Kilimanjaro-lemosho route

The Lemosho Route is a newer route on Mount Kilimanjaro that approaches from the west. It is a difficult and long route, but one that is favored by most reputable Kilimanjaro outfitters due to its smaller crowds, scenic variety and high success rates. 

 

The route begins in the west and rather than simply intersecting Shira Plateau (like Machame), Lemosho crosses it from Shira Ridge to Shira Camp. Climbers encounter low traffic until the route joins the Machame route. Afterwards, Lemosho follows the same route through Lava Tower, Barranco and Barafu, known as the southern circuit. 

 

Lemosho is considered the most beautiful route on Kilimanjaro and grants panoramic vistas on various sides of the mountain. It is our favorite route because it offers a great balance of low traffic, scenic views and a high summit success rate. Thus, Lemosho comes highly recommended.

 

Below is a sample itinerary for the Lemosho route.

 

9 DAYS / 8 NIGHTS

 

Day 1

Arrive Moshi

Upon arrival you will be met by our representative and transferred to your hotel. Meet your climbing guide for briefing and final gear check. Overnight at the hotel. 

 

Day 2

 

Moshi – Mti Mkubwa camp (9,020ft/2750m) 

Drive to Londorossi Park Gate then on to the Lemosho glades to the trailhead at 6,890 ft/2100m. Walk through the forest to Mti Mkubwa (big tree) campsite for dinner and overnight stay. 

 

Day 3

 

Mti Mkubwa - Shira plateau camp (11,480ft/3500m) 

Trek across several streams in the heather zone of the mountain and cross the Shira Ridge on to the Shira Plateau where we camp for the night. 

 

Day 4

 

Shira plateau - Shira hut (12,470ft/3800m) 

This day’s trek is a gentle one across the plateau to Shira Hut camp on moorland meadows zone. The afternoon can be used for walks on the plateau which helps climbers to acclimatize.   

 

Day 5

 

Shira hut - Barranco campsite (12,960ft/3950m) 

Head eastward to a junction where we continue to Lava Tower Campsite (14,760ft/4500m), then descend to Barranco camp thus allowing your body to adjust to altitude change. Take the day’s rest here.

 

Day 6

 

Barranco camp - Barafu camp (15,090ft/4600m) 

Across the Karanga Valley and ascend to Barafu campsite. Have dinner and take the day’s rest ready for the hike to the summit.

Note:

An extra day for acclimatization can be added by staying overnight at Karanga camp then proceed to Barafu camp the next day.

 

Day 7

 

Barafu camp-Summit(19,340ft/5895m)-Mweka

Start at mid-night for the Summit (Uhuru peak) arriving at sunrise. Descend back to Barafu for breakfast then further down to Mweka Hut. Have lunch and spend the rest of the day relaxing.

 

Day 8

 

Mweka hut - Moshi 

After Breakfast, descend to the park gate where a vehicle awaits to transfer you to the hotel in town