8 DAY KILIMANJARO: LEMOSHO ROUTE
The Lemosho route stands out as the path boasting the highest success rate for reaching the summit of Kilimanjaro. Moreover, it treats you to breathtaking panoramic vistas of the picturesque West Kilimanjaro landscape. During the second stage of this route, it converges with the Machame route, taking you through captivating terrains and notable landmarks, including the renowned Barranco wall.
The Lemosho route allows for an ascent lasting either seven or eight days. The key distinction between the two options is that the 7-day journey commences at an altitude of 3500 meters, while the 8-day trek starts at a lower altitude of 2200 meters. This lower starting point for the 8-day journey leads you through a tropical rainforest on the initial day, a contrast to the 7-day option, where you traverse the tropical rainforest by car and only hike through it on the return journey.
Should you wish to complete the Lemosho route in six days, this aligns with the description provided for the Lemosho-Shira route.
Maasai Warrior Safaris is your go-to choice for an exceptional mountain experience. Conquering Kilimanjaro is the ultimate challenge, and our team of professional guides, porters, and a skilled cook will accompany you. Mountaineering is an elemental pursuit, so you'll rest in high-quality tents along the Lemosho route. Furthermore, our crew's professionalism shines through, as we conduct thorough health checks in the mornings and evenings using top-notch equipment. We prioritize your comfort on the mountain, and our reputation is built on the delectable meals prepared by our top chefs, as good food significantly enhances your chances of summiting.
1NIGHT/HOTEL | 7 DAY HIKE
ITINERARY
Day 1:
AIRPORT ARRIVAL
Upon landing at Kilimanjaro International Airport, our designated driver will transport you to your chosen hotel. Here, you can unwind, acclimate to the African ambiance, and adjust to the new surroundings. If desired, you have the option to reserve an additional day of relaxation before commencing your climb. This added day allows for enhanced acclimatization and recovery from your flight, ultimately boosting your odds of successfully reaching the summit.
Please note that the hotel mentioned below serves as a recommendation for your initial and final nights of stay. Depending on your preferences, we offer a range of accommodation options, spanning from basic to luxurious. The decision is entirely yours to make!
DAY 2:
LONDOROSSI GATE (2,200 M/ 7,218 FT) -
BIG TREE CAMP (2,780 M/ 9,121 FT)
Elevation gain: 5 m | Distance: 5 km | Walking time: 1-2 hours Difficulty: easy | Environment: meadows
In the morning, your guide will pick you up and drive upi to Londorossi Gate. This scenic route winds through the lush, captivating tropical rainforest. Upon reaching the drop-off point at 3,500 meters, you'll be treated to your initial glimpse of the splendid Shira plateau.
The path to the first camp involves a mostly level terrain, allowing you to acclimatize to the higher altitude gradually. Since this marks your first day at such heights, it is strongly advised to adhere to the following guidelines from hereon: Stay well-hydrated by drinking as much water as possible, and consider taking a Diamox tablet if you experience symptoms of altitude sickness.
DAY 3:
DAY 3: BIG TREE CAMP (2,780 M/ 9,121 FT) -
SHIRA 1 CAMP (3,505 M/ 11,499 FT)
Start your day with an early wake-up, followed by breakfast, and a gentle climb to an elevation of 3,505 meters. At this point, you'll be treated to a mesmerizing view of the Shira Plateau and the Kibo Volcano for the first time! The trek to the Shira 1 high mountain camp is relatively straightforward, taking approximately 5-6 hours. This gradual ascent facilitates the initiation of the acclimatization process, a crucial element for a successful trek. Upon reaching the camp, enjoy lunch and have the option to rest in your tent or explore the surrounding area on a leisurely walk.
DAY 4:
SHIRA 1 CAMP (3,505 M/ 11,499 FT) -
SHIRA 2 CAMP (3,900 M/ 12,795 FT)
Elevation gain: 395 m | Distance: 7 km | Walking time: 3-4 | Difficulty: easy | Environment: heather
In the morning, embark on a journey from Shira 1 Camp at an elevation of 3,505 meters to Shira 2 Camp at 3,900 meters. The trek is not strenuous, allowing you to relish the awe-inspiring landscapes and the distinct flora of Kilimanjaro's environs as you ascend. On a clear day, Shira 2 Camp provides an ideal vantage point to observe Mount Meru, the fifth peak of Africa. Following lunch, engage in an acclimatization stroll to Lava Tower Camp, gaining an elevation of 200 meters. This helps enhance your chances of reaching the summit and minimizes the risk of altitude sickness.
DAY 5:
SHIRA 2 CAMP (3,900 M/ 12,795 FT) -
LAVA TOWER (4,630 M/ 15,190 FT) -
BARRANCO CAMP (3,960 M/ 12,992 FT)
Elevation gain: 730 m/ 2,395 ft | Elevation loss: 630 m/ 2,066 ft | Distance: 12 km | Walking time: 6-8 hours | Difficulty: medium | Environment: heather
Today marks the point where the Lemosho route converges with the Machame route. The day's trek begins at Shira Camp 2 and takes you to the breathtaking Lava Tower. This segment of the climb involves numerous inclines and declines, providing you with splendid scenic vistas along the way. It's a fairly extensive hike, and you might start to experience some discomfort due to the elevation. Consequently, it's essential to spend 1 to 2 hours at Lava Tower to allow your body to acclimate to the high altitude, and this is also when we'll have our lunch break.
