Lemosho Route – Southern Circuit
Climb Kilimanjaro

Lemosho Route – Southern Circuit

A Scenic Western Approach with Outstanding Summit Success

From $2,310 per person
7/8 daysDuration
January – March, June – OctoberBest Season
Arusha, TanzaniaStarts At
94–96%Summit Rate
1–20 paxGroup Size

Overview

The Lemosho Route begins on the quieter western side of Kilimanjaro, ascending from lush rainforest through heath and moorland before opening onto the vast Shira Plateau. Few other routes offer this kind of visual variety across the mountain's different ecological zones. What sets Lemosho apart is its gradual altitude gain combined with the "climb high, sleep low" technique — spending time at higher elevations during the day before descending to sleep. This approach gives the body more time to adjust, making summit success considerably more likely. With its combination of scenic diversity, manageable gradient, and strong completion rates, the Lemosho Route is one of the best all-round choices on Kilimanjaro for trekkers of various backgrounds.

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Summit Success Rate

94–96%
Success Rate
7-Day Route
94–96%
Success Rate
8-Day Route

* Based on guided expeditions with our professional support team.

Expert Recommendation

7-Day Option — From $2,600/person
Who should choose the 7-day route?

Best suited for experienced high-altitude trekkers with prior acclimatisation. If you have trekked above 4,000m before and maintain excellent fitness, the 7-day option is achievable — though we always recommend more time for safety.

8-Day Option — From $2,966/person
Who should choose the 8-day route?

Our most recommended option. The additional days significantly improve your acclimatisation profile, resulting in higher summit success and a far more enjoyable experience. Ideal for first-time Kilimanjaro climbers and those prioritising success.

Day-by-Day Itinerary

DAY
1
Day 1: Lemosho Glades to Big Tree Camp (Mti Mkubwa)
3-4 hours 4.8km 2,389m to 2,785m

Your adventure begins after breakfast, when your guide collects you from your hotel for the drive (approximately 113 km / 70.5 miles) to Lemosho Gate on the western side of the mountain.

After registration and lunch at the gate, the trek begins through dense rainforest. This section is rich in wildlife - keep an eye out for colobus monkeys moving through the canopy.

The trail is short and gentle, leading to Mti Mkubwa (Big Tree Camp), where your tents will already be set up and dinner prepared. After a hot meal, you will settle in for the night.

2,389m to 2,785m
4.8km
3-4 hours
Lunch & Dinner
Tent
DAY
2
Day 2: Big Tree Camp (Mti Mkubwa) to Shira 2 Camp
5-7 hours ~8-10km 2,785m to 3,895m

The day begins with another scenic walk beneath the forest canopy, although this section is brief as you soon transition into the heath and moorland zone.

A steady ascent through the forest brings you onto the northern slopes of the Shira Plateau. As you emerge above the treeline, the landscape opens up, offering expansive views across the plateau.

If you are feeling strong and have extra energy, an optional hike to the Cathedral Area can be arranged. This adds approximately 4 km to the day\'s trek and provides a deeper exploration of the plateau. Please discuss this option with your guide.

2,785m to 3,895m
~8-10km
5-7 hours
Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
Tent
DAY
3
Day 3: Shira 2 Camp to Barranco Camp via Lava Tower
6-7 hours 10.1km 3,895m to 3,986m (Lava Tower 4,530m)

Kibo Peak remains in view ahead as you continue eastward. The trail climbs steadily toward Lava Tower (4,530m), where you will stop for lunch and acclimatisation.

After reaching this high point, you descend to Barranco Camp. This "climb high, sleep low" strategy is essential for proper acclimatisation and significantly improves your chances of summit success.

Dinner is served in the evening at camp.

3,895m to 3,986m (Lava Tower 4,530m)
10.1km
6-7 hours
Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
Tent
DAY
4
Day 4: Barranco Camp to Karanga Camp
4-5 hours 8.5km 3,986m to 4,035m

Today begins with the ascent of the iconic Barranco Wall - a rewarding scramble that offers spectacular views.

After reaching the top, the trail descends into the Karanga Valley before a short but steep climb leads to Karanga Camp. This shorter trekking day allows for a more relaxed pace and continued acclimatisation.

3,986m to 4,035m
8.5km
4-5 hours
Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
Tent
DAY
5
Day 5: Karanga Camp to Barafu Camp
3-4 hours 3.8km 4,035m to 4,640m

The trail traverses the southern slopes of Kibo through a dry, lunar-like landscape on the way to Barafu Camp, located on the south-eastern shoulder of the mountain.

The climb to Barafu is short but steep. Upon arrival, you will rest, hydrate, and enjoy an early dinner before attempting to sleep ahead of the summit push.

