Route Overview
Embark on an awe-inspiring journey through the Lemosho Route on Mount Kilimanjaro. With its breathtaking vistas, diverse ecosystems, and challenging terrains, this 7-day trek offers an unforgettable experience. Traverse through lush rainforests, rocky valleys, and alpine deserts as you make your way to the summit of Africa’s highest peak.
Begin your adventure at Londorossi Gate and meet your experienced guide. Complete necessary registrations before entering the enchanting rainforest. Hike through verdant trails, immersing yourself in the beauty of the flora and fauna. After around 4-5 hours of trekking, reach Mti Mkubwa Camp, where you will set up your campsite.
Altitude Profile: Start at approximately 2,100 meters (6,890 feet) and camp at around 2,800 meters (9,186 feet).
Camping Experience: Embrace the tranquility of camping in nature as you set up your tent in the designated campsite. Enjoy the peaceful ambiance of the rainforest and listen to its soothing sounds.
Leave the rainforest behind and enter the moorland zone as you ascend toward Shira 1 Camp. Cross vast plateaus and revel in the panoramic views of the surrounding mountains. After approximately 5-6 hours of trekking, reach Shira 1 Camp and settle into your campsite.
Altitude Profile: Ascend from around 2,800 meters (9,186 feet) to approximately 3,500 meters (11,483 feet).
Camping Experience: Revel in the freedom of camping in the alpine meadows. Set up your tent and immerse yourself in the rugged beauty of the surroundings.
Continue your ascent through the alpine desert, characterized by rocky terrains and sparse vegetation. Trek across stunning landscapes and marvel at the unique geological features. After approximately 4-5 hours of hiking, reach Shira 2 Camp and spend the night amidst the wilderness.
Altitude Profile: Climb from around 3,500 meters (11,483 feet) to approximately 3,900 meters (12,795 feet).
Camping Experience: Set up your tent at Shira 2 Camp, surrounded by breathtaking views of the mountain range. Embrace the raw beauty of the alpine desert and relish the seclusion of the campsite.
Embark on a challenging day of trekking as you ascend to the iconic Lava Tower, standing at an impressive 4,630 meters (15,190 feet). Enjoy a well-deserved break to refuel and rest. Descend to the picturesque Barranco Camp, known for its stunning scenery. After approximately 6-8 hours of hiking, reach Barranco Camp and spend the night.
Altitude Profile: Ascend to 4,630 meters (15,190 feet) at Lava Tower, then descend to approximately 3,950 meters (12,960 feet) at Barranco Camp.
Camping Experience: Settle into your campsite at Barranco Camp, surrounded by towering cliffs and panoramic vistas. Immerse yourself in the natural beauty of the campsite's location.
Embark on an exhilarating trek through the Great Barranco Wall, a challenging yet rewarding section of the route. Marvel at the spectacular views from the top before descending into the scenic Karanga Valley, a lush oasis in the high desert. After approximately 4-5 hours of hiking, reach Karanga Camp and set up your tent.
Altitude Profile: Ascend to approximately 4,000 meters (13,123 feet) at Barranco Wall, then descend to around 3,995 meters (13,107 feet) at Karanga Camp.
Camping Experience: Enjoy the serenity of camping in the high desert as you settle into your campsite at Karanga Camp. Take in the solitude and beauty of nature surrounding you.
Resume your trek through the barren alpine desert landscape as you ascend towards Barafu Camp, the final camp before the summit. Marvel at the rugged beauty of the surroundings and mentally prepare for the challenges ahead. After approximately 3-4 hours of hiking, reach Barafu Camp and prepare for the summit push.
Altitude Profile: Ascend to around 4,600 meters (15,091 feet) at Barafu Camp.
Camping Experience: Set up your tent at Barafu Camp, taking in the breathtaking sunset views over the plains below. Prepare yourself physically and mentally for the midnight summit attempt.
Embark on a pre-dawn ascent to Uhuru Peak, the highest point in Africa. Witness the magnificent sunrise from the summit and savor your accomplishment. After celebrating and capturing the memories, begin your descent to Mweka Camp. After approximately 10-12 hours of trekking (including the summit), reach Mweka Camp and celebrate your successful summit.
Altitude Profile: Ascend to approximately 5,895 meters (19,341 feet) at Uhuru Peak, then descend to approximately 3,100 meters (10,171 feet) at Mweka Camp.
Camping Experience: Settle into your last campsite at Mweka Camp, reflecting on the incredible journey you have undertaken. Enjoy the camaraderie amongst fellow trekkers as you celebrate your accomplishment.
Route Destinations
- Day 1: Londorossi Gate to Mti Mkubwa Camp
- Day 2: Mti Mkubwa Camp to Shira 1 Camp
- Day 3: Shira 1 Camp to Shira 2 Camp
- Day 4: Shira 2 Camp to Barranco Camp via Lava Tower
- Day 5: Barranco Camp to Karanga Camp
- Day 6: Karanga Camp to Barafu Camp
- Day 7: Barafu Camp to Uhuru Peak, Descend to Mweka Camp