7-Day Lemosho Route

A remote, wilderness approach ideal for fit hikers with limited time. Seven days of extraordinary scenery on Kilimanjaro\

Mountain days

Mountain nights

Changed overnight stops

Summit starting camp

Post-summit overnight

Rate

Duration

Summit Elevation

Difficulty

Approach

Lemosho Trailhead to Mti Mkubwa Camp

After completing registration formalities at the Lemosho trailhead and lunch, the trek begins through an undisturbed montane rainforest, where colobus monkeys, blue monkeys, duikers, small rodents and numerous bird species may be seen. The forest trail gradually climbs to Mti Mkubwa Camp, our first overnight stop.

Mti Mkubwa Camp to Shira 1 Camp

After breakfast, the trail leaves the rainforest and enters a landscape of tall grasses, heather and volcanic rock covered with lichen. We climb through rolling hills, crossing several streams before reaching Shira Ridge. The route then descends gently to Shira 1 Camp, where the first expansive views across the Shira Plateau towards Kibo become visible.

Shira 1 via Shira 2 to Moir Hut

Today we cross the Shira Plateau, walking east towards Kibo's glaciated peak. The route passes Shira 2 Camp before continuing to Moir Hut, a quieter campsite beneath the Lent Hills. Weather and energy permitting, an afternoon acclimatisation walk may be offered. The varied elevation and additional time at altitude make this an important acclimatisation day.

Moir Hut via Lava Tower to Barranco Camp

We continue east towards Lava Tower through an increasingly rocky volcanic landscape. After reaching the day's high point at Lava Tower, we descend into the Barranco Valley and camp beneath the Barranco Wall. Although Barranco is lower than Lava Tower, reaching a higher altitude before descending to sleep supports the climb-high, sleep-low acclimatisation principle.

Barranco Camp via Karanga to Barafu Camp

After breakfast, we climb the Barranco Wall, an impressive but non-technical scramble assisted by the guide team. From the top, the trail crosses a series of ridges and valleys with views of Kilimanjaro's southern glaciers. We descend into the Karanga Valley, then continue climbing steadily through a barren alpine landscape to Barafu Camp. This completes the Southern Circuit, which has provided views of Kibo from several directions. After arriving at camp, we rest, eat an early dinner and prepare clothing and equipment for tonight's summit attempt. Mawenzi and Kibo can both be seen in clear conditions.

Barafu Camp to Uhuru Peak to Mweka Camp

Around midnight, we begin the summit ascent over steep scree towards Stella Point on the crater rim. After a short rest, we continue past the glaciers to Uhuru Peak, Africa's highest point. Following summit photographs, we descend to Barafu for a brief rest and packed lunch before continuing down through the moorland to Mweka Camp. The trail can be wet and muddy — trekking poles and rain protection are strongly advised.

Mweka Camp to Mweka Gate

After breakfast and crew farewells, we descend through the montane rainforest to Mweka Gate. The lower trail can be wet and muddy — trekking poles and rain protection are strongly advised. At the gate, climbers complete park formalities and receive summit certificates. Our vehicle will meet the group for the transfer back to the hotel in Moshi.

Standard Lemosho 7 Days

Standard Lemosho 8 Days

Northern Circuit

Moderate

Exceptional

Very Low

Very High

Lemosho

Medium

High

Rongai

Very Good

Low

Good

Machame

Moderate–Challenging

Excellent

Shira

Challenging

Marangu

Umbwe

Very Challenging

Dramatic

Lower on short itineraries

7 Day Lemosho Route

Climb Kilimanjaro on our 7-day Lemosho Route via Shira Plateau, Lava Tower, Barranco, Karanga and Barafu. View the itinerary, prices and inclusions.

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