8 Days Mount Kilimanjaro Climbing Group Joining Lemosho Route

Tanzania
8 days

Overview

The 8-day Lemosho is the optimal choice, providing excellent acclimatization and pre-summit rest. Dividing the Barranco-Barafu trek allows for a less strenuous day before the final ascent, maximizing climber readiness. Celebrated for its scenic vistas and fewer crowds, Lemosho is considered Kilimanjaro’s most picturesque route, boasting a high summit success rate and strong recommendations from experts.

Duration

8 days

Places to Visit

Stunning view of Gilman's Point, Mount Kilimanjaro showcasing rugged landscapes and rocky peaks.

Mt. Kilimanjaro

Day by Day Itinerary

The Lemosho Route departs from the far West side of Mount Kilimanjaro. Getting to Londorossi Gate (2,100 meters) takes approximately 2 hours from Moshi and longer from Arusha. At the gate, you will register with the Kilimanjaro National Park authorities before getting back into vehicles to be transported to the starting point which is a further 12km from Londorossi. During the wet season, the track can be very inaccessible to vehicles and you may need to walk the last few miles to the starting point. Most tour operators provide lunch at this point before starting the short trek to Mti Mkubwa Camp (2,820 meters). Spotting large wildlife like elephant and buffalo is possible on this stretch of the mountain and you will likely be accompanied by an armed guide in case one of the big five gets too close for comfort! Dinner will be served when you reach Mti Mkubwa Camp.

Accommodation: Budget camping
Meals: Lunch and Dinner

Day two starts with a gradual hike through the final stretch of the rainforest zone and then gets steeper as you approach the low alpine moorland zone. The trek is a long one that stops briefly for lunch at Shira Camp 1 which is on the western edge of the Shira Plateau; just over 8km from your starting point. The view of Kibo from across the plateau is amazing. Overnight at the Shira Camp.

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We explore the Shira plateau for a full day. It is a gentle walk east toward Kibo’s glaciered peak, across the plateau which leads to Shira 2 camp on moorland meadows by a stream. T A variety of walks are available on Lent Hills making this an excellent acclimatization opportunity. Shira is one of the highest plateaus on earth.

Accommodation: Budget camping
Meals: Breakfast Lunch and Dinner

We continue to the east up a ridge, passing the junction towards the peak of Kibo. As we continue, our direction changes to the South East towards the Lava Tower, called the “Shark’s Tooth.” Shortly after the tower, we come to the second junction which brings us up to the Arrow Glacier at an altitude of 16,000ft. We now continue down to the Barranco Hut at an altitude of 13,000ft. Here we rest, enjoy dinner, and overnight. Although you end the day at the same elevation as when you started, this day is very important for acclimatization and will help your body prepare for summit day.

Accommodation: Budget camping
Meals: Breakfast Lunch and Dinner

After breakfast, we leave Barranco and continue on a steep ridge passing the Barranco Wall, to the Karanga Valley campsite. This is a short day meant for acclimatization.

Accommodation: Budget camping
Meals: Breakfast Lunch and Dinner

After breakfast, we leave Karanga and hit the junction which connects with the Mweka Trail. We continue up to the Barafu Hut. At this point, you have completed the South Circuit, which offers views of the summit from many different angles. Here we make camp, rest, enjoy dinner, and prepare for the summit day. The two peaks of Mawenzi and Kibo are to be seen from this position.

Accommodation: Budget camping
Meals: Breakfast Lunch and Dinner

Very early in the morning (midnight to 2 am), we continue our way to the summit between the Rebmann and Ratzel glaciers. You head in a northwesterly direction and ascend through heavy scree towards Stella Point on the crater rim. This is the most mentally and physically challenging portion of the trek.

At Stella Point (18,600 ft), you will stop for a short rest and will be rewarded with the most magnificent sunrise you are ever likely to see (weather permitting). From Stella Point, you may encounter snow all the way on your 1-hour ascent to the summit. At Uhuru Peak, you have reached the highest point on Mount Kilimanjaro and the continent of Africa. Faster hikers will see the sunrise from the summit.

