Lemosho: Kilimanjaro Climbing Route Review

Our complete guide to Lemosho Route

Everything that you should know about one of the best routes on Kilimanjaro with excellent acclimatization and beautiful sceneries.

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Lemosho Route Review

One of the newest routes on Kilimanjaro, Lemosho takes its start at Londorossi Gate on the western face of Mount Kilimanjaro. It was opened in the early 2000s to relieve Marangu and Machame routes from traffic and open the western parts of the Mountain to international tourists.

Together with Rongai, Lemosho is one of the most remote routes on Kilimanjaro. It takes around 3-4 hours to get to the trailhead from Moshi and 5-6 if driving from Arusha. That is why the prices for Kilimanjaro trips through Lemosho route are usually slightly higher.

Many professional climbers describe Lemosho as the most scenic route on Mount Kilimanjaro. In our review article you can find out about all the features of climbing Kilimanjaro

Lemosho route hikers descend through Mweka route, enabling them to see southern face of the Mountain as well.

Travel Style and Conditions:

Camping

Service Level:

High

Physical rating:

Medium difficulty

Trip Type:

High-altitude hiking

Age requirements:

10 years

Total Route Length:

43 miles/72 km

Traffic:

Low

Trailhead:

Londorossi gate

Lemosho: Pros and Cons

There are some things to remember while choosing Lemosho route:

Advantages:

Great acclimatization transition
Picturesque scenic views
Diverse terrain
High success rate

Things to consider:

Slightly more expensive than the others

Lemosho Route Map

Lemosho route is available in three variations. The eight-day trip is the recommended itinerary, as it provides excellent acclimatization transition and requires the travellers to hike only a few kilometers on the first days of this adventure, making it less stressful for your body.

A seven-day Lemosho trip is nowadays the most popular Lemosho option, suitable for the overwhelming majority of Kilimanjaro hikers. The combination of medium physical effort and great acclimatization is the reason why the 7-day Lemosho route features a very high summit success rate.

Finally, six-day trips through Lemosho are still the best among all 6-day KIlimanjaro trips, yet they are not as good as 7 and 8-day Lemosho variations and should be considered by the experienced hikers only.

Accommodation on the Lemosho Route

Lemosho is one of the “camping” routes on Kilimanjaro, i.e. overnight stays are in special four-season tents. The camp crew will be hiking ahead of you, making sure that the tents are pitched before your arrival.

There are several types of tents used on Lemosho route:

Living tents

This where you will be sleeping at night. Normally, two options are available here - standard mountaineering tents (like the North Face VE-25 or Mountain Hardwear), and spacious walk-in “space-stations” for those wanting to add a bit of comfort. The latter option makes it possible to deploy camp cots inside for better sleep.

Each tent sleeps two hikers, though it is always possible to pay for a single supplement and occupy a tent on your own.

Oftentimes hikers ask why a single supplement is charged for such accommodation in tents. In short, this money is needed to cover the wages and meals of extra porters, who will be carrying and washing it, as well as the tent amortization costs. All Kilimanjaro climbing packages sold by the tour operators here include twin or even triple accommodation, and the number of crew is calculated accordingly, taking an extra tent means extra trip expenses.

Mess or dining tents

This is where the meals will be served by your Kilimanjaro kitchen crew. For the small crews (up to 12 people), Kilimanjaro trekking outfitters usually use large space-station-type tents. For the larger parties rectangular-styled mess tents are usually deployed.

Both living and dining tents are made of high-quality, sturdy fabric to minimize the impacts of rain and wind and make the experience comfortable.

Dmitry

Climbing Kilimanjaro Expert

“The equipment used largely determines if your expedition is safe and successful. In our climbs, we use only high-quality, branded tents, sleeping bags and other gear from the North Face, Black Diamond, Red Fox, and other well-known manufacturers”

Living tents

Dining tents

Lemosho Altitude Profile

Unlike its older version - Shira Plateau Route to Kilimanjaro - Lemosho starts at lower elevations of Kilimanjaro, providing better acclimatization transition. Moreover, the camps situated along the route are strategically placed in the lows of the Lemosho trail, making it possible to “sleep low and hike high”. This strategy is one of the most important elements of adaptation to high altitudes, and is one of the reasons why Lemosho success rate is so impressive.

On 8-day (most recommended) program the hikers start the trip from Londorossi gate (2,200 meters above sea level). The first days are longer hikes than some may prefer, but it proves better results for acclimatization. taking a bit longer hike than those who prefer a shorter version, yet getting better acclimatization.

Six and seven-day alternatives to this trip normally start at Lemosho Glades (3,500 m) and immediately treat the trekkers to the fantastic panoramic views of Shira Plateau and the surrounding wilderness.

8-day tour (6 days of trekking)
9-day tour (7 days of trekking)
10-day tour (8 days of trekking)

Of all Kilimanjaro routes Lemosho provides the best acclimatization transition because of the following:

Reason 1 - Camp locations.

All camping grounds on Lemosho route have been demarcated with “hike hike, sleep low” principle in mind. Because of that, after a day in the “highs”, the climbers are always able to sleep in the “lows”, helping their bodies to rest from the daily physical stresses and regain stamina.

Reason 2 - Minimal physical effort.

Unlike the other routes, Lemosho requires medium physical effort from the hikers. The terrain is almost flat, and the ascent is not that steep, especially on the first days. It makes it possible for the body to spend more energy on acclimating than on handling the physical challenges of the trip.

What is the Lemosho Route Success Rate?

