8-Day Kilimanjaro Climb via Lemosho Route
The 8-Day Kilimanjaro Climb via Lemosho Route is widely regarded as the most scenic ascent of Mount Kilimanjaro. The route traverses the Shira Plateau from west to east along a relatively flat path. Early in the trek, you will encounter fewer crowds, offering a peaceful, remote experience before joining the Machame route near Lava Tower. This route is ideal for climbers seeking exceptional scenery, effective acclimatization, and a high summit success rate.
Approaching from the west, the 8-Day Kilimanjaro Climb via Lemosho Route offers remarkable ecological diversity. The trek passes through rainforest, moorland, the Shira Plateau, alpine desert, and the ice-capped summit zone. Its “climb high, sleep low” acclimatization profile is a key advantage. On Day 5, you ascend to Lava Tower (4,600 m) before descending to Barranco Camp (3,900 m), which significantly enhances altitude adaptation. On Day 6, you can take an optional acclimatization hike from Barranco Camp (3,900 m) to Karanga Camp (3,995m) and up to about 4,200 m.
The 8-Day Kilimanjaro Climb via the Lemosho Route achieves a summit success rate of about 90-95% thanks to its effective acclimatization and additional days on the mountain. Barranco Camp, your accommodation on Day 5, is widely regarded as Kilimanjaro’s most scenic camp. The descent through Millennium Camp and Mweka Gate is also easier on the knees than other routes. This route offers a comprehensive, rewarding experience for both first-time climbers and seasoned hikers.
8-Day Climb Itinerary (10-Day Total Travel Package)
Upon arrival at Kilimanjaro International Airport, our driver will transfer you to your hotel in Arusha. A pre-climb briefing will cover the trek itinerary, required gear, and safety information, including guidance on acute mountain sickness. You may rent any necessary equipment at this time. Dinner and overnight accommodation are provided at the hotel.
- Accommodation: Samora River Lodge or Point Zone Resort Arusha
- Meals: Bed & Breakfast ( BB)
Starting Point: Lemosho Gate (2,100 m) | Ending Point: Mti Mkubwa Camp (2,650 m) | Elevation Gain: +550 m | Distance: 7 km | Hiking Time: 3-4 hours | Habitat: Montane Rainforest
After breakfast, you will be picked up from your hotel in Arusha and driven to Lemosho Gate to begin your 8-day Kilimanjaro climb via the Lemosho Route. Once you complete registration and permit procedures, the trek starts in the rainforest, where you may spot black-and-white colobus monkeys on the way to camp. After 3 to 4 hours, you will reach Mti Mkubwa Camp (2,650 m). Upon arrival, your waiter will provide hot water for washing, tea or coffee, and popcorn as you wait for your first dinner on Kilimanjaro.
- Accommodation: Mti Mkubwa Camp
- Meals: Breakfast, lunch, dinner, drinking water
Starting Point: Mti Mkubwa Camp (2,650 m) | Ending Point: Shira 1 Camp (3,610 m) | Elevation Gain: +960 m | Distance: 8 km | Hiking Time: 4-6 hours | Habitat: Moorland
After breakfast, depart Mti Mkubwa Camp and ascend through rolling hills, crossing several streams. Reach Shira Ridge, then descend to Shira 1 Camp (3,610 m) for a hot lunch. In the afternoon, take a short walk around camp or enjoy playing cards. Dinner and overnight will be at Shira 1 Camp. This is a scenic day on the 8-Day Kilimanjaro Climb via the Lemosho Route.
- Accommodation: Shira 1 Camp
- Meals: Breakfast, lunch, dinner, drinking water
Starting Point: Shira 1 Camp (3,610 m) | Ending Point: Shira 2 Camp (3,850 m) | Elevation Gain: +240 m | Distance: 10 km | Hiking Time: 4 hours | Habitat: Moorland, Heathland
After breakfast, you will depart Shira 1 Camp and cross moorland and heathland with views of the Shira Plateau. En route to Shira 2 Camp, you may see wildlife such as dik-diks and klipspringers, and you’ll enjoy a hot lunch and dinner at 3,850 meters. This shorter, more relaxed day on the 8-Day Kilimanjaro Climb via the Lemosho Route supports continued acclimatization.
