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Lemosho Route Mount Kilimanjaro

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lemosho Route

Lemosho Route Kilimanjaro

The Lemosho Route is often considered the most beautiful of all the trekking trails up Mount Kilimanjaro. Approaching from the remote western side of the mountain, it crosses the entire Shira Plateau from west to east in a pleasant, relatively flat hike, passing through five distinct climate zones along the way. Crowds are low until the route joins the Machame route near Lava Tower, giving trekkers several days of relative solitude before the mountain's busier trails converge.

read more close It is one of the newer routes on the mountain and shares a portion of the same path as the Machame route, although it holds several advantages over that route that make it well worth considering, particularly for travelers who have some extra time.
Starting on the western flanks of Mount Kilimanjaro at the Londorossi Gate (elevation 7,742ft/2,360m), the Lemosho Route wanders its way up one of the more remote and untouched sections of the mountain, well away from the more heavily trafficked southern approaches.
The trail takes hikers through a beautiful rain forest where they might have the chance to spot wildlife along the way. Black and white colobus monkeys are routinely seen in the forests, as are blue monkeys, small lizards, elephant signs and a wide assortment of birds, including turacos and sunbirds. From there, the path wanders out onto the Shira Plateau — a vast, high-altitude volcanic caldera — crossing it from west to east on relatively flat and easy to walk terrain, with stunning views of Kibo's glaciated summit and, on clear days, Mount Meru in the distance.
Because Lemosho approaches from the west and gradually curves around to the south before summiting from Barafu Camp, trekkers gain altitude gradually over a longer distance than most other routes. This slow, steady ascent profile is the single biggest reason the route boasts such strong acclimatization and summit success rates, and why it is our most recommended route for first-time Kilimanjaro climbers.

LEMOSHO ROUTE MAP

The map below shows the full Lemosho Route path, from the Londorossi Gate on the western side of Kilimanjaro, across the Shira Plateau, around the southern circuit past Barranco and Karanga, up to Barafu Camp, and on to Uhuru Peak before descending via Mweka Gate.

Lemosho Route Map Mount Kilimanjaro Londorossi Gate Mti Mkubwa / Forest Camp Shira 1 Camp Moir Camp Barranco Camp Karanga Camp Barafu Camp Uhuru Peak Summit Mweka Gate

Tap or hover on the markers on the map to jump straight to that stage of the itinerary below.

WHY CLIMB KILIMANJARO VIA THE LEMOSHO ROUTE?

  • Highest summit success rates on the mountain
  • Most scenic route crossing 5 climate zones
  • Low crowds for the first 3-4 days
  • Gradual acclimatization profile walk high, sleep low

Lemosho's longer, more gradual approach gives your body more time to adapt to the thinning air, which is why it consistently produces some of the highest summit success rates of any route on Kilimanjaro. Combined with varied scenery rainforest, moorland, the alpine desert of the Shira Plateau, and the glacial arctic summit zone; it is widely regarded as the best all-round route for trekkers who have 8 days or more to spare.

OVERVIEW

  • Duration 12 Day Tour, 11 nights, (8 Day Trek)
  • Can be Tailor-made Yes
Tour Itinerary

This complete 12-day Kilimanjaro Expedition features a premier 8-day (7-night) climb along the scenic Lemosho Route, thoughtfully framed by an Arrival Day for seamless airport transfers, a dedicated Briefing Day for safety prep and gear checks, and a post-summit Decompression Day to unwind and celebrate before departing.

