There was an error with your log in
Check out Early bird options for best sellers here

Lemosho Route, Kilimanjaro: 8-Day Trek to Uhuru Peak

10 days | Moderate | 5.00
From $3,350 ()
Book a call

Lemosho is the route most of our climbers choose, and it never disappoints. At 70 km (43 mi) over eight days on the mountain, the gradual ascent gives your body real time to adjust before the push to Uhuru Peak—the highest point in Africa and one of the Seven Summits! You don’t need to be a seasoned mountaineer to get there; the route is non-technical and the pace is manageable. The scenery covers everything Kilimanjaro has to offer: rainforest, moorland, the Shira Plateau, Lava Tower, the Barranco Wall, alpine desert, and glaciers near the top. All logistics are fully taken care of—all you need to do is show up and climb.

Robert
Robert

Adventure Highlights

  • A route that earns its reputation: The Lemosho route has one of the highest summit success rates on Kilimanjaro—thanks to its gradual ascent profile and excellent acclimatisation built into the itinerary
  • Spectacular, varied scenery: Rainforest, moorland, the Shira Plateau, Lava Tower, the Barranco Wall, alpine desert, glaciers… The views only get better the higher you climb
  • All logistics, fully handled: From KPAP-certified porter support to an experienced mountain chef and top-quality gear, everything is taken care of so you can focus entirely on the climb.
Duration
10 days
Season
January through March, June through October
Group size
Up to 14 people
Accommodation
Standard, Comfort: Lodge & camping
Difficulty
Moderate: Great fitness required, non-technical trekking for several hours a day + climbing over Barranco Wall culminating in a midnight summit push to 5,895 m (19,341 ft)
What's included
Guide, porters, all lodging, tents & sleeping bag, all meals, trailhead transfers, National Park fees, cook, gear, medical equipment, and more

The adventure, day by day

This 10-day guided adventure follows the Lemosho route up Kilimanjaro, one of the mountain's most scenic and rewarding paths, amounting to 8 days trekking. We climb the western slope, cross the Shira Plateau, conquer the Barranco Wall, and push through alpine desert to Uhuru Peak at 5,895 m (19,341 ft). Two nights at Lindrin Lodge in Moshi bookend eight nights under canvas on the mountain, with all meals, gear, and support provided throughout.

Day 1: Arrival in Moshi
departure day kilimanjaro

We arrive at Kilimanjaro International Airport (JRO) and transfer to Lindrin Lodge in the town of Moshi. The afternoon is spent settling in, meeting fellow climbers, and attending a pre-climb briefing where our lead guide walks us through the route, gear, and everything to expect in the days ahead. It’s a relaxed start—dinner together, a comfortable bed, and the mountain waiting just outside.

Meals: Dinner
Accommodation: Lindrin Lodge, Moshi

Day 2: Lemosho Gate to Mti Mkubwa Camp
hiking through rainforest kili

We drive to Lemosho Gate (2,100 m / 6,890 ft), where we’re officially entered into Kilimanjaro National Park’s records, and begin the trek. A three-hour hike through dense, beautiful rainforest brings us to Mti Mkubwa Camp (2,895 m / 9,498 ft)—also known as Big Tree Camp—and our first night sleeping under canvas on the mountain.

Hiking: 3 hours
Meals: Breakfast, lunch, dinner
Accommodation: Tents, Mti Mkubwa Camp (2,895 m / 9,498 ft)

Day 3: Mti Mkubwa Camp to Shira 1 Camp
shira camp moorland

After an early breakfast, we climb out of the rainforest and into the heather and moorland zone. The trail crosses several streams en route to Shira 1 Camp (3,505 m / 11,500 ft), with some of the best scenery of the entire trek opening up around us. Today and tomorrow are highlights for views—make sure the camera is charged.

Hiking: 5–6 hours
Meals: Breakfast, lunch, dinner
Accommodation: Tents, Shira 1 Camp (3,505 m / 11,500 ft)

Day 4: Shira 1 Camp to Moir Hut
shira plateau kili

We continue across the Shira Plateau, one of the highest plateaus in Africa, with fantastic views of the Western Breach—a gap in the Kibo crater formed by ancient lava flow—and the glaciers above. Giant lobelias, senecios, and groundsels line the trail as we make our way to Moir Hut (4,206 m / 13,800 ft) after a long and rewarding day on the mountain.

