8 Day Lemosho Route Kilimanjaro Climb
The Lemosho Route is widely regarded as the most scenic way to climb Mount Kilimanjaro, offering breathtaking views from multiple sides of the mountain. Starting from the remote western approach, this route provides a quieter and more immersive trekking experience, far from the busier trails. Over seven days, the journey unfolds across diverse landscapes, from lush rainforest and expansive moorlands to dramatic volcanic formations and high-altitude desert. Its longer approach allows for excellent acclimatization, making it one of the most successful routes for reaching Uhuru Peak. Ideal for those seeking both beauty and a well-paced climb, the Lemosho Route delivers a balanced experience of adventure, comfort, and unforgettable scenery at every stage.
8 Day Lemosho Route Overview
Arrival Day at Kilimanjaro International Airport
Day 1: Lemosho Gate (2385m) to Big Tree Camp (2780m)
Day 2: Big Tree Camp (2780m) to Shira 1 Camp (3500m)
Day 3: Shira 1 Camp (3500m) to Shira 2 Camp (3900m)
Day 4: Shira 2 Camp (3900m) to Lava Tower (4600m) to Barranco Camp (3960m)
Day 5: Barranco Camp (3960m) to Karanga Camp (3963m)
Day 6: Karanga Camp (3963m) to Barafu Camp (4640m)
Day 7: Barafu Camp (4640m) – Uhuru Peak (5895m) – Millennium Camp (3790m)
Day 8: Millennium Camp (3790m) to Mweka Gate (1630m)
Departure Day at Kilimanjaro International Airport
Arrival Day: Arrive at Kilimanjaro Airport
Upon arrival at Kilimanjaro International Airport, our Vaa Africa guide will be there to welcome you and transfer you to your hotel in Moshi. You will then meet your mountain guide for a detailed trek briefing and a full equipment check to ensure you are fully prepared for the climb. Any missing gear can be arranged on this day.
- Overnight - Arusha Hotel/ Similar Hotel
Day 1:Lemosho Gate (2385m) to Big Tree Camp (2780m)
After breakfast, depart from Arusha and transfer to Lemosho Gate on the western side of Kilimanjaro. After registration, begin your trek through lush rainforest, following gentle trails to Big Tree Camp where you will spend your first night on the mountain.
Distance: 7km
Hiking Time: 3–4 hours
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner Included
- Overnight - Big Tree Camp
Day 2:Big Tree Camp (2780m) to Shira 1 Camp (3500m)
The trail gradually leads you out of the forest into open moorland, offering the first expansive views of the mountain. You will cross rolling terrain with scattered volcanic rocks before reaching Shira 1 Camp.
Distance: 8km
Hiking Time: 4–5 hours
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner Included
- Overnight - Shira 1 Camp
Day 3:Shira 1 Camp (3500m) to Shira 2 Camp (3900m)
Today’s trek is shorter, allowing time for acclimatization as you cross the Shira Plateau. Enjoy panoramic views of Kibo Peak and the surrounding landscapes while gradually gaining altitude.
Distance: 7km
Hiking Time: 3–4 hours
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner Included
- Overnight - Shira 2 Camp
Day 4:Shira 2 Camp (3900m) to Lava Tower (4600m) to Barranco Camp (3960m)
This is a key acclimatization day. You will climb up to Lava Tower before descending to Barranco Camp, following the “climb high, sleep low” principle. The changing landscapes and altitude make this a rewarding and important stage.
Distance: 10km
Hiking Time: 6–7 hours
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner Included
- Overnight - Barranco Camp
Day 5:Barranco Camp (3960m) to Karanga Camp (3963m)
Start the day by climbing the famous Barranco Wall, a highlight of the route offering spectacular views. Continue across ridges and valleys to Karanga Camp, where you will have time to rest and further acclimatize.
Distance: 5.5km
Hiking Time: 4–5 hours
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner Included
- Overnight - Karanga Camp
Day 6:Karanga Camp (3963m) to Barafu Camp (4640m)
A shorter trekking day takes you across alpine desert terrain to Barafu Camp, your base for the summit attempt. Spend the afternoon resting, hydrating, and preparing for the midnight ascent.
Distance: 4km
Hiking Time: 3–4 hours
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner Included
- Overnight - Barafu Camp
Day 7:Barafu Camp (4640m) – Uhuru Peak (5895m) – Millennium Camp (3790m)
Your summit attempt begins just after midnight. Climb steadily to Stella Point as sunrise lights up the horizon, then continue to Uhuru Peak, the highest point in Africa. After celebrating your achievement, descend to Barafu Camp for a short rest before continuing down to Millennium Camp for a well-earned overnight stay.
Distance: 13.4km
Hiking Time: 12–15 hours
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner Included
- Overnight - Millennium Camp
Day 8:Millennium Camp (3790m) to Mweka Gate (1630m)
The final descent takes you through lush rainforest to Mweka Gate, where you will receive your summit certificate. Your Vaa Africa team will then transfer you back to your hotel in Moshi, where you can relax, refresh, and celebrate your successful climb.
Distance: 12.1km
Hiking Time: 5–6 hours
Meals: Breakfast & Lunch Included
- Overnight - Arusha Hotel/ Similar Hotel
Departure Day: Arusha to Kilimanjaro International Airport
Enjoy a relaxed morning before your transfer to the airport. Depending on your schedule, you may explore Moshi town or extend your journey with a safari or Zanzibar beach escape.
Meals: Breakfast included
Included
- All Park fees
- High quality mountain sleeping tents
- Experienced mountain guides, porters and chef
- All accommodation as per itinerary
- All meals as mentioned (B, L, D)
- Bottled drinking water during safari
- Airport transfers (arrival & departure)
- Government taxes and VAT
Excluded
- International flights
- Visa fees
- Travel insurance
- Personal expenses (telephone, souvenirs)
- Alcoholic and soft drinks (unless specified)
- Tips and gratuities for guide, chef and porters
- Optional Tours (short safari after your climb etc)