- Accommodation: Shira 2 Camp
- Meals: Breakfast, lunch, dinner, drinking water
Starting Point: Shira 2 Camp (3,850 m) | High Point: Lava Tower (4,600 m) | Ending Point: Barranco Camp (3,900 m) | Elevation Gain to High Point: +750 m | Distance: 11 km | Hiking/Descending Time: 6-8 hours | Habitat: Moorland, Semi-Desert
Today is a key acclimatization day on the 8-Day Kilimanjaro Climb via the Lemosho Route. The trek begins with an ascent offering panoramic views as you enter the upland desert zone and traverse lava ridges beneath the Western Breach glaciers. You will reach the Lava Tower(4,600 m), the day’s highest point and your lunch stop. In the afternoon, you will descend steeply to Barranco Camp (3,900 m) at the base of the Great Barranco Valley. Sheltered by cliffs and overlooking the plains, Barranco Camp is widely regarded as Kilimanjaro’s most scenic campsite. Dinner and overnight will be at Barranco Camp.
- Accommodation: Barranco Valley Camp
- Meals: Breakfast, lunch, dinner, drinking water
Starting Point: Barranco Camp (3,900 m) | Ending Point: Karanga Camp (3,995 m) | Elevation Gain: +95 m | Distance: 5 km | Hiking Time: 4-5 hours | Habitat: Moorland
Today you will descend into the Great Barranco, a large ravine, before climbing the steep Great Barranco Wall to reach Kibo’s southeastern slopes. The route is rocky and, while not technical, is long and demanding. After passing beneath the Heim and Kersten glaciers, you will continue to the Karanga Valley. A final steep ascent leads to Karanga Camp (3,995 m). If you feel strong, you may take an optional mid-afternoon acclimatization trek to about 4,200 m, then return to camp for the night. This is a key acclimatization day on the 8-Day Kilimanjaro Climb via the Lemosho Route. Dinner and overnight will be at Karanga Camp.
- Accommodation: Karanga Camp
- Meals: Breakfast, lunch, dinner, drinking water
Starting Point: Karanga Camp (3,995 m) | Ending Point: Barafu Camp (4,673 m) | Elevation Gain: +678 m | Distance: 3 km | Hiking Time: 4-5 hours | Habitat: Alpine Desert
After a good night’s rest and breakfast, you will begin your walk to Barafu Camp (4,673 m). The route crosses barren scree slopes with no vegetation. This section is steep and challenging due to the altitude. Upon arrival, you will have a meal and spend the afternoon resting in preparation for the demanding night and day ahead. Staying hydrated and warm is essential. Dinner will be served early, and you should try to sleep, as you will wake between 11:00 pm and midnight to begin the summit ascent. This is the final preparation day of the 8-Day Kilimanjaro Climb via the Lemosho Route.
- Accommodation: Barafu Camp
- Meals: Breakfast, lunch, dinner, drinking water
Starting Point: Barafu Camp (4,673 m) | Summit: Uhuru Peak (5,895 m) | Ending Point: Millennium Camp (3,750 m) | Elevation Gain to Summit: +1,222 m | Distance: 13.4 km | Hiking Time: 8-12 hours | Habitat: Arctic, Montane Forest
You will begin your ascent around midnight, climbing steeply toward the summit glaciers. The route involves 4 to 5 hours of scree climbing, letting you gain significant elevation quickly. At sunrise, when you reach Stella Point (5,756 m), you will be surrounded by impressive ice cliffs and enjoy panoramic views of Mawenzi Peak and the surrounding landscape. After another hour, you will arrive at Uhuru Peak (5,895 m), the highest point in Africa. The descent follows the same route back to Stella Point, then down the scree slope and track to Barafu Camp for breakfast. You will continue to Millennium Camp (3,750 m) for a well-deserved rest, dinner, and overnight stay. This is the most challenging and rewarding day of the 8-Day Kilimanjaro Climb via the Lemosho Route.
- Accommodation: Millennium Camp
- Meals: Breakfast, lunch, dinner, drinking water
Starting Point: Millennium Camp (3,750 m) | Ending Point: Mweka Gate (1,640 m) | Elevation Loss: -2,110 m | Distance: 12.1 km | Hiking Time: 4-5 hours | Habitat: Montane Rainforest
After breakfast, you will make your final descent through the rainforest to Mweka Gate (1,640 m). At the gate, you will receive your summit certificate, have lunch, and bid farewell to your mountain crew. Then return to Moshi or Arusha for dinner and overnight accommodation. This concludes your 8-Day Kilimanjaro Climb via the Lemosho Route.
- Accommodation: Samora River Lodge or Point Zone Resort
- Meals: Breakfast, lunch, dinner, drinking water
The tour concludes after breakfast at the hotel. Our driver will pick you up at the scheduled time and take you to the airport. If you wish to extend your stay, you may visit nearby national parks such as Tarangire National Park and the Ngorongoro Crater, or join cultural tourism programs near Arusha. We wish you a safe journey.