Hiking: 6–7 hours
Meals: Breakfast, lunch, dinner
Accommodation: Tents, Moir Hut (4,206 m / 13,800 ft)

Day 5: Moir Hut to Barranco Camp via Lava Tower
lava tower kili

We climb up to Lava Tower (4,630 m / 15,190 ft), an imposing volcanic rock formation where we stop for lunch, before descending to Barranco Camp (3,967 m / 13,012 ft) at the base of the famous Barranco Wall. Today is a classic “climb high, sleep low” acclimatisation day—one of the most effective ways to prepare for the summit push ahead. It’s a long one, but a memorable one.

Hiking: 6–9 hours
Meals: Breakfast, lunch, dinner
Accommodation: Tents, Barranco Camp (3,967 m / 13,012 ft)

Day 6: Barranco Camp to Karanga Camp
happy group trekking kili

This morning we tackle the Barranco Wall—a steep, rocky scramble that looks far more intimidating than it turns out to be. Most trekkers are pleasantly surprised. At the top, we break above the clouds to superb views of the southern ice fields and the summit. The trail then winds up and down to Karanga Camp (3,995 m / 13,107 ft), where we rest and recover.

Hiking: 4–5 hours
Meals: Breakfast, lunch, dinner
Accommodation: Tents, Karanga Camp (3,995 m / 13,107 ft)

Day 7: Karanga Camp to Barafu Camp
hike alpine desert kili

We’re getting close now. A three-hour ascent through dramatic alpine desert—with sweeping views of the mountain all around—brings us to Barafu Camp (4,600 m / 15,090 ft), our high camp and launch pad for the summit. We eat early, get into our sleeping bags, and try to rest. The alarm for summit night is set for midnight.

Hiking: 3 hours
Meals: Breakfast, lunch, dinner
Accommodation: Tents, Barafu Camp (4,600 m / 15,090 ft)

Day 8: Summit day—Barafu Camp to Uhuru Peak to Mweka Camp
summit day kili snowy

The big push. We leave Barafu at midnight, headlamps cutting through the darkness, moving slowly and steadily up the crater rim. It’s a 6 to 8-hour climb to Uhuru Peak (5,895 m / 19,341 ft)—the highest point in Africa. We celebrate at the summit sign, take in views that stretch across a continent, and then begin the long 6 to 8-hour descent to Mweka Camp (3,068 m / 10,065 ft). One of the most demanding and unforgettable days of your life.

Hiking: 6–8 hours ascent, 6–8 hours descent
MMeals: Breakfast, lunch, dinner
Accommodation: Tents, Mweka Camp (3,068 m / 10,065 ft)

Day 9: Mweka Camp to Mweka Gate—return to Moshi
descending mountain kili

A final three-hour descent through lush rainforest brings us to Mweka Gate (1,640 m / 5,380 ft), where our driver is waiting. Achievement of a lifetime: done. We celebrate with the tipping ceremony, cold beers, and well-earned laughs, before transferring back to Lindrin Lodge for a proper dinner and a very comfortable bed.

Hiking: 3 hours
Meals: Breakfast, lunch, dinner
Accommodation: Lindrin Lodge, Moshi

Day 10: Departure
tanzania group photo kili

After breakfast at the lodge, it’s time to head home—or onward to the next adventure. Transfers to Kilimanjaro International Airport (JRO) can be arranged for USD 40 per person, or ask about continuing to Zanzibar or a Tanzania safari.

Meals: Breakfast

Adventure Architect
Let’s build something unique. Design your own adventure from the ground up and let us handle the rest.
Start Designing

Photo gallery

Lodging & food

Adventure, packed to go

Adventure brochure
Download to share and explore full itineraries, key info, FAQs, and guide details.
Download now

Meet your guides

Seasoned pros, local legends, and passionate adventurers—your trip is in the best hands.
Robert
5.00
Robert
Robert is one of the finest Kilimanjaro lead guides, bringing expertise, calm, and deep mountain knowledge to every climb he leads. His experience on the mountain means you can focus on the journey ahead, knowing you're in safe, capable, and thoroughly trusted hands.
Chris
5.00
Chris
Chris is one of the company's most legendary guides. With over 300 Kilimanjaro summits under his belt and a client ranking of #6 out of 261 guides on the mountain, his experience and reputation speak for themselves. When Chris leads your climb, you're in exceptionally capable hands.
Paul
5.00
Paul
When not hiking in the mountains of Scotland with family, Paul is hard at work at his dream job which is helping others have truly unforgettable travel experiences like summiting Kilimanjaro or trekking to Everest Base Camp.