Sucess rate:

High | 95%

The high success rate is one of the main reasons for the popularity of the Lemosho route.In contrast, the popular Machame 6-day and Marangu 5-day treks have success rates of only five out of ten hikers reaching the top, eight and seven-day Lemosho trips offer far better chances - 85% and 95%, respectively.

At the same time, choosing the Lemosho route for your Kilimanjaro trip is not a magic formula for guaranteed success. Though ideal camp locations, flat terrain on the first days, longer duration make acclimatization and overall experience better than on the other routes, you should be prepared to hike 5-9 km per day in the wild.

How long does it take to hike the Lemosho Route?

Depending on the variation, standard Lemosho route itineraries take from six to eight days. It is, however, always possible to ask for a “custom” version of Lemosho route with more acclimatization nights at certain camps. This latter option is highly recommended if you are not sure that your fitness level matches the requirements of a standard challenge.

Lemosho route: 6, 7 or 8 days?

There are three variations of Lemosho route distance and pace, each taking a different time to complete.

SIX-DAY LEMOSHO (the shortest option)

Six day Lemosho route option is mainly recommended for the trekkers with certain hiking experience, and, desirably, prior acclimatization on the other mountains. For example, if you have made the second peak of Tanzania - Mount Meru - then this option is just right for you. Also, on this variation of Lemosho route you should be prepared to start on the higher elevation than on the seven and eight-day treks.

In short, it is the first days of the Lemosho 6-day trek that make it different from the longer options. starting on the so-called Lemosho Glades at 3,500 m, where you are dropped off by the Kilimanjaro team vehicle.Then, you will hike straight to Shira 2 Camp at 3,900 m, gaining about 400 meters on your first day on Mount Kilimanjaro. This experience is sometimes challenging for beginners, yet the difficulty can not be compared to the other six-day Kilimanjaro treks.

As a result, success rate on Lemosho six-day tour is far higher than, for example, the Machame 6-day option, making it the best six-day trek on Kilimanjaro. We strongly recommend it to everyone who has some hiking experience and whose schedule is too tight for the longer option.

SEVEN-DAY LEMOSHO (the most popular option, suitable for all)

Seven-day Lemosho is our most popular option. Over half of all trekkers choose it, following our advice. This trek has an excellent acclimatization profile and, unlike a 6-day variation, has an easy start.

Though the trailhead is also on the Lemosho Glades at 3,500 m, the first camp you will go to for an overnight stay is Shira 1 Camp at 3,505. Sleeping at this altitude always has immeasurably positive effect on the adaptation to high altitude. The second day is an easy hike to Shira 2 Camp at 3,900 m. Combined with a short hike to the point (4,110 m) on the way to Lava Tower and back makes the acclimatization process easy and comfortable. Because of that, on the third day you will be physically ready for a long hike to Barranco Camp (3,960 m) through Lava Tower (4,630 m).

Barranco Camp is a place where the Lemosho route converges with Machame. It can be pretty large, especially in August and January. After that, the route follows a traditional summit itinerary with overnights at Karanga and Barafu Camps.

So, unlike Lemosho 6-day option, this one actually splits the first day on Lemosho glades into two, giving your body more time and resources for getting used to the altitude. Even those for whom Kilimanjaro is the first true mountaineering experience almost always reach Uhuru Peak successfully through the Lemosho 7-day route.

This option is recommended for all categories of trekkers and is the most popular option for our join-group departures.

Attention: Some operators offer a different and considerably more taxing variation of 7-day Lemosho trek to Kilimanjaro. Specifically, their itinerary features more days on the lower elevations for better acclimatization, on the fifth day the hikers go from Barranco Camp straight to Barafu summit camp (where you actually don’t sleep in the night), without setting a camp at Karanga. This exercise can drain your stamina to the minimum, leaving little for the summiting attempt. Be cautious while choosing your trekking agency.

EIGHT-DAY LEMOSHO ((almost) guaranteed success)

The eight-day Lemosho experience on Kilimanjaro is by far one of the best because of excellent acclimatization transition. Not only will you spend more days on the lower, “starting” slopes western part of the mountain, but also the main part of the trek is not cut in any way, treating you to the complete easy-to-go Kilimanjaro experience.

Unlike six- and seven-day treks, which start on the Lemosho Glades at 3,500 m, it starts at a lower altitude at Londorossi Gate - one of the entry points to Kilimanjaro National Park.. Londorossi Gate elevation is 2,200 m (7220 ft), one of the entry points to Kilimanjaro National Park. Because of that start at a low altitude, it is very unlikely that you will feel any symptoms of acclimatization.

Your first day on Lemosho 8-day trek will begin in the rainforest zone, from where you will go to Mti Mkubwa (Big Tree) camp at 2,780 m for an overnight stay. A small hike to the acclimatization point on the way to Shira 1 Camp will further boost your acclimatization. The second and the third night will be in Shira 1 Camp (3,505 m) and Shira 2 Camp (3,900 m). Both camps are under 4000 m, making them excellent for adaptation for high altitudes.

Starting from the 4th day onwards the trek will follow a traditional Lemosho itinerary with overnights at Barranco, Karanga and Barafu Summit and Millenium camps. By that time you will have already grown a potent acclimatization shield, which will make your final days less arduous.

Overall, it is only the Northern Circuit trek that is a match to Lemosho 8-day in terms of acclimatization profile, though it is longer and more demanding to the fitness level. It makes Lemosho 8-day choice perfect for everyone who wants to maximize the chances to reach Uhuru Peak.

Eight-day Kilimanjaro adventure through Lemosho route is available as a private trip. If you want to explore Kilimanjaro with your family, friends or colleagues, or other company, where the skills and fitness level of the trip participants vary, then Lemosho 8-day trek becomes an ideal alternative.

