Tour Overview
Go out on an unforgettable 9-day Lemosho Route trek, renowned for its scenic beauty, diverse landscapes, and excellent acclimatization. This extended route offers a higher success rate, giving climbers a greater chance of reaching Uhuru Peak (5,895m/19,341ft). Starting in the lush rainforest and gradually ascending through alpine meadows, rocky highlands, and glacial terrain, this journey presents spectacular views and rewarding challenges.
Led by experienced guides, with top-tier support and comfortable camps, this trek ensures a safe, enjoyable, and successful summit experience. Whether you’re an experienced trekker or a first-time climber, this Kilimanjaro adventure offers the ultimate test of endurance and achievement.
Itinerary
Day 1: Arrival in Tanzania – Welcome to Kilimanjaro
Upon arrival at Kilimanjaro International Airport (JRO), you will be met by our representative and transferred to your comfortable hotel in Arusha. The hotel offers cozy rooms, hot showers, Wi-Fi, a swimming pool, and excellent hospitality, ensuring a relaxing start to your adventure. In the evening, there will be a detailed briefing by your mountain guide, who will ensure you are fully prepared for the trek ahead.
Note: Check-in starts at 2:00 PM. Private tour packages include shared airport transfers, while individual transfers may incur additional charges.
Day 2: Drive to Londorossi Gate & Trek to Shira 1 Camp
After breakfast, your mountain crew will meet you at the hotel for a final gear check before departing for Londorossi Gate (approximately 3-4 hours by vehicle). After obtaining park permits and completing the registration process, a short drive takes you to the starting point of your climb at 3,600m (11,811 ft). From here, enjoy breathtaking views of the Shira Plateau as you begin your trek toward Shira 1 Camp.
The trail features a gradual ascent, allowing for a gentle introduction to high-altitude trekking. Upon arrival at Shira 1 Camp, your crew will have already set up camp and prepared a delicious dinner.
Altitude Caution: This is your first night at high altitude. Stay hydrated (drink at least 4 liters daily) and monitor your body for any altitude sickness symptoms.
- Hiking Time: 1-2 hours
Day 3: Trek to Shira 2 Camp & Optional Cathedral Peak Ascent
Your journey continues with a relatively easy hike to Shira 2 Camp, where panoramic views of Mount Meru and Kilimanjaro’s Western Breach await. Along the way, enjoy the unique alpine scenery and vast open plains.
For those interested, an optional ascent to Cathedral Peak (3,872m/12,703ft) offers stunning views into the valley below. This is a non-technical hike that enhances acclimatization and provides an excellent photographic opportunity.
In the afternoon, a short acclimatization hike toward Lava Tower (4,270m/14,009ft) is recommended to further improve adaptation to the altitude.
- Trekking Distance: 7 km (4.3 miles)
- Hiking Time: 3-4 hours
Day 4: Trek to Lava Tower & Descend to Barranco Camp
Today’s trek involves a challenging but crucial acclimatization day as you ascend to Lava Tower (4,600m/15,091ft). Here, you will take a lunch break at high altitude, helping your body adjust to the reduced oxygen levels.
After spending 1-2 hours at Lava Tower, the route descends into the Barranco Valley, offering spectacular views of the famous Barranco Wall. You will camp at Barranco Camp, surrounded by towering cliffs and unique giant senecio plants.
- Trekking Distance: 12 km (7.4 miles)
- Hiking Time: 6-8 hours
Day 5: Climb the Barranco Wall & Trek to Karanga Camp
Begin the day with an exhilarating ascent of the Barranco Wall—a steep but non-technical climb requiring some scrambling. The climb takes about an hour, after which you are rewarded with incredible views of Kibo Peak.
Continue on a series of gradual ascents and descents before reaching Karanga Camp (3,960m/12,992ft), where you will rest for the evening. A short acclimatization hike towards Barafu Camp is recommended to further prepare for the summit attempt.
- Trekking Distance: 5 km (3.1 miles)
- Hiking Time: 4-5 hours
Day 6: Trek to Barafu Camp – Summit Base Camp
After breakfast, trek to Barafu Camp (4,673m/15,331ft), the final camp before your summit push. This route is steep and physically demanding, but you will be guided at a slow, steady pace.
Upon reaching Barafu, your team will set up camp, allowing you to rest before the summit attempt. Spend the afternoon hydrating, eating, and preparing gear for the early morning ascent.
- Trekking Distance: 6 km (3.7 miles)
- Hiking Time: 4-5 hours
Day 7: Summit Day – Uhuru Peak & Descent to Millennium Camp
Your summit attempt begins at midnight. Equipped with headlamps and warm gear, follow your guides in a slow, steady climb toward Stella Point (5,756m/18,885ft). From here, a final push leads to Uhuru Peak (5,895m/19,341ft)—the highest point in Africa!
After celebrating your achievement, descend to Barafu Camp for a short rest before continuing down to Millennium Camp (3,820m/12,533ft).
Descent Tip: Most accidents occur on the descent. Watch your footing to avoid injuries.
- Total Trekking Distance: 15 km (9.3 miles)
- Summit Time: 8-12 hours
Day 8: Descend to Mweka Gate – Return to Hotel
Wake up in the rainforest at Millennium Camp, feeling rejuvenated by the increased oxygen levels. After breakfast, begin your final descent to Mweka Gate (1,640m/5,380ft), where you will receive your Kilimanjaro summit certificate.
Your team will then transfer you back to your hotel, where you can relax and celebrate your accomplishment.
- Trekking Distance: 12 km (7.4 miles)
- Hiking Time: 4-5 hours
Day 9: Departure or Optional Extension
After breakfast, enjoy a leisurely morning at your hotel before your transfer to Kilimanjaro International Airport (JRO) for your departure flight. If you wish to extend your trip, consider adding a Serengeti safari or Zanzibar beach getaway.
Note: Hotel check-out is at 11:00 AM. Late check-out options are available for an extra fee.
Tour Inclusions
- Transport: Return transfers
- Accommodation: Full/Half Board Accommodations.
- Meals: Daily breakfast, lunch, and dinner as per the itinerary.
- Park Fees: Entrance fees to National Parks and Game Reserves.
- Safari Activities: Guided game drives.
- Professional Guide: Services of an experienced English-speaking safari guide.
- Drinking Water: Complimentary bottled water during activities.
- Government Taxes: All applicable taxes and levies.