What others say about this adventure

5.00 (7 reviews)
W
Wander55267253542

The Gold Standard for Kilimanjaro Expeditions
Our experience with these guides on the 8-Day Lemosho Route was absolutely extraordinary. The guides were world-class—deeply experienced, compassionate, and fully devoted to our safety and success. When one of our teammates developed severe mountain sickness, their team immediately mobilized and descended one of the most difficult routes to get her lifesaving medical care. I will never forget their speed, kindness, and professionalism in that moment.

They also brought true “mountain hospitality” to every day—warm tea, surprise treats, and moments of joy in the most breathtaking settings. Daniel, the owner, supported us personally before and throughout the climb, easing every concern with care and presence.

Guides also partnered with us in our Kili With Dr. Kelly, Climb With a Cause, to help us raise funds to build a school for children in Tanzania—an alignment of heart and mission that moved us deeply. I would recommend these guides without hesitation to anyone seeking a life-changing expedition.

S
Sergio C

Great experience: Kilimanjaro climb (Lemosho route) and 5 day safari (Tarangire, Serengeti and Ngorongoro)
Guides and all the people involved were amazing!

Kilimanjaro: Felt very safe and with confidence with all our guides: Florence, Amadeus, John, Alex, Peter and Rama. All porters, chef, etc. Everyone was very helpful and you end up being friends with them. My porter Jonas

Peter my safari guide was also great! He was a good driver and also knew every detail of the animals that we asked him. Also knew the places very well and it is a very experienced guide. Happy guy.

c
colette d

Fantastic family trek on the Lemosho Route of Kilimanjaro
Myself and my family (15 and 17 year olds kids) enjoyed the Lemosho route on Kilimanjaro with these guides in Dec 24/Jan 05. They provided fantastic information to help us prepare for the trip, the gear they provided was great, the organisation on the mountains excellent and we had awesome guides. The trip took 8 days in total and the track can be pretty up and down and rocky at times but with amazing views. We were lucky with the weather, except the summit night. Having done the marangu route 25 years ago it was quite different. The crew set up the camp ahead of us each day and then packed down and raced on to set up the next one. They were outstanding. Summit night proved to be challenging with a nasty weather front come through – Florence provided 5 extra guides and had cramp ons brought up the mountain as he’d heard it was icy on the top. The team really goes over and above to provide for your safety and comfort. Max and William were amazing waiters and looked after us around the camp so well.

5.00(7 reviews)
W
Wander55267253542

The Gold Standard for Kilimanjaro Expeditions
Our experience with these guides on the 8-Day Lemosho Route was absolutely extraordinary. The guides were world-class—deeply experienced, compassionate, and fully devoted to our safety and success. When one of our teammates developed severe mountain sickness, their team immediately mobilized and descended one of the most difficult routes to get her lifesaving medical care. I will never forget their speed, kindness, and professionalism in that moment.

They also brought true “mountain hospitality” to every day—warm tea, surprise treats, and moments of joy in the most breathtaking settings. Daniel, the owner, supported us personally before and throughout the climb, easing every concern with care and presence.

Guides also partnered with us in our Kili With Dr. Kelly, Climb With a Cause, to help us raise funds to build a school for children in Tanzania—an alignment of heart and mission that moved us deeply. I would recommend these guides without hesitation to anyone seeking a life-changing expedition.

S
Sergio C

Great experience: Kilimanjaro climb (Lemosho route) and 5 day safari (Tarangire, Serengeti and Ngorongoro)
Guides and all the people involved were amazing!

