KILIMANJARO TREKKING VIA LEMOSHO ROUTE
The Lemosho Route is a stunning and sought-after option for ascending Mount Kilimanjaro. Spanning over 8 days, this route showcases a variety of breathtaking landscapes. It offers a moderate level of difficulty with some steep sections and rocky terrain. Unlike the crowded Marangu Route, the Lemosho Route involves camping for the entire journey. Notable attractions along the way include the impressive Barranco Wall, picturesque Karanga Valley, and a magnificent sunrise vista from Uhuru Peak. The longer duration and gradual ascent of this route contribute to a higher success rate for climbers.
8 Days Lemosho Route
8 DAYS TREKKING LEMOSHO
Day 1: Lemosho Glades After breakfast and a briefing, drive from Moshi or Arusha to Londorossi Park Gate (2250m, 1.5 hours). Proceed along a forest track, accessible by a 4WD vehicle, to Lemosho Glades (2000m, 11km, 45 minutes). Walk through enchanting forest trails to reach Mti Mkubwa (2750m, 3 hours) campsite.
Day 2: Shira Camp The trail gradually becomes steeper as you enter the expansive heather moorland zone. Cross the Shira ridge around 3600m and descend gently to Shira 1 camp situated by a stream on the Shira plateau (3500m, 5 hours).
Day 3: Shira Camp Enjoy a leisurely walk across the plateau to reach Shira 2 camp, surrounded by moorland meadows and a flowing stream (3850m, 1.5 hours). This day offers various walking options for acclimatization.
Day 4: Barranco Hut The moorlands give way to rocky terrain as you navigate through outcrops. Optional ascent to the Lava Tower (4600m, 5 hours) with good camping spots. Continue to Barranco hut (3900m, 2 hours) for overnight stay.
Day 5: Barafu Hut Depart from Barranco ridge and ascend the Barranco wall, leading to the foot of the Heim glacier. Walk along to Karanga valley (4 hours).
Day 6: Barafu Hut Continue to Barafu hut (4550m), where camp will be set up. Rest, enjoy dinner, and spend the night. From this vantage point, you can admire the peaks of Mawenzi and Kibo.
Day 7: Uhuru Peak Wake up early, around midnight, and have a light tea with cookies. Start the trek towards the summit, Uhuru Peak (5895m, 8 hours). Take in the stunning views and spend some time at the summit. Descend to Barafu hut for brunch and rest. Proceed to Mbeki hut for dinner and overnight stay.
Day 8: Mbeki Camp After breakfast, descend through the Mbeki Montane forest to the Mbeki gate. Board the waiting vehicle and return to your hotel in Moshi. (Note: The program can be extended to 9 days by adding an extra day for acclimatization at either Shira 2, Barranco, or Karanga camps. If you prefer an 8-day itinerary, you can omit day 3 and walk directly from Shira 1 to Barranco Camp.)