- Accommodation: None (Departure day)
- Meals: Breakfast and drinking water
Costs & Inclusions for 8-Day Kilimanjaro Climb Via Lemosho Route
Price Per Person (USD)
All prices include park fees, guide, porters, meals on the mountain, and 2 nights at Samora River Lodge.
| Group Size (Pax) | Price Per Person | Accommodation Type |
|---|---|---|
| 1 Solo Climber | $3,895 | Samora River Lodge + Mountain Camping |
| 2 Climbers | $3,150 | Samora River Lodge + Mountain Camping |
| 3 Climbers | $2,845 | Samora River Lodge + Mountain Camping |
| 4+ Climbers | $2,720 | Samora River Lodge + Mountain Camping |
💡 Tip: Larger groups pay less per person — invite friends and save.
⚠️ Tip: Mount Kilimanjaro Parkfees Are Subject to Change by July 2027.
What's Included & What's Not
A clear breakdown of everything covered in your Kilimanjaro trek package — and what you'll need to arrange separately.
| Price Includes | Price Excludes |
|---|---|
| Airport transfers — pick-up on arrival day, drop-off after the climb | International and local airfare |
| Accommodation in Arusha at Samora River Lodge (2 nights, bed & breakfast) | Local transportation before and after the climb |
| Transfers from the hotel to Machame Gate and from Mweka Gate to the hotel | Personal expenses — laundry, beverages, etc. |
| Quality sleeping tents shared by 2 clients | Lunch and dinner at Samora River Lodge |
| Mess tents, crew tents, tables, chairs, eating utensils, cooking equipment | Tips for the mountain crew (see our Kilimanjaro tipping guide) |
| Sleeping mats | Private toilet and hot shower tent |
| Clean, purified drinking water | Yellow fever vaccinations, COVID-19 test |
| All meals while on the mountain | Passport and visa |
| Kilimanjaro entrance fees / conservation fees | Travelers insurance (recommended: covers up to 6,000 m) |
| Kilimanjaro camping fees | Helicopter evacuation cost in high altitude (Kilimanjaro SAR) |
| Rescue fees and all taxes | Optional tours not mentioned in this itinerary |
| Salaries for porters, cook, and guides | Tanzania Mandatory Inbound Travel Insurance — $44 per person |
| Oxygen cylinder | |
| Oxygen saturation meter | |
| First aid kit | |
| Flying Doctors Emergency Service (before or after the climb) |
Booking Process
If you’re satisfied enough with the information, you can book this tour directly, remember to confirm your booking with a deposit of 40% of the total cost per person. This is needed to secure accommodation and other services which belong to third parties.
At that point, we will issue you with an invoice that includes a balance due date. We must receive the full payment not less than thirty (30) days before the departure date.
In the case of holidays booked within less than thirty (30) days of the departure date, we must receive the full cost within seven (7) working days of our sending written confirmation and invoice.
In the case of non-payment of the balance by the due date, we reserve the right to cancel your booking and retain your deposit, as well as any other cancellation charges.
Before you do any payment don’t hesitate to discuss with your tour planner the best option. Your satisfaction is our happiness.
HOW TO MAKE PAYMENTS
Blessing Safaris Limited is a licensed Tour Operator in Tanzania, duly incorporated under the Companies Act of 2002, bearing registration number 141173960. The company’s Tax Identification Number (TIN) is 141-173-960.
Blessing Safaris Limited is recognized by the Tanzania Tourism Licensing Board (TTLB), also known as TALA, with Safari TALA No. 034220 and Mountain Climbing/Trekking TALA No. 036308.
To verify this information, please visit the official Ministry of Natural Resources and Tourism (MNRT) search and verify for “ Blessing Safaris ” and “ Blessing Safaris Limited”
If you need additional assurance or verification of our legal status, you may contact our bank (NMB Bank) to confirm our business credentials.
Upon booking, you will receive an invoice detailing the amount due and our bank account information. After payment, you will receive a paid invoice as proof of payment.
Terms and conditions
Click Here to View Terms & Conditions or download a pdf file
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the success rate for the 8-Day Kilimanjaro Climb via Lemosho Route?
The 8-Day Kilimanjaro Climb via Lemosho Route offers a summit success rate of approximately 90-95%, among the highest on Kilimanjaro. This high rate is due to additional acclimatization days, a gradual ascent across the Shira Plateau, and the effective “climb high, sleep low” approach at Lava Tower (4,600 m) on Day 5. An optional acclimatization trek from Karanga Camp to 4,200 m on Day 6 further supports success. If reaching the summit is your main goal, this route is an excellent choice.
