The 8 days Lemosho route itinerary gives you an extra day advantage for acclimatization purposes on Mount Kilimanjaro. This 8-day Mount Kilimanjaro package for trekking the mountain through the Lemosho Route used to begin at the Londorossi gate and descending is done through a different trail, the Mweka Route. It is a scenic and gentle profile that traverses the plateau to make way towards the glaciated Kibo Peak and nowadays the 8-day itinerary begins at the Lemosho Gate. Please click on the price tab to see how much it costs to use the eight-day Lemosho trek and what is included in this trekking package on the mountain.
Among the places of interest that you will come across while hiking through this route include, the Lava Tower, the Barranco Wall, and the beautiful Shira Plateau as you make your way to the summit point, Uhuru Peak. The main way of accommodation is by way of camping. Your mountain expedition crew made up of guides and porters will pitch tents and set up the camp before you arrive from your day-to-day hiking activities.
Itinerary and Route Map for Lemosho in 8 days
8-Day Lemosho Route Itinerary:
Day 1: Arrive in Arusha, meet your guide, and finalize logistics. Drive to Londorossi Gate and start the trek through the rainforest, reaching Mti Mkubwa Camp (2,780m) for overnight.
Day 2: Hike through the Shira Plateau, reaching Shira Camp 1 (3,500m) for overnight.
Day 3: Continue traversing the Shira Plateau, ascending to Shira Camp 2 (3,900m) for overnight.
Day 4: Hike across the Lava Tower and Barranco Wall, reaching Barranco Camp (3,960m) for overnight.
Day 5: Take a shorter hike to Karanga Camp (4,035m) to further acclimatize and prepare for summit day.
Day 6: Early morning start for the summit push. Trek through the alpine desert zone, reaching Barafu Camp (4,640m) for overnight.
Day 7:Summit day! Ascend to Uhuru Peak (5,895m), the highest point in Africa, and then descend to Mweka Camp (3,080m) for overnight.
Day 8: Descend through the rainforest to Mweka Gate and drive back to Moshi/Arusha, celebrating your successful climb!
Below is the route map for the 8-day Kilimanjaro itinerary using the Lemosho route, starting from Lemosho gate towards Uhuru Peak and descending the mountain to exit via the Mweka gate along the Mweka Route. As indicated on the map, the route makes stops for overnight stays at Mti Mkubwa, Shira One, Moir Hut, Lava Tower, Barranco Camp, Karanga then summiting via Barafu Camp.
How long is the eight-day Lemosho trek?
The Lemosho route trail makes its way to Uhuru Peak at a height of 5,895 meters (19,341 feet). So how long is the 8-day Lemosho route? The total length of the Lemosho trail from the base to the summit measures a total distance of about 70 kilometers (42 miles). To begin hiking the Lemosho route, you will have to get to the Londorossi gate to gain entry access by driving from Moshi or Arusha town to the gate with is situated on the western slopes at the foot of Mount Kilimanjaro. It would take you about 3-4 hours to drive from Moshi to Londorossi Gate.
Bypassing various vegetation and climatic zones of the mountain like the rainforest zone, the Lemosho route takes you to the dramatic Shira Plateau proceeding onto the various icefields to the high alpine desert, there are a thousand reasons why this route is considered the most beautiful route on Mount Kilimanjaro. Not only is the Lemosho route scenic, but it experiences less traffic, is less overcrowded, and is an amazing route to choose from all the Mount Kilimanjaro routes.
You may encounter extreme weather and altitude conditions as you make your way up the mountain.
What is the success rate of the Lemosho route in eight days?
You have a greater chance of making it to the summit when you choose the 8-day Lemosho route variation which offers a high 90% success rate. This is due to the fact that the 8-day route itinerary has an added day for acclimatization while the 7-day Lemosho route itinerary which offers a considerably lower summit success rate of about 85% excludes the extra acclimatization rate. It is worth noting that the Lemosho route has a higher success rate than the more popular Machame Route.
How to climb the eight-day Lemosho tour
Slow and steady will take you there. Your pace should be consistent and at a slow pace.
Snacks will prove helpful along the trek giving you that needed boost of energy when you feel energy drained.
Stay hydrated and always drink a lot of water to help minimize the symptoms of altitude sickness.
Train and exercise before climbing Mount Kilimanjaro, you will enjoy trekking more when you are fit.
Lemosho route 7-day and 8-day itinerary
Normally the Lemosho route takes 7-8 days to complete climbing. It could take as little as 6 days to complete but rushing your time on Mount Kilimanjaro lowers your summit success rate and maximizes the risk of increased altitude sickness symptoms. We recommend the 8 days Lemosho Route itinerary as it offers ample time to climb the mountain, an extra acclimatization day, and a higher summit success rate.
