6-Day Kilimanjaro Lemosho Route

Day 1: Londorossi Gate to Forest Camp

• Elevation: 7,800 ft to 9,500 ft

• Distance: 6 km

• Hiking Time: 3–4 hours

• Habitat: Rain Forest

Depart Moshi early in the morning for Londorossi Gate (~4 hours). Complete park entry formalities, then drive another hour to the Lemosho trailhead. After a hearty lunch, begin the Kilimanjaro Lemosho Route trek through pristine rainforest, winding paths, and lush vegetation. Watch for exotic birds and monkeys as you approach Forest Camp, your first overnight stop. This gentle introduction helps your body start acclimatizing to higher altitudes.

Day 2: Forest Camp to Shira Camp 1 & Shira Camp 2

• Elevation: 9,500 ft to 12,500 ft

• Distance: 18 km

• Hiking Time: 8–10 hours

• Habitat: Moorland

The trek leaves the dense rainforest behind and enters a moorland landscape with tall grasses, heather, and volcanic rocks covered with lichen. Ascend the rolling hills and cross small streams until reaching Shira Ridge, where panoramic views of Kibo’s glaciered peak await. Stop at Shira Camp 1 for rest, then continue east across the plateau to Shira Camp 2, located in a tranquil meadow by a stream. The day is long and steep, with a high risk of altitude effects, so pace yourself and stay hydrated.

Day 3: Shira Camp 2 to Lava Tower to Barranco Camp

• Elevation: 12,500 ft to 13,000 ft

• Distance: 10 km

• Hiking Time: 6–8 hours

• Habitat: Semi Desert

From Shira Plateau, the Lemosho trek heads southeast, ascending a ridge toward Lava Tower, nicknamed the “Shark’s Tooth.” Pause to admire the geological formations and the Arrow Glacier junction before descending to Barranco Camp at 13,000 ft. This day is critical for acclimatization: although you end at roughly the same elevation, the climbs and descents train your body for summit day. Barranco Camp offers spectacular views of the surrounding valleys and peaks.

Day 4: Barranco Camp to Karanga Camp to Barafu Camp

• Elevation: 13,000 ft to 15,000 ft

• Distance: 9 km

• Hiking Time: 8–10 hours

• Habitat: Alpine Desert

Leave Barranco Camp after breakfast, climbing past the Barranco Wall and entering the Karanga Valley. Continue along the trail to Barafu Camp, your last stop before the summit. This stage completes the South Circuit of the Lemosho Route, offering multiple angles to view the summit and the twin peaks of Kibo and Mawenzi. Even though the distance is moderate, the climb is steep and demanding. Rest well at Barafu, enjoy dinner, and prepare mentally and physically for the summit push.

Day 5: Barafu Camp to Summit to Mweka Hut

• Elevation: 15,300 ft to 19,345 ft (descent to 10,000 ft)

• Distance: 5 km ascent / 12 km descent

• Hiking Time: 7–8 hours ascent / 4–6 hours descent

• Habitat: Arctic

The summit attempt starts between midnight and 2 a.m. Trek through scree, ascending in the cold and dark. Reach Stella Point (18,600 ft) and pause for a breathtaking sunrise if weather permits. Continue to Uhuru Peak, the highest point in Africa, and celebrate your Kilimanjaro Lemosho Route achievement. After the summit, descend to Barafu for lunch, then continue down to Mweka Hut. Trekking poles and gaiters are highly recommended for the steep, loose terrain. Dinner and sleep at Mweka Hut mark the end of a physically and mentally demanding day.

Day 6: Mweka Camp to Moshi

• Elevation: 10,000 ft to 5,400 ft

• Distance: 10 km

• Hiking Time: 3–4 hours

• Habitat: Rain Forest

Descend through the upper forest to Mweka Park Gate, where you receive your summit certificate. The lower sections can be wet and muddy, so gaiters are useful. A vehicle awaits at Mweka Village to transfer you back to your Moshi hotel, ending your Kilimanjaro Lemosho Route adventure.