8 Days Mount Kilimanjaro Trekking Lemosho Route

After a good night’s sleep and a hearty breakfast, we leave Mti Mkubwa Camp (2,785m/9,137ft) and emerge from the rainforest, transitioning into the heather and moorland zone. The trail ascends steadily, offering wide, scenic views as we climb toward the rim of the Shira Plateau (3,504m/11,496ft). Covering a significant altitude gain of 719m, temperatures begin to drop as we reach higher elevations. The change in vegetation becomes noticeable, with shorter shrubs replacing the dense forest, and on clear days, trekkers can enjoy breathtaking views of Kibo Peak in the distance.

We begin the day exploring the Shira Plateau (3,504m/11,496ft), one of the highest plateaus on Earth, with a gentle walk eastward toward Kibo’s glaciered peak. The trail crosses expansive moorland meadows, leading to Shira 2 Camp (3,895m/12,779ft), where a stream provides a refreshing stop. From here, we continue toward Moir Hut, a secluded campsite at the base of Lent Hills. This area offers a variety of short acclimatization hikes, making it an ideal spot to adjust to the increasing altitude. The total altitude gained for the day is 391m, and the stunning views of Kibo Peak serve as a reminder of the challenge ahead.

Elevation: 3895m/12,779ft to 3986m/13,077ft
Altitude gained: 91m

Although you end the day around the same elevation as when you began, this day is very important for acclimatization. From Shira Plateau we continue east up a ridge, passing the junction towards the Kibo peak before we then continue, South East towards the Lava Tower, called the “Shark’s Tooth” (elev. 4650m/15,250ft). Shortly after the tower, we come to a second junction, which leads to the Arrow Glacier. We then continue to descend to overnight at Barranco Camp.

Elevation: 3986m/13,077ft to 4034m/13,235ft
Altitude gained: 48m

After breakfast, we continue on a steep ridge up to the adventurous Barranco Wall to the Karanga Valley and the junction, which connects, with the Mweka Trail. This is one of the most impressive days to see the power, agility, and strength of your crew zip over this wall with what appears such ease. Overnight at Karanga Camp.

Elevation: 4034m/13,235ft to 4662m/15,295ft
Altitude gained: 628m

We continue up toward Barafu Camp, and once reached you have now completed the South Circuit, which offers a variety of breathtaking views of the summit from many different angles. An early dinner and rest as we prepare for summit night. Overnight at Barafu Camp.

The most mentally and physically challenging day begins with an early start between midnight and 2 a.m., as we ascend from Barafu Camp (4,662m/15,295ft) toward the summit. Navigating between the Rebmann and Ratzel glaciers, we push forward through steep scree in a switchback motion, heading northwest toward Stella Point (5,756m) on the crater rim. Here, we pause briefly to witness a magnificent sunrise, while faster climbers may experience it from the summit. The final 1-hour push to Uhuru Peak (5,895m/19,341ft) is likely to be through snow-covered terrain, but step by step, we reach the highest point in Africa. After celebrations, photos, and perhaps some emotional tears of joy, we begin the steep descent back down, stopping at Barafu Camp for lunch and a quick rest before continuing to Mweka Camp (3,106m/10,190ft) for the final overnight stay. The total altitude gained is 1,233m, while the altitude lost is 2,789m, making trekking poles and gaiters essential for the loose gravel and volcanic ash terrain. A well-deserved rest awaits, marking the last night on the mountain before descent.

Elevation: 3106m/10,190ft to 1633m/5358ft
Altitude lost: 1473m

After breakfast and a heartfelt ceremony of appreciation and team bonding with your crew, it’s time to say goodbye. We continue the descent down to the Mweka Park Gate to receive your summit certificates. As the weather is drastically warmer, the terrain is wet, muddy and steep and we highly recommend Gaiters and trekking poles.

From the gate, a vehicle will meet you at Mweka village to drive you back to your hotel in Moshi (about 30 minutes). Enjoy a long overdue hot shower, dinner and celebrations!!