The Most Scenic Route to Kilimanjaro’s SummitThe Lemosho Route starts on the west side of Kilimanjaro, and you can get there by driving 2-3 hours from Moshi or 3-4 hours from Arusha. This path is known for its beautiful, quiet trails that begin in a lush rainforest.
The journey covers 70 km and lasts 8 days, helping climbers get used to the high altitude slowly, which makes reaching the top more likely. This Kilimanjaro Route is easier because it lets climbers adjust to the altitude gradually.
Our Kilimanjaro Climbing Packages include this route, offering a way to climb high during the day and sleep low at night. Mount Kilimanjaro Climbing on the Lemosho Route is great for anyone ready for an adventure, providing scenic views and a less crowded path.
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Quest From the West – A Day-to-Day Travelogue on the Lemosho RouteAll accommodation is included from the initial meeting point through to the end of the expedition, as listed on the itinerary. We always choose the highest quality hotels, even when travelling through more remote areas with less established infrastructures.
Upon arrival at Kilimanjaro Airport, you will be transferred to your accommodation where your guide will meet you for a full briefing and equipment check.
Overnight Simba Farm Lodge (Classic) or Ndarakwai Ranch (Premium)
Lemosho Trailhead (2,400m/7,880ft) to Big Tree Camp (2,800m/9,190ft)
Elevation Gain:400m/1,310ftThis morning you will drive to the Londorossi gate where you will complete entry formalities. From here, your drive continues for around 1 hour to the trailhead.
Enjoy lunch before commencing your trek through lush undisturbed forest where you may be lucky enough to see Colobus monkeys. The path undulates, steeply in places, to arrive at the first camp after 2-3 hours of trekking on Mt Kilimanjaro.
Overnight Big Tree Camp (Mti Mkubwa)Big Tree Camp (2,800m/9,190ft) to Shira 1 Camp (3,550m/11,650ft)Elevation Gain: 750m/2,460ftYour trek will begin in the forest; however, you will soon leave it behind, taking a steep track into a zone of giant heather and volcanic rock.
This is a full day ascending the lush rolling hills below the Shira Plateau. Shira is the third of Kilimanjaro’s volcanic cones.
The trail begins to ease as you reach the edge of the plateau, reaching camp after 5-6 hours. The view of Kibo across the plateau is incredible during your Mt Kilimanjaro Climb.
Overnight Shira 1 CampShira 1 Camp (3,550m/11,650ft) to Shira 2 Camp (3,850m/12,650ft)Elevation Gain: 300m/1,000ftTrek across the Shira Plateau with an optional climb to Shira Cathedral (3,880m). Shira is one of the highest plateaus on earth. The day finishes with a gradual climb to Shira 2 Camp.
Trekking time without the optional excursion is approximately 3 hours. Including acclimatization to the peak of Shira Cathedral will add approximately 1 hour.
This stage is a part of the Kilimanjaro Climbing experience, where each step brings you closer to the summit.
Overnight Shira 2 CampShira 2 Camp (3,850m/12,650ft) to Barranco Camp (3,900m/12,800ft)Elevation Gain: 750m/2,400ftElevation Loss: 700m/2,300ftYour climb today will take you steadily up and over the expansive ridgelines of high desert to Lava Tower Kilimanjaro at 4,600m.
The trek to the base of the tower, a 300-foot-high volcanic plug, takes around 4-5 hours. From here, begin a steep descent into the Barranco Valley, passing exotic large flowering plants, Senecio Kilimanjaro. This descent will take 1-2 hours.
Although you end your day at almost the same elevation as you started, today is crucial for acclimatization. Camp is in a beautiful, sheltered valley below the imposing Barranco Wall, a highlight of the Climbing Mount Kilimanjaro journey.
Overnight Barranco CampBarranco Camp (3,900m/12,800ft) to Karanga Camp (3,950m/12,960ft)Elevation Gain:300m/1,000ftElevation Loss:250m/820ftBegin the day by tackling the Barranco Wall, an exhilarating scramble that not only tests your limits but also offers fantastic views back towards camp.
