8 Days Kilimanjaro Climb: Your Ultimate Guide to the Lemosho Route
Dreaming of an epic trek through diverse landscapes to reach the summit of Africa’s highest peak? The 8 days Kilimanjaro climb via the Lemosho Route offers unparalleled scenery, excellent acclimatization, and one of the highest success rates on the mountain. This western approach is ideal for adventurers seeking a less crowded start with breathtaking views across the Shira Plateau. Whether you’re looking up “8 days climbing Kilimanjaro,” “8 days Kilimanjaro climb Lemosho route,” “8 days Lemosho Kilimanjaro climb Mt Kilimanjaro,” or “climbing Kilimanjaro 8 days Lemosho route,” this guide provides everything from a detailed itinerary to costs, tips, and more.
For comprehensive planning resources, check out the Mount Kilimanjaro Guide. Let’s gear up for your journey on Mount Kilimanjaro!
Why Choose an 8 Days Kilimanjaro Climb on the Lemosho Route?
The 8 days Kilimanjaro climb on Lemosho is renowned for its scenic beauty and strategic profile, spanning about 70 km (43 miles) through rainforest, moorland, alpine desert, and arctic zones. Starting from the west, it merges with the Machame Route after a few days but begins more remotely, offering solitude and wildlife sightings early on. The extra day compared to shorter versions allows for better “climb high, sleep low” acclimatization, making it suitable for beginners and experienced hikers alike.
This route avoids the busier southern paths initially, providing panoramic views and a gradual ascent. It’s a top pick for those prioritizing success and immersion, with operators emphasizing sustainability and safety.
Detailed 8 Days Climbing Kilimanjaro Lemosho Route Itinerary
Here’s a standard 8 days Kilimanjaro climb Lemosho route itinerary, focusing on tent camping with full porter support. Distances, times, and elevations are approximate—always pace slowly (“pole pole”) for acclimatization.
Day 1: Londorossi Gate (2,100m) to Forest Camp/Mti Mkubwa (2,650m-2,780m)
- Distance: 6-8 km (3.7-5 miles)
- Hiking Time: 3-4 hours
- Elevation Gain: 550-680m
- Habitat: Rainforest
Drive to Londorossi Gate for registration, then trek through lush forest teeming with monkeys and birds. Settle into camp for your first night.
Day 2: Forest Camp (2,780m) to Shira 1 Camp (3,500m)
- Distance: 8 km (5 miles)
- Hiking Time: 4-6 hours
- Elevation Gain: 720m
- Habitat: Rainforest to Moorland
Ascend out of the forest into heather moorland, with emerging views of Kibo Peak. Camp on the Shira Plateau edge.
Day 3: Shira 1 Camp (3,500m) to Shira 2 Camp/Moir Hut (3,840m-4,200m)
- Distance: 7-14 km (4.3-8.7 miles)
- Hiking Time: 5-7 hours
- Elevation Gain: 340-700m
- Habitat: Moorland
Traverse the vast Shira Plateau, possibly detouring to Moir Hut for extra acclimatization. Enjoy expansive vistas.
Day 4: Shira 2/Moir Hut (3,840m) to Lava Tower (4,600m) to Barranco Camp (3,950m)
- Distance: 10 km (6.2 miles)
- Hiking Time: 6-8 hours
- Elevation Gain/Loss: 760m up, 650m down
- Habitat: Alpine Desert
Climb to Lava Tower for high-altitude lunch, then descend to Barranco Valley amid giant senecios. Key acclimatization day.
Day 5: Barranco Camp (3,950m) to Karanga Camp (3,995m)
- Distance: 5 km (3.1 miles)
- Hiking Time: 4-5 hours
- Elevation Gain: 45m (with undulations)
- Habitat: Alpine Desert
Scramble up the iconic Barranco Wall, then cross valleys to Karanga Camp. Short day for recovery.
