8 Days Kilimanjaro Climb via Lemosho Route | Best for Acclimatization
Tour Overview
The 8 Days Lemosho Route is one of the most scenic and less crowded ways to climb Mount Kilimanjaro, Africa’s highest peak at 5,895 meters. Starting from the western side of the mountain at Lemosho Gate, the route offers breathtaking landscapes, excellent acclimatization, and a high summit success rate.
This 8-day itinerary passes through dense rainforest, the Shira Plateau, moorland, alpine desert, and finally the summit zone at Uhuru Peak. Its longer schedule allows climbers more time to adjust to the altitude, making it ideal for both beginners and experienced trekkers.
Route Highlights
- Best route for acclimatization
- High summit success rate
- Less crowded and very scenic
- Diverse landscapes and ecosystems
Lemosho Route Itinerary (8 Days)
Day 1 – Lemosho Gate to Big Tree Camp
Elevation: 2,200m to 2,600m | Hiking time: 3–4 hours
The trek begins at Lemosho Gate, entering the rainforest and heading toward Big Tree Camp. The trail passes through lush forest with giant trees, ferns, and wildlife, providing a gentle start to the adventure.
Overnight: Big Tree Camp
Day 2 – Big Tree Camp to Shira 1 Camp
Elevation: 2,600m to 3,500m | Hiking time: 5–6 hours
Climbers leave the rainforest and ascend to the Shira Plateau, enjoying expansive views of Kilimanjaro’s western slopes.
Overnight: Shira 1 Camp
Day 3 – Shira 1 Camp to Shira 2 Camp
Elevation: 3,500m to 3,850m | Hiking time: 4–5 hours
Trek across the plateau toward Shira 2 Camp with stunning highland scenery and diverse landscapes.
Overnight: Shira 2 Camp
Day 4 – Shira 2 Camp to Barranco Camp (via Lava Tower)
Elevation: 3,850m to 3,960m | Hiking time: 6–7 hours
Climbers reach Lava Tower (4,600m) for acclimatization, then descend to Barranco Camp. This day helps prepare for the summit push.
Overnight: Barranco Camp
Day 5 – Barranco Camp to Karanga Camp
Elevation: 3,960m to 4,035m | Hiking time: 4–5 hours
Trek over the famous Barranco Wall and continue through the Karanga Valley toward Karanga Camp.
Overnight: Karanga Camp
Day 6 – Karanga Camp to Barafu Camp
Elevation: 4,035m to 4,640m | Hiking time: 4–5 hours
The trail leads to Barafu Camp, the base for the summit push. Climbers rest and prepare for the early night departure.
Overnight: Barafu Camp
Day 7 – Summit night: Barafu Camp to Uhuru Peak, then descend to Mweka Camp
Elevation: 4,640m to 5,895m to 3,100m | Hiking time: 10–14 hours
Start the summit push at midnight to reach Uhuru Peak, the highest point of Mount Kilimanjaro. After celebrating the summit, descend to Mweka Camp.
Overnight: Mweka Camp
Day 8 – Mweka Camp to Mweka Gate
Elevation: 3,100m to 1,640m | Hiking time: 3–4 hours
Final descent through the rainforest leads to Mweka Gate. Climbers receive their summit certificates and transfer back to the hotel.
Price Range
💰 From $1,650 – $3,200 per person, depending on group size, hotel preference before and after the climb, travel budget, and service you prefer.
Package Includes
✔ Professional mountain guides
✔ Porters and cook
✔ All park fees
✔ Camping equipment
✔ Meals during the climb
✔ Airport transfers
✔ Rescue support