Kilimanjaro ascent Lemosho route
in 7 or 8 days
All climatic zones · Barranco Wall · Shira-Plateau
The Lemosho route is one of the most popular routes for climbing Kilimanjaro and has the highest success rate !
It is considered one of the most scenic and varied routes and offers good acclimatisation, fascinating views and unspoilt wildlife as well as little climbing.
The route starts in the western part of the mountain and joins the Machame Route in the second part, leading through all climate zones and past the famous Barranco Wall and the Shira Plateau.
The Lemosho route is particularly friendly, as it is gentle and not very steep.
The ascent with Wadudu Home & Adventure via the Lemosho Route is possible in 7 days (9 days) or 8 days (10 days).
A longer route is always recommended for better acclimatisation.
Kilimanjaro ascent Lemosho Route – in 7 days
Travel period
flexible
Day 1 Pick up at the airport
After your arrival at Kilimanjaro International Airport, you will be met by one of our representatives. You will be taken to your accommodation in a comfortable car, where you can relax for the rest of the day or organise it as you wish. In the evening, your guide will call on you to give you a briefing about the ascent. Your luggage will be checked here and you will have the opportunity to ask your final questions. You stay overnight in the Wadudu guest house.
km
ca. 5,5 km
Duration
3 – 4 hours
Altitude metres
680 m
Day 2: Londorossi Gate – Mti Mkubwa Camp
On the first day of your Kilimanjaro ascent on the Lemosho route, you will be picked up at your accommodation in the morning and driven to the Lemosho starting point after the final organisational arrangements have been made. The journey to Londorossi Gate takes around 2-3 hours, depending on the starting point. Once there, you will complete the necessary formalities and there will be an opportunity to enjoy a box lunch before the hike begins.
The hike on the first day takes you from Londorossi Gate (2,250 m) to Mti Mkubwa Camp (2,750 m).
The trail leads through a dense rainforest where you can admire the lush flora and fauna. This first section is a gentle introduction to the ascent and gives you time to get used to the slow pace that is necessary for successful acclimatisation.
All in all, this day is characterised by the simplicity of the trail and the attunement to the challenges ahead, while you experience the beauty of the rainforest.
Day 3 Mti Mkubwa Camp – Shira Two Campsite
The morning starts early at Mti Mkubwa Camp, which lies at an altitude of around 2,750 metres. After a fortifying breakfast, we set off to continue our tour towards the Shira Plain. The trail leads us through lush rainforests, which slowly merge into the unique heath and moorland landscape. This section of the route not only offers breathtaking views, but also the opportunity to discover the local flora and fauna.
We reach Shira One Camp at around 3,500 metres around midday. We take a well-earned break here and fortify ourselves with lunch while marvelling at the vastness of the landscape around us.
After the lunch break, we continue uphill to Shira Two Camp. This part of the route continues through the fascinating high moorland zone, where the landscape becomes open and wide. The altitude above sea level here reaches around 3,840 metres, which offers a good chance to acclimatise before continuing on to the higher segments of the mountain.
Arriving at Shira Two Camp in the late afternoon is a triumph! Up here, with a view of the vast plains and the starry sky, you feel a little closer to heaven. We spend the night in this camp to get ready for the next day.
km
ca. 15 km
Duration
7 – 8 hours
Altitude metres
1.236 m
Day 4 Shira Two – Baranco Camp via Lava Tower
Your day begins with a climb to the Lava Tower, which is located at an altitude of 4,600 metres. This part of the hike takes around 4-5 hours and takes you through the impressive alpine desert landscape. Once you arrive at the Lava Tower, you have the opportunity to acclimatise and take a lunch break.
After the break, the descent begins to Barranco Camp, which is located at an altitude of around 3,960 metres. This descent takes around 2-3 hours and offers spectacular views and the opportunity to hike through the unique Senecio forest. The day ends at the picturesque Barranco Camp, where you spend the night.
This stage is both challenging and rewarding, with numerous opportunities for acclimatisation and impressive natural landscapes.
km
ca. 10 km
Duration
8 – 10 hours
Altitude metres
700 metres in altitude with a descent of approx. 600 metres
Day 5 vom Barranco Camp zum Karanga Camp
On the fifth day of your ascent of Kilimanjaro on the Lemosho Route, the trail leads from Barranco Camp to Karanga Camp. This stage is known for the crossing of the Barranco Wall, an impressive steep face which, despite its challenge, can be mastered without technical climbing equipment. After climbing the wall, the trail continues through a series of hills and valleys before ending at Karanga Camp.