As you reach the top at 4,200m—highlighting the impressive Kilimanjaro Height—follow the undulating path around the mountainside.
On a clear day, the landscape opens up with spectacular views: Kibo looms to your left and Mount Meru stretches out to your right.
The day's journey continues as you descend into the Karanga Valley, followed by a short but steep climb to your camp. The walking time for today's segment is approximately 3-4 hours.
Overnight Karanga CampKaranga Camp (3,950m/12,960ft) to Kosovo Camp (4,800m/15,750ft)Elevation Gain: 850m/2,790ftSpend the morning Climbing Mount Kilimanjaro steadily up to Barafu Camp, which is Swahili for ice, and then continue up a rocky slab to Kosovo.
This small camp is located on the ridge below the summit cone. You have now completed the South Circuit, which offers views from many different angles. The walk will take around 4-5 hours, meaning you will arrive at Kosovo in time for lunch and a full summit briefing, before spending the afternoon resting.
The two peaks of Mawenzi and Kibo can be seen from this position, making it a key spot in the Climbing Mt Kilimanjaro experience.
Overnight Kosovo CampKosovo Camp (4,800m/15,750ft) to Uhuru Peak (5,895m/19,340ft) then descending to Mweka Camp (3,110m/10,200ft)Elevation Gain: 1,095m/3,590ftElevation Loss: 2,785m/9,140ftIn the early hours of the morning, begin your final ascent to the summit of Kilimanjaro, taking approximately 5-7 hours.
It can be very cold at night at this Mount Kilimanjaro Elevation, but it will warm up by the end of your hiking day, requiring clothing for both temperature extremes.
Just when you think you’ve reached your limit, the sun will rise, and you’ll be rewarded with a rich red sky framing Mawenzi.
At Stella Point (5,750m), join the crater rim. From here, climb less steeply to Uhuru Peak, the highest point on Mount Kilimanjaro in Africa.
From the summit, descend to Mweka Hut, with lunch served on the way, taking around 6 hours. Enjoy your last dinner on the mountain and a well-earned sleep.
Overnight Mweka Hut CampMweka Camp (3,110m/10,200ft) to Mweka Gate (1,830m/6,000ft)Elevation Loss: 1,280m/4,200ftDescend to the gate through the lush forest (2-3 hours), looking for monkeys along the way. You will be collected from Mweka Village and taken to your hotel in Moshi.
Overnight Ameg Lodge (Classic) or Pink Flamingo Boutique Hotel (Premium)Today you will be transferred to Kilimanjaro Airport in time for your flight, or if you’ve decided to extend your Tanzanian adventure, begin the next part of your journey!
Discover everything about Kilimanjaro’s most picturesque routeThe 8-day Lemosho Route stands out among the various paths to Uhuru Peak for its unmatched scenic beauty and excellent acclimatization profile.
From its stunning scenery and excellent Kilimanjaro Acclimatization profile to its lower traffic and abundant wildlife, this route certainly makes its case for being one of the best Kilimanjaro Routes.
The Lemosho Route is one of the longer routes to get to Uhuru Peak, offering climbers a more gradual ascent and better acclimatization profile. Typically, the Kilimanjaro Lemosho Route Itinerary takes between 7 to 8 days to complete.
What This Does – Allows climbers ample time to adjust to the altitude and maximize their chances of reaching the summit successfully.
On the other hand, the Kilimanjaro Lemosho Route 8 Days itinerary offers a more relaxed pace, providing additional time for acclimatization and increasing the likelihood of summit success.
The choice between the 7-day and 8-day itineraries depends on various factors, including the climber's level of fitness, prior Kilimanjaro Altitude experience, and personal preferences.
Special Note: Want to know how long it takes to climb Kilimanjaro using different paths? Check out our page: How Long to Climb Kilimanjaro via Various Routes? You’ll find lots of helpful info about each path, helping you choose the best one for your climb.
The Kilimanjaro Climb Cost via the Lemosho Route is based on the duration of the trek, the number of climbers in the group, and the level of service. As a guideline, here are the estimated costs for the two main itineraries:
This shorter Mt Kilimanjaro climb itinerary is priced between $2,505 per person, depending on the number of participants and the level of service included in our Kilimanjaro Climbing Packages. Prices reflect variations based on factors such as accommodation, meals, equipment rental, and park fees.