Kilimanjaro Climbing Tours via Lemosho route

8-day tour (6 days of trekking)
9-day tour (7 days of trekking)
10-day tour (8 days of trekking)

Day 1 | Arrival

Arrival at Kilimanjaro International Airport (JRO), where you will meet an Altezza Travel representative, and transfer to the hotel under the rate. The hotel will provide all the essentials for a comfortable stay: cozy rooms, hot water, polite staff, a swimming pool, and Internet access. In the evening there will be a briefing with our managers, who will also make sure you are ready to begin the climb.

Note: Check-in starts at 2:00 PM.

Day 2 | High-Altitude Drop Off Destination And Trekking To Shira 2 Camp

A guide and a mountain support crew will arrive at the hotel in the morning in order to meet you and hold another briefing, after which you will travel by vehicle (roughly 3–4 hours) to Kilimanjaro National Park's western entrance: Londorossi Gate (2,200 m). After the quick formality of acquiring climbing permits and registering with the search and rescue service, the group continues upwards towards their drop off point by off-road vehicles (reaching 3,500 meters). Here you can see stunning views of the Shira Plateau for the first time.

The route from your drop off point to your first high-altitude camp Shira 2 features a moderate gain in altitude and is not too physically challenging. Due to this, you will be able to properly begin the process of acclimatization. By the time you reach the camp, our professional mountain crew will prepare everything necessary, put tents and cook dinner for you.

This will be your first day at this altitude, so it is strongly recommended you heed the following instructions from this point on:

Abstain from consuming alcohol and caffeine
Drink over 4 liters of bottled water daily (little by little, frequently).

At night you may experience discomfort associated with acclimatization to the high altitude: because of a reduction in your waking breathing pattern, your body gets less oxygen than during the day. Taking altitude into account, you may therefore start feeling sick and have a headache. Pay attention to your own body and tell your guide if you start feeling any symptoms of altitude sickness.

Elevation

3,500 m to 3,900 m

Hiking time

5-6 hours

Distance

11 km

Difficulty

Low

Habitat

Meadows

Day 3 | Trekking From Shira 2 Camp To The Lava Tower and Descent To Barranco Camp

After breakfast you will leave Shira 2 Camp (3,900 m) and start your way to the key point of the route: Lava Tower (4,630 m). This section of the route has a lot of ascents and descents that end in a camp at over 4,600 meters. It might be difficult, and you may feel some discomfort, but in order to successfully acclimate to the altitude you have to spend at least 1–2 hours here, so this is where lunch will be.

Then you will descend to Barranco Camp (3,960 m). Here you can see the famous Barranco Wall, impressive in both its massive size and steepness! Next day you will be climbing it, but don't worry: it features a very simple hiking trail.

Note: If one or more participants feel sick, the group may refrain from passing the Lava Tower and adjust the route, following instead the road for porters. In this case you will not reach an altitude of 4,630 meters, getting up only to a maximum of 4,400 meters.

Elevation

3,900 m to 4,630 m
4,630 m to 3,960 m

Hiking time

6-8 hours

Distance

12 km

Difficulty

Medium

Habitat

Moorland

Day 4 | Trekking from Barranco Camp to Karanga Camp

Early wakeup, breakfast and the start of summiting Barranco Wall (we recommend you leave the camp as early as possible to avoid crowds of the other groups). Hiking up the gorge wall is not difficult and only takes around an hour. After the climb you can have a rest and take photos in front of the Kibo volcano.

Then you start a more difficult hike to Karanga Camp, which features numerous ascents and descents during the route, but don't worry: our guides are experts at choosing an optimal pace for the group. After reaching the camp you will be offered warm lunch. After a couple of hours you will have to complete an acclimatization hike in the direction of Barafu Camp with a 300-meter gain in altitude, and then descent back down to the camp.

Note: The acclimatization hike is an easy trek with a slight gain in altitude done in order to speed up the acclimatization process. You should take the acclimatization hikes very seriously. They help increase your chances of successfully summiting Kilimanjaro and save you from the consequences of altitude sickness.

Acclimatization hike:
Change in Elevation: Karanga Camp (4,035 m) — Destination point en route to Barafu Camp (4,270 m)
Hiking distance: 2.5 km
Hiking time: 1–2 hours

Elevation

3,960 m to 4,035 m

Hiking time

4-5 hours

Distance

5 km

Difficulty

Medium

Habitat

Moorland

Day 5 | Trekking from Karanga Camp to Barafu Camp

In the morning after breakfast you begin your way to Barafu Summit Camp (4,640 m), the starting point for a night summiting Uhuru Peak (5,895 m). Our team will set up a camp for you ahead of time, including tents and sleeping bags, so you can relax. After regaining strength, you have to complete an acclimatization hike towards the intermediate Kosovo Summit Camp (4,800 m) and then back to Barafu Camp, where you will be served a hot dinner. It is better to spend the remainder of the day resting and sleeping before night summiting.

Acclimatization hike:
Change in Elevation: Barafu Camp (4,640 m) — Kosovo Camp (4,800 m)
Hiking distance: 2 km
Hiking time: 1–2 hours

Elevation

4,035 m to 4,640 m

Hiking time

4-5 hours

Distance

6 km

Difficulty

Medium

Habitat

Alpine desert

Day 6 | Ascent to Uhuru Peak and Descent to Millennium Camp

Departure from Barafu Camp (4,640 m) at night and the start of summiting Kilimanjaro: Uhuru Peak (5,895 m). Technically the climb is relatively simple; however, the most challenging part is the high altitude. Each pair of climbers will get a personal guide for the entire ascent to monitor your physical and mental conditions. After your successful ascent to Uhuru Peak, you can descend to the nearest glacier if desired. Then you will return to Barafu Camp and after a 2-hour rest continue your descent to Millennium Camp (3,820 m).

