Climbing Mount Kilimanjaro's Lemosho route in 7 days
7 days Lemosho route overview
The 7-day Lemosho Route is the most popular Kilimanjaro climbing route. It’s renowned as the most picturesque trail on the mountain, offering stunning panoramic views from multiple angles. As one of the more recent routes, Lemosho is an excellent option for your ascent. It is our preferred path due to its perfect combination of low traffic, breathtaking scenery, and high success rates for reaching the summit at 5,895m. Most of our clients opt for this route and consistently report that they loved the experience, making Lemosho highly recommended.
This route begins from the west of Mount Kilimanjaro, starting with a lengthy drive from Moshi to Londorossi Gate. The first two days involve trekking through the rainforest to Shira Ridge. The Lemosho route then spans the entire Shira Plateau from west to east in a pleasant, relatively flat hike. You will encounter few crowds until the route merges with the Machame route near Lava Tower. From there, it continues beneath Kilimanjaro's Southern Ice Field along the Southern Circuit before summiting from Barafu. The descent is made via the Mweka route.
Our Kilimanjaro specialist advice on 7 days Lemosho route
For the 7-day Lemosho route on Mount Kilimanjaro, technical preparation is crucial to ensure a successful ascent. Climbers should focus on cardiovascular and strength training, as the route requires long trekking days and the endurance to tackle steep sections like the Barranco Wall. Proper acclimatization is facilitated by the route's gradual ascent profile, but climbers should still follow the "climb high, sleep low" principle and stay hydrated. Essential gear includes layered clothing for varying temperatures, sturdy waterproof boots, and a quality sleeping bag rated for sub-zero temperatures. Trekking poles are recommended for stability, especially on descent. A comprehensive first-aid kit and knowledge of altitude sickness symptoms are vital. Choosing an experienced guide service that provides thorough pre-trek briefings and logistical support is key to navigating the technical and physical challenges of the climb.
7 days Lemosho route Vs 6 days Lemosho route
The 7-day Lemosho route offers an extra day for acclimatization compared to the 6-day route. This additional day is typically spent at Shira Camp 2 or Karanga Camp, allowing climbers to better adjust to the high altitude. The extra time helps reduce the risk of altitude sickness, increasing the likelihood of a successful summit. The 7-day itinerary provides a more gradual ascent, with shorter daily hiking distances and more time to rest and enjoy the stunning scenery along the trail.
On the other hand, the 6-day Lemosho route is a faster-paced itinerary, covering the same distance in a shorter time frame. This means longer daily hikes and less time for acclimatization, which may increase the risk of altitude-related issues. While still a beautiful and less crowded option compared to other routes, the 6-day Lemosho is generally better suited for experienced hikers who are confident in their ability to handle the rapid ascent. The choice between the two routes depends on your fitness level, experience, and preference for a more relaxed or challenging climb.
7 days Lemosho route Vs 8 days Lemosho route
7-day Lemosho route is slightly more demanding, as it compresses the same distance into a shorter period. This means slightly longer daily hikes and less time for rest and acclimatization, making it a more challenging option. While still a viable choice for climbers, the 7-day route requires a higher level of fitness and determination. It remains a popular option due to its balance of adequate acclimatization time and a moderately paced itinerary, suitable for those who are reasonably fit and have some prior hiking experience.
In contrast, the 8-day Lemosho route provides an extra day for acclimatization compared to the 7-day route, which significantly enhances climbers' ability to adjust to the altitude. This additional day is typically spent at an intermediate camp such as Karanga Camp, allowing for shorter daily hikes and more rest, which helps in preventing altitude sickness and increasing the chances of reaching the summit successfully. The 8-day itinerary allows for a more leisurely pace, giving climbers ample time to enjoy the diverse landscapes and breathtaking views along the trail.
7 days Lemosho route Vs 7 days Machame route
7 days Lemosho route and 7 days Machame route share the same similarity of 7-day itineraries, high acclimatization profiles, excellent summit success rates, and beautiful views. The key difference between these two itineraries is the starting point with a car drop-off. 7 days Lemosho route starts at Lemosho Gate with high altitude of 2100 meters above sea level. This means you will experience a certain level of acclimatization jump-start on Lemosho route, which might feel uncomfortable in the first 2-3 days but fades away as the hike continues. While, 7 days Machame route starts at Machame Gate with an altitude of 1800 meters above the sea level. In contrast, you will have a more gradual acclimatization experience with Machame route on Kilimanjaro. Also at Machame Camp and Shira Cave Camp of Machame route, you will be rewarded with the beautiful views of Mount Meru far above in the distance from Arusha National Park.