ITINERARY

Upon arriving at Kilimanjaro International Airport (JRO), you will be met by our team and transferred to your hotel in Moshi. Take the rest of the day to settle in, unwind after your flight, and enjoy your first evening in Tanzania.
Today is an essential preparation day dedicated to setting you up for a safe and successful climb. In the afternoon, you will meet with your lead guide for a detailed pre-trek briefing covering safety protocols, altitude management, daily schedules, and trail expectations.
From your lodge, we will make our way to the Londorosi gate on the Western side of Mt. Kilimanjaro (a few hours drive from Moshi). We will begin our hike at the Lemosho trail head.
Please note that in rainy/muddy conditions, sometimes the vehicles can’t make it to the true trailhead so there can be some extra hiking – After a picnic lunch, we will hike for about 4 hours to the forest camp.
In the forest, exotic moss and flowers delight the eye while bird calls entertain the ear. You may see Black and White Colobus monkeys as well as signs of the elephants that travel in this area. We will overnight at Forest Camp.
Hiking: 3-4 hours
Overnight Altitude ~9,498’
As we leave the Montane Forest and enter the Hagenia zone, our views open and we will catch our first views of the Kibo peak. This is a good acclimatization hike, as we go up and down several ridges along the way to our highest point of the day at 11,500’ before descending to camp. Overnight at Shira 1 Camp.
Hiking: 6-9 hours
Overnight Altitude 11,500’
We will traverse the Heath zone of the Shira Plateau and begin climbing the western slope of the Kibo Massif. Along the way, we will enjoy a picnic lunch at Scott Fisher memorial camp (the well-known Mt. Everest guide). We will continue on to the upper heath zone and Moir camp. Depending on the weather, acclimatization hikes can be arranged in the late afternoon
Hiking: 5-6 hours
Overnight Altitude: ~13,650′
We leave the heath zone and enter the alpine zone as we hike 4-6 hours past Lava Camp (up to about 14,300’) with its volcanic landscape and then down a bit into the scenic Barranco Valley to camp.
Hiking: 4-6 hours
Overnight Altitude: ~13,044′
Ascend the Great Barranco Wall with views of Kilimanjaro’s ice fields, then hike up and down across some small valleys on your way to Karanga Camp.
Hiking: 3-5 hours
Overnight Altitude: ~13,106′
Hike about 3-5 hours to Barafu Camp, again with some ups and downs across small valleys. After settling into camp, we’ll have a demonstration on use of safety equipment such as the Gamow (hyperbolic) bag and oxygen. Early supper and rest in camp before your wake-up call to start your summit ascent around 11:00 PM or midnight.
Hiking: 3-5 hours
Overnight Altitude: ~15,100’
Summit day. We will start our ascent to the summit (19,340ft – 5,896m) around 11:00 PM or midnight the night prior. The goal for you – and numerous other climbers – is to reach the peak right at sunrise. In reality, due to differences in hiking speed, energy, and altitude acclimatization, there is a several hour span where most climbers reach the summit.
Using headlamps (bring extra lithium batteries, which last much better in cold dark conditions!) you will ascend 6-7 hours to Stella Point and then another 1-2 hours to Uhuru Peak, the summit. After a summit celebration and photo, descend to Barafu camp for lunch and then to Mweka camp to sleep overnight.
Hiking: Very variable on both the up and the down; 12-17 hours typical
Summit 19,341’
Overnight Altitude: 10,448’
We make the final descent to the trailhead today, about 3-5 hours hiking. Here we will have lunch and say goodbye to our mountain crew before leaving Mount Kilimanjaro and heading back to town. Arrive at your lodge usually between 3-5 PM.
Hiking: 3-5 hours

Today is dedicated entirely to slowing down, unwinding, and processing the extraordinary journey you’ve just completed. After days of intense physical effort on the mountain, this is your time to relax, recover, and share personal summit stories with your fellow trekkers.

For those looking to maximize their remaining time in Tanzania, Moshi serves as the perfect starting point for a variety of unforgettable day trips. Whether you want to soothe your muscles or see more wildlife, you can customize your day with any of the following add-on excursions:

Culture & Scenic Hikes: Visit the stunning Materuni Waterfalls and enjoy a traditional coffee-making tour, or experience authentic local traditions with a Maasai village visit.

Total Relaxation: Soak your tired legs in the crystal-clear, warm waters of the Chemka Hot Springs.

Wildlife Day Safaris: Embark on a thrilling day trip to Arusha National Park, Tarangire National Park, the world-famous Ngorongoro Crater, or Mkomazi National Park.

(Please see our Extra Activities page for full details and to book these excursions!)

Relax at the hotel and then transfer to the airport for departure.
Note: Hotel check-out is at 11:00 AM. Late check-out options are available for an additional fee, if needed.

BEST TIME TO CLIMB THE LEMOSHO ROUTE

Kilimanjaro can technically be climbed year-round, but the driest and clearest conditions on the Lemosho Route fall in two main windows: late June to October (the long dry season) and late December to February/early March (a shorter, colder dry spell). These months offer the best visibility across the Shira Plateau and the highest chance of clear summit views. The rainy seasons, April-May and November, bring lower crowds and lush green scenery but muddier trails, especially through the rainforest zone.