The hike starts at an altitude of around 3,960 metres at Barranco Camp and reaches a highest point of around 4,231 metres before dropping slightly to an altitude of 3,995 metres at Karanga Camp. The route not only offers spectacular views of Mount Meru and the surrounding landscapes, but is also an important part of the acclimatisation process.
This route is categorised as moderately difficult as it can be physically demanding, especially when climbing the Barranco wall. However, the section is easily manageable for most hikers and offers unique nature experiences as well as the opportunity to adapt to the increasing altitude.
km
ca. 5 km
Duration
4 – 5 hours
Altitude metres
About 250 metres in altitude and 250 metres descent
day 6 vom Karanga Camp zum Barafu Camp
On the sixth day of your ascent of Kilimanjaro on the Lemosho Route, you continue your journey from Karanga Camp to Barafu Camp. Although this section is short, it requires a steady climb as you prepare for the final summit assault.
Barafu Camp is known for its barren conditions, which are characterised by the high altitude and the associated cold. Here you should rest well and prepare for the night ahead, as the ascent to the summit is one of the toughest challenges of the entire tour. It is recommended to have dinner earlier and get some sleep before the tour starts at midnight.
This stage is crucial for acclimatisation and preparation for the summit. Despite the short distance, it is important to walk slowly and take enough breaks to acclimatise your body to the thinner air.
km
4 km
Duration
3 – 4 hours
Altitude metres
650 m
Day 7 The summit calls
You start early in the morning with the most challenging part of the entire tour: the ascent from Barafu Camp to Uhuru Peak, the highest point of the mountain. The route to Uhuru Peak via Stellar Point is about 5 kilometres and usually takes 6-7 hours. The ascent usually begins at midnight in order to reach the summit in time for sunrise.
After you have reached Uhuru Peak at an altitude of 5895 metres, the descent back to Barafu Camp begins. This part of the route is relatively fast, and many climbers use the time in camp to rest and recover briefly.
You then continue your hike past Millenium Camp to Mweka Camp. This stage is around 13 kilometres long and takes about 7 hours. The descent through the different climate zones of Kilimanjaro offers an impressive variety of landscapes and ecosystems that constantly change as you descend.
This challenging and eventful stage tests your stamina and endurance, but also offers unforgettable views and the satisfying feeling of having climbed to the summit of Africa.
km
ca. 5 km
Duration
4 – 5 hours
Altitude metres
About 250 metres in altitude and 250 metres descent
km
10 km
Duration
3 hours
Altitude metres
1450 metres in altitude downhill
Day 8 Mweka Camp – Mweka Gate
On the last day of your Kilimanjaro adventure, the day begins at Mweka Camp, which lies at an altitude of around 3080 metres. Today’s stage marks the end of your impressive journey and takes you to Mweka Gate, which lies at around 1800 metres. This final section of the descent offers you another opportunity to enjoy the lush vegetation of the mountain rainforest, which is known for its rich biodiversity.
As you walk down the trail, you will experience the change in vegetation zones from alpine wasteland back to denser woodland, rich in bird species and perhaps glimpses of some of the shyer forest dwellers. The path is well developed and takes you on a gentle but steady downhill route, which makes the descent pleasant.
This last stage gives you time to reflect on the experiences of the past few days and savour the last few hours on the mountain to the full.
When you arrive at Mweka Gate, it’s time to say goodbye to your mountain team, who have supported you throughout the tour. Not only does your physical journey through Kilimanjaro National Park end here, but also the time spent together with people who may have become friends.
Once all the formalities have been completed, we are transported back to Moshi.
Kilimanjaro ascent Lemosho Route – in 8 days
Travel period
flexible
Day 1 Pick up at the airport
When you arrive at Kilimanjaro International Airport, a Wadudu representative will meet you and take you to your accommodation in a comfortable car. There you can relax at the end of the day or organise it according to your wishes. In the evening, your guide will visit you to give you a briefing about the upcoming ascent, check your luggage and answer any final questions you may have. The overnight stay is in the Wadudu guest house.
km
ca. 5,5 km
Duration
3 – 4 hours
Altitude metres
680 m
Day 2: Londorossi Gate – Mti Mkubwa Camp
On the first day of your Kilimanjaro ascent on the Lemosho route, you will be picked up at your accommodation in the morning and driven to the Lemosho starting point after the final organisational arrangements have been made. The journey to Londorossi Gate takes around 2-3 hours, depending on the starting point. Once there, you will complete the necessary formalities and there will be an opportunity to enjoy a box lunch before the hike begins.
The hike on the first day takes you from Londorossi Gate (2,250 m) to Mti Mkubwa Camp (2,750 m).