Kilimanjaro: Felt very safe and with confidence with all our guides: Florence, Amadeus, John, Alex, Peter and Rama. All porters, chef, etc. Everyone was very helpful and you end up being friends with them. My porter Jonas

Peter my safari guide was also great! He was a good driver and also knew every detail of the animals that we asked him. Also knew the places very well and it is a very experienced guide. Happy guy.

c
colette d

Fantastic family trek on the Lemosho Route of Kilimanjaro
Myself and my family (15 and 17 year olds kids) enjoyed the Lemosho route on Kilimanjaro with these guides in Dec 24/Jan 05. They provided fantastic information to help us prepare for the trip, the gear they provided was great, the organisation on the mountains excellent and we had awesome guides. The trip took 8 days in total and the track can be pretty up and down and rocky at times but with amazing views. We were lucky with the weather, except the summit night. Having done the marangu route 25 years ago it was quite different. The crew set up the camp ahead of us each day and then packed down and raced on to set up the next one. They were outstanding. Summit night proved to be challenging with a nasty weather front come through – Florence provided 5 extra guides and had cramp ons brought up the mountain as he’d heard it was icy on the top. The team really goes over and above to provide for your safety and comfort. Max and William were amazing waiters and looked after us around the camp so well.

m
mattandjulia1

My wife and I travelled to Tanzania, in March 2024, hoping to summit Kilimanjaro with these guides
We chose the 8 day Lemosho Route to reach the top, and the entire experience with them from start to finish was first class.
Our trek, along with 3 other travellers, was so well organised and the staff were really professional and supportive throughout.
The equipment provided, the food on the mountain, the advice of the guides, and their support was excellent.
They are a member of the Kilimanjaro Porters Assistance Project (KPAP) which is very important, as it means that all the porters we climbed with were treated well, and they only spoke positively about working with this guiding company on Kili.
Despite climbing in the rainy season, alongside our guides, all our group summited, which was the best feeling of our lives.
Thank you for making this experience so special. I would highly recommend them to anyone.

m
matt1957476

These guides were great in all respects. They looked after us and gave us the best chance of summitting

J
Jasmin J

I Couldn’t Have Dreamt of a Better Experience

I did the 8-day Lemosho Route with these guides in September 2021, and from the initial planning of the climb all the way to coordinating our transport back home, they were phenomenal.

Myself and 15 others were able to successfully summit Mt. Kilimanjaro because of Chris (our head guide) and his team’s encouragement and love for what they do. It was very evident that everything was thoroughly and thoughtfully planned out. For the entire climb, I felt that I was safe and in good hands. Chris and his team will forever have a place in my heart. And should I ever decide to climb Mt. Kilimanjaro again, These guides is who I am going with. No questions asked. I could not have dreamt of a better experience.

A
Arwa W

Climbed Kilimanjaro on Lemosho route, in November 2020
PERFECTLY PERFECT!
We climbed Kilimanjaro with these guides in November 2020. It was above expectations! Every single detail was accounted for.
From day 1 organizing the trip with Tash till summit day, everything was perfect.
Tash was very helpful and flexible, she offered a lot of tips, detailed info, gear checklist etc.
We were picked at the airport and one of the guides even agreed to take us in a tour in Moshi Town before our kili adventure began.
The guides were so experienced, funny and welcoming. The porters were great. The food was excellent. Tea, snacks, popcorn, soup and new menus every night. We already miss our guides Florence and Msafiri and their funny stories. Rama, Trevor, Rajab… Everyone was teamed up to help us reach our goal. I think part of our success to make it to the roof of Africa goes back to them.. Also, good to mention the guides had offered us a good bottle to celebrate, in PinkFlamingo

Things to know

  • Included:

      • Experienced & qualified English-speaking guides
      • Porters
      • 10-day Lemosho Route Kilimanjaro trek (8 days on the mountain)
      • 2 nights at Lindrin Lodge in Moshi, including breakfasts and dinners
      • 7 nights camping with the following included:
      • High-quality four-season sleeping bag
      • High-quality four-season tent
      • Sleeping mat included
      • All meals on the mountain, plus snacks, hot drinks, and purified drinking water
      • Experienced mountain cook
      • Pre-trip preparation & organization:
        • In-depth pre-climb safety briefing
        • Pre-climb Zoom consultation
        • Dedicated trip manager and in-depth preparation documents
      • Transport to and from trailheads
      • Kilimanjaro National Park entrance fee
      • Daily wash water (‘washy washy’)
      • Private toilet tent (1 per 8 climbers)
      • Medical equipment including pulse oximeter and emergency oxygen
      • Organisation of any required rental equipment
      • Climb certificate