Day 6: Karanga Camp (3,995m) to Barafu Camp (4,673m)
- Distance: 4 km (2.5 miles)
- Hiking Time: 4-5 hours
- Elevation Gain: 678m
- Habitat: Alpine Desert
Steady climb to Barafu, your summit base. Rest early for the big push.
Day 7: Barafu Camp (4,673m) to Uhuru Peak (5,895m) to Mweka Camp (3,100m)
- Distance: 17 km (10.6 miles)
- Hiking Time: 10-14 hours
- Elevation Gain/Loss: 1,222m up, 2,795m down
- Habitat: Arctic to Moorland
Midnight start to Stella Point, then Uhuru Peak at sunrise. Descend to Mweka for rest—triumph day!
Day 8: Mweka Camp (3,100m) to Mweka Gate (1,650m)
- Distance: 10 km (6.2 miles)
- Hiking Time: 3-4 hours
- Elevation Loss: 1,450m
- Habitat: Rainforest
Gentle descent to the gate, collect certificate, and celebrate.
Cost of an 8 Days Kilimanjaro Climb Lemosho Route
Expect 8 days climbing Kilimanjaro on Lemosho to cost $2,500-$4,500 per person, varying by operator, group size, and luxury level. Budget options start at $2,670, mid-range at $3,000-$3,500, and premium (with better gear and ratios) at $4,000+. This includes park fees (~$800-$1,000), guides/porters, tents, meals, and transfers. Add $200-$300 for tips and $100-$200 for rentals. Ethical operators ensure fair wages—avoid bargains below $2,500 for safety.
Success Rates for Climbing Kilimanjaro 8 Days Lemosho Route
The climbing Kilimanjaro 8 days Lemosho route achieves 85-95% success rates, among the highest on Kilimanjaro, due to its length and acclimatization. Average across operators: ~90%. With proper training and guides, rates hit 95%+. This outperforms shorter routes (e.g., 7-day Lemosho at 85%), making it ideal for summit seekers.
Pros and Cons of an 8 Days Lemosho Kilimanjaro Climb Mt Kilimanjaro
| Aspect | Pros | Cons |
|---|---|---|
| Duration | Extra day boosts acclimatization; high 85-95% success | Longer time commitment; more days off work |
| Scenery | Most beautiful route: Shira Plateau, diverse zones, wildlife | Remote start may involve longer drive |
| Difficulty | Gradual with “climb high, sleep low”; no technical skills needed | Moderate challenge; requires good fitness for undulations |
| Crowds | Less crowded early on; peaceful western approach | Merges with busier Machame later |
| Cost/Success | Great value at $2,500-$4,500 with top summit odds | More expensive than shorter routes like Marangu |
Overall, pros like beauty and success make it a premier choice, though cons suit those with time and budget.
Essential Tips for Your 8 Days Kilimanjaro Climb Lemosho Route
- Train Extensively: 4-6 months of cardio, hiking with weight, and altitude simulation. Focus on endurance for 6-8 hour days.
- Pack Strategically: Layers for -20°C summit to 30°C base; waterproofs, -15°C sleeping bag, headlamp, Diamox, and water purification.
- Hydrate Relentlessly: 4-5 liters daily; monitor AMS symptoms and descend if needed.
- Health Check: Pre-trip medical; get fit, vaccinate, and inform guides of issues.
- Best Timing: June-October or January-March for dry weather and clear skies.
- Operator Choice: Select reputable firms with high staff ratios, emergency kits, and reviews for ethical practices.
Ready for Your 8 Days Climbing Kilimanjaro Adventure?
The 8 days Kilimanjaro climb on Lemosho delivers an extraordinary path to Uhuru Peak, blending challenge and awe. With preparation, you’ll summit successfully. For more details or bookings, visit the Mount Kilimanjaro Guide or explore Mount Kilimanjaro routes. Book today—your peak awaits! For custom “8 days Lemosho Kilimanjaro climb Mt Kilimanjaro” queries, contact a trusted operator.
