Lemosho Route: The Most Scenic Route
Lemosho Route: The Best Kilimanjaro Climbing Experience
Mount Kilimanjaro, Africa’s tallest peak, is a dream destination for many trekkers. If you’re looking for a scenic, less crowded, and highly successful route to the summit, the Lemosho Route is your best bet. This trail offers breathtaking views, a longer acclimatization period, and an immersive experience through diverse landscapes.
In this guide, we’ll cover:
- Why the Lemosho Route is the best option for climbing Kilimanjaro
- A detailed day-by-day itinerary
- Difficulty level and best time to go
- Essential tips for a successful climb
Why Choose the Lemosho Route?
The Lemosho Route is widely regarded as the most beautiful and rewarding path up Kilimanjaro. Here’s why:
✅ Scenic Beauty – Lush rainforests, vast moorlands, alpine deserts, and glaciers make this route visually stunning.
✅ High Success Rate – With an 8-day itinerary, climbers have a higher chance of reaching Uhuru Peak due to better acclimatization.
✅ Less Crowded – Compared to other popular routes like Machame or Marangu, Lemosho has fewer trekkers, especially in the early days.
✅ Wildlife Sightings – Elephants, buffaloes, and colobus monkeys are often spotted in the lower sections of the route.
Lemosho Route Itinerary: A Day-by-Day Breakdown
Day 1: Londorossi Gate to Mti Mkubwa (Big Tree Camp)
- Elevation: 2,100m to 2,785m (6,890ft to 9,121ft)
- Distance: 6 km (3.7 miles)
- Time: 3-4 hours
Your adventure begins at Londorossi Gate, where you’ll register with the park authorities. After a short drive to the trailhead, you’ll trek through a dense rainforest filled with towering trees and wildlife before reaching Mti Mkubwa (Big Tree Camp).
Day 2: Mti Mkubwa to Shira 1 Camp
- Elevation: 2,785m to 3,505m (9,121ft to 11,499ft)
- Distance: 8 km (5 miles)
- Time: 5-6 hours
The scenery changes dramatically as you leave the rainforest behind. You’ll ascend through heathland and cross several streams before arriving at Shira 1 Camp on the Shira Plateau, one of Kilimanjaro’s most stunning landscapes.
Day 3: Shira 1 Camp to Shira 2 Camp
- Elevation: 3,505m to 3,850m (11,499ft to 12,631ft)
- Distance: 7 km (4.3 miles)
- Time: 3-4 hours
This is a shorter day, allowing trekkers to adjust to the altitude. You’ll hike across the plateau, enjoying panoramic views of Kibo Peak, before reaching Shira 2 Camp.
Day 4: Shira 2 to Lava Tower (Acclimatization) to Barranco Camp
- Elevation: 3,850m to 4,630m to 3,976m (12,631ft to 15,190ft to 13,044ft)
- Distance: 10 km (6.2 miles)
- Time: 6-7 hours
This is an acclimatization day. You’ll climb to Lava Tower, an iconic volcanic rock formation at 4,630m, before descending to Barranco Camp. The descent helps your body adjust to the altitude, improving your chances of reaching the summit.
Day 5: Barranco Camp to Karanga Camp
- Elevation: 3,976m to 3,995m (13,044ft to 13,106ft)
- Distance: 5 km (3.1 miles)
- Time: 4-5 hours
You’ll tackle the famous Barranco Wall, a steep but manageable climb that rewards you with spectacular views. After crossing small valleys and ridges, you’ll reach Karanga Camp, a crucial stop for further acclimatization.
Day 6: Karanga Camp to Barafu Camp
- Elevation: 3,995m to 4,673m (13,106ft to 15,331ft)
- Distance: 4 km (2.5 miles)
- Time: 3-4 hours
A shorter but important day as you prepare for the final summit push. Barafu means “ice” in Swahili, and the freezing temperatures at night remind you that the summit is near!
Day 7: Barafu Camp to Uhuru Peak to Mweka Camp
- Elevation: 4,673m to 5,895m (15,331ft to 19,341ft)
- Distance: 17 km (10.6 miles)
- Time: 10-14 hours
This is the big day! You’ll start the final ascent at midnight, trekking through the cold and darkness to reach Stella Point at sunrise. From there, a final push gets you to Uhuru Peak, the highest point in Africa!
After celebrating and taking photos, you’ll descend to Mweka Camp for a well-deserved rest.
Day 8: Mweka Camp to Mweka Gate
- Elevation: 3,100m to 1,640m (10,170ft to 5,380ft)
- Distance: 10 km (6.2 miles)
- Time: 3-4 hours
A gentle descent through the lush rainforest leads you to Mweka Gate, where you’ll receive your summit certificate. From here, a short drive takes you back to Moshi for a much-needed shower and celebration!
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How Difficult is the Lemosho Route?
✅ Moderate to Challenging – While not technically difficult, the altitude makes it tough.
✅ Success Rate: 90% for 8-day itineraries due to better acclimatization.
✅ Best for: Those looking for a gradual and scenic climb with high summit chances.
Best Time to Climb Kilimanjaro via Lemosho Route
☀️ Best Seasons:
- January to March – Fewer crowds, colder but clear skies.
- June to October – Dry season with warmer temperatures and stunning views.
🌧️ Avoid:
- April, May, and November (heavy rains make trails slippery).
Essential Tips for a Successful Climb
✔️ Train in advance – Build endurance with hikes and cardio exercises.
✔️ Pack wisely – Layers, good hiking boots, and high-altitude gear are a must.
✔️ Hydrate constantly – Dehydration worsens altitude sickness.
✔️ Go slow (“Pole Pole”) – Slow and steady wins the summit!
✔️ Choose a good trekking company – A knowledgeable guide makes a huge difference.