The longer Lemosho Route itinerary of 8 days generally offers a more relaxed pace, allowing for better acclimatization and increased chances of summit success.
The cost of this itinerary starts at $2,710 per person. Prices include variations based on the number of participants and the level of service included in our Kilimanjaro Climbing Packages, with factors such as accommodation, meals, equipment rental, and park fees influencing the total cost.
1. Before you start your adventure on Kilimanjaro's Lemosho Route, remember to plan for extra costs. These include tipping your guides and porters, buying Kilimanjaro Travel Insurance, and any visa fees. Planning these will help you be fully ready for your climb.
2. The Best Time to Climb Kilimanjaro via the Lemosho Route is when the weather is dry, from January to March and June to October.
Climbing during these months might cost a bit more because more people want guides and places to stay. However, picking these months for your climb means better weather for your trek to the top.
3. Also, consider climbing during a Kilimanjaro Full Moon Climb. Climbing when the moon is full is really special because the moonlight lights up the paths beautifully at night. This makes it easier to see and walk, and it adds something magical to your climbing experience.
By keeping these tips in mind, you’ll be better prepared and have a more enjoyable climb up Kilimanjaro.
The Kilimanjaro Lemosho Route is widely regarded as being one of the best routes for beginners because of:
Moreover, the Lemosho Route Map shows that the route is less crowded compared to some of the more popular Routes up Kilimanjaro. With few climbers on the trail, beginners can enjoy a more personalized experience with less pressure and competition for resources like campsites and facilities.
With the right mindset and guidance from our experienced guides of ours, beginners can successfully reach the summit of Kilimanjaro via the Lemosho Route Itinerary.
The Lemosho Route Itinerary offers several designated rest stops along the trek. These stops are strategically located at various elevations to facilitate acclimatization and provide climbers with opportunities to rest and rejuvenate. The rest stops typically consist of several Kilimanjaro Campsites equipped with tents, dining facilities, and basic amenities.
The following representation provides various examples of the rest stops along the Kilimanjaro Lemosho Route Map along with the location:
| CAMP NAME | ELEVATION (in Metres) | ELEVATION (In Feet) |
|
Londorossi Gate |
2,100 |
6,890 |
|
Mti Mkubwa Camp |
2,820 |
9,250 |
|
Shira 1 Camp |
3,505 |
11,499 |
|
Shira 2 Camp |
3,840 |
12,598 |
|
Moir Hut Camp |
4,200 |
13,780 |
|
Lava Tower Camp |
4,630 |
15,190 |
|
Barranco Camp |
3,950 |
12,960 |
|
Karanga Camp |
3,995 |
13,106 |
|
Barafu Camp |
4,673 |
15,331 |
|
Mweka Camp |
3,100 |
10,170 |
Climbers are encouraged to listen to their bodies, stay hydrated, and take advantage of these rest stops to ensure a safe and enjoyable experience on the Lemosho Route Kilimanjaro.
At African Scenic Safaris, regarded as one of the Best Kilimanjaro Tour Operators, we highly value the Lemosho Route on Kilimanjaro. Our appreciation for this trail stems from its breathtaking natural beauty and the variety of landscapes it showcases.
Additionally, the Lemosho Route's excellent acclimatization profile aligns with our responsible trekking practices.
The route's longer duration allows climbers more time to adjust to the altitude gradually, reducing the risk of altitude-related illnesses and increasing the chances of summit success.
We believe that this careful approach to acclimatization enhances climbers' overall experience of Mountain Climbing Kilimanjaro.
Download our detailed Lemosho Route Guide for essential insights and information
Kilimanjaro welcomes everyone, from beginners to experts, yet demands cautious respect. Our expert guides ensure a safe ascent by monitoring health, managing altitude, setting a safe pace and providing support at all times.
This comprehensive list contains a list of all items essential for Climbing Kilimanjaro.