The trail leads through a dense rainforest where you can admire the lush flora and fauna. This first section is a gentle introduction to the ascent and gives you time to get used to the slow pace that is necessary for successful acclimatisation.
All in all, this day is characterised by the simplicity of the trail and the attunement to the challenges ahead, while you experience the beauty of the rainforest.
Day 3 Mti Mkubwa Camp – Shira Two Campsite
The morning starts early at Mti Mkubwa Camp, which lies at an altitude of around 2,750 metres. After a fortifying breakfast, we set off to continue our tour towards the Shira Plain. The trail leads us through lush rainforests, which slowly merge into the unique heath and moorland landscape. This section of the route not only offers breathtaking views, but also the opportunity to discover the local flora and fauna.
We reach Shira One Camp at around 3,500 metres around midday. We take a well-earned break here and fortify ourselves with lunch while marvelling at the vastness of the landscape around us.
After the lunch break, we continue uphill to Shira Two Camp. This part of the route continues through the fascinating high moorland zone, where the landscape becomes open and wide. The altitude above sea level here reaches around 3,840 metres, which offers a good chance to acclimatise before continuing on to the higher segments of the mountain.
Arriving at Shira Two Camp in the late afternoon is a triumph! Up here, with a view of the vast plains and the starry sky, you feel a little closer to heaven. We spend the night in this camp to get ready for the next day.
km
ca. 15 km
Duration
7 – 8 hours
Altitude metres
1.236 m
Day 4 Shira Two – Baranco Camp via Lava Tower
Your day begins with a climb to the Lava Tower, which is located at an altitude of 4,600 metres. This part of the hike takes around 4-5 hours and takes you through the impressive alpine desert landscape. Once you arrive at the Lava Tower, you have the opportunity to acclimatise and take a lunch break.
After the break, the descent begins to Barranco Camp, which is located at an altitude of around 3,960 metres. This descent takes around 2-3 hours and offers spectacular views and the opportunity to hike through the unique Senecio forest. The day ends at the picturesque Barranco Camp, where you spend the night.
This stage is both challenging and rewarding, with numerous opportunities for acclimatisation and impressive natural landscapes.
km
ca. 10 km
Duration
8 – 10 hours
Altitude metres
700 metres in altitude with a descent of approx. 600 metres
Day 5 vom Barranco Camp zum Karanga Camp
On the fifth day of your ascent of Kilimanjaro on the Lemosho Route, the trail leads from Barranco Camp to Karanga Camp. This stage is known for the crossing of the Barranco Wall, an impressive steep face which, despite its challenge, can be mastered without technical climbing equipment. After climbing the wall, the trail continues through a series of hills and valleys before ending at Karanga Camp.
The hike starts at an altitude of around 3,960 metres at Barranco Camp and reaches a highest point of around 4,231 metres before dropping slightly to an altitude of 3,995 metres at Karanga Camp. The route not only offers spectacular views of Mount Meru and the surrounding landscapes, but is also an important part of the acclimatisation process.
This route is categorised as moderately difficult as it can be physically demanding, especially when climbing the Barranco wall. However, the section is easily manageable for most hikers and offers unique nature experiences as well as the opportunity to adapt to the increasing altitude.
km
ca. 5 km
Duration
4 – 5 hours
Altitude metres
About 250 metres in altitude and 250 metres descent
day 6 vom Karanga Camp zum Barafu Camp
On the sixth day of your ascent of Kilimanjaro on the Lemosho Route, you continue your journey from Karanga Camp to Barafu Camp. Although this section is short, it requires a steady climb as you prepare for the final summit assault.
Barafu Camp is known for its barren conditions, which are characterised by the high altitude and the associated cold. Here you should rest well and prepare for the night ahead, as the ascent to the summit is one of the toughest challenges of the entire tour. It is recommended to have dinner earlier and get some sleep before the tour starts at midnight.
This stage is crucial for acclimatisation and preparation for the summit. Despite the short distance, it is important to walk slowly and take enough breaks to acclimatise your body to the thinner air.
km
4 km
Duration
3 – 4 hours
Altitude metres
650 m
Day 7 The summit calls
You start early in the morning with the most challenging part of the entire tour: the ascent from Barafu Camp to Uhuru Peak, the highest point of the mountain. The route to Uhuru Peak via Stellar Point is about 5 kilometres and usually takes 6-7 hours. The ascent usually begins at midnight in order to reach the summit in time for sunrise.
After you have reached Uhuru Peak at an altitude of 5895 metres, the descent back to Barafu Camp begins. This part of the route is relatively fast, and many climbers use the time in camp to rest and recover briefly.
