The Unique 9-Days Kilimanjaro Climbing via Lemosho Route on 2025-2026-2027

The Unique 9-Days Kilimanjaro Climbing via Lemosho Route on 2025-2026-2027

The Unique 9-Days Kilimanjaro Climbing via Lemosho Route on 2025-2026-2027: is one of the most scenic and well-regarded paths for trekking to the summit of Mount Kilimanjaro, Africa’s highest peak at 5,895 meters (19,341 ft). The 9-day itinerary via Lemosho allows for an exceptionally gradual ascent, offering climbers the best chance for acclimatization and an unforgettable experience of Kilimanjaro’s diverse landscapes. This longer route starts on the western side of the mountain, traversing quiet trails through the lush Montane Forest, across the expansive Shira Plateau, and through dramatic landscapes such as the Barranco Valley and Karanga Valley before summiting at Uhuru Peak.

This extended itinerary provides plenty of time to acclimatize, following the “climb high, sleep low” strategy to help trekkers adapt to the altitude, significantly increasing the chances of reaching the summit. The extra days ensure a comfortable pace and allow for deeper immersion in the beauty and solitude of Kilimanjaro’s varying environments.

Day-by-Day Itinerary for the 9-Days Kilimanjaro Climb via Lemosho Route

Day 1: Lemosho Glades to Big Tree Camp (Mti Mkubwa)

Elevation: 2,100 meters (6,890 ft) to 2,789 meters (9,150 ft)
Hiking Distance: 6 km (3.7 miles)
Hiking Time: 3-4 hours
Habitat: Rainforest
Your journey begins at Lemosho Glades, where you will register with the park authorities and meet your guide and porters. The trek starts with a pleasant hike through the lush Montane Forest, filled with towering trees, thick undergrowth, and wildlife like Colobus monkeys and various bird species. This introductory hike is relatively easy, taking you to Big Tree Camp (Mti Mkubwa), where you will camp overnight in the midst of the rainforest’s vibrant ecosystem.

Day 2 of The Unique 9-Days Kilimanjaro Climbing via Lemosho Route on 2025-2026-2027 : Big Tree Camp to Shira 1 Camp

Elevation: 2,789 meters (9,150 ft) to 3,500 meters (11,485 ft)
Hiking Distance: 8 km (5 miles)
Hiking Time: 5-6 hours
Habitat: Moorland
On Day 2, you will leave the forest behind as the trail ascends into the moorland. The landscape opens up, revealing magnificent views of the Shira Plateau and distant peaks. The path becomes steeper, with volcanic rock formations and a vast, open sky. The hike ends at Shira 1 Camp, where you’ll camp under the stars and enjoy the first glimpse of Kibo Peak, Kilimanjaro’s summit.

Day 3 of The Unique 9-Days Kilimanjaro Climbing via Lemosho Route on 2025-2026-2027 : Shira 1 Camp to Shira 2 Camp

Elevation: 3,500 meters (11,485 ft) to 3,850 meters (12,630 ft)
Hiking Distance: 7 km (4.3 miles)
Hiking Time: 4-5 hours
Habitat: Moorland
Day 3 is a relatively easy trek across the expansive Shira Plateau, one of the most stunning and open sections of the journey. The gradual ascent provides spectacular panoramic views of Mount Meru and the western breach of Kibo Peak. The trail is not particularly steep, making it a comfortable day for further acclimatization.

Upon reaching Shira 2 Camp, you’ll have time to explore the plateau and take in the striking scenery. The camp offers excellent views of both Kibo and Mawenzi peaks. This day is crucial for proper acclimatization, as you gradually ascend to higher altitudes.

Day 4 of The Unique 9-Days Kilimanjaro Climbing via Lemosho Route on 2025-2026-2027 : Acclimatization Day at Shira 2 Camp

Elevation: 3,850 meters (12,630 ft)
Hiking Distance: Optional hike to Lava Tower (up to 6 km / 3.7 miles)
Hiking Time: 4-5 hours (optional hike)
Habitat: Moorland
To aid in acclimatization, Day 4 is a rest and exploration day at Shira 2 Camp. Many climbers use this day to take an optional hike to the base of Lava Tower or other higher elevation points to practice the “climb high, sleep low” technique. This acclimatization hike allows your body to adjust to the altitude, improving your chances of success in the days ahead.

