9 Days Lemosho Route

Trekking Time: 3-4 hours | Distance: 7 km | Altitude Gain: 450m

Following a satisfying meal at the hotel, you'll commence your journey with a thrilling three-and-a-half-hour drive from Arusha to the Londorossi Gate. Along the way, you'll traverse the captivating town of Boma N’gombe, immersing in the rich culture of the Sanya Juu locals. Upon arrival at the gate, necessary registrations will be completed before proceeding to the trek's starting point situated at 2,350m above sea level.

Your trek begins by winding through dense, untouched rainforests, offering glimpses of adorable Bush Babies and inquisitive Black and White Colobus Monkeys peeking from the lofty trees. Your day's hike is relatively short, culminating at the serene Mti Mkubwa Camp, where you'll settle in for the night.

Trekking Time: 6-7 hours | Distance: 10 km | Altitude Gain: 800m

Today's trail leads towards Shira Camp 1, marking a transition in scenery to the heather and moorland zone—a terrain characterized by its arid landscape adorned with contrasting silver-hued flora and fauna, including the imposing lobelias. As you ascend, be captivated by the breathtaking vistas of Mount Meru, casting a fiery hue as the sun sets in the west, while the towering Kibo Peak looms majestically.

Amidst the changing landscape, light clouds may start to envelop the surroundings as you traverse tranquil streams on your way to Shira Ridge (3,600m). Continuing onwards, you'll reach Shira Camp 1, where a sumptuous meal awaits, providing the perfect end to a day filled with stunning sights and rewarding trekking experiences.

Trekking Time: 3-4 hours | Distance: 8 km | Altitude Gain: 290m

Continuing through the moorland landscape, you'll traverse dusty, rocky terrain dotted with low grasses and shrubs. Nature's vibrant display unfolds with bright everlastings bursting from the earth, while the celestial lobelias showcase their stunning concentric rings of leaves. This zone offers some of the most picturesque views of the towering mountain, the path ahead mostly flat and inviting.

At Shira Camp, a steaming hot lunch will be served, providing sustenance for your journey. Following brief excursions for acclimatization, the remainder of the day is dedicated to rest. As evening falls, the stars emerge in the expansive, dark canvas above. Some gleam as sapphire orbs, radiating in their celestial elegance, while others, seemingly beyond human grasp, twinkle as tiny pinpricks against the vast expanse of darkness, a mesmerizing sight to behold.

Trekking Time: 6 – 7 hours | Distance: 9 km | Altitude Gain: 750m

The day commences with a moderate ascent of the Barranco Wall, where the trail becomes steep but manageable, requiring the use of hands and feet for a short 200-meter stretch. As you conquer this challenge, a sense of achievement accompanies the breathtaking landscape that unfolds—a panoramic view encompassing the smoothed edges of Kibo peak and a mesmerizing vista of the frosted scenery.

The trail continues its undulating path, crossing several small streams and the lively Karanga River, playfully cascading over rocks. A stop at Karanga Campsite awaits, offering a delightful and satisfying lunch break at 3,930 meters. Following this, an hour-long climb up a steep granite lava ridge leads to Barafu Camp, marking your triumph over the South Circuit of the mountain. From here, the perspective of the summit transforms.

The Barafu Campsite, situated on barren terrain, often experiences freezing temperatures, with dramatic shifts in weather. A nourishing and warm meal will be prepared to fuel your body for the rigorous climb ahead. Considering the imminent midnight ascent to the summit, it is recommended to rest early, ensuring adequate preparation for the challenging climb of 1,188 meters to the summit.

Trekking Time: 6 – 7 hours | Distance: 5 km | Altitude Gain: 1195m

The most challenging day of the 9-day Lemosho Route awaits, commencing with a wake-up call at 11:00 pm to prepare with a light snack and a hot beverage before embarking on the 5 km trek to the summit. This trek, lasting about sixteen hours, demands endurance and determination as you make your way through one of the most arduous segments of the journey. Expect temperatures plummeting to lows of approximately -10°C.

The trail follows a stunning valley on the edge of scree fields, a gradual ascent that eventually leads to the significant milestones of Stella’s Point (5,672m). Along the way, witness the breathtaking beauty of the Rebmann and Ratzel glaciers, aglow in the moonlight. As dawn approaches, the sky bursts with vivid shades of orange, red, and purple, signaling your arrival at the southern rim of Kibo—a mere hour away from the summit.

Upon reaching Uhuru Peak (5,895m), an indescribable sense of accomplishment awaits—a celestial pinnacle cloaked in clouds, illuminated by sporadic patches of gleaming snow that pierce the lush landscape below. Gaze across the horizon to witness glaciers standing like a row of thorns, adorned with necklaces of powdery snow and frosty ice fields, with the majestic Mawenzi Peak in the backdrop.

The descent begins towards Barafu Camp for a brief respite before continuing to the Mweka Camp (3,100m). The 9 km trail offers stunning views of the magnificent Kilimanjaro plains. The descent initially navigates rocky scree paths through barren moorland, eventually leading into the captivating forest—a 4 to 5-hour hike. At the campsite, a tantalizing meal awaits, providing comfort as you settle into your sleeping bag after this strenuous yet exhilarating day.

Trekking Time: 4 – 5 hours | Distance: 10 km | Altitude Loss: 1300m

Following a satisfying breakfast, you will commence your descent towards the Mweka Gate (1,300m). This leisurely stroll down offers breathtaking sceneries, allowing you to savor the beauty of the landscape one last time.

Upon reaching the Mweka Gate, a Summit Certificate will be presented, a well-deserved token marking the successful completion of the 9-day Lemosho Route. This certificate serves as a memento of your remarkable achievement.

From the serene Mweka Village, transportation will be provided to take you back to your hotel in Arusha. As you journey back, reflect on the incredible adventure and cherish the memories of your Kilimanjaro expedition.

On this day, our dedicated driver will escort you to the airport, ensuring a smooth transition for your flight back home. If your journey includes further explorations, such as continuing onto a Safari or visiting Zanzibar—consider it another exciting chapter in your adventure! Rest assured, we are prepared to seamlessly arrange and manage these additional experiences for you. Safe travels and onwards to your next adventure!