The first two days will be used to traverse the rainforest zone of Mount Kilimanjaro to Shira Ridge which can be described as a flat hike from the west to the eastern side of the mountain. From here, onwards, the trail becomes more tranquil and less crowded until you get to the point where the trail joins up with the Machame Route trail near the Lava Tower. This route crosses below the icefields through the Southern Circuit trail that leads to Uhuru Peak from Barafu at the summit. After summiting via the Lemosho route, you will use the Mweka Route to descend the mountain.
Normal hiking days will feature 6-8 hours of hiking duration gaining ascents of between 900m to 1,000m, to around 1,100m to 1,200m.
Where will you stay along this route?
This is the ultimate Kilimanjaro camping experience along this route during the whole 8-day course. Accommodation will be in the form of tents that will be pitched by our Tranquil Kilimanjaro porters on designated campsites along the 8 days Lemosho trail. Mti Mkubwa or Big Forest Camp will be your day one campground followed by Shira Camp One, Moir Hut, Lava Tower Camp, Barranco Camp, and Karanga Camp before summiting on the final day from Barafu Camp before returning to Mweka Camp. Of course the day before your climb we will book you into a hotel room and if need be, which is a matter of personal choice, even after you descend the mountain, we will book you into a nice hotel/lodge to relax before catching your flight back home or continuing on a safari or Zanzibar beach combo or addon.
How much will this 8-day Lemosho trek cost?
The prices for this 8-day Lemosho route trip will cost from $2,350 for a group of 6 people and above to $3,115 for a single person. These costs include all taxes and requirements as indicated in the “price” tab under the items included and excluded section.
As for the meals on this trek, rest assured that our chef has expertise in preparing delicious and serving energy-giving foods while on the mountain. Also, be sure to indicate if you have any dietary restrictions that you would like us to be aware of.
Related
Arrive in Arusha
Arrive at Kilimanjaro International Airport or similar to begin your 8-day Lemosho Route trek, where you will be met by Tranquil Kilimanjaro representatives. Transfer to Chanya Lodge and meet with your climbing manager and guide for a thorough briefing and equipment check. Chanya Lodge or other recommended accommodation options is where you’ll spend the night.
Accommodations: Chanya Lodge or similar
Meals Included: Dinner
Day 1
Londorossi Gate to Mti Mkubwa
Elevation: 7,742 ft to 9,498 ft
Distance: 6 km/4 miles
Hiking Time: 3-4 hours
Habitat: Rainforest
Starting point: The starting point for the 7-day Lemosho route is at the Londorossi Gate at an altitude of 2,100 m.
We start our journey to Londorossi Gate from Moshi town, a 4 hours’ drive to the entry gate before we begin our 8 day Lemosho route trek. It is here at the gate where you will register to enter and meet up with your mountain expedition crew. After registering we drive the trailhead where hiking officially begins by crossing the rainforest zone towards the first camp at Mti Mkubwa Camp.
We make our way out of the rainforest into a savannah area of tall grasses, heather, and volcanic rock covered with beard-like lichens. As we trek higher, combing through the lush rolling hills and crossing several streams, we reach the Shira Ridge before gradually descending down to Shira 1 Camp where we get the first look of the Kibo peak towering above the Shira plateau.
The day is specially set aside to explore the ever-beautiful open field of the Shira Plateau, a spiraling grassland plain on Kilimanjaro’s Eastern moorland zone and one of the highest plateaus in the world. This trek takes us to Shira 2 Camp then strays to join the main route to our resting camp of the day, the seldom utilized Moir Hut Camp which is perched just underneath the Lent Hills on Mount Kilimanjaro. For acclimatization purposes, the Lent hills are used to acclimatize on the mountain by climbing up and descending the slopes of these hills.
Acclimatization -Moir Hut to Lava Tower to Barranco Camp
Elevation: 13,800 ft to 15,190 ft
Distance: 7 km/4 miles
Hiking Time: 4-5 hours
Habitat: Alpine Desert
Lava Tower to Barranco Camp Elevation: 15,190 ft to 13,044 ft Distance: 3 km/2 miles Hiking Time: 2-3 hours Habitat: Alpine Desert
We are halfway there on this 8-day Lemosho route trekking expedition and we begin the day early in the morning with breakfast then hike up a ridge before proceeding to the spectacular and scenic Lava Tower, nicknamed the “Shark’s tooth” which is an erected volcanic feature located in the SouthEast direction from Moir Hut and measures a good 300 ft. We descend to Barranco Camp after climbing the steep ridge on the mountain to help with proper acclimatization. This tranquil trek traverses beautiful Scenecio vegetation that fills up this alpine desert zone. The time you will spend at a higher altitude plays a greater role to ensure that you are well acclimatized despite spending a better part of your hike at the same altitudes.
