Tour Overview

The Lemosho Route is one of Kilimanjaro’s most scenic and rewarding trails. Starting on the western slope, it provides a quieter, less crowded approach compared to other routes, with breathtaking views and a high summit success rate. Trekkers experience the mountain’s incredible diversity, moving from dense rainforest through moorland, alpine desert, and finally the icy summit. Along the way, climbers encounter dramatic landscapes, unusual plants like the Dendrosenecio kilimanjari, and unforgettable vistas of Kibo Peak, Cathedral Peak, and Mount Meru. The 7-day option balances acclimatization and adventure, making it ideal for climbers in a joining group.

Day 1 – 13th July: Arrival in Moshi

Upon arrival at Kilimanjaro International Airport, you will be warmly welcomed by your Mighty Africa Xpeditions guide. A short transfer takes you to your hotel in Moshi, where the scenic backdrop of Mount Kilimanjaro sets the tone for the days ahead. After settling in, the group meets for a detailed briefing covering the route, equipment, safety, and tips for a successful climb. Dinner and an early night allow you to rest and adjust to the Tanzanian climate before starting your adventure.

Accommodation: Moshi hotel (e.g., Lindrin Lodge, Parkview Inn, or Sal Salinero Hotel).

Day 2 – 14th July: Moshi Hotel to Mti Mkubwa Camp

After breakfast, the journey to the trailhead at Londorossi Gate begins. Once registered, the trek starts through lush, green rainforest, alive with the calls of birds and the occasional colobus monkey swinging through the canopy. The trail gently ascends, offering glimpses of the looming Kibo Peak ahead. The first camp, Mti Mkubwa, is nestled in a tranquil forest clearing, providing a serene first night on the mountain. The day is an excellent introduction to Kilimanjaro’s flora and pace, allowing your body to adjust gradually to higher altitudes.

Elevation: 2,100 m → 2,800 m | Distance: ~8 km | Hiking Time: 4–5 hours | Meals: Lunch & Dinner

Day 3 – 15th July: Mti Mkubwa Camp to Shira 2 Camp

The trail leaves the dense rainforest behind and opens onto the expansive Shira Plateau. The dramatic vistas of Kibo and Mount Meru dominate the horizon. Along the way, you may spot the bizarre Dendrosenecio plants, Kilimanjaro’s “giant groundsels,” which look almost otherworldly. This stretch of the hike provides a gentle ascent to Shira 2 Camp, allowing for acclimatization and optional short hikes to nearby ridges. The sunset over the plateau offers one of the first truly panoramic mountain experiences of the trek.

Elevation: 2,800 m → 3,840 m | Distance: ~10 km | Hiking Time: 4–5 hours | Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner

Day 4 – 16th July: Shira 2 Camp to Barranco Camp via Lava Tower

Today’s trek introduces the “climb high, sleep low” principle, crucial for acclimatization. You ascend to Lava Tower (4,650 m), also called the Shark’s Tooth, where dramatic cliffs and valleys stretch below. The higher altitude and arid, alien-like landscape prepare the body for summit night. After enjoying lunch and the views, the trail descends to Barranco Camp, located beneath the iconic Barranco Wall. Here, the experience combines adventure with relaxation, as the camp is surrounded by dramatic rock formations and open desert plains.

Elevation: 3,840 m → 4,650 m → 3,960 m | Distance: 8 km | Hiking Time: 5–6 hours | Habitat: Semi-desert | Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner

Day 5 – 17th July: Barranco Camp to Karanga Camp

The day begins with the famous Barranco Wall scramble, a thrilling but non-technical climb that rewards you with panoramic views of Kilimanjaro’s southern glaciers. After descending the wall, the trail continues toward Karanga Camp, crossing the alpine desert with its stark, dramatic scenery. This day is shorter in distance but rich in visual contrasts, showcasing Kilimanjaro’s unique ecosystem as you approach higher elevations.

Elevation: 3,960 m → 4,050 m | Distance: 5 km | Hiking Time: 3–4 hours | Habitat: Alpine desert | Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner

Day 6 – 18th July: Karanga Camp to Barafu Camp

The trek continues ascending toward Barafu Camp (4,700 m), where the southern circuit meets the final preparation point for the summit. The landscape becomes increasingly barren and dramatic, with sweeping views of glaciers and rocky terrain. After an early dinner and briefing, climbers rest early in preparation for the midnight ascent. The day is shorter in hiking distance but essential for acclimatization.

Elevation: 4,050 m → 4,700 m | Distance: 4 km | Hiking Time: 3–4 hours | Habitat: Alpine desert | Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner

Day 7 – 19th July: Summit Day – Barafu Camp to Uhuru Peak to Mweka Camp

The climb begins around midnight, trekking through moonlit scree and cold alpine terrain. After several hours of gradual ascent, climbers reach Stella Point on the crater rim, followed by the final stretch to Uhuru Peak (5,895 m), Africa’s highest point. The sunrise over Kilimanjaro and the surrounding plains is unforgettable. After summit photos and celebration, the descent begins: first back to Barafu Camp for lunch, then continuing through alpine desert and forest to Mweka Camp (3,100 m), where you enjoy a well-earned rest.

Elevation: 4,700 m → 5,895 m → 3,100 m | Distance: 5 km up / 13 km down | Hiking Time: 5–7 hrs up / 5–6 hrs down | Habitat: Ice-capped summit & alpine scree | Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner

Day 8 – 20th July: Mweka Camp to Mweka Gate and Transfer to Moshi

The final descent takes you through lush rainforest back to Mweka Gate, where climbers receive their official Kilimanjaro summit certificates. A transfer brings you back to your hotel in Moshi for rest, hot showers, and a celebratory meal. This concludes a full week of adventure on Kilimanjaro, leaving memories of stunning landscapes, achievement, and camaraderie with your fellow climbers.

Elevation: 3,100 m → 1,680 m | Distance: 10 km | Hiking Time: 3–4 hours | Habitat: Rainforest | Meals: Breakfast

Tour Includes & Excludes

• Airport pick up and drop off
• 2 Nights’ accommodation in Moshi or Arusha included
• All transfers to the mountain and back to your Moshi hotel
• Professional, experienced, mountain guides
• Guides, Porters, cook salaries, and park fees
• Quality, waterproof, four seasons private mountain sleeping tents
• Sleeping Mattress
• All meals while on the mountain
• Quality mess tents with tables and chairs
• Large portions of fresh, healthy, nutritious food
• Clean purified drinking water
• Kilimanjaro National Park Entrance fees
• All Government taxes and levies including 18% VAT.
• International or Local Flights
• Optional Activities
• Alcoholic and soft drinks
• Visa fees
• Tips
• Personal spending money for souvenirs etc.
• Travel Insurance