    Add-ons (can be arranged, leave a note at checkout if interested):

      • Airport transfers — pricing shown at checkout
      • Safari extension
      • Private toilet tent upgrade
      • Extra porter
      • Gear rental

    Not included:

      • Flights to Tanzania
      • Tanzanian visa
      • Insurance — recommended, available to add at checkout
      • Anything not mentioned in the “Included” section above
      • Guide & mountain crew gratuities — optional
  • The Lemosho route covers 70 km (43 miles) across 8 days on the mountain, making it a mid-length option that strikes a good balance between acclimatisation time and total trek duration. It’s not the shortest route on Kilimanjaro, but it’s far from the longest, and that middle ground is a big part of what makes it so popular.

    Because of its gradual ascent profile and the “climb high, sleep low” day built into the itinerary, the 8-day Lemosho has one of the highest summit success rates on the mountain—most operators report 85–95%. If you’re debating between the 7- and 8-day version, the 8-day is the safer bet. The extra acclimatisation day makes a real difference.

    One thing to know going in: Lemosho includes the Barranco Wall—a steep, rocky scramble that looks more intimidating than it actually is. Most trekkers are pleasantly surprised once they’re on it, but if exposed scrambling isn’t for you, it’s worth considering the Northern Circuit instead.

    Beyond acclimatisation, Lemosho has a lot going for it:

      • Stunning, varied scenery: rainforest, the Shira Plateau, Lava Tower, the Barranco Wall, alpine desert, and glacier views near the summit—every ecological zone on the mountain
      • Good for first-timers: no technical climbing required, and the gradual pace gives your body time to adapt
      • Quieter than Machame: especially in the first two days on the remote western section, before the routes merge at Shira Camp

    Bottom line: if you want a well-rounded route with great scenery, strong acclimatisation, and one of the best summit success rates on the mountain, Lemosho is an excellent choice.

  • To join this Kilimanjaro Lemosho route trek, great fitness is required. This is a non-technical climb, but you’ll be trekking for several hours a day on steep, uneven terrain at high altitude—including a scramble up the Barranco Wall and a 6 to 8-hour midnight summit push to 5,895 m (19,341 ft).

    The full route covers approximately 70 km (43 mi) over eight days on the mountain.

    Your guides recommend training for 2 to 3 months before the trip, focusing on cardio (hiking, running, cycling), leg strength, and regular long hikes with elevation gain while carrying a daypack. Endurance and consistency are key.

    Discover more Mount Kilimanjaro tours here!

  • Yes, porters are fully included in the price. Your guides are committed to ethical travel and hold KPAP certification—meaning every porter is treated and paid fairly, with working conditions that meet the highest standards on the mountain.

  • Your guides provide a high-quality four-season sleeping bag, tent, and sleeping mat. Here’s what you’ll need to bring:

    Equipment:

      • Trekking poles
      • Backpack (35–50 litres)
      • Waterproof backpack rain cover
      • Dry bags
      • Duffel bag (65–100 litres) for porters to carry
      • Hydration pack (water bladder)
      • Water bottle(s)
      • Headlamp with spare batteries (essential for summit night)
      • Sunglasses and SPF sunscreen
      • Camera—optional (but very recommended)

    Clothing:

    Kilimanjaro takes you through five distinct climate zones, from tropical rainforest to arctic summit. Layering is essential.

      • Sturdy, broken-in hiking boots (waterproof)
      • Lightweight camp shoes or sandals
      • Waterproof, windproof jacket and trousers
      • Warm mid-layer (fleece or down jacket)
      • Thermal base layers (top and bottom)
      • Hiking trousers and shorts
      • Moisture-wicking t-shirts
      • Warm hat and balaclava
      • Neck gaiter
      • Waterproof gloves and liner gloves
      • Hiking socks (several pairs)
      • Gaiters—recommended for summit night

    Got everything you need? Grab your gear through Active Junky and earn cash back on top outdoor brands — plus a $10 bonus on your first $25+ purchase. Shop now at Active Junky!

  • Yes, absolutely—there are more departure dates available than what’s listed here.

    The best times to climb are during the dry seasons: January to early March, and June to October, when you can expect clearer skies, more stable weather, and better trail conditions. The wetter months (April–May and November) are possible but less predictable and more strenuous.