Following lunch, you'll make your descent to Barranco Camp, where you'll encounter peculiar-looking flowering plants that can reach heights of up to five meters. Barranco Camp is situated at the base of the imposing Barranco Wall, which is remarkable for its sheer size and steepness. Thankfully, the path leading to it is not overly challenging.
Choice: For individuals who favor a route with lower elevation instead of proceeding to Lava Tower, an alternative path with a maximum altitude of 4,400 meters is available for adjustment.
DAY 6:
BARRANCO CAMP (3,960 M/ 12,992 FT) -
KARANGA CAMP (4,035 M/ 13,238 FT)
Elevation gain: 75 m/ 246 ft | Distance: 5 km | Walking time: 4-5 hours | Difficulty: medium | Environment: heather
Following your morning meal, you set out from Barranco Camp towards the Barranco Wall. For many, this portion of the ascent stands out as a favorite, partly due to the splendid vistas it offers. When you reach the summit of the Barranco Wall, you'll be treated to a spectacular view, with Kibo Volcano to the left and Mount Meru to the right.
Subsequently, a more challenging trek commences, leading you to Karanga Camp. This path involves several inclines and declines, yet rest assured, our experienced guides excel at selecting the optimal route and pace. Upon reaching the camp, it's time for lunch. Following a few hours of relaxation, you'll embark on an acclimatization hike from Barafu Camp, which necessitates ascending by 300 meters and then descending back to the camp.
DAY 7:
KARANGA CAMP (4,035 M/ 13,238) -
BARAFU CAMP (4,640 M/ 15,223 FT)
Elevation gain: 605 m/ 1,984 ft | Distance: 6 km | Walking time: 4-5 hours | Difficulty: medium | Environment: alpine desert
Following breakfast, your journey to Barafu Camp commences, marking the starting point for your ascent to the Uhuru Peak, the summit of Kilimanjaro. You'll reach the camp around lunchtime, and tents will have already been prepared for your relaxation upon arrival. After you've had a chance to recharge, an acclimatization hike to Kosovo Summit Camp at 4,800 meters and back to Barafu Camp awaits. Upon your return, a hot meal will be served, allowing you to unwind for the remainder of the day before embarking on the final ascent to the Kilimanjaro summit, commencing around midnight.
DAY 8:
BARAFU CAMP (4,640 M/ 15,223 FT) -
UHURU PEAK (5,895 M/ 19,340 FT) -
MILLENNIUM CAMP (3,820 M/ 12,532 FT)
Elevation gain: 1255 m/ 4,117 ft | Elevation loss: 2075 m/ 6,807 ft | Distance: 15 km | Walking time: 8-12 hours | Difficulty: difficult | Environment: arctic
Under the cover of night, you leave Barafu Camp to commence your journey to the Kilimanjaro summit, known as Uhuru Peak. This ascent involves well-maintained trails, with the primary challenge lying in the high altitude. To ensure the well-being of climbers, there is one personal guide assigned to every two participants, providing close supervision and monitoring of both physical and mental health.
If the ascent proves successful, you have the option to descend to the nearest glacier. Subsequently, you return to Barafu Camp to initiate the descent towards Millennium Camp, following a two-hour break for rest. During the descent, it is crucial to exercise careful attention to your footing to prevent any potential injuries.
DAY 9:
MILLENNIUM CAMP (3,820 M/ 12,532 FT) -
MWEKA GATE (1,650 M/ 5,413 FT)
Elevation loss: 2170 m/ 7,119 ft | Distance: 12 km | Walking time: 4-5 | Difficulty: easy | Environment: rain forest
Nestled within a lush tropical rainforest, the camp provides a delightful awakening, marked by the noticeable decrease in altitude and the sense of accomplishment from having reached the summit. Following breakfast, it's time to exit the park, and the entire group gathers to extend mutual congratulations.
It's worth noting that the hotel cost is not included in the listed price. However, we are more than willing to work closely with you to identify a hotel that aligns with your specific preferences and requirements.
HOW FIT DO YOU NEED TO BE TO CLIMB
KILIMANJARO VIA THE LEMOSHO ROUTE?
Ascending Kilimanjaro presents a genuine test of one's mettle, mainly due to the challenges posed by high altitudes, the pace of the ascent, and fluctuating temperatures. A typical day on the Lemosho route entails approximately 6 to 7 hours of hiking. Achieving this feat is certainly attainable if you are in good health and physical condition. To maximize your chances of reaching the summit and ensure an enjoyable trek, a few key considerations are crucial.
Firstly, it's vital to take your time during the ascent, avoiding overly brisk hiking, as this allows your body to adapt and acclimatize effectively. Maintaining good physical fitness significantly eases the climb, making it advisable to engage in preparatory activities a few months before, such as multiple-day hikes, running, and aerobic exercises.
Altitude sickness is challenging to predict, affecting individuals differently. Fortunately, the Lemosho route, particularly with an extra day for acclimatization, provides ample opportunities to "walk high and sleep low," a strategy essential for preventing altitude sickness. This approach, along with well-maintained trails, minimizes the likelihood of altitude sickness affecting most climbers on the route to the summit.
INCLUDED
- Pick up Kilimanjaro Airport, transfer to lodge/hotel
- Transfer lodge/hotel to Kilimanjaro Airport
- Private guide speaking fluently English
- Private cook speaking fluently English
- Park Fees for national park
- Porters who carry your luggage
- High quality tents
- Chairs and tables for breakfast, lunch and dinner
- Dinner-tent
- Rescue fee
- Portable toilet
EXCLUDED
- International flight tickets and tourist visa
- Accommodation on day of arrival and departure
- Insurances (travel, flying doctors etc)