Note: Don't forget that 90% of all accidents occur during the descent, including all broken arms and legs. Please pay attention to your feet, as there is a high risk of damaging your toenails.

Elevation

4,640 m to 5,895 m
5,895 m to 3,820 m

Hiking time

8-12 hours

Distance

15 km

Difficulty

High

Habitat

Arctic

Day 7 | Descent from Millennium Camp to Mweka Gate

The camp is situated in a tropical rainforest. When you wake up, you will feel relief from the reduction of the height and the satisfaction of reaching the summit. After a warm breakfast, you will head for the park's exit: Mweka Gate (1,640 m). After your descent the whole group will gather to congratulate you, followed by offering you a chance to share your opinions on the climb in the guestbook. Lastly, we will present you with your commemorative certificates in our office and provide you a transfer back to the hotel.

Elevation

3,820 m to 1,640 m

Hiking time

4-5 hours

Distance

12 km

Difficulty

Low

Habitat

Rainforest

Day 8 | Departure

Rest in the hotel and transfer to the airport.

Note: Hotel check-out is at 11:00 AM. In case you need a late check-out because of an evening flight, there is the option to extend your hotel stay for an extra fee.

Day 1 | Arrival

Note: Check-in starts at 2:00 PM.

Day 2 | High-Altitude Drop Off Destination And Trekking To Shira 1 Camp

The route from your drop off point to your first high-altitude camp Shira 1 features a small gain in altitude and is not too physically challenging. Due to this, you will be able to properly begin the process of acclimatization. By the time you reach the camp, our professional mountain crew will prepare everything necessary, put tents and cook dinner for you.

This will be your first day at this altitude, so it is strongly recommended you heed the following instructions from this point on:

Abstain from consuming alcohol and caffeine
Drink over 4 liters of bottled water daily (little by little, frequently).

Elevation

3,500 m to 3,505 m

Hiking time

1-2 hours

Distance

5 km

Difficulty

Low

Habitat

Meadows

Day 3 | Trekking From Shira 1 Camp to Shira 2 Camp

Departing from Shira 1 Camp (3,505 m) and a light trekking towards the second high altitude camp: Shira 2 Camp (3,900 m). This trek is not difficult and you will be able to enjoy spectacular views of Africa and the unique flora of Kilimanjaro and the surrounding area. Shira 2 Camp is the best place on the trip to see Mount Meru (the fifth summit of Africa), weather permitting.

When you arrive to camp you will have lunch, and after a two-hour rest everyone will complete an acclimatization hike towards Lava Tower Camp that features a 200-meter gain in altitude.

Note: The acclimatization hike is an easy trek with a slight gain in altitude done in order to speed up the acclimatization process. You should take the acclimatization hikes very seriously. They help increase your chances of successfully summiting Kilimanjaro and save you from the consequences of altitude sickness.

Acclimatization hike:
Change in Elevation: Shira 2 Camp (3,900 m) — Destination point en route to Lava Tower (4,110 m)
Hiking distance: 2 km
Hiking time: 1–2 hours

Elevation

3,505 m to 3,900 m

Hiking time

3-4 hours

Distance

7 km

Difficulty

Low

Habitat

Moorland

Day 4 | Trekking From Shira 2 Camp To The Lava Tower and Descent To Barranco Camp

Note: If one or more participants feel sick, the group may refrain from passing the Lava Tower and adjust the route, following instead the road for porters. In this case you will not reach an altitude of 4,630 meters, getting up only to a maximum of 4,400 meters.

Elevation

3,900 m to 4,630 m
4,630 m to 3,960 m

Hiking time

6-8 hours

Distance

12 km

Difficulty

Medium

Habitat

Moorland

Day 5 | Trekking From Barranco Camp To Karanga Camp

Then you start a more difficult hike to Karanga Camp, which features numerous ascents and descents during the route, but don't worry: our guides are experts at choosing an optimal pace for the group. After reaching the camp you will be offered warm lunch. After a couple of hours you will have to complete an acclimatization hike in the direction of Barafu Camp with a 200-meter gain in altitude, and then descent back down to the camp.

Acclimatization hike:
Change in Elevation: Karanga Camp (4,035 m) — Destination point en route to Barafu Camp (4,270 m)
Hiking distance: 2.5 km
Hiking time: 1–2 hours

Elevation

3,960 m to 4,035 m

Hiking time

4-5 hours

Distance

5 km

Difficulty

Medium

Habitat

Moorland

Day 6 | Trekking From Karanga Camp To Barafu Camp

Acclimatization hike:
Change in Elevation: Barafu Camp (4,640 m) — Kosovo Camp (4,800 m)
Hiking distance: 2 km
Hiking time: 1–2 hours

Elevation

4,035 m to 4,640 m

Hiking time

4-5 hours

Distance

6 km

Difficulty

Medium

Habitat

Alpine desert

Day 7 | Ascent To Uhuru Peak And Descent To Millennium Camp

Note: Don't forget that 90% of all accidents occur during the descent, including all broken arms and legs. Please pay attention to your feet, as there is a high risk of damaging your toenails.