Returning to Shira 2 Camp for a second night ensures proper rest before continuing with the climb. This extra day helps minimize the risk of altitude sickness as you climb higher in the coming days.

Day 5: Shira 2 Camp to Lava Tower, Then Descend to Barranco Camp

Elevation: 3,850 meters (12,630 ft) to 4,630 meters (15,190 ft) (Lava Tower), then descend to 3,900 meters (12,800 ft)
Hiking Distance: 10 km (6.2 miles)
Hiking Time: 7-9 hours
Habitat: Semi-desert
Day 5 marks a significant elevation gain as you climb toward the Lava Tower, a prominent volcanic formation at 4,630 meters (15,190 ft). This portion of the trek exposes you to the alpine desert zone, a harsh and barren landscape with little vegetation. The ascent to Lava Tower can be challenging due to the high altitude.

After reaching Lava Tower and stopping for lunch, you’ll descend to Barranco Camp at 3,900 meters (12,800 ft), where the lower elevation and thicker air will feel more comfortable. The descent follows the principle of “climb high, sleep low,” which helps your body adjust to the altitude. Barranco Camp is nestled in a beautiful valley below the towering Barranco Wall, surrounded by giant Senecio trees.

Day 6: Barranco Camp to Karanga Camp

Elevation: 3,900 meters (12,800 ft) to 4,035 meters (13,238 ft)
Hiking Distance: 5 km (3.1 miles)
Hiking Time: 4-5 hours
Habitat: Alpine Desert
Day 6 begins with the exciting climb up the Barranco Wall, a steep but non-technical rock face that requires light scrambling. The views from the top of the wall are breathtaking, offering sweeping vistas of Kibo Peak and the surrounding glaciers. After conquering the wall, the trail becomes easier, following a series of ridges and valleys.

The day ends at Karanga Camp, situated at 4,035 meters (13,238 ft). This shorter trekking day allows for additional acclimatization, as you rest and prepare for the final push toward Barafu Camp and the summit. Karanga offers stunning views of Heim Glacier and the approaching summit.

Day 7: Karanga Camp to Barafu Camp

Elevation: 4,035 meters (13,238 ft) to 4,640 meters (15,223 ft)
Hiking Distance: 4 km (2.5 miles)
Hiking Time: 3-4 hours
Habitat: Alpine Desert
On Day 7, you’ll trek to Barafu Camp, the base camp for your summit attempt. The trail is steep but short, and you’ll notice the thinner air as you gain altitude. The landscape is harsh and desolate, with very little vegetation, as you enter the arctic zone of Kilimanjaro.

Upon reaching Barafu Camp, you’ll have an early dinner and rest in preparation for the final ascent. The camp sits on a rocky ridge, providing stunning views of both Mawenzi Peak and Kibo Peak. It’s essential to rest well as the summit attempt begins just after midnight.

Day 8: Barafu Camp to Uhuru Peak, Then Descend to Mweka Camp

Elevation: 4,640 meters (15,223 ft) to 5,895 meters (19,341 ft) (Uhuru Peak), then descend to 3,080 meters (10,105 ft)
Hiking Distance: 17 km (10.5 miles) (ascent and descent)
Hiking Time: 10-16 hours
Habitat: Arctic to Rainforest
Summit day begins around midnight. With headlamps lighting the way, you’ll embark on the slow, steady ascent to Uhuru Peak, the highest point in Africa. The trail is steep and difficult, with loose scree and switchbacks leading to Stella Point (5,739 meters / 18,829 ft) at the crater rim, where you’ll witness a magnificent sunrise.

From Stella Point, it’s a relatively short trek to Uhuru Peak, where you’ll stand at the summit of Kilimanjaro, enjoying unparalleled views of the glaciers and the vast African plains

Package Inclusion & Exclusions

Tour Inclusions

• Guide, Porters
• Park Fees, Tax
• Gate transfer
• Crew wages
• Environment fees
• During the climb you will be camping throughout you climb!
• Breakfasts, Lunches, Dinners
• Drinking water
• Cook

Tour Exclusions

• Flights
• Tipping the crew
• Visas