Your complete guide to conquering Kilimanjaro with confidence
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Answered by Simbo Natai
It typically takes around 7-8 days to complete the Tanzania Mt Kilimanjaro Climb via the Lemosho Route. This route allows for better acclimatization and higher chances of reaching the summit.
1The Lemosho Route Kilimanjaro is considered to have a moderate to challenging difficulty level, requiring good physical fitness, stamina, and mental determination due to steep sections and high altitude.
2At African Scenic Safaris we consider that a successful climb is making it up and back down Kilimanjaro safely, regardless of whether you reached the summit or not. In this regard, our success rate is 100%. Nonetheless, the Lemosho Route Success Rate is still very high.
3Yes, the Mount Kilimanjaro Lemosho Route is renowned for its scenic beauty, offering diverse landscapes such as lush rainforests, moorlands, alpine deserts, and breathtaking views, making it one of the most visually appealing routes on Mount Kilimanjaro.
4The average daily trekking distance on the Lemosho Route Map ranges from 6 to 12 kilometres (3.7 to 7.5 miles), depending on the specific day and campsite.
5Compared to other Kilimanjaro Climb Routes, the Lemosho Route is generally less crowded, offering a quieter and more serene trekking experience with fewer fellow climbers encountered along the way.
6While not mandatory, it is highly recommended to undergo physical training and preparation before climbing the Lemosho Route. This includes cardiovascular exercises, strength training, and hiking to improve endurance and fitness levels.
7The Best Time to Climb Kilimanjaro via the Lemosho Route is during the dry seasons, which are from June To March, providing better weather conditions and increased chances of a successful summit.
8The Lemosho Route Kilimanjaro has a total of 6 camp stays, including camps like Shira 1 Camp, Barranco Camp, Karanga Camp, Barafu Camp, and sometimes Millennium Camp or Mweka Camp.
9Attractions along the Kilimanjaro Lemosho Route include the lush rainforests of the lower slopes, stunning views of the Shira Plateau, the iconic Barranco Wall, the lunar-like landscape of the Southern Circuit, and the magnificent sunrise from the summit of Kilimanjaro.
10 Reach the top of Kilimanjaro with our expert-guided tours Subscribe to African Scenic Safaris on YouTube Review Us On Trip AdvisorWith over 725 review and counting, 95% are Excellent and 5% are Very Good
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With over 97 reviews, African Scenic Safaris maintains an impressive 5-star rating, reflecting exceptional service and customer satisfaction.
5/5
Our Kilimanjaro climb with African Scenic Safaris was nothing short of extraordinary! From start to finish, the team made the experience unforgettable.
It's no surprise that when I look at all of the reviews for African Scenic Safari's, it reflects as 5-stars - look no further if you're looking for the best company to guide.
In October 2023 we did a six day trek to summit Kilimanjaro with African Scenic Safaris and I can only highly recommend them.
Katharina CSummit at: 19 July 2024
Hannah BSummit at: 13 November 2023
Giovanna VSummit at: 12 September 2023
Giovanna VSummit at:02 September 2023
Our family of four (2 adults, 2 boys aged 13 and 11) as well as my sister and parents joined African Scenic for 2 trips: first we climbed Mount Kilimanjaro. Taking the Lemosho route, Alois (also called AJ) and his crew did an absolutely amazing job making each day as easy and adventurous as possible. Their care of us, whether it was setting up tents, providing excellent meals in those difficult conditions, helping us deal with headaches or heavy back packs, introducing us to Tanzanian culture… was second the none. Every action had a personal touch and was done with big smiles and laughter. There were so many other crew members, especially Richard and Emanuel, that worked incredibly hard to make our trip possible, all the while picking up rubbish discarded by other travelers to help keep Kilimanjaro as pristine as possible. Sure enough, we all reached the summit and got to enjoy this truly once in a lifetime achievement.
Handing us over to another Emanuel, we spent 10 days on safari. Emanuel is the most genuine guide you could wish for, an expert driver (the terrain is definitely a challenge) and incredible wildlife guide. Through his guidance, we had the most spectacular animal encounters, often away from the crowds. He was especially good with our boys, a true blessing to us parents.
