanjaro makes a real difference.

Instead of rushing, the 8 Days Lemosho Route gives your body time to adapt slowly. With each step, you rise carefully, letting your system catch up. The route follows the simple rule many climbers trust: “climb high, sleep low.”

  • The steady pace helps prevent altitude sickness.
  • Extra days offer more time for rest and recovery.
  • With less stress on the body, energy stays high for summit night.

That’s why the Lemosho Route Success Rate is among the highest among all Kilimanjaro Climbing Routes. The mountain itself does not get easier, but your body becomes stronger as it adjusts to the altitude.

Lemosho Route Success Rate
Lemosho Route Success Rate Is Higher

2. The Most Scenic Route on Kilimanjaro

Every day on the Lemosho Route feels like a new chapter. This trail is famous not just for where it leads, but for what it reveals along the way.

You start your journey walking under thick forest canopies, where monkeys swing through the trees. As you climb, the trees open into the wide, empty spaces of the Shira Plateau. From there, the mountain’s rocky ridges rise sharply, leading to alpine deserts, before finally giving way to icy glaciers near the top.

  • Forests are alive with birds and colobus monkeys.
  • Endless views across the Shira Plateau.
  • Strange, quiet beauty in the alpine deserts.
  • The dramatic cliffs of Barranco Valley.
  • Sparkling glaciers at the summit.

More than just reaching the top, the Lemosho Route Trekking experience is all about seeing the mountain unfold with every step.

Mount Kilimanjaro Climbing
Most Scenic Route on Kilimanjaro

3. Enjoy A Less Crowded, Quieter Trail

Few Kilimanjaro routes offer this level of peace and solitude. Some get busy, with large groups crowding the paths and camps. The Lemosho Route Kilimanjaro begins far to the west, away from the busiest starting points.

  • Early days feel remote and quiet.
  • Campsites aren’t packed with people.
  • Nature feels closer without the noise of crowds.
  • Space to breathe, reflect, and enjoy the silence.

For many, this quiet rhythm becomes one of the most beautiful parts of the entire trek.

Kilimanjaro Routes
Lemosho Route Kilimanjaro

4. A Great Option for First-Time Trekkers

For many climbers, Kilimanjaro is their first high-altitude adventure. The Lemosho Route was made for people who want their first attempt to feel safe, supported, and possible.

With the right team from African Scenic Safaris guiding you all the way, even those with no previous mountain experience find themselves well prepared.

  • The gradual pace is kind to first-timers.
  • Guides monitor your health and adjust as needed.
  • Camps are ready and waiting after each day’s hike.
  • Nutritious meals keep energy levels steady.

Kilimanjaro will always present a challenge, but with gradual pacing and expert support, even first-time climbers can succeed on the Lemosho Route.

5. Cross the Unique Shira Plateau

Crossing the Shira Plateau is a highlight of the Lemosho Route trekking trip. This high-altitude moorland is one of the world’s largest plateaus of its kind, with expansive landscapes rarely seen elsewhere on Kilimanjaro. The Shira Plateau offers:

  • Panoramic views from Kilimanjaro’s western slopes.
  • Excellent photo opportunity with clear skies and distant peaks.
  • Occasional sightings of unusual species, such as antelopes and birds.

This portion of the trail offers a unique and memorable experience to the Mount Kilimanjaro Lemosho Route.

Shira Plateau
Shira Plateau

6. Diverse Campsites and Terrain Add Variety

Long days on the mountain can feel monotonous but not on the Lemosho Route. The trail keeps changing, offering something new almost every day.

  • You will camp under forest canopies in the early days.
  • Open ridges bring endless views as you climb higher.
  • The famous Barranco Wall tests your confidence but rewards you with stunning views.
  • Glacier fields near the summit feel like stepping onto another planet.

This daily variety keeps your mind and body engaged, turning the long journey into something that feels new each morning.

Lemosho Route Camp
Lemosho Route Camp

7. Wildlife Encounters Along the Way

Beyond the mountain, the Lemosho Route provides a unique opportunity for wildlife sightings, adding to the wonder of the adventure. While large animals are uncommon on the upper slopes, the lower rainforest zone along the Kilimanjaro Lemosho Route is home to a diverse range of wildlife that brings the trail to life. Wildlife sightings that can be experienced include:

  • Colobus monkeys swing through the woodland canopy at daybreak.
  • Blue monkeys are peacefully foraging around the campsites.
  • Various bird species, including brightly coloured turacos and hornbills.
  • Antelopes are occasionally spotted on the lower slopes and surrounding the Shira Plateau.

The sounds of the jungle, particularly at first light, are frequently remembered by climbers long after they have completed the climb. These rare wildlife encounters enrich the Lemosho Route trekking experience and improve the connection with Kilimanjaro’s complex ecology.

