Lemosho Route (8 Days)
The Lemosho Route begins on Kilimanjaro’s quieter western side and crosses the Shira Plateau before joining the southern circuit. The eight-day schedule spreads the ascent over more days, giving climbers more time for acclimatization before summit night.
The destination
Kilimanjaro National Park
Lemosho Route
Follow a western approach across forest, Shira Plateau, and the high camps before the Uhuru Peak summit attempt.
Kilimanjaro hikers
Climb through the mountain’s distinct vegetation zones.
Uhuru Peak approach
Continue toward the summit across high-altitude terrain.
Kilimanjaro landscape
Views across the mountain during the climb.
Summit route at a glance
- 01Lemosho Gate
- 02Mti Mkubwa Camp
- 03Shira 1 Camp
- 04Shira 2 Camp
- 05Barranco Camp
- 06Karanga Camp
- 07Barafu Camp
- 08Uhuru Peak
- 09Mweka Camp
- 10Mweka Gate
Day-by-day itinerary
Day 1: Lemosho Gate to Mti Mkubwa Camp
Register at the western trailhead, then climb through the rainforest to Mti Mkubwa, also known as Big Tree Camp.
Day 2: Mti Mkubwa to Shira 1 Camp
Leave the forest and enter the moorland, with broad views opening across the Shira Ridge.
Day 3: Shira 1 to Shira 2 Camp
Cross the Shira Plateau at a steady pace and allow time to acclimatize to the altitude.
Day 4: Shira 2 to Lava Tower to Barranco Camp
Climb toward Lava Tower before descending to Barranco, following the “climb high, sleep low” approach.
Day 5: Barranco Camp to Karanga Camp
Climb the Barranco Wall and traverse the ridges and valleys toward Karanga Camp.
Day 6: Karanga Camp to Barafu Camp
Continue to Barafu, the high camp used to prepare for the overnight summit attempt.
Day 7: Barafu Camp to Uhuru Peak to Mweka Camp
Begin before dawn for the summit. After reaching Uhuru Peak, descend to Mweka Camp.
Day 8: Mweka Camp to Mweka Gate
Descend through the rainforest to the park gate, then transfer back to Arusha.