This shorter day is designed to conserve energy for the demanding night ahead.

4,035m to 4,640m
3.8km
3-4 hours
Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
Tent
NIGHT
5
Night 5: Barafu Camp to Uhuru Peak (Summit)
7-8 hours 4.86km 4,640m to 5,895m

Your summit attempt begins around midnight. The climb is steep, slow, and physically demanding, requiring both determination and endurance.

After 5-6 hours, you will reach Stella Point (5,745m) on the crater rim, often at sunrise. From here, you continue along the rim to Uhuru Peak (5,895m) - the highest point in Africa.

4,640m to 5,895m
4.86km
7-8 hours
DAY
6
Day 6: Uhuru Peak to Mweka Camp
6-7 hours 11.5km 5,895m to 3,106m

After celebrating at the summit and taking a short rest, you descend back to Barafu Camp - a demanding section following the long ascent.

At Barafu, you will have breakfast and rest briefly before continuing down the Mweka Trail to Mweka Camp. Depending on your condition, your guide may adjust the final stopping point between Millennium Camp and Mweka Camp.

5,895m to 3,106m
11.5km
6-7 hours
Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
Tent
DAY
7
Day 7: Mweka Camp to Mweka Gate
3-4 hours 9.1km 3,106m to 1,633m

The final day is a gentle descent through lush rainforest to Mweka Gate.

Upon arrival, you will receive your summit certificate and enjoy a well-deserved rest. A vehicle will then transfer you for a celebratory lunch before returning to your hotel - marking the end of your Kilimanjaro journey.

3,106m to 1,633m
9.1km
3-4 hours
Breakfast & Lunch

Pricing

All prices are per person in USD.

Group Size6 Days
1 person$3,736
2 people$2,893
3 people$2,630
4 people$2,540
5 people$2,474
6 people$2,442
7 people$2,363
8+ people$2,310
Group Size7 Days
1 person$4,299
2 people$3,318
3 people$3,042
4 people$2,966
5 people$2,908
6 people$2,762
7 people$2,667
8+ people$2,600
Group Size8 Days
1 person$4,983
2 people$3,795
3 people$3,413
4 people$3,365
5 people$3,272
6 people$3,103
7 people$3,034
8+ people$2,966

Prices include all services listed under "What's Included". International flights and personal equipment are not included.

What's Included

Included
  • All airport and gate transfers
  • Hotel accommodation before and after the climb (bed & breakfast)
  • All camping equipment (tent, sleeping mat, dining tent)
  • All meals during the trek (breakfast, lunch, dinner)
  • Professional KPAP-certified guides and porters
  • Emergency oxygen equipment
  • Medical check-ups twice daily
  • Fully stocked medical kits
  • All national park fees and conservation fees
  • Summit certificates upon successful completion
  • 24/7 support team
Not Included
  • International flights to and from Tanzania
  • Tanzania visa fee (approx. $50–100 depending on nationality)
  • Travel insurance (altitude coverage required)
  • Personal trekking gear and equipment rentals
  • Tips for guides and porters (recommended $250–350 per participant)
  • Personal expenses and souvenirs

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the difference between the 7-day and 8-day Lemosho Route?
The 7-day route suits trekkers with reasonable fitness and some experience at altitude. The 8-day route adds an extra night to allow more gradual acclimatisation, which translates into a higher summit success rate and a more comfortable experience overall. For first-time Kilimanjaro climbers, the 8-day option is generally the better choice.
How difficult is the Lemosho Route?
Lemosho is rated moderate to challenging. The Barranco Wall section involves a hands-on scramble that most trekkers find manageable and enjoyable. The summit night is the most demanding part of any Kilimanjaro climb, requiring sustained physical and mental effort at high altitude over several hours.
What is the summit success rate on Lemosho?
The Lemosho Route typically sees success rates above 90% for guided expeditions. Opting for the 8-day version further increases these odds, as the additional acclimatisation day gives the body more time to prepare for the summit push.
What does the price include?
The price covers all transfers, hotel accommodation before and after the climb, camping equipment, all meals on the mountain, professional guides and porters, park fees, and emergency oxygen. Not included are international flights, visa fees, gratuities, and personal trekking gear.
When is the best time to climb the Lemosho Route?
The most reliable windows are January to March and June to October, which are the dry seasons on Kilimanjaro. Skies are clearer and the trails are more stable. The April–May and November rainy seasons are possible but bring muddier conditions and reduced visibility.
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Quick Facts

  • Duration7 or 8 days
  • Best SeasonJanuary – March, June – October
  • Starts AtArusha, Tanzania
  • Success Rate94–96%
  • Group Size1–20 people

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