Climbing with African Scenic Safaris Means Climbing with Care

Yes, choosing the right route matters. But choosing who guides you matters even more. At African Scenic Safaris, every Kilimanjaro Climbing Package is private, carefully paced, and built with care.

  • We make sure to take care of all your requirements during the climb.
  • Expert guides watch your health closely each day.
  • Camps and meals are prepared and waiting.
  • Porters are treated fairly and with respect, as verified by KPAP partners.
  • Every climb is built on sustainability, protecting Kilimanjaro for the future.

When you climb with African Scenic Safaris, you’re never just another climber on the mountain. You’re part of a team that believes every trek deserves both safety and heart.

Kilimanjaro Climbing Packages
Climbing with African Scenic Safaris Means

The Right Route Makes All the Difference

Hopefully, you now understand why the Lemosho Route stands out among all the Kilimanjaro climbing options. It offers it all: quiet trails, stunning views, a higher summit success rate, and a thoughtfully designed acclimatization path.

And with African Scenic Safaris as your guide, every detail is handled with care, safety, and professionalism. If you are ready to experience all this and more, book your Mount Kilimanjaro climbing package via the Lemosho Route and let us help make your summit dream a reality.

Simbo Natai
Simbo Natai, founder of African Scenic Safaris, crafts sustainable, meaningful Tanzanian journeys rooted in his deep local knowledge and passion.
Director, African Scenic Safaris

Off Beaten Path – Why Lemosho Route Is the Best Way to Climb Kilimanjaro?

Choosing the right Mount Kilimanjaro Route is one of the most crucial aspects of Climbing Kilimanjaro. When it comes to the Lemosho Route, the path and success rate are higher. So, how is it? Let’s explore!

The Lemosho Route is one of our most preferred routes and for good reason. It’s the most scenically gorgeous and diverse Kilimanjaro Route. The route is designed specifically for trekkers. Lemosho incorporates longer times, longer distances on the mountain, and shorter elevation gains.

What’s more, you ask? Lemosho Route is dotted with panoramic vistas on various corners and has a perfect balance of success rates and low crowds. Below is a detailed outlook as to why the off-beaten trail of the Lemosho Route is ideal for trekkers of all experiences and abilities.

A Longer and More Gradual Ascent

The Lemosho Route was created with acclimatisation in mind. This makes it one of the Kilimanjaro Routes with the highest rate of success. The route can be completed in seven days (and six nights) or eight days (and seven nights). This ascent to Climb Kilimanjaro increases the chances of success because you’ll have more time for acclimatisation with a gradual ascent.

Gradual Ascent
Gradual Ascent
  • Lemosho Route advances Mount Kilimanjaro from the west and begins with a drive from Moshi to the Londorossi Gate.
  • From there on out, the first two days will be spent trekking through the lush rainforests to Shira Ridge.
  • The route crosses the entire Shira plateau from west to east in a relatively flat and pleasant hike.
  • A major attraction of the Lemosho Route is the low number of crowds. Though when the route connects with the Machame Route near Lava Tower, you’ll encounter some crowds.

From the Lava Tower, the route goes underneath Kilimanjaro’s Southern Ice Field. This path is called the Southern Circuit. You’ll eventually summit the mountain from Barafu and descend via the Mweka Route.

The following is what an 8-day Lemosho Route Ascent itinerary looks like:

DAYSTARTING POINTALTITUDE (in feet)FINISHING POINTALTITUDE (in feet)DURATION (in hours)DISTANCE (in Kilometres)DISTANCE (in miles)
1Londrossi Gate7,742Mti Mkubwa9,4983-464
2Mti Mkubwa9,498Shira 1 Camp11,5005-685
3Shira 1 Camp11,500Moir Hut13,8005-7117
4Moir Hut13,800Lava Tower13,0442-332
5Barranco Camp13,044Karanga Camp13,1064-553
6Karanga Camp13,106Uhuru Peak19,3417-853
7Uhuru Peak19,341Mweka Camp (Descending Point)10,0654-6127
8Mweka Camp10,065Mweka Gate5,3803-4106

Untouched Wilderness and Scenery

The Lemosho Route is an off-beaten track that is renowned for being one of the most scenic Kilimanjaro Climbing Routes. The route will take you through some of the most untouched wilderness regions on Mt. Kilimanjaro. You’ll get to walk through alpine meadows, high-altitude plateaus, dense rainforests, and rocky terrains.

  • These wilderness regions offer splendid views of the surrounding landscapes.
  • The Lemosho Route is relatively less crowded than other routes, so you’ll get plenty of time to take in the natural beauty of Kilimanjaro.
  • During the first couple of days, the Lemosho Route will lead you through dense and lush rainforests.
  • You’ll see wonderful flowers, trees and primates such as black and white colobus monkeys.
  • As you make your way further up, the vegetation becomes thinner and the moorland areas come to the forefront.
  • Here, you’ll get to see heathers and giant groundsel.

