- Arusha, Tanzania
- info@kilinyotasafaris.com
- +255 765 475 767
The 7-Day Lemosho Route Kilimanjaro is widely regarded as the most beautiful route on Mount Kilimanjaro. Approaching from the remote western slopes, this trail offers a feeling of total wilderness in the first few days, far away from the crowds.
This itinerary is perfect for trekkers who want a premium experience. You will traverse the pristine Shira Plateau, hike beneath the imposing Southern Icefield, and experience nearly every climate zone—from dense rainforest to arctic summit. While the 7-day version is challenging, it offers excellent acclimatization opportunities by crossing the high-altitude Shira Plateau early in the trek. It is a journey of dramatic contrasts and unparalleled beauty.
Your journey begins with a scenic drive from Arusha/Moshi to the Londorossi Gate for registration. We then drive further up to the Lemosho Glades trailhead.
The trek starts in a pristine rainforest, arguably the lushest on the mountain. Because this side is remote, wildlife sightings are more common here than on any other route. Keep your eyes open for Blue Monkeys, Black-and-White Colobus monkeys, and if you are lucky, signs of elephants and buffaloes. We end the day at Forest Camp (also known as Mti Mkubwa, meaning “Big Tree”).
Today, we break out of the forest and into the heather and moorland zone. The trail steepens as we cross the spine of the Shira Ridge.
As you reach the crest, the landscape opens up into a vast, high-altitude plateau. You will be rewarded with your first panoramic views of Kibo Peak gleaming in the distance. We descend gently across the plateau to Shira 1 Camp. The sunset here, with Kibo to the east and the sun dipping below the Rift Valley to the west, is unforgettable.
This is a full day of exploration across the Shira Plateau, a World Heritage site and one of the highest plateaus on earth. The walking is relatively gentle, allowing you to enjoy the unique volcanic rock formations.
We trek east toward Kibo’s glaciered peak, passing the junction for the Machame Route. We then veer off the main trail to Moir Hut, a secluded campsite nestled at the base of the Lent Hills. This quiet location offers excellent opportunities for afternoon acclimatization walks.
A crucial day for acclimatization. We ascend into the alpine desert to the Lava Tower (4,630m). Seeing this 300ft volcanic plug up close is a highlight of the trip. Lunch is often served here.
You may feel the altitude, but this is part of the plan. After lunch, we descend into the Great Barranco Valley. This descent allows your body to recover while sleeping at a lower altitude (“Climb High, Sleep Low”). You arrive at Barranco Camp surrounded by the towering Barranco Wall and the Kibo massif.
We start by conquering the famous Barranco Wall. It’s a fun, non-technical scramble that rewards you with epic views. From the top, we traverse the ridges and valleys to the Karanga Valley for a hot lunch.
After lunch, we push on. The trail turns steadily uphill through the barren landscape to Barafu Camp. You are now on the final ridge before the summit. The camp is exposed and rocky, but the anticipation is palpable. Eat an early dinner and try to sleep by 7:00 PM.
The summit push begins around midnight. We ascend into the darkness, guided only by headlamps. The switchbacks up the scree slopes are steep and relentless, but your guide’s rhythm will keep you moving.
Reaching Stella Point (5,756m) at dawn is a massive milestone. From here, it’s a snowy walk along the crater rim to Uhuru Peak (5,895m). You made it!
After soaking in the views from the Roof of Africa, we descend back to Barafu for a short rest, then continue down into the heath zone to Mweka Camp for your final night.
A gentle descent takes you back through the lush rainforest. The air is oxygen-rich, and the mood is celebratory.
At Mweka Gate, you will collect your summit certificates and say farewell to your mountain crew. A vehicle will be waiting to transfer you back to your hotel for a long shower and a well-deserved celebration.
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