Lemosho
Route
The Premier Route for Success
From
$2,500
per person sharing
The Lemosho Route - Your Path to Uhuru Peak
The Lemosho Route is considered the most beautiful and successful route on Kilimanjaro. Starting from the west at Londorossi Gate, it traverses the pristine Lemosho Glades before joining the Machame Route at Shira Plateau. The longer duration (7-8 days) provides excellent acclimatization, resulting in the highest success rates on the mountain. The western approach sees fewer climbers initially, offering a more remote wilderness experience.
This 8-day expedition takes you through diverse ecological zones, from rainforest to alpine desert, culminating at Uhuru Peak at 5,895m.
Day-by-Day Ascent
8 days to the Roof of Africa via Lemosho Route
Londorossi Gate to Mti Mkubwa Camp
Drive to Londorossi Gate on Kilimanjaro's western side. Complete registration then continue to the Lemosho trailhead. Trek through pristine montane forest, home to blue monkeys and abundant birdlife. This quiet western approach sees far fewer climbers.
Mti Mkubwa to Shira 1 Camp
Continue through the forest before emerging into the heath zone. Giant heathers and wild flowers line the path. Climb steadily through moorland with expanding views. Shira Ridge appears ahead. Camp on the edge of the magnificent Shira Plateau.
Shira 1 to Shira 2 Camp
Cross the spectacular Shira Plateau, one of the world's highest volcanic plateaus. The vast caldera hosts unique high-altitude plant life including giant groundsels. Views of Kibo's glaciers dominate. Easy acclimatization day.
Shira 2 to Barranco Camp via Lava Tower
Key acclimatization day ascending to Lava Tower (4,630m). Trek through the alpine desert as vegetation thins dramatically. Lunch at the dramatic volcanic plug before descending to Barranco Valley. Spectacular sunset views await.
Barranco Camp to Karanga Camp
Tackle the famous Barranco Wall after breakfast. This steep scramble is challenging but non-technical, using hands and feet. Incredible views from the top. Continue traversing ridges and valleys to Karanga Camp. Short day for rest.
Karanga Camp to Barafu Camp
Steady climb to base camp through the final vegetation. The landscape becomes increasingly barren and lunar-like. Rest at Barafu Camp as guides brief you on the summit attempt. Eat early dinner and try to sleep before midnight.
The highest point in Africa
Summit Day: Barafu to Uhuru Peak
Depart around midnight by headlamp. The steep switchbacks through scree are demanding but achievable at a slow, steady pace. Reach Stella Point (5,756m) at crater rim as the sun rises. Continue to Uhuru Peak (5,895m) - Africa's highest point! Descend to Mweka Camp.
Mweka Camp to Mweka Gate
Final descent through lush rainforest to Mweka Gate. The humid forest is a stark contrast to yesterday's arctic conditions. Sign out at the gate and receive your summit certificate. Celebrate with your crew before transferring to Moshi.
Route Highlights
Challenges to Consider
Route Information
- Start Point
- Londorossi Gate (2,100m)
- Summit Approach
- Stella Point
- Total Distance
- 70 km
- Difficulty
- CHALLENGING
Campsites Along the Route
- 1Mti Mkubwa Camp
- 2Shira 1 Camp
- 3Shira 2 Camp
- 4Barranco Camp
- 5Karanga Camp
- 6Barafu Camp
- 7Mweka Camp
This Route is Best For
Begin Your Journey
This is more than a safari—it's a transformative encounter with the raw beauty of the African wilderness. Secure your place on this life-changing adventure.
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“Standing at Uhuru Peak as the sun rises over Africa is a moment that changes you forever. This route offers the perfect balance of challenge and reward.”
Joseph Kimaro
Lead Mountain Guide, ODA Tours
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