WHAT TO PACK FOR THE LEMOSHO ROUTE

A full recommended packing list is provided during your pre-trek briefing in Moshi, and our guides will check your gear before you set off from the Londorossi Gate.

Download Kilimanjaro Packing List (PDF)

How difficult is the lemosho Route?

The Lemosho route is considered one of the easiest routes on Kilimanjaro as it’s longer itinerary allows for better acclimatization. However, hikers will still need to ascend the Barranco Wall and climb steeply on summit night. No technical climbing is required but a good level of fitness is highly recommended. You can read more on training to climb Kilimanjaro and our Kilimanjaro training program page to help you prepare accordingly.

What is the distance of the Lemosho Route and how many days does it take?

The exact trekking distance for the Lemosho Route is 71km or 43 miles. The shortest number of days required for Lemosho Route is 7 days, but by the time you have added on arrival and departure days it is 10. However, as it is a much longer approach route it is actually best done over 8 or 9 days to increase your changes of success.

What is the Lemosho Route Summit Success Rate?

Due to its longer length profile, summit success rates on the Lemosho route are one of the highest on the mountain. Whilst there are no official statistics, the average success rate across all operators is 90% for the 8 day trek and a 85% success rate for the 7 day trek. However, We have a success rate of over 95% for the 8 day Lemosho route and a 92% success rate for the 7 day option. Read more about how many days it takes to climb Kilimanjaro to know why we recommend longer treks.

What is the Scenery like on the Lemosho Route?

The Lemosho Route is considered to be the most scenically beautiful of all the routes. The route takes trekkers from the west side of the mountain through lush rainforest before joining up with the Lemosho Route to cross the spectacular Shira Plateau. The route takes in the west and south of the mountain and the views are incredible, particularly from on the southern circuit.

How high is the Lemosho Route and what is the elevation profile?

The Lemosho Route starts at the Londorossi Gate (7,742ft/2,360m) and climbs to the summit at Uhuru Peak (19,341ft/5,895m). The extended itinerary allows for a "climb high, sleep low" acclimatization pattern, with several days spent gaining altitude gradually across the Shira Plateau and southern circuit before the final push to the summit.

Is the Lemosho Route suitable for beginners?

Yes. Thanks to its gradual ascent profile and longer duration, Lemosho is one of the most beginner-friendly routes on Kilimanjaro, provided trekkers have a reasonable baseline level of fitness and have done some pre-trip training. It is our most recommended route for first-time high-altitude trekkers.

What is the accommodation like on the Lemosho Route?

The Lemosho Route is a camping-only route. Trekkers sleep in mountain tents at designated campsites each night, with a dedicated crew of guides, cooks, and porters setting up camp, preparing meals, and carrying equipment ahead of the group.

INCLUDES & EXCLUDES

The price includes:
  • All park fees (camping fees, concession fees, entrance fees, & rescue fee)
  • Accommodations 4 nights before and after the trek
  • All government Taxes
  • Trekking Crew (Porters, Cook and professional guide)
  • Camping equipment’s (Tents, Mattress, Chairs, & Tables)
  • Private Toilets
  • Meals & Drinking water
  • Tipping’s for the crew
  • Personal Items (Visa, Souvenirs, Passport etc.)
  • Flights

    • PRICES

    Price per pereson from $3,040
    from

    $3,040

    Kilimanjaro Frequently Asked Questions

    Mount Kilimanjaro is one of the most iconic climbs in the world, drawing trekkers from all over the globe. However, preparing for this adventure involves many questions. We've compiled answers to the most common ones below. If you need more details, feel free to contact us for personalized assistance.

