Lemosho Route

Arrival in Moshi

Arrive in Moshi, the gateway to Mount Kilimanjaro. Use this day to settle in, check your gear, and meet your guides for a pre-climb briefing. Rest well and hydrate—your adventure begins tomorrow!

Lemosho Gate to Big Tree Camp (Mti Mkubwa)

Elevation: 2,100m (6,890 ft) to 2,800m (9,190 ft)
Distance: 6 km (3.7 miles)
Hiking Time: 3–4 hours

Your journey starts with a scenic drive to Lemosho Gate, followed by a trek through the lush montane forest. Keep an eye out for blue monkeys and colobus monkeys swinging in the trees above. The trail ascends gently, leading to Big Tree Camp, nestled amidst a towering canopy.

Tip: Wear gaiters to protect against mud and keep your pace slow to conserve energy.

Big Tree Camp to Shira 1 Camp

Elevation: 2,800m (9,190 ft) to 3,505m (11,500 ft)
Distance: 8 km (5 miles)
Hiking Time: 6–7 hours

The trail opens up to reveal rolling moorland and heather-covered hills. You’ll pass through volcanic rock formations that mark the transition from forest to high-altitude terrain. Shira 1 Camp sits on the western edge of the Shira Plateau, offering spectacular views of Kibo Peak.

Highlight: Pause to take in the striking contrast between the dense forest below and the open expanse of the plateau.

Shira 1 Camp to Shira 2 Camp

Elevation: 3,505m (11,500 ft) to 3,840m (12,600 ft)
Distance: 10 km (6.2 miles)
Hiking Time: 5–7 hours

Cross the Shira Plateau, a dramatic high-altitude desert carved by ancient volcanic eruptions. The trail gently undulates, providing stunning views of Mount Meru on clear days. By the time you reach Shira 2 Camp, you’ll feel fully immersed in the stark, otherworldly beauty of the alpine zone.

Tip: Use this day to acclimatize—hydrate frequently and monitor your body for signs of altitude sickness.

Shira 2 Camp to Barranco Camp

Elevation: 3,840m (12,600 ft) to 3,960m (13,000 ft)
Distance: 10 km (6.2 miles)
Hiking Time: 6–8 hours

Begin with a steady ascent to the Lava Tower (4,640m/15,190 ft), where you’ll experience high-altitude trekking firsthand. After lunch at Lava Tower, descend into the Barranco Valley, passing through the giant senecio zone. Barranco Camp, known for its towering backdrop of the Barranco Wall, is your home for the night.

Highlight: Witness the surreal landscape transition from rugged rock to lush valleys filled with giant groundsels and lobelias.

Barranco Camp to Karanga Camp

Elevation: 3,960m (13,000 ft) to 4,035m (13,240 ft)
Distance: 5 km (3 miles)
Hiking Time: 4–5 hours

The day begins with a challenging climb up the Barranco Wall, a steep scramble that rewards you with breathtaking views of the glacier-covered peak above and the valley below. The trail then undulates through alpine terrain, leading to Karanga Camp.

Tip: Use your hands for balance on the Barranco Wall—no technical skills are required, but take it slow and steady.

Karanga Camp to Barafu Camp

Elevation: 4,035m (13,240 ft) to 4,640m (15,220 ft)
Distance: 4 km (2.5 miles)
Hiking Time: 4–5 hours

A shorter but steep trek to Barafu Camp sets the stage for your summit attempt. The trail is a mix of volcanic scree and rocky outcrops, with the air growing thinner as you ascend. Rest early tonight to prepare for the midnight push to the summit.

Highlight: Capture the view of Mawenzi Peak glowing under the setting sun.

Summit Day - Barafu Camp to Uhuru Peak to Mweka Camp

Elevation: 4,640m (15,220 ft) to 5,895m (19,341 ft) to 3,080m (10,105 ft)
Distance: 17 km (10.5 miles)
Hiking Time: 12–15 hours

Summit night begins with a pre-dawn climb to Stella Point (5,739m/18,830 ft), followed by the final push to Uhuru Peak—the highest point in Africa. As the sun rises, the glacier-covered summit glows in hues of gold, rewarding you with a moment of triumph. After celebratory photos, descend back to Barafu Camp for a short rest before continuing to Mweka Camp.

Tip: Dress in layers and pace yourself—summit night is a test of mental and physical endurance.

Mweka Camp to Mweka Gate - Return to Moshi

Elevation: 3,080m (10,105 ft) to 1,640m (5,380 ft)
Distance: 10 km (6.2 miles)
Hiking Time: 3–4 hours

A steady descent through the lush rainforest leads you to Mweka Gate, where you’ll receive your well-earned summit certificate. Celebrate your achievement with your team before returning to Moshi for a hot shower and a well-deserved rest.

Highlight: Reflect on your incredible journey as you descend through the vibrant forest, alive with birdsong and the chatter of monkeys.