8-Day Kilimanjaro Lemosho Route Trek with KLA Adventures
Overview
The Lemosho Route, starting on Kilimanjaro’s lush western flank, is famed for its stunning views of Mount Meru and the expansive plains of Kenya’s Amboseli National Park. Beginning in dense rainforest, the trail gradually opens up to sweeping moorlands, offering panoramic glimpses of Kilimanjaro’s summit from as early as day two.
This route joins the popular Machame Trail on day three, leading to a rewarding yet challenging ascent to the summit. With an extra day compared to shorter routes, the 8-day itinerary enhances acclimatization, increasing your chance of conquering Africa’s highest peak. Overnight stays are in comfortable tents, providing a true wilderness experience.
Key Campsites
Big Tree Camp → Shira Camp → Barranco Camp → Karanga Camp → Barafu Camp → Uhuru Peak → Mweka Camp
Day-by-Day Itinerary
Day 1: Lemosho Glades to Big Tree Camp After breakfast and a briefing, enjoy a scenic 3-hour drive to Londorossi Park Gate. From here, a 4WD takes you to Lemosho Glades (2,390 m), where the trek begins through lush rainforest. Hike along forest trails to Big Tree Camp (2,750 m). Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner Overnight: Big Tree Camp
Day 2: Big Tree Camp to Shira 1 Camp The trail ascends steadily through moorland, crossing streams and climbing over the Shira Ridge. You’ll reach Shira 1 Camp (3,505 m), nestled beside a stream on the Shira Plateau. Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner Overnight: Shira 1 Camp
Day 3: Shira 1 Camp to Shira 2 Camp A gentle trek across the plateau brings you to Shira 2 Camp (3,810 m), ideal for acclimatization. Optional short hikes around the plateau help prepare for higher altitudes. Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner Overnight: Shira 2 Camp
Day 4: Shira 2 Camp to Barranco Camp From Shira Plateau, the path heads east towards the Lava Tower (“Shark’s Tooth”) and the Arrow Glacier (4,876 m). After crossing these landmarks, descend to Barranco Camp (3,860 m). Despite ending at a similar elevation, this day is crucial for acclimatization. Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner Overnight: Barranco Camp
Day 5: Barranco Camp to Karanga Camp Begin by descending into the Great Barranco ravine and then ascend the steep “Breakfast Wall.” Continue past the Heim and Kersten glaciers to the Karanga Valley campsite. Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner Overnight: Karanga Camp
Day 6: Karanga Camp to Barafu Camp Trek across barren scree slopes to Barafu Camp (4,640 m), base camp for your summit attempt. Spend the afternoon resting and hydrating, preparing for the overnight climb. Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner Overnight: Barafu Camp
Day 7: Barafu Camp – Summit (Uhuru Peak) – Mweka Camp Wake around 11:30 p.m. for hot tea and snacks before beginning the ascent. The steep
climb to Stella Point (5,739 m) takes 6–8 hours, followed by a final 1-hour trek to Uhuru Peak (5,895 m). After celebrating at the summit, descend 11 km to Mweka Camp (3,100 m) in the rainforest zone. Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner Overnight: Mweka Camp
Day 8: Mweka Camp to Mweka Gate After breakfast, descend through rainforest to Mweka Gate. This 9 km trek takes 3–4 hours. Upon arrival, you’ll receive your official summit certificate — green for Stella Point or gold for Uhuru Peak. Remember to tip your trekking crew before transfer back to your hotel. Meals: Breakfast