    The optimal periods to climb Mount Kilimanjaro are from late December to early March and from mid-June to late October, when the weather is generally favorable. Although rain may occur during other months, it usually falls in the latter part of the day, leaving trekkers with plenty of clear weather for most of their hike. Some rainy days are entirely dry. Tanzania Inside and Safari offers discounted climbs during the rainy season, making it a feasible option despite occasional showers. For more information, you can check out our guide on Kilimanjaro's climbing seasons.
    As of 2024, a typical 7-day group climb costs between $2,100 and $2,340. Shorter treks of 5-6 days or discounted trips during the rainy season can range from $1,750 to $1,980. These prices include park fees, which account for about 40% of the total cost. Be cautious of companies offering significantly lower prices, as they may skimp on guide quality and equipment, which could compromise safety. Additionally, such budget operators may mistreat porters, which poses risks to both porters and climbers. For a detailed cost breakdown, check out our blog on Kilimanjaro climbing expenses.
    Mount Kilimanjaro National Park is in northern Tanzania, East Africa, just three degrees south of the equator. While many of the iconic photos of Kilimanjaro are taken from Kenya, all trails begin in Tanzania, making it the only country where tourists can hike the mountain. The closest airport is Kilimanjaro International Airport, and most expeditions start from Moshi, the capital of the Kilimanjaro region.
    The summit of Mount Kilimanjaro, Uhuru Peak, reaches 5,895 meters (19,341 feet). However, hikers don't start at sea level. Most hotels near Kilimanjaro are located at altitudes between 700 and 1,000 meters, with trailheads typically beginning at elevations of around 1,600 meters and higher. Kilimanjaro’s snow-capped peak makes it one of the few places in East Africa where snow is visible.
    Climbing Kilimanjaro is only permitted with a licensed local guide, as per the regulations of Kilimanjaro National Park. Solo hikes are not allowed, and attempting to climb alone can be extremely risky. Guides are essential for managing emergencies and altitude sickness, and they also enrich the experience by providing insights into the mountain's ecosystem, history, and the surrounding communities.
    Climbing Kilimanjaro requires paying various park fees, which amount to $157 per day per hiker. These fees cover conservation efforts, camping (or hut fees for the Marangu route), crew member access, and a mandatory rescue service fee. Operators generally include these fees in the overall price of the tour. With Tanzania Inside and Safari, all park-related expenses are managed, ensuring a smooth experience.
    While you don't need to be an elite athlete to summit Kilimanjaro, maintaining a good fitness level is key. Being able to comfortably hike 8-10 km (5-6.2 miles) will prepare you for the trek. Running and swimming are excellent exercises to improve cardiovascular endurance. For optimal preparation, train on rugged trails, preferably 10-15 km (6-10 miles) in length, to get used to the uphill terrain of Kilimanjaro.
    Tanzania experiences two rainy seasons and two dry seasons. The short rainy season runs from early November to late December, followed by a dry season until mid-March. The long rainy season starts in March and lasts until mid-June. If you're climbing during the rainy season, consider routes like Rongai, Northern Circuit, or Marangu, which receive less rainfall on the northern slopes of Kilimanjaro. Be prepared for chilly nights, especially at higher altitudes, from June to October.
    Athletes sometimes make the mistake of hiking too quickly without allowing enough time for acclimatization. This can increase the risk of altitude sickness. It's important to pace yourself and stick to the acclimatization schedule, as reaching the summit safely involves more than physical fitness; it requires careful attention to altitude-related adjustments.
    On a Tanzania Inside and Safari trek, climbers are provided with hearty, calorie-dense meals designed for energy on the mountain. A typical breakfast includes porridge, eggs, fruit, sausages, and toast. Lunch and dinner consist of soups, stews, chicken, pasta, and fresh salads. Desserts feature tropical fruits like mangoes, bananas, and pineapples. We can accommodate vegetarian, vegan, and gluten-free diets, and regular tea and biscuit stops are offered. For extra energy, consider bringing snacks like energy bars or dried fruit.
    Based on an analysis by Tanzania Inside and Safari from January 1 to September 30, 2023, starting your trek on a Wednesday or Thursday can reduce the number of fellow climbers by half. These days see far fewer climbers than the weekend, and opting for the Rongai route can reduce encounters with other hikers by as much as 16 times compared to the popular Machame route.
    Tanzania Inside and Safari recommends Global Rescue for reliable travel insurance. Your policy should cover high-altitude hiking up to 6,000 meters, including medical services and helicopter evacuation if necessary.
    To acclimatize properly and increase your chances of reaching the summit, follow these tips:
    • Hike slowly to allow your body to adjust to the reduced oxygen levels.
    • Drink 3-4 liters of water daily to stay hydrated.
    • Participate in short acclimatization hikes to higher elevations during the climb.
    • Consider climbing Mount Meru or other lower-altitude peaks as training.
    • Opt for routes that last at least seven days to give your body more time to adjust.
    Routes like Lemosho, Machame, and Rongai are ideal for acclimatization. Longer itineraries of seven days or more are recommended for the best acclimatization results.
    On the seven-day Machame route, extra acclimatization days aren't usually necessary. However, adding one or two extra rest days could be beneficial, especially if you’re not in peak physical condition.
    Most climbers do not require supplemental oxygen, as the summit's oxygen level is about half of what it is at sea level. However, Tanzania Inside and Safari provides oxygen tanks for safety, included in the tour price.
    Tanzania Inside and Safari provides comprehensive medical kits on all climbs, which include treatments for common ailments like nausea, headaches, and altitude sickness, as well as oxygen. If you have any specific prescriptions, be sure to bring them with you.
    Kilimanjaro has a low death rate, with 3-5 fatalities per year out of around 50,000 climbers. Most deaths are related to altitude sickness, which is often a result of failing to acclimatize properly. Tragically, porters have a higher mortality rate, often due to inadequate equipment and shelter, particularly with low-cost tour operators.
    Uhuru Peak was named to honor Tanzania's independence from Britain in 1961. "Uhuru" means "freedom" in Swahili.
    Yes! Tanzania is home to some of the world's most famous safari destinations, including Serengeti and Ngorongoro Crater. You can easily combine a Kilimanjaro climb with a safari adventure. Tanzania Inside and Safari also offers a fleet of vehicles and expert guides to make your safari experience exceptional.
    Tanzania Inside and Safari is a Tanzanian-owned, registered tour operator. We are dedicated to responsible tourism and actively engage in environmental conservation and social responsibility efforts, such as planting trees and combating bushfires on Kilimanjaro. For personalized advice on your Kilimanjaro adventure, feel free to reach out to our team!
    Guest Reviews · Tanzania Inside and Safari

