Climb Mount Kilimanjaro Lemosho Route Trek - Adventure Tour & Travel Packages

Lemosho — The Most Beautiful Route on Kilimanjaro

The Lemosho Route is one of the newer routes to climb Mount Kilimanjaro, Africa’s tallest mountain. Compared to the Machame and Marangu routes, Lemosho is designed for better acclimatization, with a longer time on the mountain and lower elevation gain. This route is popular among climbers for its diverse landscapes—lush rainforests, Afro-alpine moorland,  and the Arctic at the summit. With beautiful scenery and a high success rate, the Kilimanjaro Lemosho Route offers a sense of remoteness and fewer crowds, allowing for a more personal and memorable adventure in the wilds of Tanzania.

Lemosho Route Kilimanjaro Map

The Mount Kilimanjaro Lemosho Route begins at 11,800 feet (3,500 mt) at Londorossi Gate, located on the western slope. Getting there requires a three to four-hour drive from either Moshi or Arusha. The trek kicks off in lush rainforest, the first of five climate zones on the mountain. Climbers then cross the Shira Plateau, once Kilimanjaro’s third peak, before heading north to Moir Hut. Here, short hikes in the nearby Lent Hills help with acclimatization. The journey continues with a climb over Lava Tower, leading into the beautiful Barranco Valley. A key highlight of the trek is the challenging Barranco Wall, which offers stunning views. After circling along the southern circuit, hikers reach Karanga and then the high camp at Barafu Hut. The summit attempt begins from Barafu in the early morning. This section is the coldest and windiest, but as the sun rises, climbers can shed their extra layers. After reaching the summit, the descent follows the Mweka trail. Each day is filled with new adventures, and the sunrises at the summit are truly breathtaking.

How Long Does it Take to Climb Kilimanjaro via Lemosho Route?

The Lemosho Route trekking distance is about 43 miles (70 km) with an elevation gain of 16,000 feet to 17,000 feet (4,876 mt to 5,182 mt). It usually takes 6 to 7 days to complete the route, but we recommend extending the trek to 9 or 10 days. This extra time helps climbers acclimatize to the altitude, enjoy the stunning scenery, and increase their chances of reaching the summit.

How Hard Is It to Climb Kilimanjaro via the Lemosho Route?

The Lemosho Route is considered challenging but is suitable for trekkers with a reasonable level of fitness. It includes several ascents and descents, allowing climbers to acclimatize properly. This makes the Lemosho Route a good option for beginner climbers as well.

Poplar Camps on Lemosho Route Kilimanjaro

• Big Tree Camp: Nestled in a lush rainforest, this campsite offers a peaceful retreat and a great start to the adventure.

• Shira 1 & 2 Camps: Surrounded by dramatic landscapes on either side of the Shira plateau, Shira 1 and 2 camps provide beautiful scenic spots for climbers to rest.

• Barranco Camp: Set in the picturesque Barranco Valley, this camp offers stunning views and a chance to tackle the famous Barranco Wall.

• Karanga Camp: Located near a stream, Karanga Camp provides a relaxing atmosphere and serves as a key stop on the way to the summit.

• Barafu Camp: As the final campsite before the summit, Barafu Camp offers a challenging yet rewarding experience with breathtaking views of Kilimanjaro.

Why Choose The Lemosho Route for Climbing Kilimanjaro?

• Better Acclimatization: The Lemosho Route is designed with a gradual ascent, allowing climbers more time to acclimatize. This helps reduce the risk of altitude sickness compared to steeper routes.

• Diverse Ecosystems: Trekkers experience a variety of ecosystems, from lush rainforests to alpine deserts and arctic climates at the summit. 

• Fewer Crowds: The Lemosho Route is less crowded than popular routes like Machame and Marangu. This means a more peaceful trekking experience and a greater chance to connect with nature.

• Stunning Scenery: The route offers breathtaking views, especially as climbers traverse the Shira Plateau and approach the Barranco Wall. Each day reveals new and spectacular landscapes.

• Flexibility in Duration: The Lemosho Route can be trekked in 8, 9 or 10 days, giving climbers the option to choose a longer itinerary for better acclimatization, which increases summit success rates.

• High Success Rates: The Lemosho Route has an impressive success rate of 85-90%, making it one of the most effective routes for reaching the summit.

Lemosho Route Kilimanjaro Success Rate 

The 7-day Lemosho Route climbing has an 85% success rate, while the 8-day climbing option boasts a 90% success rate, much higher than many other routes. This success is largely due to the "climb high, sleep low" strategy, where climbers hike to higher altitudes during the day and return to a lower altitude to sleep, helping them adjust to the altitude and reducing the risk of altitude sickness.

Lemosho Route Kilimanjaro Cost

The cost of climbing the Lemosho trail in Kilimanjaro typically ranges from $2,700 to $3,300 per person. This price varies based on factors like the length of the trek, level of service, and type of accommodation. Visit AdventureTripr’s website to explore a range of affordable packages to climb Kilimanjaro that fit your budget and preferences.

Why Choose AdventureTripr to Climb Kilimanjaro Using the Lemosho Route?

• Expertly Curated Trips: Our trips are designed by experts who know the Lemosho Route inside and out, ensuring that your itinerary is optimized for the best experiences.

• Sustainable Travel: We prioritize eco-friendly practices to minimize our environmental impact and support local communities, making your adventure responsible and meaningful.

• Community Connection: Our trips allow you to connect with like-minded people, fostering friendships that can last a lifetime as you share this incredible journey together.

• Comprehensive Support: From transportation to accommodation and porters, we handle all the details, so you can focus on your adventure.

• Affordable Adventures: We offer a range of customizable packages that fit your budget and preferences, whether you’re looking for a luxurious experience or a budget-friendly trek.

• Safety First: Your safety is our top priority. Our local experienced guides ensure you are well-supported and informed throughout your trek, following best practices for acclimatization.

Lemosho Route Accommodation

Depending on the package, climbers can choose from a variety of budget-friendly or luxury accommodation options in Moshi for the first and last nights of the Lemosho Route hike. During the actual trek, climbers stay in designated camps with basic facilities, including shared sleeping tents and common dining areas. 

Frequently Asked Questions

Question 1. When is the best time to climb the Lemosho Route?

Answer 1. The best time to climb Kilimanjaro via the Lemosho Route is during the dry season (June to October) when the weather is stable, the trails are drier, and the views are clear. However, it can be crowded, especially in July and August due to the summer holidays. To avoid the crowds, consider climbing between December and March, though there may be short rains during this time.

Question 2. What should I pack for the Lemosho Route hike?

Answer 2. When preparing for your climb on the Kilimanjaro Lemosho Route, it’s important to pack essentials like sturdy hiking boots, warm clothing for colder temperatures, a good sleeping bag, trekking poles, and personal items like sunscreen and a first aid kit. 

Question 3. Is the Lemosho Route suitable for beginners?

Answer 3. The Lemosho Route is suitable for beginners with a reasonable level of fitness. It offers a longer trek with better acclimatization, which helps reduce the risk of altitude sickness, making it a great option for first-time climbers.

Question 4. How long is the Lemosho Route, and how far will I hike each day?

Answer 4. The Lemosho Route covers a distance of about 43 miles (70 km) from start to summit. Daily hikes range from 4 to 8 hours, depending on the section, with the trek gradually increasing in altitude to help with acclimatization.