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If you’re planning the Lemosho Route Kilimanjaro, you’re selecting one of the most scenic and successful paths to Uhuru Peak, Africa’s tallest summit at 5,895 meters (19,341 feet). The Kilimanjaro Lemosho Route starts remotely on the western side, offering pristine rainforests, the vast Shira Plateau, and superior acclimatization for high summit rates. This guide details the Lemosho Route Kili, including the Kilimanjaro Lemosho Route 8 days itinerary, difficulty, success rates, costs, and tips. Whether you’re a beginner or experienced hiker curious about how hard is Lemosho Route, this trail provides wildlife sightings, diverse habitats, and a gradual ascent for an epic adventure.
The Lemosho Route begins at Londorossi Gate on Kilimanjaro’s western flank, spanning 71 km (43 miles) with about 4,000m (13,000 ft) elevation gain. This camping route traverses rainforests, heath zones, and alpine deserts, merging with Machame after Shira Plateau for the Barranco Wall and southern summit approach, descending via Mweka Gate. Newer and remote, it offers solitude early on, with potential colobus monkey and bird sightings. It’s 6-9 days, but 8-9 recommended for acclimatization. No technical skills needed, but fitness is key for steeps and altitude.
The Kilimanjaro Lemosho Route 8 days enhances acclimatization with “climb high, sleep low.” Here’s a day-by-day for climbs (add hotel nights):
| 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 |
Shorter options combine days but lower success.
How hard is Lemosho Route? Moderate (3/5), with challenges from length, Barranco Wall scramble, and altitude, but easier than Umbwe due to gradual ascent. Good fitness recommended; no technical climbing.
Lemosho route success: 85% for 7 days, 90-95% for 8 days (company rates up to 92-95%). Overall Kilimanjaro 65-80%, Lemosho tops due to acclimatization.
Dry seasons: June-October (stable, peak crowds) or December-March (warmer, fewer people). Avoid April-May rains, as remote start may be inaccessible.
Lemosho route cost from, group 8-day: $2,800-$3,500; private from $2,599 (12+ people) to $5,579 (solo). Includes fees, camping, meals, porters. Budget options $1,700-$2,200 for 7 days. Add gear $200-500, insurance $100-200, tips $200-300, flights $650-1,500.
Pros:
Cons:
7-9 days on mountain; 71 km (43 miles).
43 miles.
Moderate; good fitness needed.
Western start, Shira Plateau, south merge.
5,895m; Kilimanjaro elevation gain ~4,000m.
43 miles.
Plan your Climbing Kilimanjaro Lemosho Route at the Mount Kilimanjaro Guide.



