Elevation: 13,044 ft to 13,106 ft
Distance: 5 km/3 miles
Hiking Time: 4-5 hours
Habitat: Alpine Desert
We rise in the morning with a hearty breakfast then a descent into the ravine below the much dreaded Great Barranco Wall, a steep 900 ft wall that doesn’t require many skills to navigate. on climbing the wall, we traverse a chain of hills and valleys that lead to a sharp descent into the Karanga valley. Not. much is expected on this day as it is a brief day meant for acclimatization by climbing again to the Karanga Camp located just above the Karanga Valley on Mount Kilimanjaro.
Elevation: 13,106 ft to 15,331 ft
Distance: 4 km/2 miles
Hiking Time: 4-5 hours
Habitat: Alpine Desert
After the usual breakfast in the morning, our trekking from Karanga Camp takes us to a trail that meets with the Mweka route. Hiking continues for a while until the Barafu Hut Camp which is characterized by rocky terrain. Reaching Barafu Camp will reward you with amazing 360-degree views of the Kibo summit and it also marks the end of the expedition along the Southern Circuit of Kilimanjaro. it is at Barafu Camp that we will set up our camp for the day to rest, have dinner and get ready for the midnight summit attempt. Before dinner, we make an acclimatization trip to the intermediate Kosovo Summit Camp (4,800m) before heading back to Barafu Camp for a hot dinner. You can easily see the two peaks of Mount Kilimanjaro, Mawenzi and Kibo peaks towering from a distance.
Summit attempt: Barafu Camp to Uhuru Peak to Mweka Camp
Elevation: 15,331 ft to 19,341 ft
Distance: 5 km/3 miles
Hiking Time: 7-8 hours
Habitat: Arctic
Uhuru Peak to Mweka Camp
Elevation: 19,341 ft to 10,065 ft
Distance: 12 km/7 miles
Hiking Time: 4-6 hours
Habitat: Rainforest
It is D-Day, the day that we have been waiting for! At around midnight 00:00 hrs, we begin our ascent to the summit – Uhuru Peak. Not only is making the hike to the summit physically demanding, but it is also mentally challenging as you have to withstand extreme weather, winds, and a chilly night, sometimes in total darkness unless you are climbing the 8-day Lemosho route on a full moon. Head torches will come in handy here as you take frequent and brief breaks. Yes, it is challenging but a worthwhile experience as you are set to be amazed by the most beautiful views and sunsets beginning from Stella Point (18,900 ft) up to the summit point, Uhuru Peak. This is the highest point in Africa also nicknamed the rooftop of Africa at 5,895 m above sea level.
From the peak, your last point of climbing on the Lemosho route, you will now make your way down the mountain by descending to Mweka Hut Camp, making a brief stop at Barafu Camp for lunch. Watch your knees as using your lower body to break and carry your upper body can be quite hard on the knees, this is when trekking poles will be of great help. The weather around Mweka Camp, the upper rainforest zone can be unpredictable, so expect mist or rain at any time of the day, especially during late afternoons. It is here at Mweka Hut Camp that we rest, have dinner, and spend the night.
This day marks the end of our 8-day Lemosho route trek on Mount Kilimanjaro as we carry on descending the mountain to Mweka Gate where we will be awarded our certificates for reaching the summit of Mount Kilimanjaro. The area around Mweka Gate and its environs is usually muddy and wet. After collecting our certificates we proceed to Mweka Village, a short trek that takes about 1 hour where we will board an awaiting vehicle provided by Tranquil Kilimanjaro to transport us back to our hotel or lodge in Moshi, preferably Chanya Lodge, Ameg Lodge, or Similar.
Planning an 8-day Lemosho route trek on Mount Kilimanjaro requires meticulous preparation and attention to detail to ensure a safe and unforgettable climb. Here’s a comprehensive guide to assist you:
Pre-Trek Planning Lemosho 8 day tour:
Choose the best time: Dry season (June-October) and January to mid-March offers clearer skies, milder temperatures, and less rain. July-August can be crowded, while November and April tend to rain as it is the rainy months.
Select your tour operator: Research reputable companies with experienced guides, good safety records, and positive reviews. Compare itineraries, prices, and included services (meals, accommodation, equipment).
Physical fitness: Train regularly for endurance and strength, focusing on uphill walking and stair climbing. Gradually increase intensity and duration leading up to the trek.
Acclimatization: Arrive in Arusha or Moshi at least one day before the trek to acclimatize to the altitude. Consider a shorter climb beforehand, like Ol Donyo Lengai, to further adjust.
