How difficult is the Lemosho route?

The Lemosho route is considered one of the easiest routes on Kilimanjaro as it's longer itinerary allows for better acclimatization. However, hikers will still need to ascend the Barranco Wall and climb steeply on summit night. No technical climbing is required but a good level of fitness is highly recommended.

How fit do you need to be to walk Kilimanjaro?

You want to be in good physical shape to climb Kilimanjaro, but there's no need to be super-fit. This is a trek, not a climb after all, and if you can run for 30 minutes two to three times a week, and enjoy an all day hike at weekends, you should be fine. That said, many people do underestimate Kili.

How long is the Lemosho route?

Lemosho route is around 70 kms or 42 miles whether you opt for the 7 or 8 day version. It joins up with the Machame Route between Shira and Barranco so the terrain is very similar.

Is climbing Kilimanjaro worth it?

Kilimanjaro is an achievement many hikers, athletes, and nature lovers have set their eyes on. But towering 19,341 feet, with a nearly 50% fail rate, reaching the peak takes a hefty amount of work against significant odds. Climbing Mt. Kilimanjaro is absolutely worth it.

How much training do you need to climb Kilimanjaro?

Most people will need to train specifically for climbing Kilimanjaro for at least three to four months. During your training, you will need to progressively ramp up your hike time, distance, and elevation gain (at roughly 10% per week) to safely and effectively build your trekking-specific conditioning.

7 Days Lemosho Route - Ultimate Kilimanjaro Climb Guide

Overview

Itinerary

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Introduction to the 7 Days Lemosho Route

The 7 Days Lemosho Route is one of the most scenic and rewarding ways to climb Mount Kilimanjaro. Known for its high success rate and breathtaking landscapes, this route offers trekkers the perfect balance of acclimatization and adventure. From lush rainforests to alpine deserts and snow-capped peaks, the Lemosho Route is an unforgettable journey to Africa's highest point. Whether you're an experienced trekker or a first-time climber, the 7 Days Lemosho Route provides the perfect opportunity to conquer Kilimanjaro with ample preparation and expert guidance.

Why Choose the Lemosho Route for 7 Days?

The 7 day Lemosho Route is ideal for those looking for a slightly faster trek than the 8 day version but still want enough time to acclimatize. This balance improves the chances of reaching the summit while providing a memorable experience of Kilimanjaro's landscapes and challenges. With a higher summit success rate compared to other shorter routes, the Lemosho Route offers:

Scenic Diversity: Trek through rainforests, alpine deserts, and rugged high-altitude terrain.
High Success Rates: Acclimatization over 7 days boosts summit success.
Lower Crowds: Enjoy a more secluded journey compared to other popular routes like Marangu and Machame.

DAY O - Arrival - Kilimanjaro

You will be picked up at Kilimanjaro Airport in Tanzania by our transfer driver and taken to the Hotel in Moshi. The rest of the day will be free. Relax at the pool or explore the small town of Moshi. There will be a pre-departure briefing on what can be expected over the next days and a gear check at the hotel before tour start. You’ll dine at the lodge and get a necessary good night’s sleep.

Kilimanjaro White House Hotel

Chanya Lodge

Lemosho Day 1:Londorossi Gate to Mti Mkubwa

We depart Moshi for Londorossi Gate, which takes about 4 hours, where you will complete entry formalities. Then drive to the Lemosho trailhead. Upon arrival at trailhead, we begin hiking through undisturbed forest which winds to the first camp site.

Elevation: 7,742 ft to 9,498 ft

Distance: 6 km/4 miles

Hiking Time: 3-4 hours

Habitat: Rain Forest

Mti Mkubwa

Mti Mkubwa

Lemosho Days 2:Mti Mkubwa to Shira 1 Camp

We continue on the trail leading out of the rain forest and into a savannah of tall grasses, heather and volcanic rock draped with lichen beards. As we ascend through the lush rolling hills and cross several streams, we reach the Shira Ridge before dropping gently down to Shira 1 Camp. Here we catch our first glimpse of Kibo across the plateau.

