Discover the ideal Kilimanjaro 8 Days Lemosho Route, a detailed itinerary designed to maximize your chances of reaching Africa’s highest peak. Follow this day-by-day guide for a well-paced and scenic adventure.
Kilimanjaro 8 Days Lemosho Route: The 8-day Lemosho Route on Mount Kilimanjaro is a popular trekking path that offers a gradual ascent and extra time for acclimatization. This itinerary increases the chances of reaching the summit of Uhuru Peak, making it a preferred choice for trekkers seeking a successful and enjoyable climb.
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The Kilimanjaro 8 Days Lemosho Route is one of the most recommended itineraries for those aiming to reach the summit of Africa’s tallest mountain. Starting on the western side of Kilimanjaro, this route is known for its beautiful scenery, varied ecosystems, and a longer, more gradual ascent that allows for better acclimatization. The extra day included in this itinerary provides more time to adjust to the altitude, increasing the likelihood of a successful and comfortable trek to the summit.
The 8-day Lemosho Route on Mount Kilimanjaro is an extended version of the popular Lemosho Route, offering trekkers additional time for acclimatization and rest. This route begins at the Londorossi Gate and traverses through diverse landscapes, including lush rainforests, expansive moorlands, and rugged alpine deserts. The extra day in this itinerary allows for a slower pace and more time to acclimate to the increasing altitude, reducing the risk of altitude sickness and enhancing the overall experience. The journey culminates with a night-time ascent to Uhuru Peak, where trekkers can witness a stunning sunrise from the highest point in Africa.
Day by Day Kilimanjaro 8 Days Lemosho Route Itinerary 2024:
Day 1: Londorossi Gate to Mti Mkubwa Camp
- Elevation: 2,100m to 2,785m (6,890ft to 9,105ft)
- Distance: 7 km (4.3 miles)
- Hiking Time: 3-4 hours
- Habitat: Rainforest
The trek begins with a drive to Londorossi Gate for registration, followed by a short drive to the trailhead. The hike starts in the lush rainforest, with opportunities to spot wildlife like monkeys. The trail leads to Mti Mkubwa Camp, where you’ll spend your first night surrounded by dense forest.
Day 2: Mti Mkubwa Camp to Shira 1 Camp
- Elevation: 2,785m to 3,505m (9,105ft to 11,500ft)
- Distance: 8 km (5 miles)
- Hiking Time: 5-6 hours
- Habitat: Moorland
Leaving the rainforest behind, the trail climbs steadily into the heather and moorland zone. You’ll cross the Shira Ridge and descend gently into the Shira Plateau. The day ends at Shira 1 Camp, where you’ll enjoy stunning views of the surrounding landscapes.
Day 3: Shira 1 Camp to Shira 2 Camp
- Elevation: 3,505m to 3,850m (11,500ft to 12,630ft)
- Distance: 7 km (4.3 miles)
- Hiking Time: 3-4 hours
- Habitat: Moorland
This day involves a short trek across the Shira Plateau, offering panoramic views of Kilimanjaro’s glaciers and surrounding valleys. The trail leads to Shira 2 Camp, where you’ll have the afternoon to rest and acclimate, with optional acclimatization walks in the area.
Day 4: Shira 2 Camp to Moir Hut
- Elevation: 3,850m to 4,200m (12,630ft to 13,780ft)
- Distance: 9 km (5.6 miles)
- Hiking Time: 5-7 hours
- Habitat: Alpine Desert
Continuing across the Shira Plateau, the trail ascends into the alpine desert zone, where the landscape becomes more barren. You’ll reach Moir Hut, located in a remote and quiet area, providing a peaceful spot to acclimatize further. An optional hike to the nearby Lent Hills is available for those looking to gain more acclimatization.
Day 5: Moir Hut to Barranco Camp via Lava Tower
- Elevation: 4,200m to 4,600m to 3,960m (13,780ft to 15,090ft to 13,000ft)
- Distance: 10 km (6.2 miles)
- Hiking Time: 7-8 hours
- Habitat: Alpine Desert
This challenging day involves a trek up to Lava Tower, a significant elevation gain that helps with acclimatization. After reaching Lava Tower, you’ll descend into the Barranco Valley, which is essential for proper acclimatization. The day ends at Barranco Camp, offering stunning views of the Barranco Wall.
Day 6: Barranco Camp to Karanga Camp
- Elevation: 3,960m to 4,035m (13,000ft to 13,250ft)
- Distance: 5 km (3.1 miles)
- Hiking Time: 4-5 hours
- Habitat: Alpine Desert
The day starts with a steep climb up the Barranco Wall, which requires some hands-on scrambling but is manageable for most trekkers. After conquering the Wall, the trail descends into the Karanga Valley before a final ascent to Karanga Camp. This shorter day is designed to allow for more acclimatization.