How difficult is the 8-Day Kilimanjaro Climb via Lemosho Route compared to other routes?
The 8-Day Kilimanjaro Climb via the Lemosho Route is considered moderately difficult. The trail begins with a gradual ascent across the Shira Plateau. Main challenges include long hiking days, particularly 6-8 hours on Day 5, the Barranco Wall, and the high-altitude summit night. The longer itinerary and acclimatization period improve summit success rates compared to shorter routes. Most climbers with reasonable fitness and preparation can complete this route. It suits those seeking impressive scenery and a high chance of reaching the summit.
What is the best time to climb Kilimanjaro on the Lemosho Route?
The best time to climb Kilimanjaro via the Lemosho Route is during the dry seasons: January to mid-March and June to October. These months offer clearer skies, drier trails, and the best summit views. The rainy seasons (April-May and November) are not recommended due to mud, snow, and lower success rates. Because the Lemosho Route has low crowds until it joins the Machame Route near Lava Tower, you can enjoy a quieter experience even during peak months. Book early to secure camp space.
What should I pack for the 8-Day Kilimanjaro Climb via Lemosho Route?
For the 8-Day Kilimanjaro Climb via the Lemosho Route, please pack a waterproof jacket and pants, an insulated down jacket, fleece layers, broken-in hiking boots, a four-season sleeping bag, trekking poles, a headlamp with spare batteries, a 30-liter daypack, water bottles with a total capacity of 2–3 liters, sunglasses, sunscreen, warm gloves, and a balaclava. Bring a duffel bag for porters to carry your gear. We provide camping equipment, including tents and sleeping mats. Upon arrival, we will check your equipment and help you rent any missing items. Read more about What To Pack for Kilimanjaro.
How much does the 8-Day Kilimanjaro Climb via Lemosho Route cost?
The 8-Day Kilimanjaro Climb via the Lemosho Route typically costs $2,720 to $3,895 USD per person, depending on the operator, group size, and included services. This price generally covers park fees, guide and porter salaries, camping equipment, all meals on the mountain, and airport transfers. The 8-day option costs slightly more than the 7-day version because of the extra day, but the higher summit success rate adds value. International flights, travel insurance, tips, and personal gear are not included. Please be cautious of unusually low prices, as they may indicate underpaid staff or compromised safety standards.
Is altitude sickness a concern on the 8-Day Kilimanjaro Climb via Lemosho Route?
Altitude sickness is a potential risk on any Kilimanjaro climb. However, the 8-Day Kilimanjaro Climb via the Lemosho Route offers an excellent acclimatization profile that helps reduce this risk. On Day 5, the ascent to Lava Tower (4,600 m) followed by a descent to 3,900 m supports red blood cell production and adaptation. An optional acclimatization trek from Karanga Camp to 4,200 m on Day 6 gives your body more time to adjust. Guides are trained to monitor your health and conduct daily checks. To further minimize risk, drink 3-4 liters of water daily, eat well, and follow your guide’s pace, or “pole pole” (slowly, slowly).
Why is the Lemosho Route considered the most beautiful route on Kilimanjaro?
The Lemosho Route is widely regarded as Kilimanjaro’s most beautiful route because it traverses the entire Shira Plateau from west to east along a pleasant, relatively flat path. The scenery is especially striking in the early morning and late afternoon as the light shifts. Highlights include the Shira Cathedral, the Shira Needle, and panoramic views of Mount Meru and the Kibo massif. The route passes through a range of habitats, from lush rainforest to alpine desert. Crowds remain low until the route merges with the Machame Route near Lava Tower, offering a peaceful and remote experience. The 8-Day Kilimanjaro Climb via Lemosho Route combines these scenic advantages with excellent acclimatization and a high summit success rate, making it an ideal choice for both scenery and success.
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Kilimanjaro Climbing Tips
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The 8-Day Kilimanjaro Trek via Machame Route with Crater Camp is the most popular way to reach Kilimanjaro’s summit with an overnight stay at Africa’s highest camp. This route offers stunning views, a moderate challenge, and ample time to acclimatize, making it ideal for those with flexible schedules
The Lemosho Route stands out for its crossing of the Shira Plateau, an ancient caldera on the mountain’s western side. Trekkers enjoy flat, comfortable hiking with panoramic views unique to this approach. Starting at Londorossi Gate, the route offers fewer crowds and a peaceful, pristine environment in the early days.
We remind you to bring quality personal climbing gear for your Kilimanjaro climb. Proper layering is necessary to keep you dry, warm, and comfortable. Before packing, make sure your gear selection matches the weather in the season you plan to climb. But the weather on Mount Kilimanjaro is unpredictable.
