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8 Day Lemosho Route: The Ultimate Guide to Kilimanjaro Climb
If you’re planning an 8 day Lemosho route trek on Mount Kilimanjaro, this scenic path offers one of the best acclimatization profiles for summiting Uhuru Peak at 5,895 meters (19,341 feet). The Kilimanjaro Lemosho route 8 days spans approximately 70 km (43 miles), starting remotely in lush rainforests and traversing the Shira Plateau, alpine deserts, and arctic zones before descending via Mweka Gate. Renowned for its high success rates and diverse landscapes, the Lemosho route 8 days is ideal for first-time climbers seeking a balanced challenge with wildlife sightings and fewer crowds early on. This guide covers the 8 days Lemosho route itinerary, difficulty, success rates, costs, best times, and preparation tips.
What is the 8 Day Lemosho Route on Kilimanjaro?
The 8 day Lemosho route begins at Londorossi Gate on Kilimanjaro’s western flank, merging with the Machame Route after the Shira Plateau for the iconic Barranco Wall and southern summit push. At 70 km with ~4,000m elevation gain, it’s Kilimanjaro’s most beautiful route, featuring remote starts, potential elephant sightings, and “climb high, sleep low” for optimal acclimatization. it’s preferred over shorter variants (6-7 days) for higher success, suitable for moderately fit climbers. Camping-based, it’s less crowded than Machame but requires good preparation for steeps and altitude.
8 Day Lemosho Route Itinerary Breakdown
The Kilimanjaro Lemosho route 8 days maximizes acclimatization. Here’s a day-by-day table (include pre/post hotel stays in packages):
| Day | Stage | Distance | Elevation Gain/Loss | Hiking Time | Habitat |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Londorossi Gate to Mti Mkubwa Camp | 6 km (4 mi) | +650m (2,350m to 2,895m) | 3-4 hours | Rainforest |
| 2 | Mti Mkubwa to Shira 1 Camp | 8 km (5 mi) | +610m (2,895m to 3,505m) | 5-6 hours | Rainforest/Moorland |
| 3 | Shira 1 to Shira 2 Camp (or Moir Hut) | 7 km (4 mi) | +395m (3,505m to 3,900m) | 3-5 hours | Moorland |
| 4 | Shira 2 to Lava Tower to Barranco Camp | 10 km (6 mi) | +700m up, -650m down (3,900m to 4,600m to 3,950m) | 6-8 hours | Semi-Desert |
| 5 | Barranco to Karanga Camp | 5 km (3 mi) | +50m (3,950m to 4,000m) | 4-5 hours | Alpine Desert |
| 6 | Karanga to Barafu Camp | 4 km (2 mi) | +600m (4,000m to 4,600m) | 3-4 hours | Alpine Desert |
| 7 | Barafu to Uhuru Peak to Mweka Camp | 12 km (7 mi) | +1,295m up, -2,795m down (4,600m to 5,895m to 3,100m) | 10-14 hours | Arctic Summit/Moorland |
| 8 | Mweka Camp to Mweka Gate | 10 km (6 mi) | -1,300m (3,100m to 1,800m) | 3-4 hours | Rainforest |
Summit day starts midnight. This pacing reduces AMS risks.
Difficulty and Mount Kilimanjaro Success Rate on 8 Day Lemosho Route
How hard is the 8 day Lemosho route? Rated moderate (3.5/5), with challenges from distance, Barranco Wall scramble, and altitude, but balanced pacing makes it achievable for fit beginners—no technical skills required.
Lemosho route Success rates: 85-98% overall Kilimanjaro 65-80%. The extended itinerary excels in acclimatization.
Best Time to Climb Kilimanjaro Lemosho Route 8 Days
The best time for 8 day Lemosho route is late June to October (dry, stable) or December to mid-March (warm, less crowded). March-May and September-November offer good weather; avoid April-May rains for safety.
Costs of 8 Day Lemosho Route Kilimanjaro
8 day Lemosho route costs average $2,500-$4,000 per person (group), including fees ($800+), camping, meals, porters. Budget: $2,100+; premium: $3,975+ . Add $200-500 gear, $100-200 insurance, $200-300 tips, $650-1,500 flights.
Preparation Tips for 8 Day Lemosho Route
- Training: 4-6 months cardio/hikes; weighted packs for endurance.
- Gear: -15°C bag, layers, rain gear, poles.
- Health: Diamox, vaccines; hydrate.
- Booking: Ethical operators; early for peak.
- Sustainability: No trace.
Pros and Cons of the 8 Day Lemosho Route
Pros:
- High success/acclimatization.
- Scenic/wildlife.
- Remote start.
Cons:
- More expensive/longer.
- Steeps like Barranco.
- Merges with crowds.
FAQs About 8 Day Lemosho Route
What is the Success Rate for 8 Day Lemosho Route?
85-98%; top for acclimatization.
How Hard is the 8 Day Lemosho Route Kilimanjaro?
Moderate; balanced for fit climbers.
What is the Cost of 8 Day Lemosho Route ?
$2,500-$4,000 per person.
What is the Best Time for Kilimanjaro Lemosho Route 8 Days?
June-October or December-March. Ready for your Lemosho 8 day route? Book at the Mount Kilimanjaro Guide.
