Tour Details
Join Mack, a certified mountain guide on this incredible 7-day trek to Mount Kilimanjaro in Tanzania via the scenic Lemosho Route.
Join me to climb the highest mountain in Africa, Mount Kilimanjaro via the scenic Lemosho route.
The lesser-known route begins on the western side of Kilimanjaro. It seems like an ideal pick due to its ideal balance of low crowds, beautiful scenery, and a high summit success rate.
The trip will begin in Arusha. A long drive from Moshi to Londorossi Gate will take us to the starting point of the trek. We will spend the first 2 days crossing a thick rainforest which will then give way to moorland. The trail leads through the Shira Plateau on a relatively flat hike. As you will cross the Shira ridge you will see stunning views of Mount Meru and the Rift Valley.
There will be several steep passages taking us through dramatic landscapes. The trail will be mostly secluded until we join the Machame route near the Lava Tower. Heading further, we will climb the Barranco Wall, the steepest part of the entire route. You will see fantastic views of the Kibo glacier and the Kibo summit from here.
The hike to the summit will begin from Barafu Camp (4,640 m). We will start just past midnight and scale on lava ash. It will take about 5 to 7 hours to reach Stella Point (5,730 m), the crater rim of Kilimanjaro. From here, a good climb of about 1 to 2 hours takes us to Uhuru Peak to see one of the most beautiful sunrises you are ever likely to see. It will be no less than an accomplishment to stand on the roof of Africa!
Thereafter, we will return to Barafu Camp and finally descend to Mweka Camp. You sure will reflect on the journey as we transfer you to Arusha on the final day.
It is an easy trek, well-suited for beginners and seasoned hikers alike. As long as you are fit and used to long walks, you should be just fine!
So, send a message now to reserve your seat on this spectacular climb. I will be happy to guide you.
Tour Highlights
- Climb the roof of Africa via the scenic Lemosho Route.
- Traverse a beautiful landscape on this not so crowded route.
- The route has a high success rate and offers panoramic views.
Tour Itinerary
When you land at Kilimanjaro International Airport (JRO), a KiliHolidays representative will be there to welcome you and escort you to your hotel, which is part of the package. The hotel provides a relaxing atmosphere with comfortable rooms, hot showers, a friendly staff, a swimming pool, and Internet access. Later in the evening, you'll attend a briefing led by our managers to ensure you're fully prepared for your upcoming climb.
Meals Included: Breakfast, Dinner
After breakfast, you'll be picked up from the lodge and driven to the Lemosho Gate (2385m) to complete your registration with the national park authorities. From there, your trek begins through the lush and dense rainforest, following a moderately steep trail. As you hike, you'll pass through untouched forest landscapes before arriving at Big Tree Camp, where you'll spend the night.
Altitude Gain: ↑395m
Walking Time: Approx. 2-3 hours
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Today's journey is longer, beginning with a narrow trail through the rainforest. As you climb, the dense forest gives way to heath and moorland, where plants like erica and lobelia thrive. After 4 to 5 hours, you'll reach Shira Ridge and make your way to Shira Camp 1, where you'll stop for lunch and take in the breathtaking views of Mount Meru and the Rift Valley.
The final part of the day involves a 3-hour trek, during which you’ll gain an additional 250 meters in altitude. The landscape shifts once more, revealing terrain shaped by ancient lava flows. Before arriving at Shira Camp 2, you'll pass by towering giant senecios, some reaching up to 9 meters in height. Upon reaching Shira Camp 2, you'll settle in for the evening, with the chance to see the Kibo summit illuminated by a stunning sunset.
Altitude Gain: ↑1120m
Walking Time: Approx. 7-8 hours
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Today, you’ll ascend around 700 meters but will spend the night at almost the same elevation as the previous night, aiding in acclimatization. You'll reach over 4500 meters at Lava Tower before descending, which helps your body adapt to the altitude.
The day begins with a gradual climb across the Shira Plateau towards Lava Tower, where the landscape shifts to an alpine desert. After passing the Lava Tower, you'll make your descent into the Barranco Valley, home to unique vegetation like lobelia and towering giant senecios. After 6 to 7 hours of hiking, you'll arrive at Barranco Camp, known for being one of Kilimanjaro's most scenic campsites.
Altitude Gain: ↑740m | Descent: ↓680m
Walking Time: Approx. 6-7 hours
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Today we will tackle the steepest part of the entire route – the Barranco Wall.