You then continue your hike past Millenium Camp to Mweka Camp. This stage is around 13 kilometres long and takes about 7 hours. The descent through the different climate zones of Kilimanjaro offers an impressive variety of landscapes and ecosystems that constantly change as you descend.
This challenging and eventful stage tests your stamina and endurance, but also offers unforgettable views and the satisfying feeling of having climbed to the summit of Africa.
km
ca. 19 km
Duration
ca. 11 – 13 hours
Altitude metres
about 1230 metres in altitude and 2800 metres descent
km
10 km
Duration
3 hours
Altitude metres
1450 metres in altitude downhill
Day 8 Mweka Camp – Mweka Gate
On the last day of your Kilimanjaro adventure, the day begins at Mweka Camp, which lies at an altitude of around 3080 metres. Today’s stage marks the end of your impressive journey and takes you to Mweka Gate, which lies at around 1800 metres. This final section of the descent offers you another opportunity to enjoy the lush vegetation of the mountain rainforest, which is known for its rich biodiversity.
As you walk down the trail, you will experience the change in vegetation zones from alpine wasteland back to denser woodland, rich in bird species and perhaps glimpses of some of the shyer forest dwellers. The path is well developed and takes you on a gentle but steady downhill route, which makes the descent pleasant.
This last stage gives you time to reflect on the experiences of the past few days and savour the last few hours on the mountain to the full.
When you arrive at Mweka Gate, it’s time to say goodbye to your mountain team, who have supported you throughout the tour. Not only does your physical journey through Kilimanjaro National Park end here, but also the time spent together with people who may have become friends.
Once all the formalities have been completed, we are transported back to Moshi.
Day 9 Return to the airport
Unfortunately, your holiday in Tanzania comes to an end today. Enjoy the last few hours in this beautiful country before your driver takes you to Kilimanjaro airport for your return flight. If you’re not ready to go home just yet, you could extend your holiday with an exciting safari. Take the opportunity to further explore Tanzania’s rich culture or simply soak up a little more sun.
Kilimanjaro ascent Lemosho Route – in 8 days
Travel period
flexible
Day 1 Airport pick-up
After your arrival at Kilimanjaro International Airport, you will be met by one of our representatives. You will be taken to your accommodation in a comfortable car, where you can relax for the rest of the day or organise it as you wish. In the evening, your guide will call on you to give you a briefing about the ascent. Your luggage will be checked here and you will have the opportunity to ask your final questions. You stay overnight in the Wadudu guest house.
km
ca. 5,5 km
Duration
3 – 4 hours
Altitude metres
680 m
Day 2: Londorossi Gate – Mti Mkubwa Camp
On the day of your Kilimanjaro ascent along the Lemosho Route, you will be picked up from your accommodation early in the morning and driven to the starting point. The journey to the Londorossi Gate takes around 2-3 hours, depending on the starting point.-Tor dauert je nach Ausgangspunkt etwa 2-3 Stunden. After the formalities, you have the opportunity to enjoy a lunch box before the hike begins. The first day leads from Londorossi Gate (2,250 m) to Mti Mkubwa Camp (2,750 m) through a dense rainforest, where you can admire the rich flora and fauna. This gentle start gives you time to get used to the pace for a successful acclimatisation and to enjoy the beauty of the rainforest.
Day 3 Mti Mkubwa Camp – Shira One Campsite
From Mti Mkubwa Camp to Shira One Camp, the trail stretches over a distance of about 8 kilometres. This stage takes you out of the last section of rainforest and into the lower alpine moorland zone that stretches as far as the Shira Plateau. The terrain is relatively gentle and the ascent gradual, which makes the transition to the new surroundings easier. Once you arrive at Shira One Camp, you reach an altitude of around 3,504 metres above sea level.
This stage offers a wonderful mix of physical challenge and stunning natural views, including the lush vegetation on the edge of the rainforest and the opening expanses of the Shira Plateau. It is also an important stage for acclimatisation as you prepare for higher altitudes.
km
7 km
Duration
5 – 6 hours
Altitude metres
790 m
Day 4 Shira One – Shira Two Camp
On the fourth day of your ascent of Kilimanjaro, you will hike from Shira 1 Camp to Shira 2 Camp. This stage takes you past impressive highland formations and across volcanic plateaus. A particular highlight on this route is the Shira Cathedral, one of the three peaks of Kilimanjaro. This hike takes you through the alpine desert zone, which is home to unique flora and fauna.
