LEMOSHO ROUTE 8 DAYS

Upon your arrival at Kilimanjaro International Airport, our team will be ready to welcome you. You’ll be transported to your hotel in Moshi town. At the hotel, I will provide you with a briefing on your upcoming trek and conduct an equipment check to ensure you have all the necessary mountain gear. Any missing gear can be easily rented on this day.

Elevation: 7,800ft to 9,500ft Distance: 6 km Hiking Time: 3-4 hours Habitat: Rain Forest We start the day by departing from Moshi to Lemosho Gate, a journey of approximately 4 hours. Upon arrival, we will complete the necessary entry formalities, have lunch, and then embark on a trek through an undisturbed forest that leads to the first campsite.

Elevation: 9,500ft to 11,500ft Distance: 8 km Hiking Time: 5-6 hours Habitat: Moorland Continuing along the trail that exits the forest, we traverse a savannah adorned with tall grasses, heather, and volcanic rock covered in lichen beards. The journey takes us through lush rolling hills, across several streams, and eventually to the Shira Ridge. Descending gently, we arrive at Shira 1 camp, where an awe-inspiring view of Kibo across the plateau awaits.

Elevation: 11,500ft to 13,800 ft Distance: 14 km Hiking Time: 5-7 hours Habitat: Moorland Embark on a captivating exploration of the Shira plateau, a vast expanse of highland beauty. A leisurely walk unfolds to the east, revealing mesmerizing views of Kibo’s glacier peak. Traverse the plateau, arriving at Shira 2 camp nestled in moorland meadows by a tranquil stream. Continuing our adventure, we reach the secluded Moir Hut, situated at the base of the Lent Hills. Here, a range of walks on the Lent Hills provides an excellent opportunity for acclimatization. Shira stands as one of the highest plateaus on our planet.

Elevation: 13,800ft to 13,000ft Distance: 7 km Hiking Time: 4-6 hours Habitat: Semi Desert departing from the Shira Plateau, our journey leads eastward along a ridge, passing the junction to Kibo’s peak. Our path then turns southeast, guiding us towards the iconic Lava Tower, often referred to as the “Shark’s Tooth.” Beyond the tower, we reach a pivotal junction, ascending to the Arrow Glacier at an impressive altitude of 16,000ft. Descending from this point, we arrive at the Barranco Hut, perched at 13,000ft. While the day concludes at the same elevation it began, it plays a crucial role in acclimatization, preparing your body for the challenges of summit day.

Elevation: 13,000ft to 13,100ft Distance: 5 km Hiking Time: 4-5 hours Habitat: Alpine Desert following a hearty breakfast, our journey unfolds as we leave Barranco behind. Ascending a steep ridge and conquering the Barranco Wall, we progress to the serene Karanga Valley campsite. This day, intentionally brief, provides a vital opportunity for acclimatization amid the captivating landscapes of the Alpine Desert.

Elevation: 13,100ft to 15,300ft Distance: 4 km Hiking Time: 4-5 hours Habitat: Alpine Desert As the sun graces the horizon; we set out from Karanga Camp after a delightful breakfast. Following the trail that converges with the Mweka Trail, we ascend toward the eminent Barafu Hut. This leg of the journey marks the completion of the South Circuit, offering panoramic views of the summit from various angles. Upon reaching Barafu, a haven at 15,300ft, we establish our camp, take respite, savor a hearty dinner, and prepare for the epic summit day. The silhouettes of Mawenzi and Kibo peaks paint an awe-inspiring backdrop against the canvas of the African sky.

Elevation: 15,300ft to 19,345ft (and down to 10,000ft) Distance: 5 km ascent / 12 km descent Hiking Time: 7-8 hours ascent / 4-6 hours descent Habitat: Arctic In the quietude of the early morning, between midnight and 2 am, our ascent to the summit commences. Wending our way between the Rebmann and Ratzel glaciers, we head northwest, navigating through challenging scree terrain towards Stella Point on the crater rim. This stretch marks the pinnacle of mental and physical fortitude on the trek. Reaching Stella Point at 18,600 ft, we pause for a brief rest, greeted by a breathtaking sunrise, weather permitting. From Stella Point, a snowy path unfolds, guiding us on a one-hour ascent to Uhuru Peak—the zenith of Mount Kilimanjaro and the African continent. For those swift of foot, the reward is witnessing the sunrise From the summit, a moment etched in memory forever Upon reaching the sublime Stella Point at 18,600 ft, take a moment to rest and bask in the glory of what could be the most spectacular sunrise you’ll ever witness, weather permitting. As you gaze over the landscape, a blanket of snow may accompany you on the hour-long ascent to the summit, Uhuru Peak—the apex of Mount Kilimanjaro and the entire African continent. Swift-footed trekkers might even catch the sunrise from this lofty vantage point. Descending from the summit, our journey unfolds in a straight descent towards the Mweka Hut campsite, with a refreshing stop at Barafu for lunch. Gaiters and trekking poles become invaluable as we navigate the loose gravel on the descent. Nestled in the upper forest, Mweka Camp might be shrouded in mist or touched by rain in the late afternoon. In the evening, relish your final dinner on the mountain before succumbing to a well-earned and restful sleep.

Elevation: 10,000ft to 5,400ft Distance: 10 km Hiking Time: 3-4 hours Habitat: Rain Forest Following a hearty breakfast, our descent continues towards the Mweka Park Gate, where you will receive your well-deserved summit certificates. Lower elevations may greet you with a mix of moisture and mud, making gaiters and trekking poles essential. Shedding layers, you may find comfort in shorts and t-shirts (keep rain gear and warmer clothing at the ready). An additional hour of trekking leads to Mweka Village, where a waiting vehicle will transport you back to your hotel in the vibrant town of Moshi, completing your extraordinary journey from the rooftop of Africa to the lush embrace of the rainforest below.

As your extraordinary journey on Mount Kilimanjaro comes to a close, you have two enticing options on the horizon: either transfer to Kilimanjaro Airport for your flight back home, where memories of this awe-inspiring trek will linger in your heart, or extend your adventure by joining our captivating safari in the national park.