9 DAYS LEMOSHO ROUTE MT.KILIMANJARO
The 9-day Lemosho Route at Mount Kilimanjaro is one of the most scenic and rewarding treks, offering a gradual ascent that improves acclimatization and increases your chances of reaching the summit. Starting on the western side of the mountain, the route takes you through diverse landscapes, from lush rainforests teeming with wildlife to the stark beauty of the Shira Plateau. As you ascend, you’ll traverse moorlands, alpine deserts, and eventually reach the icy heights of the mountain’s higher altitudes. The extended duration of the trek allows you to acclimatize more effectively, reducing the risk of altitude sickness and giving you ample time to enjoy the breathtaking views.
Throughout the 9 days, you will experience varying terrains and climates, culminating in the final push to the summit, Uhuru Peak, at 5,895 meters (19,341 feet). The journey is challenging but incredibly rewarding, with the extra days providing a better chance of success and allowing for a more relaxed pace. The Lemosho Route is less crowded compared to other routes, offering a more secluded and intimate experience with the mountain. As you reach the summit at sunrise, you’ll be rewarded with panoramic views that stretch across the plains of Tanzania, a fitting end to an epic adventure on Africa’s highest peak.
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Mount Kilimanjaro |
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| 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-season mountain sleeping tents (on twin sharing basis)
Sleeping Mattress
Emergency Oxygen Cylinder
All meals |
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- Additional Services
- Insurance
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Details
As you descend from the summit, the sense of accomplishment is palpable, and the changing landscapes offer a different perspective on the journey. The route down takes you through the lush Mweka Forest, where you might spot colobus monkeys and other wildlife, adding a final touch of natural beauty to your adventure. Each day on the Lemosho Route is designed to maximize your experience, combining physical challenge with moments of tranquility and awe. Whether it's witnessing the sun rise over the Mawenzi and Kibo peaks or sharing stories with fellow trekkers around the campfire, the 9-day Lemosho Route not only tests your endurance but also leaves you with memories that will last a lifetime.
The adventure begins with a drive from Moshi or Arusha to the Londorossi Gate, where you'll complete registration formalities. Afterward, you'll start your trek through the lush rainforest, gradually ascending to Mti Mkubwa Camp (Big Tree Camp) at 2,650 meters. The day's trek is relatively short and allows you to acclimatize while enjoying the diverse flora and fauna of the forest, including monkeys and various bird species.
The trek continues from Mti Mkubwa Camp through the rainforest, gradually transitioning into heath and moorland. As you climb higher, you'll reach the Shira Plateau, an expansive, high-altitude desert-like area with stunning views of Mount Kilimanjaro’s peaks. The day ends at Shira 1 Camp, located at 3,500 meters, where you’ll set up camp for the night and enjoy the vast open skies.
Today’s trek takes you across the Shira Plateau, with a gentle ascent that offers panoramic views of the mountain and the surrounding landscape. You'll pass by Shira Cathedral, a striking rock formation, and continue to Shira 2 Camp at 3,850 meters. The day includes an acclimatization hike to higher altitudes before returning to camp, which helps prepare your body for the coming days.
You’ll leave Shira 2 Camp and head towards the Lava Tower, a volcanic rock formation at 4,600 meters. This is a critical acclimatization point, as you’ll climb high and sleep low. After spending some time at the Lava Tower, you’ll descend to Barranco Camp at 3,900 meters, where you'll spend the night. The descent helps your body adjust to the altitude, while the camp offers stunning views of the Barranco Wall and the southern glaciers.
This day involves tackling the Barranco Wall, a steep but non-technical climb that requires some scrambling. Once at the top, you’ll be rewarded with breathtaking views of the Karanga Valley and the surrounding landscapes. The trek continues through rolling hills and valleys, eventually reaching Karanga Camp at 4,035 meters. The afternoon is dedicated to rest and further acclimatization.
From Karanga Camp, you’ll continue ascending through alpine desert terrain towards Barafu Camp, the base camp for the summit push, located at 4,673 meters. The trek is steady but challenging due to the increasing altitude. After arriving at Barafu, you'll rest and prepare for the midnight summit attempt. The camp is located on a rocky ridge, offering awe-inspiring views of the Mawenzi and Kibo peaks.
The summit day begins just after midnight with a strenuous climb through the night. You'll ascend steeply towards Stella Point at 5,756 meters, where you can witness a spectacular sunrise over the African plains. From Stella Point, it’s a gradual climb along the crater rim to Uhuru Peak, the highest point on Mount Kilimanjaro at 5,895 meters. After celebrating at the summit, you'll begin the descent back to Barafu Camp for a short rest before continuing down to Mweka Camp at 3,100 meters.
The descent continues from Mweka Camp through the rainforest, where you’ll enjoy the lush surroundings and the chance to spot wildlife. The trail can be slippery, especially after rain, so careful footing is required. The day ends at Mweka Gate, where you'll receive a certificate of achievement before being driven back to your hotel in Moshi or Arusha.
This is a day to rest, recover, and reflect on your incredible journey. Many trekkers use this day to explore Moshi or Arusha, visit local markets, or simply relax at their hotel. It’s also a great opportunity to celebrate your achievement with your trekking team and fellow climbers, sharing stories and memories from the trek.
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