7-Day Lemosho Route Trek Mount Kilimanjaro

After breakfast, we drive to Londorossi Gate for registration before continuing to the Lemosho trailhead. The trek begins beneath tall trees, with birds calling from the forest and thick vegetation along the path. The trail can be muddy after rain, so take your time and enjoy the surroundings. This first day is designed to help you ease into the climb rather than rush.

Starting altitude: Approximately 2,100 m

Ending altitude: Approximately 2,650 m

Distance: Approximately 6 km

Trekking duration: 3–4 hours

Environment: Dense montane rainforest

Climate: Warm, humid, and sometimes misty

The trail gradually leaves the forest behind as you climb onto the Shira Plateau. The trees become shorter, the landscape opens up, and the views begin to stretch across the surrounding hills. You will notice the air getting cooler as you gain height. Walk at a comfortable pace, drink water regularly, and let your body adjust to the altitude.

Starting altitude: Approximately 2,650 m

Ending altitude: Approximately 3,610 m

Distance: Approximately 8 km

Trekking duration: 5–6 hours

Environment: Rainforest changing into heathland and open moorland

Climate: Cooler and windier as you gain altitude

Today is a shorter trekking day, giving you time to enjoy the wide-open scenery of the Shira Plateau. On a clear day, you may see impressive views of Kibo, the main volcanic cone of Kilimanjaro. The ground is more open and rocky than the forest trails below. Although the walk may feel easier, the altitude is increasing, so keep a steady pace and tell your guide if you feel unwell.

Starting altitude: Approximately 3,610 m

Ending altitude: Approximately 3,850 m

Distance: Approximately 7 km

Trekking duration: 3–4 hours

Environment: Open moorland and the Shira Plateau

Climate: Cool, with strong sunshine and possible wind

This is an important acclimatization day. We climb towards Lava Tower, gaining significant altitude before descending to Barranco Camp. You may feel the effects of the thinner air, so your guide will encourage you to walk slowly and take regular breaks. The descent helps your body begin adjusting to the altitude. As you approach Barranco, the impressive Barranco Wall rises above camp, giving you a glimpse of tomorrow's trail.

Starting altitude: Approximately 3,850 m

Highest point: Approximately 4,630 m at Lava Tower

Ending altitude: Approximately 3,960 m

Distance: Approximately 10–12 km

Trekking duration: 6–8 hours

Environment: Alpine desert, rocky slopes, and dramatic volcanic scenery

Climate: Cold, dry, and often windy at higher elevations

After breakfast, we begin by climbing the famous Barranco Wall. Some sections are steep and require careful footing, but your guide will help you move safely at a comfortable pace. From the top, the trail crosses a series of ridges and valleys before reaching Karanga Camp. It is a shorter day than the previous one, allowing time to rest, eat well, and prepare for the final approach to the summit.

Starting altitude: Approximately 3,960 m

Ending altitude: Approximately 4,035 m

Distance: Approximately 5–6 km

Trekking duration: 4–5 hours

Environment: Rocky ridges, steep sections, and alpine desert

Climate: Cool to cold, with wind and strong sunlight possible

Today's walk takes us to Barafu Camp, our base for the summit attempt. The trail climbs through a stark, rocky landscape with little vegetation. Once at camp, you will have an early dinner and time to rest while your guide explains the summit schedule. Try to sleep early because the climb towards Uhuru Peak usually begins around midnight.

Starting altitude: Approximately 4,035 m

Ending altitude: Approximately 4,640 m

Distance: Approximately 4 km

Trekking duration: 3–4 hours

Environment: High-altitude alpine desert with rocky terrain

Climate: Cold, dry, and windy

We leave Barafu Camp around midnight and begin the final climb toward Uhuru Peak. The trail is steep and challenging, especially in the cold and thin air, so we move slowly with regular breaks. We reach Stella Point on the crater rim before continuing to Uhuru Peak, at 5,895 meters—the highest point in Africa. After celebrating and taking photographs, we begin our descent to Barafu Camp for a short rest and refreshments. We then continue down through the mountain forest to Mweka Gate, where you will receive your summit certificate and meet our driver for the transfer back to your hotel in Moshi.

Starting altitude: Approximately 4,640 m at Barafu Camp

Summit altitude: 5,895 m at Uhuru Peak

Ending altitude: Approximately 1,640 m at Mweka Gate

Distance: Approximately 17–22 km

Trekking duration: Approximately 12–16 hours

Environment: Alpine desert, volcanic scree, summit glaciers, and rainforest

Climate: Freezing and windy during the summit climb, becoming warmer and more