Mount Kilimanjaro Trek Via Lemosho Route

The trek begins at Lemosho Gate, located on the western side of Kilimanjaro. Hike through lush rainforest for 3–4 hours, covering 7 km to reach Mti Mkubwa Camp at 2,650 meters. The terrain is mostly flat, making for an easy start. The cool night temperatures mark the transition into higher altitudes, and climbers rest at the first camp to prepare for the days ahead.

Today’s trek covers 8 km in 6–7 hours, gradually ascending through heather and moorland zones. The trail offers magnificent views of the Shira Plateau as you make your way to Shira 1 Camp, situated at 3,500 meters. The altitude becomes more noticeable, and the air is thinner. Climbers feel the cooler temperatures and start adjusting to the increasing elevation.

On Day 3, the trek is relatively flat, spanning 8 km in about 3–4 hours. The landscape becomes more barren as you continue across the Shira Plateau, heading towards Shira 2 Camp at 3,810 meters. Vegetation becomes sparser, and the temperature drops further. It’s a good day for acclimatization and enjoying the stunning surroundings.

The fourth day is key for acclimatization. You ascend to the Lava Tower at 4,600 meters, then descend to Barranco Camp at 3,976 meters. This "climb high, sleep low" strategy helps your body adjust to the thinner air. It’s a challenging day with dramatic landscapes, including volcanic rock formations, but essential for your body’s altitude adjustment.

Today’s trek begins with the ascent of the Barranco Wall, a steep but manageable climb that rewards climbers with breathtaking views. After reaching the top, the trail descends into the Karanga Valley before ascending again to Karanga Camp at 4,000 meters. It’s a shorter but challenging day, and the altitude continues to test climbers’ endurance.

Day 6 involves a steady climb to Barafu Camp at 4,673 meters. The terrain becomes steeper, and the air thinner, making the climb more difficult. The camp sits in a barren environment, with little vegetation. This is the final base camp before summit day, and climbers rest and prepare for the challenging ascent to Uhuru Peak the following day.

Summit day starts early, with climbers ascending from Barafu Camp to Uhuru Peak, reaching the highest point in Africa at 5,895 meters. The final stretch is grueling, with freezing temperatures and thin air. After reaching the summit and taking in the incredible views, climbers descend to Mweka Camp at 3,068 meters to rest and reflect on their achievement.

The final day of the trek involves descending from Mweka Camp to Mweka Gate. The trail winds through the rainforest, offering a chance to enjoy the lush vegetation one last time. Once at Mweka Gate, climbers receive their summit certificates and are transported back to Moshi or Arusha for celebrations and rest after their incredible achievement.