From the summit, we now make our descent continuing straight down to the Mweka Hut camp site, stopping at Barafu for lunch. You will want gaiters and trekking poles for the loose gravel going down. Mweka Camp is situated in the upper forest and mist or rain can be expected in the late afternoon.

Later in the evening, we enjoy our last dinner on the mountain and a well-earned sleep.

Accommodation: Budget camping
Meals: Breakfast Lunch and Dinner

After breakfast, we continue the descent down to the Mweka Park Gate to receive your summit certificates. At lower elevations, it can be wet and muddy. Gaiters and trekking poles will help. Shorts and t-shirts will probably be plenty to wear (keep rain gear and warmer clothing handy). From the gate, you continue another hour to Mweka Village. A vehicle will meet you at Mweka to drive you back to your Hotel book on your own arrangement

NB: Don’t forget to tip your guides and porters.

It is time for a celebration!

Accommodation: End of tour
Meals: Breakfast

Inclusions

Full board accommodation whilst on safari in the above-mentioned Public Camps
Private safari guide
Maasai Experience tour
Extended Toyota Land Cruiser
Private 4 x 4 safari jeep with pop-up roof for game viewing
Transfers in both directions between the International Airport and Moshi.
All entrance Park fees
Ngorongoro Crater fees
18% VAT to our entrance fees.
All meals while on safari.

Exclusions

Tanzania Visa: $50 per person on arrival, USA and CANADA passport holders USD 100
Personal Expenses (e.g. laundry, telephone, beverages, etc.)
Meals not listed above
Optional Tours (balloon rides USD. 540 per person)
Tips and any items of personal nature

Frequently Asked Questions

What’s Included and Excluded in Every Tour?

The inclusions and exclusions vary by tour. Each tour has its specific set of inclusions and exclusions. Please refer to the individual tour page to see what is specifically included in that tour.

What Are Your Cancellation Terms?

Our cancellation terms are standard within the industry. For more information on our cancellation policy, please visit the designated page.

What Vaccines and Health Requirements Are Needed?

The requirements vary depending on the country and nationality. For the most accurate information, please visit the page specific to your destination and consult the corresponding embassy page for the latest information.

Can I Choose Other Accommodation Than What’s Specified?

Yes, if you have a special preference, let us know, and we will offer alternatives from our vast network of company-owned and partner accommodations. Booking with us allows you to enjoy discounted rates as we have special agreements with our partners.

Will My Mobile/Cellular Phone Work During the Tour?

Yes, though signal strength may vary in different areas.

What Activities Can My Kids Do While on a Safari?

A safari offers an enriching experience for children, allowing them to observe animals in their natural habitat. Some camps and lodges offer amenities for children, such as playrooms and pools, though these are not universally available. We suggest bringing activities that your children enjoy.

What Payment Methods Do You Accept?

We accept various payment methods, including card payments. For more information on acceptable payment methods, please visit our payment information page.

What If I Have Special Needs or Requirements?

We strive to cater to all requirements, such as providing wheelchair-friendly accommodation or rooms on the first floor if stairs are a challenge. Please communicate with us in advance about your needs.

What Are the Road Conditions Like?

Most safari parks have bumpy but manageable roads, with some roads being paved. Generally, guests do not view this as a problem.

Is Electricity Available 24 Hours in the Lodges and Camps?

Most standard camps and lodges are equipped with generators, so electricity is generally available 24 hours. However, some interruptions may occur but are typically not a significant concern for guests.

What About My Special Diet and Food Preferences?

We cater to all diets, including vegan, vegetarian, and gluten-free options, among others. Please inform us in advance about your dietary preferences.

Is Tipping Required?

Tipping is not required but is recommended. The amount varies by country, but you should tip according to what you feel is appropriate.

Begin your ultimate safari adventure and witness the untamed beauty of nature now!

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