    Reach out to us directly and we’ll find something that works. Whether you’d love to join an existing group, have your own group, or are looking to go solo, we’ll do our best to arrange what suits you best.

  • Group sizes and pricing

      • For Lemosho Route Kilimanjaro trek, the usual client-to-guide ratio is 2:1. 
      • It takes a minimum of 2 people for this tour to operate. The maximum group size is set at 14 participants.

    Lemosho Routes on Kilimanjaro can be arranged for larger groups. Contact us to make arrangements.

    Min. age requirements

      • If you are older than 18, you’re good to go.
      • Minors older than 12 may be permitted to join the Lemosho Route on Kilimanjaro on a case-by-case basis, but must be in the presence of a parent or legal guardian.

    If your group has participants under the age of 18, contact us prior to booking to make arrangements.

  • You will spend 2 nights at a lodge with double occupancy rooms, the rest of the trip is spent camping in tents. A single occupancy room for these 2 nights can be arranged at an additional fee. You can add it to your booking at checkout.

  • The starting point of your Lemosho Route Kilimanjaro trek is Moshi, Tanzania. Most climbers fly into Kilimanjaro International Airport (JRO), which is approximately 45 minutes from Moshi by road.

    We can arrange airport transfers for you, you’ll be able to add it to your booking at checkout. If you opt for this, you’ll be met at the airport on arrival. Otherwise, the exact lodge address will be shared after booking.

    Your guides highly recommend arriving a day or two early to rest and acclimatize before the climb begins.

  • We highly recommend that you cover all your bases with insurance. To make your booking and traveling experience as carefree as possible, you’ll be offered to simply insure your trip with Redpoint at checkout.

    Redpoint—the official 57hours insurance partner—tailors protection packages for adventure travel, offering a comprehensive travel program, even in remote locations! Trip cancellation, natural disasters, pandemic coverage, medical evacuation, primary medical expenses—regardless of the travel interruption that may happen, Redpoint will have you covered.

  • Deposits

    Secure your spot with a 30% deposit upon booking! The remaining 70% of the trip price must be paid 90 days prior to departure at the latest. If booking within 90 days of departure, the full amount is required at the time of booking.

    Cancellations

    Booking fees are non-refundable after a 48-hour grace period. During checkout, however, you can choose one of 57hours’ flexibility options—Basic, Flexible, or Super Flexible. Depending on which one you choose, a different cancellation policy will apply to your booking.

    Basic

      • If cancelled within 48 hours of booking, a full refund will be issued.
      • If cancelled 60 or more days before departure, a 70% refund of the total trip price will be issued.
      • If cancelled within 59 days of departure, no refund will be issued.

    Flexible

      • If cancelled within 48 hours of booking, a full refund will be issued.
      • If cancelled 60 or more days before departure, a full refund of the total trip price will be issued.
      • If cancelled 30-59 days before departure, a 50% refund of the total trip price will be issued.
      • If cancelled within 29 days of departure, no refund will be issued.

    Super Flexible

      • If cancelled within 48 hours of booking, a full refund will be issued.
      • If cancelled 30 or more days before departure, a full refund of the total trip price will be issued.
      • If cancelled within 29 days of departure, a 50% refund of the total trip price will be issued.
Have more questions?
Our team is here to answer your questions and plan with you.
Book a call

Book This Adventure for a Private Group

Book a fully private 57hours adventure for your group. We customize dates, group sizes, terrain, guides and accommodations — so your adventure fits your people and your goals.
Talk to an Adventure Planner
From $3,350 ()
Get free trip Brochure

Check your inbox.

Schedule a call with our adventure experts and let us help planning your dream adventure.

Book a call

Saved to bucket list
Removed from bucket list

Choose a currency

  • USD - $
    US Dollar
  • EUR - €
    Euro
  • AUD - AU$
    Australian Dollar
  • CAD - CA$
    Canadian Dollar
  • GBP - £
    British Pound Sterling
  • CHF - CHF
    Swiss Franc
  • JPY - ¥
    Japanese Yen
  • SGD - S$
    Singapore Dollar
  • HKD - HK$
    Hong Kong Dollar
  • DKK - Dkr
    Danish Krone
  • NOK - Nkr
    Norwegian Krone
  • NZD - NZ$
    New Zealand Dollar