Documentation and Permits: Ensure you have a valid passport, Tanzanian visa, yellow fever vaccination certificate, travel insurance, and a climbing permit from TANAPA.
Logistics and Gear:
Packing: Pack layers of breathable clothing for different weather conditions, sturdy hiking boots with ankle support, rain gear, sunscreen, hat, sunglasses, trekking poles, headlamp, first-aid kit, personal medication, hydration pack, sleeping bag, warm socks, and comfortable clothes for evenings at the camps.
Porters: Consider hiring porters to carry your heavy luggage, allowing you to focus on the climb.
Additional Tips:
Stay hydrated and eat nutritious meals throughout the trek.
Listen to your body and take breaks when needed.
Be mindful of the environment and leave no trace.
Tipping your guide and porters is customary and appreciated.
Remember, this is a general roadmap. Specific details like daily distances, camp locations, and timings might vary depending on your chosen operator and pace. With thorough planning, preparation, and a positive attitude, your 8-day Lemosho route trek will be a life-changing experience!
A day-by-day breakdown of the Lemosho route eight days itinerary
Below is the breakdown of the 8-day Lemosho Route itinerary that we recommend.
8 Days Lemosho Route full-moon climbs
It is possible to book this tour and climb Kilimanjaro on a full moon. Just contact us on the booking form to get a free quote, and proper time dates from our reservation team.
Climbing Mount Kilimanjaro has been on my bucket list for as long as I can remember. We were to climb in early June when the weather was favourable then the coronavirus pandemic hit the world. It was a relief when Tanzania was declared among the safe travel destinations so we decided to carry on with our trip anyway but moved it to July. We came, we saw, we conquered! That is all I can say. Beautiful country, beautiful people. We did the 8-day Lemosho route, the trail was beautiful and quiet, we had the whole mountain to ourselves and we enjoyed every bit of it.
No, the 8-day Lemosho route is not hard, compared to other routes as it offers a great acclimatization profile. Climbing Kilimanjaro is challenging but easy since it is a walkable mountain that does not require special climbing tools or skills. This route is in fact one of the easier routes on the mountain. It has great ‘climb high, sleep low’ opportunities. Anyone can climb this route and is a great route for first-time climbers.
Where does the 8 day Lemosho route start?
On Kilimanjaro, the 8-day Lemosho route itinerary begins at the Lemosho Gate, on the Western side of the mountain. It is worth noting that the Lemosho Route was introduced as a better version of the Shira Route which became unpopular because it begins at a high altitude, posing a huge altitude sickness threat. The Lemosho Route is the best option for climbing Kilimanjaro.
How should I prepare to climb Kilimanjaro using the 8-day Lemosho Route?
Read about training and preparing to climb Kilimanjaro here. We recommend that you indulge in any physical activity that will enable you to get in shape before you embark on that journey to Mount Kilimanjaro. Reaching the summit will now depend on how hard you train to achieve this goal of going up to Uhuru Peak. You can also opt for a shorter excursion if you are not willing to put in the effort.
What should I bring with me and what equipment do I require?
Please do not forget to carry some important gear, such as waterproof gear, a headlamp, sunglasses, adequate hiking boots, personal medication, a non-disposable water bottle, and a cap or beanie.
Before you begin climbing Mount Kilimanjaro, you’ll need to find out how to get there and which kind of transportation is best for your itinerary or trip. Travelers arriving from the United Kingdom, the United States, Australia, or Canada, as well as other regions of the world, have a few alternatives to choose from. You will need to fly into Tanzania, preferably through the Kilimanjaro International Airport where we will pick you up. Kilimanjaro International Airport is located between Moshi and Arusha towns and is the nearest international airport to Mount Kilimanjaro. Alternatively, you can fly into the Jomo Kenyatta International Airport in Nairobi, Kenya then take a shuttle or private transport to Moshi town. Another option is using Dar es Salaam’s (Former capital city of Tanzania) Julius Nyerere International Airport.
What are the 8-day Lemosho Route’s climbing requirements?
Climbers of all fitness levels, ages, gender, and abilities are welcome to climb Mount Kilimanjaro, but if you want to get to the peak or the summit, you’ll need to proper preparation and train well. To minimize altitude sickness (AMS) and to enjoy your experience climbing Kilimanjaro, consider adding extra time to your training plan.
How long is the 8-day Lemosho route?
The 8-day Lemosho route measures about 70 km/ 42 miles from gate to gate or from starting point, to the summit then back. To climb Kilimanjaro using the Lemosho route, w recommend that you should train well and be mentally prepared.
How long is the eight-day Lemosho trek?