Elevation

4,640 m to 5,895 m
5,895 m to 3,820 m

Hiking time

8-12 hours

Distance

15 km

Difficulty

High

Habitat

Arctic

Day 8 | Descent From Millennium Camp To Mweka Gate

The camp is situated in a tropical rainforest. When you wake up, you will feel relief from the reduction of the height and the satisfaction of reaching the summit. After a warm breakfast, you will head for the park's exit: Mweka Gate (1,650 m). After your descent the whole group will gather to congratulate you, followed by offering you a chance to share your opinions on the climb in the guestbook. Lastly, we will present you with your commemorative certificates in our office and provide you a transfer back to the hotel.

Elevation

3,820 m to 1,650 m

Hiking time

4-5 hours

Distance

12 km

Difficulty

Low

Habitat

Rainforest

Day 9 | Departure

Rest in the hotel and transfer to the airport.

Note: Hotel check-out is at 11:00 AM. In case you need a late check-out because of an evening flight, there is the option to extend your hotel stay for an extra fee.

Day 1 | Arrival

Note: Check-in starts at 2:00 PM.

Day 2 | Trekking From Londorossi Gate to Mti Mkubwa Camp

A guide and a mountain support crew will arrive at the hotel in the morning in order to meet you and hold another briefing, after which you will travel by vehicle (roughly 3-4 hours) to Kilimanjaro National Park's western entrance: Londorossi Gate (2,200 m). After the quick formality of acquiring climbing permits and registering with the search and rescue service, the group will start trekking towards the first camp of the route: Mti Mkubwa Camp (2,780 m). Raincoats are necessary on this day in particular, as you will be walking through rainforest. By the time you reach the camp, our professional mountain crew will prepare everything necessary, put tents and cook lunch for you. After lunch the group will depart on an acclimatization hike towards Shira 1 Camp that features a 300 meter gain in altitude, after which you will hike back down to Mti Mkubwa Camp, where a hot dinner will be waiting.

Note: The acclimatization hike is an easy trek with a slight gain in altitude done in order to speed up the acclimatization process. You should take the acclimatization hikes very seriously. They help increase your chances of successfully climbing Kilimanjaro and save you from the consequences of altitude sickness.

This will be your first day at this altitude, so it is strongly recommended you heed the following instructions from this point on:

Abstain from consuming alcohol and caffeine
Drink over 4 liters of bottled water daily (little by little, frequently).

Acclimatization hike:
Change in Elevation: Mti Mkubwa Camp (2,780 m) — Destination point en route to Shira 1 Camp (3,095 m)
Hiking distance: 2 km
Hiking time: 1 hour

Elevation

2,200 m to 2,780 m

Hiking time

3-5 hours

Distance

6 km

Difficulty

Low

Habitat

Rainforest

Day 3 | Trekking From Mti Mkubwa Camp to Shira 1 Camp

An early wakeup, breakfast, and a gradual trek upwards until 3,500 meters; at that point for the first time you will be able to see stunning views of Shira Plateau and Kibo Volcano.

On the whole, the passage from Mti Mkubwa Camp to the second high-altitude Shira 1 Camp (3,505 m) is rather easy and takes about 5-6 hours. This will allow you to start the acclimatization process gradually, which is a mainstay of good trekking. When you reach the camp, your team of specialists will cook you lunch and you will have the chance to rest in your tent or walk around the nearby area.

Elevation

2,780 m to 3,505 m

Hiking time

5-6 hours

Distance

5 km

Difficulty

Low

Habitat

Meadows

Day 4 | Trekking From Shira 1 Camp to Shira 2 Camp

When you arrive to camp you will have lunch, and after a two-hour rest everyone will complete an acclimatization hike towards Lava Tower Camp that features a 300 meter gain in altitude.

Acclimatization hike:
Change in Elevation: Shira 2 Camp (3,900 m) — Destination point en route to Lava Tower (4,270 m)
Hiking distance: 2 km
Hiking time: 1–2 hours

Elevation

3,505 m to 3,900 m

Hiking time

3-4 hours

Distance

7 km

Difficulty

Low

Habitat

Moorland

Day 5 | Trekking From Shira 2 Camp to The Lava Tower and Descent to Barranco Camp

Note:

If one or more participants feel sick, the group may refrain from passing the Lava Tower and adjust the route, following instead the road for porters. In this case you will not reach an altitude of 4,630 meters, getting up only to a maximum of 4,400 meters.

Elevation

3,900 m to 4,630 m
4,630 m to 3,960 m

Hiking time

6-8 hours

Distance

12 km

Difficulty

Medium

Habitat

Moorland

Day 6 | Trekking From Barranco Camp to Karanga Camp

Then you start a more difficult hike to Karanga Camp, which features numerous ascents and descents during the route, but don't worry: our guides are experts at choosing an optimal pace for the group. After reaching the camp you will be offered warm lunch. After a couple of hours, you will have to complete an acclimatization hike in the direction of Barafu Camp with a 200-meter gain in altitude, and then descent back down to the camp.

Acclimatization hike:
Change in Elevation: Karanga Camp (4,035 m) — Destination point en route to Barafu Camp (4,270 m)
Hiking distance: 2.5 km
Hiking time: 1–2 hours

Elevation

3,960 m to 4,035 m

Hiking time

4-5 hours

Distance

5 km

Difficulty

Medium

Habitat

Moorland

Day 7 | Trekking From Karanga Camp to Barafu Camp

Acclimatization hike:
Change in Elevation: Barafu Camp (4,640 m) — Kosovo Camp (4,800 m)
Hiking distance: 2 km
Hiking time: 1–2 hours

Elevation

4,035 m to 4,640 m

Hiking time

4-5 hours

Distance

6 km

Difficulty

Medium

Habitat

Alpine desert

Day 8 | Ascent to Uhuru Peak and Descent to Millennium Camp

Departure from Barafu Camp (4,640 m) at night and the start of summiting Kilimanjaro: Uhuru Peak (5,895 m). Technically the climb is relatively simple; however, the most challenging part is the high altitude. Each pair of climbers will get a personal guide for the entire ascent to monitor your physical and mental conditions. After your successful ascent to Uhuru Peak - the top of Mount Kilimanjaoro and the last point of the climb on the Lemosho Route, you can descend to the nearest glacier if desired. Then you will return to Barafu Camp and after a 2-hour rest continue your descent to Millennium Camp (3,820 m).