As you reach the higher altitude zones, the alpine desert regions will dominate the surroundings. The landscapes here are simply stunning with rocky terrains set on the backdrop of high peaks and valleys. Ultimately, you’ll reach the summit where the sunrises will be a sight to behold.

If Kilimanjaro had a VIP entrance, it would be the Lemosho Route, all peaceful trails, wild views, and higher chances of planting your flag.

Diverse Wildlife and Ecological Zones

One of the primary reasons why Lemosho is considered one of the Best Routes on Kilimanjaro is because of the diverse wildlife and different ecological zones. The Lemosho Route will take you through five different ecological zones, each with its unique vegetation and wildlife.

NAME OF THE ZONEELEVATION (in feet)ELEVATION (in meters)
Cultivation Zone2,600 – 6,000 ft.800 – 1800 m.
Rainforest Zone6,000 – 9,000 ft.1,800 – 2,800 m.
Heather and Moorland Zone9,000 – 13,000 ft.2,800 – 4,000 m.
Alpine Desert Zone13,000 – 16,000 ft.4,000 – 5,000 m.
Arctic Zone16,000 – 19,340 ft.5,000 – 5,895 m.

From the lush rainforests to the alpine deserts, you’ll have an opportunity to relish the full range of Kilimanjaro’s diversity. When it comes to the wildlife of Kilimanjaro, there are some primate species that you will get to see.

These include blue, black, and white colobus monkeys. Bush babies and four-striped mice can also be seen around the tree hollows. Mount Kilimanjaro is also home to the beautiful three-horned Jackson’s chameleon and two-horned Dwarf Fischer’s chameleon.

Professional Guides and Excellent Support

When it comes to safety and success, the Lemosho Route is one of your best choices for Kilimanjaro Climbing Routes. And, a helping hand and support go a long way to conquering the summit of Mount Kilimanjaro.

Professional Guides
Professional Guides
  • Professional guides with an extensive range of experience in their belt offer excellent support throughout your Mount Kilimanjaro Trekking expedition.
  • Our team has a range of qualified and professional guides that will make your trek through the Machame Route easy and offer plenty of support and backup.

Although, the underrated heroes of your climbing experience will undoubtedly be Kilimanjaro Porters. They will offer you support in terms of making camp each day, carrying equipment and supplies, and supporting you physically and mentally.

A Challenging Yet Rewarding Trek

Even though the Lemosho Route is regarded as one of the easiest Kilimanjaro Climbing Routes, there are a few challenges along the way. This is mainly due to the long distance and the Lemosho Route Elevation Gain. But the up and down movement is very advantageous for acclimatisation because of the ‘climb high, sleep low’ rule.

A Challenging Yet Rewarding Trek
A Challenging Yet Rewarding Trek
  • This rule is an approach by which you can sleep at a lower elevation than from which you have ascended during the daytime.
  • This approach stimulates the body and produces more red blood cells that carry oxygen. This helps significantly in acclimatisation.

Although there might be some challenges along the Lemosho Route, you’ll be highly rewarded when you summit Uhuru Peak.

Good to know – Keep in mind that you’ll still need to ascend the Barranco Wall and climb steeply on the night of the summit. Though no technical climbing is needed, a good level of fitness is highly advised.

Success Rates of Other Mount Kilimanjaro Trekking Routes

NAME OF THE ROUTESUCCESS RATES
6-Days Trek7-Days Trek
Machame Route60% – 70%80% – 90%
Marangu Route60% – 70%80% – 90%
Rongai Route60% – 70%70% – 80%
Shira Route60% – 70%70% – 80%
Umbwe Route60% – 70%70% – 80%

Note – The Northern Circuit Route has a success rate of 90% – 95%. Though the trek takes more days – 8 and 9 Days.

Whereas, the average summit success rate of the Lemosho Route is:

  • For the 7-Day (6-Night) Trek – 85%
  • For the 8-Days (7-Nights) Trek – 90%

There’s a 6-Day (5-Nights) Trek available as well for the Lemosho Route. Though it’s not very popular and also not recommended. The average success rate for this trek is 70 – 75%.

Do make sure to read some of our other related blogs on Mount Kilimanjaro Climbing:

Conquer Kilimanjaro’s Summit in the Most Effective Manner

The somewhat new, remote, and off-beaten trail of the Mount Kilimanjaro Lemosho Route is one of the most convenient and effective ways to Climb Mount Kilimanjaro. With a perfect blend of beautiful scenery, fewer crowds, and a huge success rate, Lemosho has a bit of everything for trekking enthusiasts. So, take on your Quest from the West with our Mount Kilimanjaro Climbing Packages selection.

Simbo Natai
Simbo Natai, founder of African Scenic Safaris, crafts sustainable, meaningful Tanzanian journeys rooted in his deep local knowledge and passion.
Director, African Scenic Safaris
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