Day 7: Karanga Camp to Barafu Camp to Uhuru Peak, Descent to Mweka Camp
- Elevation: 4,035m to 4,640m (13,250ft to 15,220ft)
- Distance: 4 km (2.5 miles)
- Hiking Time: 3-4 hours
- Habitat: Alpine Desert
A short but steep climb brings you to Barafu Camp, the base camp for your summit attempt. You’ll arrive early in the day, giving you ample time to rest and prepare for the night’s summit push. An early dinner will be served before you retire to your tent for a few hours of sleep.
The summit attempt begins around midnight, as you make your way up the steep, challenging slope to Uhuru Peak, the highest point in Africa. The climb is tough, but reaching the summit at sunrise is an unforgettable experience. After celebrating your achievement, you’ll descend back to Barafu Camp for a short rest before continuing down to Mweka Camp for your final night on the mountain.
Day 8: Mweka Camp to Mweka Gate
- Elevation: 3,080m to 1,630m (10,105ft to 5,380ft)
- Distance: 10 km (6.2 miles)
- Hiking Time: 3-4 hours
- Habitat: Rainforest
The final day of your trek takes you through the lush rainforest as you descend to Mweka Gate. Once at the gate, you’ll sign out and receive your summit certificates before heading back to your hotel for a well-deserved rest.
Tour Inclusions:
- Professional guide.
- Porters.
- Accommodation (tents or mountain huts).
- Meals (breakfast, lunch, dinner) and bottled water.
- Transportation to and from the trek starting point.
- Park entry and camping fees.
- Camping and safety equipment.
- Climbing permits.
Tour Exclusions:
- Entry visa to Tanzania.
- Personal travel and health insurance.
- Personal trekking gear (boots, clothing, trekking poles).
- Gratuities for guide and support staff.
- Personal expenses (souvenirs, additional snacks and beverages).
- Optional activities not mentioned in the itinerary.
- Pre and post-trek accommodation.
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FAQs for Kilimanjaro 8 Days Lemosho Route:
1. What makes the 8-day Lemosho Route different from the 7-day route?
The 8-day Lemosho Route includes an extra day for acclimatization, typically spent at Moir Hut or Karanga Camp. This additional day allows trekkers more time to adjust to the high altitude, reducing the risk of altitude sickness and increasing the likelihood of reaching the summit successfully.
2. Is the Lemosho Route suitable for beginners?
Yes, the Lemosho Route is suitable for beginners who are in good physical condition. The longer duration and gradual ascent make it one of the best routes for first-time climbers. However, some prior hiking experience and physical preparation are recommended.
3. How difficult is the summit night on the Lemosho Route?
The summit night is the most challenging part of the trek. The climb begins around midnight in cold, dark conditions, and involves a steep ascent to Uhuru Peak. It requires mental and physical stamina, but the reward of reaching the summit at sunrise is worth the effort.
4. What kind of accommodation is provided on the trek?
Accommodation on the Lemosho Route is in mountain tents. These tents are typically set up by your porters at each campsite. You’ll sleep in sleeping bags on insulated sleeping mats. Campsites are equipped with basic facilities, including toilets and communal dining tents.
5. What should I pack for the 8-day Lemosho Route?
Essential items include layered clothing for varying temperatures, a good-quality sleeping bag, hiking boots, a daypack, water bottles or a hydration system, and personal items like sunscreen and a headlamp. A full packing list will usually be provided by your tour operator.
6. What is the success rate of the 8-day Lemosho Route?
The 8-day Lemosho Route has one of the highest success rates for reaching the summit of Mount Kilimanjaro, typically around 90% or higher. The extra day for acclimatization greatly contributes to this high success rate.
7. What is the best time of year to trek the Lemosho Route?
The best times to trek the Lemosho Route are during the dry seasons, from late June to October and from late December to February. These periods offer the most stable weather conditions, with clear skies and lower chances of rain.
8. Will I need to carry my own gear?
No, porters will carry your main luggage, including your sleeping bag and extra clothing. You will only need to carry a daypack with essentials such as water, snacks, a camera, and personal items for the day’s trek.
9. How many guides and porters will be with the group?
The number of guides and porters depends on the size of the group. Typically, there is one guide for every two trekkers, and each trekker will have several porters assigned to carry gear, set up camp, and prepare meals.
10. Do I need any special permits to climb Kilimanjaro via the Lemosho Route?
Yes, all trekkers require a permit to climb Kilimanjaro. These permits are included in the cost of your trekking package and are obtained by your tour operator. The permits cover park entry, camping, and conservation fees.