Note:

Don't forget that 90% of all accidents occur during the descent, including all broken arms and legs. Please pay attention to your feet, as there is a high risk of damaging your toenails.

Elevation

4,640 m to 5,895 m
5,895 m to 3,820 m

Hiking time

8-12 hours

Distance

15 km

Difficulty

High

Habitat

Artctic

Day 9 | Descent From Millennium Camp to Mweka Gate

The camp is situated in a tropical rainforest. When you wake up, you will feel relief from the reduction of the height and the satisfaction of reaching the summit. After a warm breakfast, you will head for the park's exit: Mweka Gate (1,650 m). After your descent the whole group will gather to congratulate you, followed by offering you a chance to share your opinions on the climb in the guestbook. Lastly, we will present you with your commemorative certificates in our office and provide you a transfer back to the hotel.

Elevation

3,820 m to 1,650 m

Hiking time

4-5 hours

Distance

12 km

Difficulty

Low

Habitat

Rainforest

Day 10 | Departure

Rest in the hotel and transfer to the airport.

Note: Hotel check-out is at 11:00 AM. In case you need a late check-out because of an evening flight, there is the option to extend your hotel stay for an extra fee.

What is the Lemosho Route Cost?

Because of its remote starting location of Lemosho route trailhead - western slope of Kilimanjaro - this route is a bit more difficult to access. It makes the price slightly higher than on the other Kilimanjaro routes. The higher price, however, is offset by low traffic and great scenic views.

All payments in Tanzania are in USD only. The prices in RUB and EUR are given for informational purposes only.

Classic
Premium

All payments in Tanzania are in USD only. The prices in RUB and EUR are given for informational purposes only.

Our classic adventures are what the majority of climbers are looking for. The combination of great comfort and high safety standards makes our classic Kilimanjaro hikes enjoyable and memorable. This is the most popular option among our clients.

This climbing package includes everything that a climber may need for the hike - our experienced mountain crews, high-quality group equipment, nutritionist-designed meals. Our safety protocols, though, are the same for all our hiking adventures - only the guides with Wilderness First Responder certification are assigned to lead a party. Other safety measures include a supply of oxygen cylinders, complete medical kits and compulsory medical check-ups (two per day).

The progress of each trekking party is tracked with GPS device. You may share the link with your family and friends, who will be able to monitor your progress in a real-time mode.

Before and after the adventure you will stay in a good hotel with caring staff, hot water, reliable Wi-Fi, restaurant and swimming pool.

5 days climbing + 2 days in a hotel	1 pax	2 pax	3 pax	4 pax	5 pax	6 pax	7 pax	8+ pax
Marangu route 7 days 7 days	$2 571	$2 030	$1 872	$1 813	$1 771	$1 682	$1 660	$1 627	Details
5-day climbing Marangu route 7 days + 2 days in a hotel Marangu or “Coca-Cola” route is the best route to Kilimanjaro today. It is the only route where overnight stays are in huts. This makes Marangu a good option for hiking during the rainy season. The route takes its start at the south-east of Mt Kilimanjaro. The entrance to the route, Marangu Gate, is quite close to our climbing base at Aishi Machame Hotel. The ride there takes about 1.5 hours. The Kilimanjaro "Coca-Cola" route features a well-trodden trail running through all the climate zones - from tropical rainforest to eternal ice, and will also will treat you to scenic African landscapes. Being the most popular and the least expensive, the route may be crowded in July-September and December - March. A 6-day option is strongly recommended over the 5-day one for better acclimatization.

