Lemosho Route

Forest to Shira Camp

As you continue your ascent on Day 3, the rainforest will gradually give way to the heather moorland. The trail becomes steeper as you make your way to the Shira Plateau, offering breathtaking views of the Shira Cathedral and Needle. On Day 4, you’ll cross the Shira Plateau, experiencing a significant gain in altitude. The surroundings transition into an alpine desert, where the sparse vegetation provides an otherworldly atmosphere. You’ll camp at Shira Camp 2, surrounded by Kilimanjaro’s towering peaks.

Acclimatization and Barranco Valley

Day 5 is dedicated to acclimatization, helping your body adapt to the increasing altitude. You’ll take a leisurely hike to Lava Tower, reaching an elevation of 4,630 meters, before descending to Barranco Camp for the night. The descent aids in your acclimatization, and the campsite in the Barranco Valley offers striking views of the Great Barranco Wall. On Day 6, you’ll face the Barranco Wall, a challenging but exhilarating climb. The day’s journey takes you to the Karanga Valley, where you’ll camp at Karanga Camp.

Summit Push and Descent

Day 7 brings the final push for the summit. You’ll trek to Barafu Camp, the last stop before your ascent to Uhuru Peak. Here, you’ll rest and prepare for your midnight summit attempt. The climb to the summit on Day 8 begins in the dark, but as the sun rises, you’ll be rewarded with breathtaking views. Your journey culminates at Uhuru Peak, the highest point in Africa, where you can savor the sense of accomplishment and panoramic vistas. After enjoying this pinnacle moment, you’ll start your descent back to Barafu Camp. The descent continues through Mweka Camp to Mweka Gate, where your Kilimanjaro adventure concludes.

The 8-day Lemosho Route provides an extended and scenic experience, allowing for better acclimatization and an increased likelihood of reaching the summit. It’s a journey that takes you through diverse landscapes, from lush rainforests to high-altitude deserts, offering both a physical challenge and a chance to connect with the natural beauty of Kilimanjaro.