8 Days
Lemosho Route
Trekkers who want the best scenery and the best chance of reaching Uhuru Peak
Overview
Known as the “Coca-Cola Route,” Marangu is the oldest, most established, and only route on Kilimanjaro that uses hut accommodation instead of tents. It approaches from the southeast and follows a gentle, steady gradient, making it the most comfortable and affordable option. The trade-off is a shorter acclimatisation period, so summit success rates are lower than on the longer routes. It is also the busiest route, so expect company on the trail.
Day-by-Day Itinerary
The Lemosho Route is widely considered the most scenic route on Kilimanjaro. It begins on the remote western side at Londorossi Gate, crosses the magnificent Shira Plateau, and joins the Machame Route at Barranco. Its longer duration allows superior acclimatisation and gives it one of the highest summit success rates on the mountain. The 8-day version is strongly recommended for maximum acclimatisation.
Accommodation: Tents (camping)
Start: Londorossi Gate
End: Mweka Gate
Best For: Trekkers who want the best scenery and the best chance of reaching Uhuru Peak
Day 1: Londorossi Gate (2,100m) → Mti Mkubwa Camp (2,650m)
Hiking Time: 3–4 hours
Distance: 6 km
Zone: Rainforest
After breakfast and a briefing in Moshi or Arusha, take a long drive (3–4 hours) to Londorossi Gate on the western side of the mountain. Complete registration and permits, then begin your trek through pristine, untouched rainforest. This is the only route where you may spot buffalo, elephants, and colobus monkeys on the first day. Arrive at Mti Mkubwa (Big Tree) Camp in the late afternoon.
Accommodation: Mti Mkubwa Camp
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Day 2: Mti Mkubwa Camp (2,650m) → Shira 1 Camp (3,610m)
Hiking Time: 5–6 hours
Distance: 8 km
Zone: Moorland / Heath
Leave the forest behind and enter open moorland. The trail climbs steadily, and you will soon be rewarded with your first views of Kibo ahead and Mount Meru behind. The landscape becomes more barren and beautiful as you approach the Shira Plateau. Arrive at Shira 1 Camp in the mid-afternoon.
Accommodation: Shira 1 Camp
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Day 3: Shira 1 Camp (3,610m) → Shira 2 Camp (3,850m)
Hiking Time: 4–5 hours
Distance: 7 km
Zone: Moorland / Alpine Desert
A relatively short and gentle day across the Shira Plateau, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The trail offers panoramic views in every direction. In the afternoon, take an optional acclimatisation hike to Shira Cathedral (3,872m) — a natural rock formation with stunning views of the Western Breach. Return to Shira 2 Camp for dinner and overnight.
Accommodation: Shira 2 Camp
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Day 4: Shira 2 Camp (3,850m) → Lava Tower (4,600m) → Barranco Camp (3,900m)
Hiking Time: 6–8 hours
Distance: 10 km
Zone: Alpine Desert
This is the key acclimatisation day. Climb gradually to Lava Tower (4,600m) for lunch, then descend to Barranco Camp (3,900m) . This "climb high, sleep low" pattern is what makes Lemosho so successful. The landscape is stark and dramatic, with views of the Western Breach and the Barranco Valley. Arrive at camp in the late afternoon.
Accommodation: Barranco Camp
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Day 5: Barranco Camp (3,900m) → Karanga Camp (3,995m)
Hiking Time: 4–5 hours
Distance: 5 km
Zone: Alpine Desert
Start the day by scaling the famous Barranco Wall — a steep, non-technical scramble that looks daunting but is very achievable with your guide's help. At the top, enjoy spectacular views of Kibo and the Heim Glacier. Continue down into the Karanga Valley and up to Karanga Camp. This is a shorter day, designed to aid acclimatisation.
Accommodation: Karanga Camp
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Day 6: Karanga Camp (3,995m) → Barafu Camp (4,673m)
Hiking Time: 3–4 hours
Distance: 4 km
Zone: Alpine Desert
A short but steep climb to Barafu Camp, your base for the summit attempt. Arrive by early afternoon, rest, eat an early dinner, and prepare your gear. Sleep is difficult at this altitude, but try to rest as much as possible. Your guide will brief you on the summit plan.
Accommodation: Barafu Camp
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Day 7: Barafu Camp (4,673m) → Uhuru Peak (5,895m) → Mweka Camp (3,100m)
Hiking Time: 12–14 hours
Distance: 17 km
Zone: Arctic / Summit
Summit Day. Wake at midnight, have a light snack, and begin the steep ascent by headlamp. The switchback trail to Stella Point (5,739m) is the most demanding section — take it slowly, pole pole. From Stella Point, continue along the crater rim to Uhuru Peak (5,895m) , the highest point in Africa. Celebrate briefly, take photos, then begin the long descent. Stop at Barafu for lunch, then continue down to Mweka Camp for dinner and a well-earned rest.
Accommodation: Mweka Camp
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Day 8: Mweka Camp (3,100m) → Mweka Gate (1,640m) → Moshi/Arusha
Hiking Time: 3–4 hours
Distance: 10 km
Zone: Rainforest
After breakfast, descend through moorland and lush rainforest back to Mweka Gate. Collect your summit certificates, say goodbye to your mountain crew, and transfer back to Moshi or Arusha for a hot shower and celebration.
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch
INCLUDES
- Airport transfers (Kilimanjaro International Airport)
- Two (2) nights’ accommodation in Arusha
- All park transfers and Park fees
- Quality mountain camping equipment (tents & sleeping mats)
- Certified professional mountain guides, cook, and porters
- Three hot meals daily on the mountain with treated drinking water
- Safety equipment (oxygen, pulse oximeter, first-aid kit)
- Portable flush toilet for groups of 4+ (USD 95 extra for smaller groups)
EXCLUDES
- International and domestic flights
- Visa fees and travel insurance
- Personal expenses (laundry, beverages, souvenirs, etc.)
- Personal trekking gear and clothing
- Optional activities not listed in the itinerary
- Tips for guides, porters, and mountain crew
- Additional accommodation outside the stated itinerary
- Online payment surcharge of 5% on the remaining balance
Book a Lemosho route climb
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