    What Travelers Say About Tanzania Inside and Safari

    4.9
    Excellent guest rating - 40 reviews
    Jivyaant

    Jivyaant

    Jun 2026 • Couples
    Five star rating

    The Perfect Tanzania Safari Experience

    We had an amazing experience with this company from start to finish and would highly recommend them to anyone visiting Tanzania. Joseph was always quick to respond to our questions, very friendly, and completely transparent with pricing. The rates were fair and competitive, and there were no hidden surprises. All of the accommodations exceeded our expectations—they were comfortable, well-located, and added so much to the overall experience.

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    Sightsee253101

    Sightsee253101

    Feb 2026 • Couples
    Five star rating

    Unbelievable 5 day of safari, experience for lifetime. 5 stars 🌟 lol

    We had a 5 day safari to Tarangire NP, Serengeti NP and Ngorongoro NP. The lodges were we were staying were wonderful, the meals too. Our driver Hillary was so smart and he took us to the best spots to see all animals that are possible to see, even rhinos. It was a lifetime experience for us, 5 stars 🌟

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    Nathalie

    Nathalie

    Aug 2025
    Five star rating

    A wonferful and unforgettable chimpanzees safari in Mahale Mountains

    My partner and I had the great opportunity to go on a chimpanzee safari in the Mahale Mountains. We are delighted. It was an extraordinary experience! Everything was extremely well organized and went perfectly. Communication with Joseph was very easy: he always responded quickly to my many questions and did everything to meet our expectations. We had the opportunity to design an itinerary together that matched our wishes.

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    Thoibi N. Rublaitus

    Thoibi N. Rublaitus

    Jul 2025 • Friends
    Five star rating

    Well coordinated, great guides, and support staff.

    Tanzania Inside and Safari arranged our 8-day climb to Mt. Kilimanjaro on the Rongai Route. The guides were experienced, considerate and compassionate. The chef and waiter were great at make sure our meals were nutritious and wholesome every meal. The tent team and the porters were excellent too: always on time and perfectly set every day. On the summit day, Andrew, the guide, was the reason a team member who was unlikely to make it made it to Uhuru Peak, made it.

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    stayhappyalways h

    stayhappyalways h

    Sep 2025 • Couples
    Five star rating

    Best decision ever

    It’s was an amazing experience from start to finish. Our guides where welcoming, very experienced and polite. We had a customized trip and Joseph helped us with that. Thank you for making our journey unforgettable.

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    Johanna G

    Johanna G

    Aug 2026 • Friends
    Five star rating

    An Unforgettable Journey – Highly Recommended!

    Our trip through Tanzania was absolutely amazing and very individually tailored to us. The agency organized everything for us during our stay: accommodations, transfers, domestic flights, activities and, of course, the guides. From the beginning, we felt that our wishes were truly taken into account. What we appreciated most was the individual way the activities were planned. Even in places with many tourists, the team always found a way to create special experiences for us.

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