Kilimanjaro Routes

Lemosho Route

The Glades

Duration
7-8 Days
Difficulty
Moderate-challenging
Success Rate
90%
Start Elevation
2,100m
Summit Elevation
5,895m
Approach
West

About This Route

The Glades

The Lemosho Route is widely regarded as the most beautiful and well-designed route on Mount Kilimanjaro. Approaching from the west through the remote Lemosho Glades, this route offers an unparalleled wilderness experience in the early days before joining the more popular southern circuit routes for the summit push. Starting at the Londorossi Gate at 2,100 meters, the first two days traverse pristine rainforest with excellent chances of spotting black-and-white colobus monkeys and a variety of forest birds. The route then crosses the spectacular Shira Plateau, a high-altitude moorland with panoramic views of Kibo peak and the Western Breach. The 7-8 day itinerary allows for gradual acclimatization, contributing to the route's impressive 90% success rate. After the Shira Plateau, the route follows the Southern Circuit, passing through the Lava Tower, Barranco Valley, and Karanga before the final summit push from Barafu Camp. The Lemosho Route is ideal for those who want the best combination of scenery, wilderness, and summit success.

Day by Day

Your Journey to the Summit

Drive to Londorossi Gate for registration, then continue to the Lemosho trailhead. Trek through pristine montane rainforest to Mti Mkubwa (Big Tree) Camp. Watch for colobus monkeys and forest birds.

Elevation:2100m to 2750m
Distance:6km
Time:3-4 hours

Continue through the rainforest, emerging onto the moorland. Ascend through giant heather to the edge of the Shira Plateau. First views of Kibo peak emerge as you gain altitude.

Elevation:2750m to 3500m
Distance:8km
Time:5-7 hours

Cross the spectacular Shira Plateau, one of Kilimanjaro's three volcanic cones. The plateau is a high-altitude moorland with stunning views. Optional acclimatization hike to Shira Cathedral.

Elevation:3500m to 3840m
Distance:7km
Time:4-5 hours

Ascend to Lava Tower (4,630m) for crucial acclimatization, then descend to Barranco Camp. The dramatic "walk high, sleep low" profile significantly boosts your summit chances.

Elevation:3840m to 4630m to 3960m
Distance:10km
Time:6-8 hours

Scramble up the famous Barranco Wall for breathtaking views, then traverse undulating terrain to Karanga Valley. The wall is steep but non-technical and immensely rewarding.

Elevation:3960m to 3995m
Distance:5km
Time:4-5 hours

Short ascent through alpine desert to Barafu Camp, your summit base camp. Rest and prepare for the midnight summit push. Early dinner and a few hours of sleep before departure.

Elevation:3995m to 4673m
Distance:4km
Time:3-4 hours

Midnight departure for the summit. Ascend through the night via Stella Point to Uhuru Peak (5,895m). Celebrate at the Roof of Africa, then descend to Mweka Camp.

Elevation:4673m to 5895m to 3100m
Distance:17km
Time:12-15 hours

Descend through the rainforest to Mweka Gate. Collect your summit certificates, tip your crew, and transfer to your hotel for a well-deserved celebration.

Elevation:3100m to 1640m
Distance:10km
Time:3-4 hours

Everything You Need

What's Included

Included

  • Professional mountain guides
  • Porters and cook
  • Park fees and rescue fees
  • Camping equipment
  • All meals on the mountain
  • Filtered water
  • Pulse oximeter and emergency oxygen
  • Airport transfers

Not Included

  • International flights
  • Visa fees
  • Travel insurance
  • Personal gear
  • Tips/gratuities
  • Pre and post trek accommodation

Prepare for Your Climb

Training & Preparation

Physical Training

A 12-week training program is recommended. Focus on hiking with a loaded pack, regular cardio sessions, and leg strength exercises including squats, lunges, and step-ups.

Acclimatization

"Pole pole" (slowly, slowly) is the Kilimanjaro mantra. Staying hydrated (3-4 litres daily) and maintaining a steady pace are your best strategies for avoiding altitude sickness.

Gear

Quality hiking boots (broken in!) are essential. Bring a layering system for temperatures ranging from -20°C at the summit to +30°C in the rainforest.

Mental Preparation

Summit night is the toughest part. Mental resilience and a positive mindset will carry you when your body wants to stop.

Read Full Preparation Guide →
Preparing for Kilimanjaro climb

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