Marangu route 7 days 7 days

$2 571

$2 030

$1 872

$1 813

$1 771

$1 682

$1 660

$1 627

6 days climbing + 2 days in a hotel	1 pax	2 pax	3 pax	4 pax	5 pax	6 pax	7 pax	8+ pax
Lemosho route 8 days 8 days	$3 228	$2 542	$2 309	$2 249	$2 178	$2 156	$2 086	$2 043	Details
6-day climbing Lemosho route 8 days + 2 days in a hotel Featuring captivating scenic vistas, pristine wildlife, excellent acclimatization opportunities and low traffic of climbers, Lemosho is our personal first favorite for reaching the roof of Africa. After a 4-hour long drive from Moshi to Londorossi Gate you'll find yourself on the western slope of Mt Kilimanjaro, from there the route will take you to the world-famous Shira Plateau. That's where you'll embark on your adventure through all climate zones - from alpine meadows to eternal ice. The climb is smooth and gradual, featuring the highest success rate of all routes on Kilimanjaro. Six, seven and eight-day programs are available, so you can choose depending on the amount of time at your disposal. Longer programs are always recommended over the shorter ones for better acclimatization. 6 and 7-day Lemosho programs start from a high-altitude drop-off: you’ll be transferred to the elevation of 3,500 m/ 11,500 f by an off-road vehicle and start the hike from there. This is meant to maximize acclimatization transition - the higher you start, the easier your adaptation will be.
Machame route 8 days 8 days	$3 191	$2 519	$2 251	$2 203	$2 169	$2 102	$2 040	$1 988	Details
6-day climbing Machame route 8 days + 2 days in a hotel The second most popular option among the climbers is the Machame route, also known as “the Whiskey Route”. This route offers a wide variety of views, landscapes and experiences. The starting point of the route, Machame Gate, is only a 20-minute drive from Aishi Machame Hotel. Located on the southern slope of Mt Kilimanjaro, Machame Gate will lead you to the top of Kilimanjaro along the exciting footpath which starts at the tropical forest, then runs through all the climate zones and finishes with the Arctic desert in the summit area. Camps along the trek are favorably located for a smooth and gradual acclimatization transition process. On the 3rd day Machame Route converges with Lemosho and Umbwe at Barranco camp. You can choose between a six or seven-day climb for the Kilimanjaro Machame route itinerary. The latter one is highly preferred for better acclimatization transition.
Rongai route 8 days 8 days	$3 264	$2 569	$2 333	$2 271	$2 210	$2 177	$2 104	$2 062	Details
6-day climbing Rongai route 8 days + 2 days in a hotel Rongai is the only of routes of Kilimanjaro starting on the northern slope of the mount. Though this part of the Mountain is rarely visited by hikers, it is not less interesting than the popular southern and western slopes. We recommend Rongai to all those who like reclusive hiking experiences. Getting to the trailhead - Nalemuru Gate - usually takes 3-4 hours from Altezza Lodge or Aishi Machame Hotel. Rongai is also the only route that passes by Mawenzi, one of the three volcanic cones of Kilimanjaro and the third highest peak in Africa. The way back lies through Marangu, and thus you will be able to see both sides of the mountain. Though six and seven-day programs are available for the Rongai route itinerary, a longer option is recommended for better acclimatization transition.
Marangu route 8 days 8 days	$3 143	$2 428	$2 216	$2 145	$2 092	$2 008	$1 998	$1 940	Details
6-day climbing Marangu route 8 days + 2 days in a hotel Marangu or “Coca-Cola” route is the best route to Kilimanjaro today. It is the only route where overnight stays are in huts. This makes Marangu a good option for hiking during the rainy season. The route takes its start at the south-east of Mt Kilimanjaro. The entrance to the route, Marangu Gate, is quite close to our climbing base at Aishi Machame Hotel. The ride there takes about 1.5 hours. The Kilimanjaro "Coca-Cola" route features a well-trodden trail running through all the climate zones - from tropical rainforest to eternal ice, and will also will treat you to scenic African landscapes. Being the most popular and the least expensive, the route may be crowded in July-September and December - March. A 6-day option is strongly recommended over the 5-day one for better acclimatization.
Umbwe route 8 days 8 days	$3 130	$2 496	$2 253	$2 210	$2 151	$2 119	$2 057	$2 008	Details
6-day climbing Umbwe route 8 days + 2 days in a hotel Daring experienced climbers seeking adventure and challenge will find just what they want on Umbwe. A short steep climb traversing all the climate zones - from tropical rainforest to eternal ice - will put your strength and endurance to the test. Like no other route on Kilimanjaro Umbwe gives a sense of achievement to those who reach the summit. Your first day on the mountain will start from Umbwe Gate and continue with a lengthy trek to the first camp on your way - Umbwe camp. In spite of the challenge that Umbwe poses to hikers, well thought-out location of camps will contribute to proper acclimatization. The trek through the Umbwe trail is available only as a 6-day program. Recommended only to experienced hikers in good physical shape, as the Umbwe route difficulty is quite high for inexperienced trekkers.