After reaching the top you will walk along the mountain ridge from where you will see fantastic views of the southern glacier of Kibo as well as that of the Kibo summit. We will halt at the Karanga Camp.
Altitude gain: ↑75m;
Walking time: approx. 3-4 hours
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
The trail passes through an alpine desert until we reach the Barafu Camp. The rest of the day is spent relaxing and preparing for the summit attempt which will take place the following day.
Altitude gain: ↑605m;
Walking time: approx. 3-4 hours
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Your final ascent begins around midnight, following a light snack and hot tea. Guided by torchlight, you'll trek across the frozen lava ash. After 5 to 7 hours of consistent climbing, you'll reach Stella Point (5730m), located at Kilimanjaro's crater rim. From here, it’s an additional 1 to 2 hours along the crater ridge to reach Uhuru Peak, the highest point in Africa. As the sun rises, you'll be rewarded with breathtaking views of the surrounding landscape—a moment you'll never forget.
After a brief rest and some photos at the summit, you'll begin your descent back to Barafu Camp, arriving just before midday, where the team will welcome you. You'll have a warm lunch and take a 1 to 2-hour break before continuing down to Mweka Camp, which is about 3 hours away.
Altitude Gain: ↑1255m | Descent: ↓2815m
Walking Time: Approx. 10-14 hours
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
The final leg of your amazing adventure begins after breakfast with a traditional farewell ceremony from the mountain crew. Thereafter, we will descend for 2-3 hours through the rainforest and continue to Mweka Gate. From here, we will transfer you to your hotel and after a warm shower; the rest of the day is spent relaxing.
Altitude loss: ↓1450m;
Walking time: approx. 2-3 hours
Meals Included: Breakfast, Dinner
After breakfast, you'll be driven to Kilimanjaro Airport for your departure. If you prefer, you can extend your stay in Tanzania by embarking on a safari or unwinding on the stunning beaches along the Indian Ocean.
Meal Included: Breakfast
Includes/Excludes
Price Includes
- Accommodation included
- Guiding fee
- Breakfast
- Lunch
- Dinner
- Transport during the trip
- Transportation start and back
- Permit and entrance fees
- Porters
- Mountain guide expenses
- Luggage transfer
- Tents
- Cooking utensils
- Sleeping bag
- Trekking poles
- Snacks
- Clean drinkable water
- Hot shower
Price details
- International flights;
- • Tips (250300 USD per climber for the whole mountain crew);
- • Visa fee (100 USD for American citizens and 50 USD for all others);
- • Personal gear rentals;
- • Lunch and dinner at the hotel (before and after the climb);
- • Portable toilets (if required 250 USD per unit, one can be shared between 3 people);
- • Mountaineering insurance. You'll need special insurance for climbing Kilimanjaro that covers high altitude trekking up to 6000 m.
Frequently Asked Questions
The best time of year to climb Mount Kilimanjaro is during the two main dry seasons:
- January to mid-March
Weather: Generally clear skies, warm temperatures, and less chance of rain. This period is right after the short rainy season, so the mountain is lush and green.
Advantages: Fewer climbers compared to the peak season, offering a quieter experience. Snow is likely at the summit, adding to the adventure and beauty of the climb.
- June to October
Weather: Cooler temperatures, minimal rain, and clear skies. This is the main dry season and the most popular time for climbing.
Advantages: Generally stable weather, making it an excellent time for trekking. The mountain sees more climbers during this period, which can create a lively atmosphere.
Less Ideal Times to Climb
Mid-March to May: This is the long rainy season, with heavy rain, slippery trails, and cloudy conditions. The summit can be extremely cold and wet.
November to early December: This period marks the short rainy season, with unpredictable weather, though it’s generally less wet than the long rainy season.
Summary
If you’re looking for the best balance of weather, trail conditions, and scenic beauty, aim for January to mid-March or June to October.
The guide-to-client ratio for climbing Mount Kilimanjaro typically depends on the size of the group and the route chosen. However, standard guidelines set by the Kilimanjaro National Park Authority (KINAPA) recommend the following:
For Smaller Groups (1-2 Clients):
At least 1 lead guide per group.
1 assistant guide is often added for safety.
The ratio is usually 1 guide for every 2 clients, but some operators may provide a 1:1 ratio for personalized attention.
For Larger Groups (3 or More Clients):
1 lead guide and at least 1 assistant guide for every 2-3 clients.
A ratio of around 1 guide to every 3 clients is common, with additional assistant guides based on the group’s size.
These ratios ensure safety and personalized attention, especially at higher altitudes, where guides monitor clients for signs of altitude sickness and other potential issues.