Elevation: 9,498 ft to 11,500 ft

Distance: 8 km/ 5miles

Hiking Time 5-6 hours

Habitat: Health

Shira 1 Camp

Shira 1 camp

Lemosho Days 3: Shira Camp 2 (3900 m)-Lala Tower-Baranco

You will gain 700m in altitude but descend to sleep at Barranco – 60 m higher than last night’s camp. This will help with acclimatisation as you will go up to 4600 m before descending again. Today begins with a long uphill in the direction of the Lava Tower Hut (4640m) and you will notice how the landscape changes to a rocky alpine desert. Later, the path descends again to the Barranco Valley with its giant Senecias and Lobelias. After six to seven hours you should arrive at the most beautiful camp on the mountain – the Barranco

Finish: Barranco Camp (3960 m)

Altitude: ↑740m ↓ 680 m

Walking Time: 6-7h

Barranco Camp

Baranco Camp

lemosho Days 4: Barranco Camp (3960 m)-Karanga Camp

Today will start with the daunting Barranco Wall. Soon you will realize it looks worse than it actually is, but there are tricky sections where you will need to hold on tight. Admire the views from the top. The rest of the route follows along the mountain ridge into the Karanga valley and out. You reach Karanga Camp after lunch and you will have fantastic views of the southern glacier of Kibo as well as of the Kibo summit.

Finish: Karanga Camp (4035 m)

Altitude: ↑ 100 m ↓ 25 m

Walking Time: 3-4h

Karanga Camp

Karanga Camp

Lemosho Days 5: Karanga Camp (4035 m)-Barafu Camp

A few hours hiking through desolate and rocky moon-like landscape lies ahead. It will be a relatively easy day leading steadily uphill. The goal for today is the Barafu campsite on a narrow ridge in full view of Mawenzi peak. You will walk along a trail that passes through the afro-alpine dessert until you reach your destination for today –Barafu Camp at 4640 m. Use the rest of the day to relax and pack your daypack for tonight’s summit attempt. Supper will be served early; drink and eat enough if you can and try to sleep. You will be woken up around midnight to start your walk to the summit.

Finish: Barafu Camp (4640 m)

Altitude: ↑ 605 m

Walking Time: 3-4h

Karanga Camp

Barafu Camp

Lemosho Days 6: Barafu Camp (4640 m)- Uhuru Peak (5,895 m) - Mweka Camp (3,080 m)

It is dark and cold as you set off just after midnight. You will climb the frozen volcanic dust by headlamp going towards Stella Point on the crater rim – about six hours. The sun should be rising when you arrive here. Just an hour or two more and you will be standing on the highest point of the crater: Uhuru peak. On top of the world! Take a short break for pictures and celebratory hugs before you tackle the steep and dusty descent. By now the volcanic ash will have thawed… You will stop for a short tea break at Barafu and then continue downhill for about three hours to Mweka camp (3080 m). This is your overnight stop. Refuel by drinking lots of fluids and have a good helping at supper time.

Finish: Uhuru Peak (5895 m) – Mweka Camp (3080 m)

Altitude: ↑ 1255 m ↓ 2815 m

Walking Time: 10-14

Mweka Camp

Mweka Camp

Lemosho Days 7: Mweka Camp (3080 m)-To Mweka Gate

A traditional farewell ceremony from the porters begins the day. After about three hours of comfortably descending through the greenness of the forest, you should reach Mweka gate where the driver will be waiting. Back at the lodge, a hot shower, cold drinks, a debrief and your certificate of achievement are waiting. Well done!

Finish: Mweka Gate (1630 m)

Altitude: ↓ 1450 m

Walking Time: 2-3h

Moshi

Kilimanjaro White House Hotel

Chanya Lodge

Book Your 7 Days Lemosho Route Adventure

Embark on the adventure of a lifetime with expert guides and a dedicated team. Our Lemosho Route tours are designed to maximize your safety, comfort, and enjoyment. Whether you’re a seasoned climber or a first-timer, we’re here to help you reach the roof of Africa. Contact us today to book your trek and start your Kilimanjaro journey.