Lemosho Crater Route – Overnight in the Kilimanjaro Crater Camp

Kilimanjaro’s Crater Floor and Furtwängler Glacier: A Closer Look

The crater floor of Mount Kilimanjaro and the Furtwängler Glacier are among the most fascinating and otherworldly features of the mountain. Here’s a detailed exploration of these unique elements, their characteristics, and why they are so special.

The Crater Floor: A Dusty, Dry, and Desolate Landscape

When not covered in snow, the crater floor of Kilimanjaro is a stark, lunar-like environment. Here’s what you can expect:

1. Dusty and Dry Terrain

• The crater floor is covered in grey-brown ash, scree, and rocks, creating a desolate and surreal landscape.

• The lack of vegetation and the barren terrain make it feel like you’re walking on another planet.

2. Ice Fields

• Despite the dry and dusty appearance, the crater floor is home to ice fields and isolated glaciers.

• These ice formations are remnants of Kilimanjaro’s once-extensive glacial coverage.

3. Seasonal Changes

• Snow Cover: During the colder months (especially December and January), a thin layer of snow can blanket the crater floor, softening its harsh appearance.

• Melting: In warmer months, the snow melts, revealing the dusty, rocky terrain beneath.

4. Shrinking Glaciers

• Kilimanjaro’s glaciers have been shrinking dramatically over the past century. Since 1912, they have lost about 80% of their mass due to climate change.

• The ice fields and glaciers you see today are a fraction of what they once were, making them a precious and vanishing sight.

Furtwängler Glacier: A Glacial Wonder

The Furtwängler Glacier is one of Kilimanjaro’s most famous glaciers, and staying at Crater Camp gives you the rare opportunity to see it up close.

1. Proximity to Uhuru Peak

• The Furtwängler Glacier is located near Uhuru Peak, the highest point on Kilimanjaro.

• Most climbers only see it from a distance, but those who stay at Crater Camp can walk right up to it.

2. Immense Scale and Beauty

• Standing at the base of the glacier allows you to appreciate its sheer size and grandeur, which is not visible from afar.

• The glacier’s icy blue-and-white hues and the intricate patterns carved by wind and cold are breathtaking up close.

3. A Disappearing Wonder

• Like Kilimanjaro’s other glaciers, the Furtwängler Glacier is shrinking rapidly.

• Scientists predict that the glacier could disappear entirely within the next few decades, making now the time to see it.

4. Unique Experience

• Walking up to the Furtwängler Glacier is a highlight of staying at Crater Camp.

• The glacier’s proximity to the campsite allows you to explore it at your leisure, with few other climbers around.

Why Visit the Crater Floor and Furtwängler Glacier?

1. Unique Landscape: The crater floor’s lunar-like terrain and the glacier’s icy beauty offer a surreal and unforgettable experience.

2. Rare Opportunity: Few climbers get to explore the crater floor or see the Furtwängler Glacier up close.

3. Vanishing Glaciers: With Kilimanjaro’s glaciers shrinking rapidly, now is the time to witness these natural wonders before they disappear.

4. Photographic Opportunities: The stark contrast between the dusty crater floor and the icy glacier creates stunning photo opportunities.

Kilimanjaro Crater Camp: The Ash Pit, Challenges, and Who Should Stay

Staying at Crater Camp on Mount Kilimanjaro is an extraordinary experience, but it comes with significant challenges. From exploring the Ash Pit to enduring the extreme altitude and cold, here’s everything you need to know about what to expect and who should consider this adventure.

The Ash Pit: A Reminder of Kilimanjaro’s Volcanic Past

The Ash Pit is one of the most fascinating features of Kilimanjaro’s crater. Here’s what makes it special:

1. Location

• The Ash Pit is located within Reusch Crater, the innermost of the three concentric craters on Kibo, Kilimanjaro’s highest volcanic cone.

• It is a volcanic vent, a stark reminder of Kilimanjaro’s volcanic origins.

2. The Hike

• From Crater Camp, it’s a 2–3 hour roundtrip hike to Reusch Crater and the Ash Pit.

• The hike is challenging due to the high altitude, but it offers unparalleled views and photo opportunities.

3. What You’ll See

• The Ash Pit is a steep, dramatic drop into the volcanic vent, surrounded by the barren, lunar-like landscape of the crater.

• The sight is both awe-inspiring and humbling, offering a glimpse into the mountain’s fiery past.

4. Why Visit?

• The Ash Pit is a unique geological feature that few climbers get to see up close.

• The hike is a rewarding addition to your Crater Camp experience, especially if you’re feeling strong and acclimatized.

9-Day Lemosho Crater Camp Route Itinerary

The 9-Day Lemosho Crater Camp Route is a unique and adventurous option for climbing Mount Kilimanjaro. This itinerary includes an overnight stay at Crater Camp, located near the summit, allowing climbers to explore the crater and glaciers up close. Below is a detailed breakdown of the 9-Day Lemosho Crater Camp Route, including daily activities, key considerations, and tips for a successful climb.

Day 1: Arrival at Kilimanjaro International Airport

• Activity: Transfer to the base hotel.

• Details:

  • Arrive at Kilimanjaro International Airport and transfer to your base hotel in Moshi or Arusha.

  • Attend a briefing with your guide to discuss the climb, safety measures, and answer any questions.

  • Tip: Use this time to double-check your gear and ensure you have all necessary equipment for the climb.

Day 2: Lemosho Gate to Mti Mkubwa Camp

• Elevation: 2,385m (7,825ft) to 2,895m (9,498ft).

