Discover the ideal schedule for mountaineers trekking Mount Kilimanjaro via the 8-day Lemosho route. Break up the trek to Barafu for better rest and a successful summit attempt.
Discover the ideal schedule for mountaineers trekking Mount Kilimanjaro via the 8-day Lemosho route. Break up the trek to Barafu for better rest and a successful summit attempt.
Moshi to Mti Mkubwa Camp
Mount Kilimanjaro - Following breakfast and a briefing, travel to Londorossi Park Gate (2250m / 7380ft, 2.5 hours). From there, a forest track requiring a 4WD vehicle leads to Lemosho Glades (2390m / 7830ft, 11km, 45 minutes) and a potential campsite (note that park fees are not required to camp here). Proceed along…
Moshi to Mti Mkubwa Camp
Mount Kilimanjaro - Following breakfast and a briefing, travel to Londorossi Park Gate (2250m / 7380ft, 2.5 hours). From there, a forest track requiring a 4WD vehicle leads to Lemosho Glades (2390m / 7830ft, 11km, 45 minutes) and a potential campsite (note that park fees are not required to camp here). Proceed along forest trails to the Mti Mkubwa (big tree) campsite.
Mti Mkubwa Camp to Shira 1 Camp
Kilimanjaro National Park - After breakfast, the journey continues as the trail gradually becomes steeper, entering the giant heather moorland zone. Several streams are crossed before reaching the Shira Ridge at approximately 3600m / 11,810ft, then gently descending to Shira 1 camp, situated by a stream on the Shira Plateau.
Shira 1 Camp to Shira 2 Camp
Kilimanjaro National Park - Following breakfast, enjoy a gentle walk across the plateau leading to Shira 2 camp on moorland meadows by a stream. Various walks are available on the Plateau, making this an excellent day for acclimatization.
Shira 2 Camp to Barranco Hut
Kilimanjaro National Park - From the Shira Plateau, continue east, passing the junction towards Kibo’s peak. The route then shifts southeast towards the Lava Tower, known as the “Shark’s Tooth.” Shortly after the tower, reach the second junction leading to the Arrow Glacier at 4876 meters / 15,997 ft. Descend to the Barranco Hut at 3860 meters / 12,664 ft. Here, rest, enjoy dinner, and stay overnight. Although the day ends at the same elevation as it began, it is crucial for acclimatization, preparing the body for summit day.
Barranco Hut to Karanga Hut
Kilimanjaro National Park - After breakfast, depart Barranco and continue along a steep ridge, passing the Barranco Wall, to the Karanga Valley (4200m / 13,780 ft) campsite.
Karanga Hut to Barafu Hut
Kilimanjaro National Park - After breakfast, leave the Karanga Valley and pass the junction connecting with the Mweka Trail. Continue to the Barafu Hut, located at an altitude of 4600 meters (15,092 ft). Completing the South Circuit offers views of the summit from various angles. Here, make camp, rest, enjoy dinner, and prepare for summit day. The peaks of Mawenzi and Kibo are visible from this location.
Barafu Camp to Summit (Uhuru Peak) to Mweka Hut
Kilimanjaro National Park - In the early morning, proceed to the summit of Uhuru Peak at 5985 meters (19,636 ft). This segment of the climb takes about 6 hours. It can be very cold at night at these elevations, but it will warm up by the end of the hiking day. Ensure clothing for both extremes is available. At Uhuru Peak, reach the highest point on Mount Kilimanjaro and the African continent. Faster hikers may witness the sunrise from the summit. From the summit, descend directly to the Mweka Hut campsite at 3100 meters (10,171 ft). This descent takes about 5 hours. Gaiters and trekking poles are recommended for the loose gravel. Later in the evening, enjoy the last dinner on the mountain and a well-deserved sleep. Beer and soda may be available for purchase at the Mweka Hut, the only place on this route.
Mweka Hut to Mweka Park Gate to Moshi Town
Kilimanjaro National Park - After breakfast, continue descending to the Mweka Park Gate. At lower elevations, conditions can be wet and muddy. Gaiters and trekking poles are helpful. Shorts and t-shirts are likely sufficient (keep rain gear and warmer clothing accessible). A vehicle will meet you at Mweka village to transport you back to your hotel.

- Mineral water
- Food and drinks package
- Mineral water
- Food and drinks package
- Technical Clothing,Waterproof Jacket, breathable with hood,Insulated Jacket, with hood,Footwear, Hiking Boots or Shoes, warm, waterproof,Socks, wool or synthetic, Sunglasses and Sleeping Bag
- Technical Clothing,Waterproof Jacket, breathable with hood,Insulated Jacket, with hood,Footwear, Hiking Boots or Shoes, warm, waterproof,Socks, wool or synthetic, Sunglasses and Sleeping Bag
The Lemosho option offers the optimal itinerary for this route. The 8-day Lemosho journey splits the hike from Barranco to Barafu into two segments, permitting a shorter hiking day just before the attempt to reach the summit. This is significant as summit day starts extremely early, often at midnight, resulting in climbers starting the most challenging…
The Lemosho option offers the optimal itinerary for this route. The 8-day Lemosho journey splits the hike from Barranco to Barafu into two segments, permitting a shorter hiking day just before the attempt to reach the summit. This is significant as summit day starts extremely early, often at midnight, resulting in climbers starting the most challenging day on the mountain with a lack of sleep. By having a shorter hiking day before, climbers can be better prepared and rested.
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.