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Lemosho Route Length – How Long Is the Lemosho Route on Kilimanjaro?
The Lemosho Route length is one of the most commonly asked questions by trekkers preparing to climb Mount Kilimanjaro. Known as the most scenic and best-acclimatized trail, the Lemosho Route offers a balanced combination of distance, altitude gain, and gradual ascent — making it one of the most successful routes to the summit.
If you’re planning your climb, Mount Kilimanjaro Guide provides professional trekking packages, detailed itineraries, and expert support for all Lemosho Route variations on Mount Kilimanjaro.
How Long Is the Lemosho Route? (Quick Answer)
The Lemosho Route length is approximately:
70–75 km (43–47 miles)
depending on your final summit descent route.
This makes it one of the longer Kilimanjaro routes — and that distance is exactly why it has one of the highest success rates, with many operators achieving 90%+ completion.
Why the Lemosho Route Length Varies
The total trekking distance can change slightly depending on:
1. Number of days (7, 8, or 9-day versions)
7-day Lemosho: ~70 km
8-day Lemosho: ~72 km
9-day Lemosho: ~75 km
2. Descent route
Most climbers descend via Mweka Route, but some itineraries use different paths.
3. Optional camps
Some groups add:
Kosovo Camp (higher than Barafu)
Crater Camp (overnight inside the crater)
These options slightly increase the total route length.
Is the Lemosho Route Length Harder Than Other Routes?
Not necessarily — in fact, the longer distance actually makes the climb easier because:
Altitude gain is more gradual
Daily distances are smoother
There is more time to adapt
It reduces the risk of AMS (altitude sickness)
This is why many hikers rate Lemosho as the best overall route on Mount Kilimanjaro.
Lemosho Route Length and Altitude Profile
While the trail is long, the altitude increases slowly:
Start: 2,100 m
High point: 5,895 m (Uhuru Peak)
Finish: 1,640 m (Mweka Gate)
This gradual elevation profile is ideal for trekking success.
Day-by-Day Lemosho Route Itinerary with Distances
Our 8-day itinerary at Mount Kilimanjaro Guide breaks down the Lemosho Route length by day. Total: ~70 km.
| Day | Route | Distance | Elevation Gain | Hiking Time | Highlights |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Lemosho Gate to Mti Mkubwa | 6 km | 550m (1,804ft) | 3-4 hours | Rainforest start |
| 2 | Mti Mkubwa to Shira 1 | 8 km | 960m (3,150ft) | 5-6 hours | Moorland views |
| 3 | Shira 1 to Shira 2 | 7 km | 240m (787ft) | 3-4 hours | Plateau acclimatization |
| 4 | Shira 2 to Lava Tower to Barranco | 10 km | 750m up / 650m down | 6-8 hours | High point for adaptation |
| 5 | Barranco to Karanga | 5 km | 85m (279ft) | 4-5 hours | Barranco Wall |
| 6 | Karanga to Barafu | 4 km | 638m (2,093ft) | 3-4 hours | Summit base prep |
| 7 | Barafu to Uhuru to Mweka | 12 km | 1,222m up / 2,795m down | 10-14 hours | Dawn summit, descent |
| 8 | Mweka to Gate | 10 km | 1,460m down | 3-4 hours | Forest exit |
7-Day vs. 8-Day Lemosho Route: Length Comparison
| Factor | 7-Day Lemosho | 8-Day Lemosho |
|---|---|---|
| Total Length | ~56-70 km (35-43 miles) | 70 km (43 miles) |
| Success Rate | 80-85% | 85-90% |
| Daily Distance | Longer days | More balanced |
| Recommended For | Experienced | Beginners |
How Hard Is the Lemosho Route Length?
The 70 km distance is moderate, spread over days, but requires endurance. Train with:
- Weeks 1-4: 8 km walks.
- Weeks 5-8: Add elevation.
- Weeks 9-12: 10 km hikes with pack.
Focus on stamina for the route’s length.
Packing List for Lemosho Route Length
Tailored for extended treks via Mount Kilimanjaro Guide:
- Essentials: -10°C bag, layers, poles, hydration.
- Distance-Specific: Energy snacks, blister kit.
Lemosho Route vs. Machame Route: Length Comparison
| Factor | Lemosho Route | Machame Route |
|---|---|---|
| Length | 70 km (43 miles) | 62 km (38 miles) |
| Duration | 7-9 days | 6-7 days |
| Success Rate | 85-90% | 80-85% |
Frequently Asked Questions About Lemosho Route Length
What is the Lemosho Route length?
Approximately 70 km (43 miles) for standard itineraries.
Is the Lemosho Route Safe?
Yes, with low mortality (~0.0136%). Guides monitor AMS; the length helps prevention.
How does Lemosho Route length compare to others?
Longer than Machame (62 km), aiding higher success.
Is the Lemosho Route Kilimanjaro length suitable for beginners?
Yes, with training; the distance allows gradual pacing.
Lemosho Route Pricing
$2,000-$6,000 USD at Mount Kilimanjaro Guide, covering all.
How many hours do you walk per day?
Typically 5–7 hours, except on summit night (10–14 hours).
Does the Lemosho Route feel long?
It’s long but gradual, making it one of the easiest routes despite the distance.
What is the best duration: 7, 8, or 9 days?
7 days: Good
8 days: Best balance
9 days: Highest success rate
Does route length affect success rate?
Yes — longer routes give your body more time to acclimatize, increasing summit chances.
Climb the Lemosho Route With Kilimanjaro Experts
To ensure a safe and successful climb on the Lemosho Route, book your trek with Mount Kilimanjaro Guide — the leading authority on climbing Mount Kilimanjaro.