Yes, clients can join group treks for Mount Kilimanjaro. Group treks are a popular option because they can be more cost-effective than private treks. Clients joining a group trek will be part of a larger group of hikers, which can provide a sense of camaraderie and support during the climb. These groups often have set departure dates and follow a predetermined route.
If clients have specific preferences, like having a Spanish-speaking guide or a private toilet, these can sometimes be accommodated within a group trek, depending on the trekking company and group logistics.
Accommodation
Tents: Most treks, including those on the Lemosho route, involve camping. The trekking company usually provides high-quality, four-season mountain tents that are set up by the crew at each camp. You’ll sleep in these tents for the duration of the trek.
Huts: On the Marangu route (often called the “Coca-Cola route”), accommodations are in basic mountain huts with bunk beds. This is the only route where huts are available, and it eliminates the need for camping.
Facilities: Campsites on Kilimanjaro are very basic. They provide no running water or electricity, and there are only basic long-drop or pit toilets (some trekking companies offer private portable toilets for a fee).
Meals
Meal Preparation: Meals are prepared by a cook who accompanies the trekking group. The cook and team will ensure you have fresh, hot meals, even at high altitudes. They typically prepare breakfast, lunch, and dinner, along with snacks for the day.
Types of Meals:
Breakfast: Usually includes items like porridge, eggs, toast, pancakes, fruits, and tea or coffee.
Lunch: Generally consists of sandwiches, salads, pasta, or other light meals that are easy to prepare and carry.
Dinner: Often includes soup, a main dish (like pasta, rice with vegetables or meat), and a dessert.
Snacks and Drinks: Trekkers are provided with snacks, like fruits or energy bars, and tea or coffee is available during breaks.
Special Diets: Most trekking companies accommodate dietary restrictions, such as vegetarian, vegan, gluten-free, or any other special requirements, if they are informed in advance
- Weather Preparedness and Safety Measures
Guides’ Role: Experienced guides will monitor weather conditions closely. They will make decisions based on safety, including slowing down the pace, adjusting the route, or seeking shelter.
Trekking Schedule Adjustments: The schedule may be adjusted to wait out severe weather, especially during heavy rains or snow. If weather conditions are deemed too dangerous (like severe storms or high winds), the guides may choose to delay or even turn back to avoid risks.
- Clothing and Gear Protection
Rain and Cold Gear: Trekkers are advised to bring appropriate gear, including waterproof clothing, sturdy boots, and layers for warmth. This helps maintain comfort and safety in wet or cold conditions.
Tent and Sleeping Arrangements: Campsites are set up in a way to provide shelter from bad weather, with tents designed to withstand rain, wind, and cold.
- Trail Conditions and Navigation
Slippery or Muddy Trails: During bad weather, trails can become slippery or muddy. The guides may adjust the route to avoid the most hazardous sections and ensure everyone’s safety.
Visibility Issues: In fog or snow, visibility can be reduced. Guides will ensure trekkers stay close and follow a safe path to avoid disorientation.
- Health Considerations
Risk of Hypothermia or Altitude Sickness: Bad weather can increase the risk of hypothermia or exacerbate altitude sickness. Guides will closely monitor trekkers for symptoms and may take measures such as descending to a lower altitude if necessary.
- Rescue and Evacuation Procedures
Evacuation Plans: In extreme conditions or if a trekker’s safety is at risk, guides are trained to initiate an evacuation. This may involve descending to a safer location or coordinating with rescue teams for air evacuation, if required.
Overall, while bad weather can impact the trek, the safety protocols, experienced guides, and preparation help ensure trekkers remain safe and the journey continues smoothly wherever possible.
The 7-day Lemosho route starts at 3,414 meters, providing trekkers with additional time at higher elevations while covering shorter distances during the first two days. This slow and steady climb significantly enhances acclimatization, resulting in some of the best summit success rates on Kilimanjaro.
Although the 6-day version is best suited for seasoned trekkers or those already acclimatized, the 7-day itinerary is perfect for beginners, offering a more gradual and comfortable ascent.
We understand that finding the perfect place to stay is an essential part of your adventure experience. To help you with this, we’ve curated a list of three highly recommended hotels that offer comfort, convenience, and a touch of local charm. These accommodations are well-suited for adventurers looking to relax and rejuvenate after an exciting day of exploration
Hotel Sapphire Nairobi Kenya
The Sarova Stanley Nairobi Kenya
InterContinental Nairobi Nairobi Kenya