Itinerary for climbing Mount Kilimanjaro's 7 Days Lemosho Route
7 days Lemosho route itinerary offers the ultimate Kilimanjaro climbing experience, allowing you to conquer this majestic peak while immersing yourself in the breathtaking beauty of Tanzania's landscape.
Day by day, you'll traverse the iconic Lemosho Route, known for its stunning scenery and gradual acclimatization. As you ascend through lush rainforests, traverse moorlands, and cross vast alpine deserts, you'll be captivated by the ever-changing landscapes that surround you.
Day
1
Lemosho Gate to Mti Mkubwa
Approx. time taken : 4 hours,
Meals : Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner Included.
Today afer breakfast, we drive from Moshi town to Lemosho gate (2,385m/7,825ft), then hike to Mti Mkubwa Camp (2,820m/9,252ft). upon your arrival at the Lemosho Gate in the west, you will register and begin your climb. You will hike through the rainforest to Mti Mkubwa, your first campsite for overight.
Day
2
Mti Mkubwa to Shira 1 to Shira 2
Approx. time taken : 11 hrs,
Meals : Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner Included.
you start hiking in the morning from Mti Mkubwa Camp (2,820m/9,252ft) to Shira Camp 1 (3,505m/11,500ft) and finally to Shira Camp 2 (3,810m/12,500ft). It takes approximately 10-11 hours to complete the today's entire climb. The toay's trek will take you through the heather and moorland zones.You will reach Shira 1 campsite in the afternoon where you will have hot lunch and continue to climb up towards the Shira Cathedral and Shira Plateau. You will have stunning views of the Kibo peak and the Western Breach. You will reach the Shira 2 campsite in the evening for dinner and overnight
Day
3
Shira 2 to Barranco
Approx. time taken : 6 hours.
Meals : Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner Included
After breakfast, you will hike from Shira Camp 2 (3,810m/12,500ft). You cross the junction which connects the Lemosho Route and Machame Route at Shira Cave trail then head to Barranco Camp (3,960m/12,992ft) This trek takes you through the Lava Tower, which is at an altitude of 4,640 meters. You will then descend to Barranco Camp located in the base of the Great Barranco Valley, where you will spend the night.
Day
4
Barranco to Karanga
Approx. time taken : 4 hours,
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner Include.
Today hike 5km from Barranco Campsite (3,960m/12,992ft) to Karanga Campsite (3,995m/13,106ft) for overnight. This climb will take 4 hours to complete. To get at karanga camp, you will climb the Barranco Wall and continue through the Karanga Valley which will lead you up the Karanga campsite in the afternoon.
Day
5
Karanga to Barafu
Approx. time taken : 4 hours,
Meals : Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
Hike for 4km from Karanga Camp (3,995m/13,106ft),crossing the Mweka trail to Barafu Camp (4,673m/15,331ft). This hike will take 4 hours to complete. The today's climb starts in the morning with 4 hours of demanding walking to Barafu, the final campsite before the summit. Here you will rest and prepare for the summit attempt in the midnight around 12:30pm.
Day
6
Summit Day - Barafu to Uhuru Peak to Mweka Camp.
Approx. time taken : 16 hours,
Meals : Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner Included.
Hike from Barafu Camp (4,673m/15,331ft) to Uhuru Peak (5,895m/19,341ft), then descend to Mweka Camp. This hike will take 16 hours to complete. You will start your summit attempt in the midnight and reach the summit at sunrise. You will climb up to Stella Point and then on to Uhuru Peak, the highest point in Africa at 5,895 meters. After taking in the breathtaking views from the summit, you will descend back to Barafu for a short rest and then continue down to Mweka campsite for the night.
Day
7
Mweka Camp to Mweka Gate
Approx. time taken : 7 hours,
Meals : Breakfast & Lunch Included.
After breakfast, you will continue your descent through the rainforest, from Mweka Camp (3,100m/10,171ft) to the Mweka Gate. You will receive your summit certificates and then be transferred back to your hotel in Moshi for a well-deserved rest.
