8 Day Lemosho Route Kilimanjaro

Itinerary Overview

The 8 Day Lemosho Route Kilimanjaro is one of the most popular choices for travelers seeking a successful and scenic Kilimanjaro trek. Known for its outstanding acclimatization profile, breathtaking landscapes, and high summit success rate, this route is recommended by the best Kilimanjaro tour operators and led by some of the best Kilimanjaro guides in Tanzania. Starting on the remote western side of Mount Kilimanjaro, trekkers pass through lush rainforests, heathlands, alpine deserts, and glacier-covered summit zones before reaching Uhuru Peak. The extra acclimatization day significantly improves summit success while allowing hikers to enjoy the mountain diverse ecosystems, spectacular views, and a less crowded trekking experience.

Day by day itinerary

Day 1: Londorossi Gate to Mti Mkubwa Camp

After completing registration at Londorossi Gate, you will drive to the Lemosho trailhead and begin your Kilimanjaro trek through the lush rainforest. This scenic section of the mountain is rich in wildlife, and you may spot elephants, buffaloes, and various bird species along the route, accompanied by an armed ranger for safety. The gradual ascent leads to Mti Mkubwa Camp, where you will enjoy dinner and your first night on the mountain.

Elevation: 2,100m to 2,820m
Distance: Approximately 5.5 km
Hiking Time: 5 to 7 hours
Habitat: Rainforest

Meals: Lunch and Dinner

Day 2: Mti Mkubwa Camp to Shira Camp 1

Today trek begins with a gentle climb through the final section of Kilimanjaro’s lush rainforest before emerging into the open moorland zone. As the trail ascends, spectacular views of the Shira Plateau and surrounding landscapes begin to unfold. The route gradually becomes steeper as you cross heathland vegetation and volcanic terrain. Upon reaching Shira Camp 1, situated on the western edge of the plateau, you can relax, enjoy the stunning scenery, and continue acclimatizing for the days ahead.

Elevation: 2,820m to 3,500m
Distance: Approximately 5.5 km
Hiking Time: 5 to 6 hours
Habitat: Rainforest Low Alpine Zone

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner

Day 3: Shira Camp 1 to Moir Hut

Today hike traverses the expansive Shira Plateau, offering breathtaking views of the surrounding valleys, volcanic landscapes, and the impressive Western Breach. After reaching Shira Camp 2 (3,850m), where the Lemosho Route joins the Machame Route, continue along a quieter trail toward Moir Hut. Located in a remote alpine setting, Moir Hut provides excellent acclimatization opportunities. As altitude increases, temperatures become colder and symptoms of altitude may begin to appear, making it important to stay hydrated and monitor your condition. Spending the night at this higher elevation helps prepare your body for the summit days ahead.

Elevation: 3,500m to 4,200m
Distance: Approximately 8.5 km
Hiking Time: 5 to 7 hours
Habitat: Low Alpine High Alpine Zone

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner

Day 4: Moir Hut to Lava Tower to Barranco Camp

Trek takes you through Kilimanjaro dramatic alpine desert landscape as you ascend steadily toward Lava Tower (4,600m), one of the mountain’s most important acclimatization points. Along the way, enjoy spectacular views of the rugged terrain and the iconic Shark’s Tooth rock formation. After lunch at Lava Tower, descend via the scenic Southern Circuit to Barranco Camp, nestled beneath the towering Barranco Wall. Although you sleep at a lower elevation, the climb high, sleep low strategy significantly improves acclimatization and increases your chances of a successful summit.

Elevation: 4,200m to 4,600m to 3,900m
Distance: Approximately 12 km
Hiking Time: 6 to 7 hours
Habitat: High Alpine Zone

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner

Day 5: Barranco Camp to Karanga Camp

Day five begins with the ascent of the famous Barranco Wall, a steep but rewarding 257-meter scramble that requires the use of both hands and feet. Once at the top, enjoy spectacular panoramic views of Kibo Peak and the surrounding valleys. The trail then descends into the scenic Karanga Valley before continuing across a series of ridges to Karanga Camp. This shorter trekking day allows valuable time for rest and acclimatization, helping your body adapt to the increasing altitude before the final push toward the summit.

Elevation: 3,900m to 3,960m
Distance: Approximately 7 km
Hiking Time: 4 hours
Habitat: High Alpine Zone

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner

Day 6: Karanga Camp to Barafu Camp

Today trek is relatively short but important as you make your way from Karanga Camp to Barafu Camp, the final base camp before the summit attempt. The trail gradually ascends through the rugged alpine landscape, offering spectacular views of Mawenzi Peak and the surrounding mountain scenery. Upon arrival at Barafu Camp, located at 4,680 meters, you will have time to rest, hydrate, and enjoy an early dinner before preparing for the midnight summit push. Adequate rest is essential as you mentally and physically prepare for the most challenging and rewarding stage of the 8 Day Lemosho Route.

Elevation: 3,960m to 4,680m
Distance: Approximately 6 km
Hiking Time: 3 hours
Habitat: High Alpine Zone

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner

Day 7: Barafu Camp to Uhuru Peak to Mweka Camp

Summit day is the highlight of your Kilimanjaro adventure. Around midnight, you will begin the final ascent after tea and biscuits, trekking slowly through the cold and challenging glacial zone under the stars. The climb to Stella Point (5,739m) requires determination, patience, and a steady pace. After a brief rest, continue along the crater rim to Uhuru Peak (5,895m), the highest point in Africa. Take time to celebrate, capture unforgettable photos, and enjoy the incredible achievement before beginning the descent. Return to Barafu Camp for a short rest and refreshments before continuing down to Mweka Camp for a well deserved overnight stay.

Elevation: 4,680m to 5,895m to 3,100m
Distance: 4.5 km ascent 11 km descent
Hiking Time: 6 to 8 hours ascent 5 to 8 hours descent
Habitat: Glacial Zone

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner

Day 8: Mweka Camp to Mweka Gate

Your final day on Mount Kilimanjaro begins with a descent through the lush rainforest from Mweka Camp to Mweka Gate. Although the trail is mostly downhill, tired legs and sore muscles from the summit climb can make the trek feel challenging. Take your time, enjoy the beautiful forest scenery, and reflect on your remarkable achievement. Upon arrival at Mweka Gate, you will complete park formalities, sign out with the authorities, and receive your official summit certificate. Climbers who reached Stella Point receive a green certificate, while those who successfully summited Uhuru Peak are awarded a gold certificate. Afterward, you will be transferred back to your hotel for a well deserved rest and celebration.

Elevation: 3,100m to 1,640m
Distance: Approximately 9 km
Hiking Time: 3 to 5 hours
Habitat: Rainforest

Meals: Breakfast and Lunch

Cost includes

All transfers

Professional and experienced mountain guide, cook and porters

Rescue fees

Quality mess tents with tables and chairs

Clean purified water

Accommodation before climbing

All entry fees

All meals during your trekking

Large portion of fresh healthy nutritious food

Cost Excludes

Sleeping bags, bring your own sleeping bag but still you can rent it in Arusha at reasonable

Flight ticket

Gratitude’s for Kilimanjaro climbing crews

Personal expenses (e.g. laundry bills, telephone bills, beverages etc.)

Anything not mentioned above