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Lemosho Route: Scenic Kilimanjaro Trail

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Lemosho Route on Kilimanjaro: Scenic Views & High Success Rate

Why Choose the Lemosho Route?

The Lemosho Route is widely regarded as one of the best ways to climb Mount Kilimanjaro  and for good reason. It combines unmatched scenery, low crowds at the start, and a longer acclimatization profile, which greatly improves summit success.Each kilimanjaro routes has its own uniqueness.Whether you’re a first-time trekker or a seasoned adventurer, Lemosho offers a balance of challenge and comfort that makes your journey both memorable and achievable.
 
Each route has its pros and cons—see our Kilimanjaro Route Comparison to choose the best fit.
Smiling climbers posing at Barafu Camp (4,673m) on the Umbwe Route, striking fun poses before starting their summit ascent to Uhuru Peak | Kili Quests
A cheerful moment at Barafu Camp, the final staging point on the steep and scenic Lemosho Route before the summit climb begins.

Lemosho Route Overview

Feature Details
Route Length        –       7 to 8 days
Distance                 –     ~70 km (43 miles)
Start Point             –   Londorossi Gate (Western Kilimanjaro)
Highest Point        –      Uhuru Peak (5,895 m / 19,341 ft)
Difficulty                – Moderate to challenging
Best For                  –  Scenic views,high success, fewer crowds
Success Rate        –   98% on the 8-day 

Lemosho Day Map and Elevation Profile

Lemosho Route map on Mount Kilimanjaro with full trail, elevation profile, and camp locations to Uhuru Peak
A scenic and well-acclimatized trail starting from Londorossi Gate and joining the Machame Route via Lava Tower.

Day-by-Day Itinerary (8-Day Version)

Day 1: Londorossi Gate to Mti Mkubwa Camp
  • Altitude: 2,100 m to 2,650 m
  • Hike Time: 3–4 hours
  • Forest zone with rich biodiversity
Day 2: Mti Mkubwa to Shira 1 Camp
  • Altitude: 2,650 m to 3,610 m
  • Hike Time: 5–6 hours
  • Enter the Shira Plateau with stunning open views
Day 3: Shira 1 to Shira 2 Camp
  • Altitude: 3,610 m to 3,850 m
  • Hike Time: 4–5 hours
  • Gentle trek with good acclimatization
Day 4: Shira 2 to Barranco Camp (via Lava Tower)
  • Altitude: 3,850 m to 4,640 m (up) → 3,960 m (down)
  • Hike Time: 6–7 hours
  • Acclimatization day with high-altitude exposure
Day 5: Barranco to Karanga Camp
  • Altitude: 3,960 m to 4,035 m
  • Hike Time: 4–5 hours
  • Climb the iconic Barranco Wall 257 meters (843 feet) tall
Day 6: Karanga to Barafu Camp
  • Altitude: 4,035 m to 4,673 m
  • Hike Time: 3–4 hours
  • Prepare for summit push
Day 7: Summit Day – Barafu to Uhuru Peak & down to Mweka Camp
  • Altitude: 4,673 m to 5,895 m (summit), descend to 3,100 m
  • Hike Time: 12–14 hours total
  • Sunrise summit, then long descent
Day 8: Mweka Camp to Mweka Gate
  • Altitude: 3,100 m to 1,640 m
  • Hike Time: 3–4 hours
  • Receive your summit certificate!

Lemosho Route Difficulty and Acclimatization

Though long, Lemosho is not the hardest route. In fact, the extended itinerary allows for better acclimatization, reducing the risk of altitude sickness. It’s ideal for:
  • First-time high-altitude trekkers
  • Those with average fitness
  • Climbers who want to enjoy the journey, not rush to the top
If you’re new to high-altitude trekking, our Altitude Sickness Tips & Risks guide can help you stay safe.
Mti Mkubwa Camp sign on Lemosho Route, Kilimanjaro National Park, showing elevation and distance to Lemosho Gate | Kili Quests
Mti Mkubwa Camp Sign (2,650m) – The first overnight stop on the Lemosho Route, located in the lush montane forest of Kilimanjaro.

Best Time to Climb the Lemosho Route

The best climbing windows are:
  • January to early March: Warm, with occasional clouds
  • June to October: Clear skies, cool and dry
Avoid April–May and November due to heavy and short rains

What Makes Lemosho Unique?

  • Starts on remote western side of the mountain
  • Crosses the dramatic Shira Plateau
  • Includes the acclimatization climb to Lava Tower
  • Barranco Wall is a thrilling highlight
  • Traverses all ecological zones, from rainforest to arctic summit
Acclimatization is the key to avoiding altitude sickness — learn how to climb high, sleep low, and pace yourself the right way.
Two trekkers standing at Shira One Camp on the Lemosho Route, Kilimanjaro, with scenic moorland and tent in the background | Kili Quests
Shira One Camp (3,610m) – Trekkers enjoying a clear morning at Shira Plateau, the first high-altitude campsite on the Lemosho Route.

Is the Lemosho Route Right for You?

Choose Lemosho if you:
  • Want the best scenery on Kilimanjaro
  • Are serious about summit success
  • Prefer a quieter, more peaceful approach early in the trek
  • Want time to enjoy nature without feeling rushed
Trekkers and porters hiking through the forest into the moorland zone on the Lemosho Route, Mount Kilimanjaro | Kili Quests
Forest to Moorland Transition – Climbers and porters passing through the lush forest as they ascend toward the moorland zone on Day 2 of the Lemosho Route.

Climb Kilimanjaro with Kili Quests via the Lemosho Route

 At Kili Quests, we specialize in well-paced, professionally guided Lemosho climbs that prioritize your safety, comfort, and summit success. With a 98% success rate on our 8-day treks, you’re in experienced hands from start to finish.Temperatures can drop well below freezing during the final ascent — don’t miss our checklist of what to wear and carry on summit day.

 
Ready to trek the most beautiful route on Kilimanjaro?
[Contact us today] to start planning your Lemosho adventure with our expert local team.

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