7 Days Lemosho Route Addons
Hotels
Our 7-day Lemosho route package by default include Kilimanjaro White House Hotel for 2 nights (1 night before and 1 night after climbing Mount Kilimanjaro) to meet the needs for budget travellers, However if you want another hotel you can upgrade at extra cost from the following hotel options;
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Lindrin Lodge (Single Room) - USD 55 per night
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Lindrin Lodge (Double Room) - USD 70 per night
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Lindrin Lodge (Triple Room) - USD 105 per night
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Keys Hotel (Single Room) - USD 67 per night
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Keys Hotel (Double Room) - USD 90 per night
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Keys Hotel (Triple Room) - USD 120 per night
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Parkview Inn (Single Room) - USD 81 per night
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Parkview Inn (Double Room) - USD 110 per night
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Parkview Inn (Triple Room) - USD 190 per night
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Panama Garden Resort (Single Room)-USD 70 per night
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Panama Garden Resort (Double Room)-USD 90 per night
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Panama Garden Resort (Triple Room)-USD 120 per night
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Kilimanjaro Wonders (Single Room) - USD 130 per night
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Kilimanjaro Wonders (Double Room) - USD 150 per night
Note: if any hotel is booked out or is otherwise unavailable,
we will book you in an alternate equivalent hotel.
If you are booking a hotel directly, please do check with us before booking,
to make sure we can meet you and pick you up from the hotel.
7 Days Lemosho Route-Inclusions
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2-way Airport transfers
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2-nights Hotel accommmodation in Moshi town
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All transfers to the Lemosho Gate and back to your Moshi hotel
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Professional, first aid qualified and experienced mountain guides
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Medical check up and Monitoring, 2-times per day
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Guides, Porters, Cook salaries and park fees
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Accommodation in quality four season waterproof tents
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Sleeping Mattress
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Emergency Oxygen Cylinder
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All meals while on the Mountain
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Quality Mess tent with table and chairs
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Large portions of fresh, healthy, nutritious food
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Clean, purified drinking water
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Conservation fees (part of park fees)
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Camping ut fees (part of park fees)
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Rescue fees (part of park fees)
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VAT (18% charged by the Government)
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Kilimanjaro summit certificate
7 Days Lemosho Route-Exclusions
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Tanzania Visa
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International and domestic flights
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Personal trekking equipment such as sleepings bags, hiking boots, clothes, etc (available for renting)
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Tips and gratuities
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Travel insurance
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Personal Expenses (e.g. laundry, telephone, beverages, etc.)
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Meals not listed in the itinerary
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Liquors, beers and bottled beverages
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Surcharge for online payment of advance and balance (5% on each payment)
7 Days Lemosho Route Payment Terms
Deposit Payment
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Deposit is 20% of the total booking amount.
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Deposit can be paid either via a bank transfer or an online card payment.t
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A 5% fee is applicable on all card payments (payment gateway charges), this is non-refundable.
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We offer bank accounts in 10 different currencies for bank transfer.
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Once you make the advance payment you will receive a booking confirmation.
Balance Payment
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Balance can be paid via bank transfer, online card payment, or with cash.
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Bank payment can be done 15 days prior to the tour date (recommended 30 days prior).
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Card Payment can be done 1 day prior to the tour date (recommended 7 days prior).
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A 5% fee is applicable on all card payments (payment gateway charge), this is non-refundable.
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Cash can be paid on arrival (USD printed in or after the year 2009).
7 Days Lemosho Route Cancellation Policy
8 days and above departure
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No cancellation fees.
0 to 7 days before departure
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50% of the total tour price will be charged as cancellation fees.
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Trek can be postponed to any new date without any extra cost at any point in time.
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The 5% surcharge paid for either or both advance and balance payments is non-refundable in case of cancellation of the trek.
7 Days Lemosho Route Supplements
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Off-season supplement for 7 days Lemosho route = USD 90
Note : Charged for solo trekkers to start a new departure in the month of March, April, May and November. Does not apply if you join an existing group. Does not apply if others trekkers also join your new group
7 Days Lemosho Route Discounts
Available discounts for Lemosho route - 7 days
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Children between 5 years and 15 years old
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Code: 5TO15 - USD 350 per person
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Expatriates/Residents living in Tanzania
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Code: RESTAN - USD 210 per person
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East African Citizens
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Code: EAC - USD 820 per person
7 Days Lemosho Route Price for Private Trek
Please find below the prices for organizing a 7-day Lemosho route private trek. The price varies depending on the number of trekkers in the group while the level of service remains constant.
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Solo Trekker - USD 1960 per person
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Group of 2 - USD 1742 per person
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Group of 3 - USD 1710 per person
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Group of 4 - USD 1705 per person
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Group of 5 - USD 1700 per person
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Group of 6 - USD 1695 per person
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Group of 7 - USD 1690 per person
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Group of 8 - USD 1685 per person
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Group of 9 - USD 1680 per person
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Group of 10 and above - USD 1675 per person
Tour Location
Related Packages
Lemosho Route
Kilimanjaro Climbing