Thanks also to Nebris, our contact partner and trip coordinator with African Scenic. Every step of the journey was organised without any hassle to us. The lodges she chose for our accommodation were each luxurious and unique and always in tune with the environment. Thanks to her, each day was a surprise and different from the other. The Land Cruiser was also absolutely reliable and comfortable, our trusty steed through so many challenging road conditions.
So all in all, if you would like to join a carefree and spectacular journey through Tanzania while helping to conserve nature and contribute Tanzanian business, you can’t go wrong with African Scenic.
It's been eight months, and the Kili climb and safari with African Scenic Safaris is still on my mind every day. I'm still going through photos, hence the delayed posting, but I couldn't wait any longer.
Kilimanjaro Climb:
My husband and I opted for an 8-day Lemosho private climb up Kili after discussing some options with Nembris (who responded quickly and offered excellent advice). Our mountain guide, Godwin Regan, was really the best of the best. My husband had some lingering nausea from travel, jet lag, and malarone, and Godwin quickly ensured there was ginger for the entire climb. He worked with Amin, our camping manager, to ensure our camp was along the edge of the group for more privacy and better views! On summit night, he kept us moving at a stretch pace, and prepared us for infrequent stops so that we could keep momentum and make it to the summit. Our assistant guide, Maneno, was also really professional, knew so much about the mountain, and entertained us with Swahili lessons during our daily hikes. They both were always ready to lend a hand and the full team was dedicated to our safety. We were also very happy with our decision to take a private climb as we were more able to get to know our full crew. We even got cooking demos from our chef, Lazaro (all of the food was so delicious - especially the banana stew!). There were no issues accommodating our dietary restrictions, needless to say. We are so appreciative of the full crew: Isaac, Grayson, Luich, Joram, Jonathan, Basilisa, Frank, Simon, Domas, Gastro. Tip your porters well!
Safari :
After the Kilimanjaro climb, our 8-day safari guided by Grayson was a dream come true. From cheetahs and leopards in Ndutu Conservation Area to the captivating Serengeti, it was a incredible time. We concluded with Ngorongoro Crater, where we spotted rhinos, and Tarangire. Looking back, we might have spent one less night in the Serengeti and an extra day at the Crater. But our overall trip was pretty close to perfection.
Miscellaneous Other Tips:
Make sure you take a day of rest to tackle jet lag upon landing. Consider investing in fleece liners for your sleeping bag, especially as temperatures drop quickly in Shira Crater. Remember to open your water bottle before starting your hike from the base camp for easier water access at the top.
TLDR: put your money where it supports the local economy, and don't hesitate to book your journey with African Scenic Safaris today!
We were a group of 3, did a couple of days of safari at Tarangire National Park and Kilimanjaro trekking via Lemosho route (8 days). Everything has been terrific and ran very smoothly! Nembris, at the office, has been great during the booking process. She replied to all our questions with patience and competence. A staff Member showed up at the hotel with our trekking head guide the day before departing for the trekking for the briefing and for checking all our equipment. Said, our head guide and Lion, the assistant guide: they have been professional, very friendly and helpful. They went above and beyond and I'm 100% sure that listening to their advice has been the main key to reaching the summit! No need to say that all the crew of porters have been excellent... African Scenic Safari has a strong attitude towards responsible travel and sustainability. Furthermore, they are partner with KPAP (Kilimanjaro Porters Assistance Project). We would definitely use them again!
We were a group of 3, did a couple of days of safari at Tarangire National Park and Kilimanjaro trekking via Lemosho route (8 days). Everything has been terrific and ran very smoothly! Nembris, at the office, has been great during the booking process. She replied to all our questions with patience and competence. A staff Member showed up at the hotel with our trekking head guide the day before departing for the trekking for the briefing and for checking all our equipment. Said, our head guide and Lion, the assistant guide: they have been professional, very friendly and helpful. They went above and beyond and I'm 100% sure that listening to their advice has been the main key to reaching the summit! No need to say that all the crew of porters have been excellent... African Scenic Safari has a strong attitude towards responsible travel and sustainability. Furthermore, they are partner with KPAP (Kilimanjaro Porters Assistance Project). We would definitely use them again!
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