This stage not only offers spectacular views of Kilimanjaro, but is also an important part of the acclimatisation process as you slowly get used to the higher altitudes. It is a comparatively easy hike that will help you prepare for the more challenging days ahead.
km
10 km
Duration
6 hours
Altitude metres
342 m
Day 5 Shira Two – Baranco Camp via Lava Tower
On the fifth day of the Kilimanjaro ascent on the Lemosho Route, you explore the landscape from Shira Two Camp to Barranco Camp, passing the impressive Lava Tower.
This stage of around 10 kilometres will take 6-8 hours, starting with the ascent to the Lava Tower at 4,600 metres, followed by a breathtaking descent to Barranco Camp at 3,960 metres.
Experience the challenges and rewards of this section as you hike through the unique natural scenery and take the opportunity to acclimatise.
km
ca. 10 km
Duration
8 hours
Altitude metres
700 metres in altitude with a descent of approx. 600 metres
Day 6 Barranco Camp – Karanga Camp
On day six of your Kilimanjaro ascent on the Lemosho Route, the trail leads from Barranco Camp to Karanga Camp. This stage features the impressive crossing of the Barranco wall, which can be conquered without technical climbing equipment. After this highlight, the trail continues through a varied landscape of hills and valleys before ending at Karanga Camp. The route offers breathtaking views of Mount Meru and supports the acclimatisation process. This route, which is categorised as moderately difficult, offers unique nature experiences and the opportunity to adapt to the increasing altitude.
km
5 km
Duration
4 – 5 hours
Altitude metres
About 250 metres in altitude and 250 metres descent
Day 7 Karanga Camp – Barafu Camp
On the next day of the Kilimanjaro ascent on the Lemosho Route, you will continue your journey from Karanga Camp to Barafu Camp. This section requires a steady climb as you prepare for the final summit assault.
Barafu Camp stands for barren conditions due to the high altitude and cold. Rest well and prepare yourself for the demanding night, as the summit ascent is one of the toughest challenges of the tour. It is recommended to have an early dinner and get some sleep before setting off around midnight.
This stage is crucial for acclimatisation and preparation for the summit. Walk slowly and take enough breaks to acclimatise your body to the thinner air.
km
4 km
Duration
3 – 4 hours
Altitude metres
650 m
km
19 km
Duration
11 – 13 hours
Altitude metres
about 1230 metres in altitude and 2800 metres descent
Day 8 Barafu Camp – Uhuru Peak via Stellar Point
You start early in the morning and embark on the most challenging part of the entire tour: the ascent from Barafu Camp to Uhuru Peak, the highest point of the mountain. The route to Uhuru Peak via Stellar Point is about 5 kilometres and usually takes 6-7 hours.
The ascent usually begins at midnight in order to reach the summit in time for sunrise.
And then, when you have reached Uhuru Peak at an altitude of 5895 metres, the descent back to Barafu Camp begins. This part of the route is relatively fast, and many climbers use the time in camp to rest and recover briefly.
You then continue your hike past Millennium Camp to Mweka Camp. This stage is around 13 kilometres long and takes about 7 hours. The descent through the different climate zones of Kilimanjaro offers an impressive variety of landscapes and ecosystems that constantly change as you descend.
This challenging and eventful stage is a real highlight! It tests your stamina and endurance, but also offers unforgettable views and the satisfying feeling of having scaled the summit of Africa.
Day 9 Mweka Camp – Mweka Gate
On the last day of your Kilimanjaro adventure, the day begins at Mweka Camp, which lies at an altitude of around 3080 metres. Today’s stage marks the end of your impressive journey and takes you to Mweka Gate, which lies at around 1800 metres. This final section of the descent offers you another opportunity to enjoy the lush vegetation of the mountain rainforest, which is known for its rich biodiversity.
As you walk down the trail, you will experience the change in vegetation zones from alpine wasteland back to denser woodland, rich in bird species and perhaps glimpses of some of the shyer forest dwellers. The path is well developed and takes you on a gentle but steady downhill route, which makes the descent pleasant.
When you arrive at Mweka Gate, it’s time to say goodbye to your mountain team, who have supported you throughout the tour. This is not only the end of your physical journey through Kilimanjaro National Park, but also the end of your time together with your fellow hikers.
Once all the formalities have been completed, we are transported back to Moshi.
km
10 km
Duration
3 hours
Altitude metres
1450 metres in altitude downhill
Day 10 Return to the airport
Your holiday in Tanzania ends today. Enjoy the last few hours in this beautiful country before your driver takes you to Kilimanjaro airport for your return flight. If you’re not ready to go home yet, you can extend your holiday with an exciting safari. Take the opportunity to further explore Tanzania’s rich culture or simply soak up a little more sun.
Wadudu Adventure