• Distance: 6km (3.7 miles).

• Hiking Time: 3-4 hours.

• Habitat: Rainforest.

• Details:

  • After breakfast, drive to Lemosho Gate for registration and meet your guides and porters.

  • Begin the trek through lush rainforest, with opportunities to spot wildlife.

  • Arrive at Mti Mkubwa Camp for overnight stay.

  • Tip: Stay hydrated and enjoy the rainforest scenery. Pace yourself to conserve energy.

Day 3: Mti Mkubwa Camp to Shira 1 Camp

• Elevation: 2,895m (9,498ft) to 3,500m (11,500ft).

• Distance: 8km (5 miles).

• Hiking Time: 5-6 hours.

• Habitat: Moorland.

• Details:

  • Trek through the heath zone, with views of Shira Cathedral and surrounding glaciers.

  • Arrive at Shira 1 Camp for overnight stay.

  • Tip: Pay attention to your body’s response to altitude. Report any signs of altitude sickness to your guide immediately.

Day 4: Shira 1 Camp to Moir Hut

• Elevation: 3,500m (11,500ft) to 4,200m (13,780ft).

• Distance: 7km (4.3 miles).

• Hiking Time: 5-6 hours.

• Habitat: Moorland.

• Details:

  • Trek across the Shira Plateau to Moir Hut.

  • Take an acclimatization hike in the Lent Hills.

  • Tip: Use this day to acclimatize properly. Drink plenty of water and rest for the challenging days ahead.

Day 5: Moir Hut to Barranco Camp via Lava Tower

• Elevation: 4,200m (13,780ft) to 3,900m (12,800ft).

• Distance: 10km (6.2 miles).

• Hiking Time: 6-8 hours.

• Habitat: Alpine Desert.

• Details:

  • Ascend to Lava Tower (4,600m / 15,090ft) for acclimatization.

  • Descend to Barranco Camp, passing through the scenic Barranco Valley.

  • Tip: Take advantage of the acclimatization opportunities. Rest and prepare for the challenging days ahead.

Day 6: Barranco Camp to Karanga Camp

• Elevation: 3,900m (12,800ft) to 3,930m (12,900ft).

• Distance: 5km (3.1 miles).

• Hiking Time: 4-5 hours.

• Habitat: Alpine Desert.

• Details:

  • Climb the Barranco Wall and traverse to Karanga Camp.

  • Spend the afternoon acclimatizing and exploring the area.

  • Tip: Take advantage of the shorter hiking day to rest and prepare for the summit attempt.

Day 7: Karanga Camp to Barafu Camp

• Elevation: 3,930m (12,900ft) to 4,600m (15,090ft).

• Distance: 4km (2.5 miles).

• Hiking Time: 4-5 hours.

• Habitat: Alpine Desert.

• Details:

  • Trek to Barafu Camp, the base camp for the summit push.

  • Rest and prepare for the midnight summit push.

  • Tip: Eat well and stay hydrated. Sleep early to prepare for the long night ahead.

Day 8: Barafu Camp to Summit to Crater Camp

• Elevation: 4,600m (15,090ft) to 5,895m (19,341ft) and down to 5,790m (18,996ft).

• Distance: 17km (10.5 miles) round trip.

• Hiking Time: 12-16 hours.

• Habitat: Arctic Zone.

• Details:

  • Begin the summit attempt at midnight, trekking steep scree slopes to Stella Point (5,685m / 18,650ft) on the crater rim.

  • Continue to Uhuru Peak (5,895m / 19,341ft), the highest point in Africa.

  • Descend into the crater to spend the night at Crater Camp.

  • Tip: Dress warmly in layers for the summit attempt. Take small, steady steps and follow your guide’s pace.

Day 9: Crater Camp to Mweka Camp

• Elevation: 5,790m (18,996ft) to 3,100m (10,170ft).

• Distance: 17km (10.5 miles).

• Hiking Time: 6-8 hours.

• Habitat: Alpine Desert and Rainforest.

• Details:

  • Explore the crater in the morning.

  • Descend to Mweka Camp for the night.

  • Tip: Celebrate your achievement and rest after the strenuous climb.

Day 10: Mweka Camp to Mweka Gate

• Elevation: 3,100m (10,170ft) to 1,640m (5,380ft).

• Distance: 10km (6.2 miles).

• Hiking Time: 3-4 hours.

• Habitat: Rainforest.

• Details:

  • Descend through montane forest to Mweka Gate.

  • Receive your summit certificate (for those who reached Stella Point or Uhuru Peak).

  • Transfer back to the base hotel for a hot shower and celebratory dinner.

  • Tip: Reflect on your incredible experience and share your stories with fellow climbers.

Day 11: Departure

• Activity: Transfer to Kilimanjaro International Airport.

• Details:

  • After breakfast, transfer to Kilimanjaro International Airport for your onward journey.

  • Tip: Ensure you have all your belongings and travel documents ready for departure.

Cost of the Lemosho Crater Camp Route

The cost for a private climb starts at $4,099 per person and includes:

• Park fees, camping fees, and crew fees.

• Accommodation in 4-season tents and a hotel before/after the climb.

• Meals on the mountain and drinking water.

• Professional guides, porters, and safety equipment (oxygen, first aid kits, etc.).

• Transfers to/from Kilimanjaro International Airport.

Exclusions:

• International flights.

• Visa fees.

• Personal gear rentals.

• Tips for guides and porters.

• Mountaineering insurance (required for high-altitude trekking).