7 Days Lemosho Route Climb

Elevation: 7,800ft to 9,500ft
Distance: 6 km | Hiking Time: 3–4 hours
Habitat: Rainforest

After an early breakfast in Moshi, you'll drive approximately 4 hours to Londorossi Gate for registration and permits. From there, continue by vehicle to the Lemosho trailhead. The trek begins in lush montane rainforest with towering fig trees and moss-covered branches. You may spot blue monkeys or hear the call of exotic birds as the trail winds steadily uphill. Lunch is served en route before arriving at Forest Camp, a serene site under the forest canopy.

Elevation: 9,500ft to 11,500ft
Distance: 8 km | Hiking Time: 5–6 hours
Habitat: Moorland

Today’s trek transitions from forest to moorland. The vegetation thins as you climb through heather and volcanic rock formations, some draped with old man’s beard lichen. The trail offers sweeping views and possibly glimpses of Kibo Peak through the clouds. After reaching Shira Ridge, a scenic descent takes you to Shira Camp 1 where you rest on an open plain beneath the wide African sky.

Elevation: 11,500ft to 13,800ft
Distance: 14 km | Hiking Time: 5–7 hours
Habitat: Moorland

A longer day allows for vital acclimatization. You start with a gentle walk across the Shira Plateau to Shira Camp 2, crossing moorland meadows and small streams. Then ascend to the quieter Moir Hut at the base of the Lent Hills. This peaceful campsite is tucked against a rugged hillside, ideal for exploring side hikes if time permits. This day improves acclimatization and offers fantastic isolation and views of the upper mountain.

Elevation: 13,800ft to 13,000ft
Distance: 7 km | Hiking Time: 4–6 hours
Habitat: Semi-Desert

The trail gains altitude quickly as you ascend towards Lava Tower (15,190 ft), a striking volcanic rock formation known as the “Shark’s Tooth.” This point marks the highest elevation so far, offering an excellent acclimatization opportunity. After lunch, descend to Barranco Camp through the beautiful but challenging valley. Although you sleep at a lower elevation, this up-and-down profile is key to helping your body adjust.

Elevation: 13,000ft to 15,000ft
Distance: 9 km | Hiking Time: 8–10 hours
Habitat: Alpine Desert

Begin the day scaling the iconic Barranco Wall, a thrilling climb that is not technical but requires some scrambling. At the top, enjoy dramatic views of the Karanga Valley and southern glaciers. After a short break at Karanga Camp, push onward to Barafu Camp, the final base before summit night. The terrain becomes more barren and windswept. After dinner, you’ll rest early to prepare for the midnight summit push.

Elevation: 15,300ft to 19,345ft (Uhuru Peak) then down to 10,000ft
Distance: 5 km ascent | 12 km descent
Hiking Time: 7–8 hours ascent | 4–6 hours descent
Habitat: Arctic to Rainforest

Summit day begins around midnight in the cold, dark alpine environment. The ascent to Stella Point on the crater rim is grueling, through loose volcanic scree. From Stella, it’s a final push to Uhuru Peak—the Roof of Africa! After sunrise photos and celebration at the summit, begin your long descent. Stop at Barafu for brunch before continuing to Mweka Camp for a well-deserved rest in the forest zone.

Elevation: 10,000ft to 5,400ft
Distance: 10 km | Hiking Time: 3–4 hours
Habitat: Rainforest

The final descent takes you through Kilimanjaro’s verdant rainforest. Watch for monkeys, birds, and wildflowers along the way. At Mweka Gate, receive your summit certificate and meet your driver for transfer back to your hotel in Moshi. Enjoy a warm shower, a celebratory meal, and reflect on the unforgettable adventure you’ve just completed.