Itinerary Overview

The Lemosho Route is renowned for its stunning vistas, rich variety of landscapes, and excellent acclimatization profile. Over seven days, you’ll traverse lush rainforest, vast heath and moorland, alpine desert, and glaciers before reaching the summit of Uhuru Peak.

Day 1: Lemosho Gate (2,100 m) – Big Tree Camp (2,800 m)

After breakfast and a briefing in Moshi or Arusha, drive to Londorossi Gate for registration and permits, then proceed to the Lemosho trailhead. The hike begins through dense rainforest alive with birds and monkeys. Arrive at Big Tree Camp for dinner and overnight.

• Hiking time: 3–4 hours

• Distance: ~7 km

• Habitat: Montane forest

Day 2: Big Tree Camp – Shira 1 Camp (3,500 m)

Leave the forest behind as the trail climbs steadily through heath and moorland. You’ll cross Shira Ridge with sweeping views of Kibo and the Shira Plateau. Arrive at Shira 1 Camp for overnight.

• Hiking time: 5–6 hours

• Distance: ~8 km

• Habitat: Moorland

Day 3: Shira 1 Camp – Shira 2 Camp (3,840 m)

A gentle trek across the Shira Plateau, one of Kilimanjaro’s most photogenic areas. You’ll enjoy panoramic views and time to acclimatize. Arrive at Shira 2 Camp in the afternoon.

• Hiking time: 3–4 hours

• Distance: ~7 km

• Habitat: Moorland

Day 4: Shira 2 – Lava Tower (4,600 m) – Barranco Camp (3,950 m)

Today you ascend to the Lava Tower (Acclimatization Point), then descend to Barranco Camp. This climb high, sleep low approach greatly helps your body adjust to the altitude.

• Hiking time: 6–8 hours

• Distance: ~10 km

• Habitat: Alpine desert

Day 5: Barranco Camp – Karanga Camp (4,035 m)

Begin with the steep climb up the Barranco Wall, a highlight of the route, then traverse rolling ridges and valleys to Karanga Camp. Enjoy views of the Southern Ice Field and Mawenzi Peak.

• Hiking time: 4–5 hours

• Distance: ~5 km

• Habitat: Alpine desert

Day 6: Karanga Camp – Barafu Camp (4,640 m)

A shorter day to reach Barafu Camp, your base for the summit push. Eat an early dinner and rest before your midnight ascent.

• Hiking time: 3–4 hours

• Distance: ~4 km

• Habitat: Alpine desert

Day 7: Barafu – Uhuru Peak (5,895 m) – Mweka Camp (3,080 m)

You’ll begin the final climb around midnight. Ascend slowly by headlamp to Stella Point (5,756 m) and continue to Uhuru Peak, the Roof of Africa. After celebrating at the summit, descend back to Barafu for brunch, then continue to Mweka Camp for a well-earned rest.

• Hiking time: 12–15 hours total

• Distance: ~17 km

• Habitat: Arctic summit, alpine desert, moorland

Day 8: Mweka Camp – Mweka Gate (1,640 m) – Moshi/Arusha

Enjoy your final breakfast on the mountain and continue descending through lush rainforest to Mweka Gate. After receiving your summit certificates, transfer back to Moshi or Arusha.

• Hiking time: 3–4 hours

• Distance: ~10 km

• Habitat: Montane forest