Lemosho route 8 days 8 days

$3 228

$2 542

$2 309

$2 249

$2 178

$2 156

$2 086

$2 043

Machame route 8 days 8 days

$3 191

$2 519

$2 251

$2 203

$2 169

$2 102

$2 040

$1 988

Rongai route 8 days 8 days

$3 264

$2 569

$2 333

$2 271

$2 210

$2 177

$2 104

$2 062

Marangu route 8 days 8 days

$3 143

$2 428

$2 216

$2 145

$2 092

$2 008

$1 998

$1 940

Umbwe route 8 days 8 days

$3 130

$2 496

$2 253

$2 210

$2 151

$2 119

$2 057

$2 008

7 days climbing + 2 days in a hotel	1 pax	2 pax	3 pax	4 pax	5 pax	6 pax	7 pax	8+ pax
Lemosho route 9 days 9 days	$3 737	$2 932	$2 649	$2 569	$2 532	$2 447	$2 373	$2 315	Details
7-day climbing Lemosho route 9 days + 2 days in a hotel Featuring captivating scenic vistas, pristine wildlife, excellent acclimatization opportunities and low traffic of climbers, Lemosho is our personal first favorite for reaching the roof of Africa. After a 4-hour long drive from Moshi to Londorossi Gate you'll find yourself on the western slope of Mt Kilimanjaro, from there the route will take you to the world-famous Shira Plateau. That's where you'll embark on your adventure through all climate zones - from alpine meadows to eternal ice. The climb is smooth and gradual, featuring the highest success rate of all routes on Kilimanjaro. Six, seven and eight-day programs are available, so you can choose depending on the amount of time at your disposal. Longer programs are always recommended over the shorter ones for better acclimatization. 6 and 7-day Lemosho programs start from a high-altitude drop-off: you’ll be transferred to the elevation of 3,500 m/ 11,500 f by an off-road vehicle and start the hike from there. This is meant to maximize acclimatization transition - the higher you start, the easier your adaptation will be.
Machame route 9 days 9 days	$3 594	$2 845	$2 557	$2 486	$2 447	$2 375	$2 312	$2 248	Details
7-day climbing Machame route 9 days + 2 days in a hotel The second most popular option among the climbers is the Machame route, also known as “the Whiskey Route”. This route offers a wide variety of views, landscapes and experiences. The starting point of the route, Machame Gate, is only a 20-minute drive from Aishi Machame Hotel. Located on the southern slope of Mt Kilimanjaro, Machame Gate will lead you to the top of Kilimanjaro along the exciting footpath which starts at the tropical forest, then runs through all the climate zones and finishes with the Arctic desert in the summit area. Camps along the trek are favorably located for a smooth and gradual acclimatization transition process. On the 3rd day Machame Route converges with Lemosho and Umbwe at Barranco camp. You can choose between a six or seven-day climb for the Kilimanjaro Machame route itinerary. The latter one is highly preferred for better acclimatization transition.
Rongai route 9 days 9 days	$3 772	$2 960	$2 678	$2 581	$2 557	$2 467	$2 393	$2 335	Details
7-day climbing Rongai route 9 days + 2 days in a hotel Rongai is the only of routes of Kilimanjaro starting on the northern slope of the mount. Though this part of the Mountain is rarely visited by hikers, it is not less interesting than the popular southern and western slopes. We recommend Rongai to all those who like reclusive hiking experiences. Getting to the trailhead - Nalemuru Gate - usually takes 3-4 hours from Altezza Lodge or Aishi Machame Hotel. Rongai is also the only route that passes by Mawenzi, one of the three volcanic cones of Kilimanjaro and the third highest peak in Africa. The way back lies through Marangu, and thus you will be able to see both sides of the mountain. Though six and seven-day programs are available for the Rongai route itinerary, a longer option is recommended for better acclimatization transition.

Lemosho route 9 days 9 days

$3 737

$2 932

$2 649

$2 569

$2 532

$2 447

$2 373

$2 315

Machame route 9 days 9 days

$3 594

$2 845

$2 557

$2 486

$2 447

$2 375

$2 312

$2 248

Rongai route 9 days 9 days

$3 772

$2 960

$2 678

$2 581

$2 557

$2 467

$2 393

$2 335

8 days climbing + 2 days in a hotel	1 pax	2 pax	3 pax	4 pax	5 pax	6 pax	7 pax	8+ pax
Lemosho route 10 days 10 days	$4 314	$3 372	$3 018	$2 915	$2 855	$2 765	$2 717	$2 658	Details
8-day climbing Lemosho route 10 days + 2 days in a hotel Featuring captivating scenic vistas, pristine wildlife, excellent acclimatization opportunities and low traffic of climbers, Lemosho is our personal first favorite for reaching the roof of Africa. After a 4-hour long drive from Moshi to Londorossi Gate you'll find yourself on the western slope of Mt Kilimanjaro, from there the route will take you to the world-famous Shira Plateau. That's where you'll embark on your adventure through all climate zones - from alpine meadows to eternal ice. The climb is smooth and gradual, featuring the highest success rate of all routes on Kilimanjaro. Six, seven and eight-day programs are available, so you can choose depending on the amount of time at your disposal. Longer programs are always recommended over the shorter ones for better acclimatization. 6 and 7-day Lemosho programs start from a high-altitude drop-off: you’ll be transferred to the elevation of 3,500 m/ 11,500 f by an off-road vehicle and start the hike from there. This is meant to maximize acclimatization transition - the higher you start, the easier your adaptation will be.
Northern Circuit 10 days 10 days	$4 343	$3 394	$3 033	$2 930	$2 867	$2 778	$2 729	$2 668	Details
8-day climbing Northern Circuit 10 days + 2 days in a hotel The longest and the newest route on Mount Kilimanjaro, Northern Circuit, is known for excellent acclimatization and breathtaking views of the Kilimanjaro northern slopes. For the present moment a very limited number of travelers have set foot on this trail, and the route is hardly ever crowded. It is recommended to those who enjoy long trekking experiences in remote wilderness with a minimal number of other trekkers around. It takes at least eight days to climb Kilimanjaro through the Northern Circuit which is why the route boasts a very high success rate. An extended 9-day Northern Circuit Kilimanjaro climb with crater camping is also available for an incredible wilderness adventure on Africa’s highest volcano.

Lemosho route 10 days 10 days

$4 314

$3 372

$3 018

$2 915

$2 855

$2 765

$2 717

$2 658

Northern Circuit 10 days 10 days

$4 343

$3 394

$3 033

$2 930

$2 867

$2 778

$2 729

$2 668

10 days climbing + 2 days in a hotel	1 pax	2 pax	3 pax	4 pax	5 pax	6 pax	7 pax	8+ pax
Kilimanjaro climb via Northern Circuit Route (with Crater Camping) 12 days	$7 710	$5 620	$4 821	$4 473	$4 386	$4 179	$4 077	$3 946	Details
10-day climbing Kilimanjaro climb via Northern Circuit Route (with Crater Camping) + 2 days in a hotel The extended version of Northern Circuit route includes two extra days to get proper acclimatization before overnighting at Crater Camp. Situated close to the top of Mount Kilimanjaro at the altitude of 5790 m, this is the highest overnight possible at the equator, so we will do our utmost to make your Kilimanjaro climb comfortable, as well as unforgettable. Only a lucky few can lay claim to having seen the night skies at this altitude and they are indeed a sight to behold: Kilimanjaro Glaciers against the backdrop of the Milky Way! While such ascents are never without their risks, the Altezza Travel Team has both the expertise and equipment to ensure your safety at Kilimanjaro Crater Camp.

Kilimanjaro climb via Northern Circuit Route (with Crater Camping) 12 days

$7 710

$5 620

$4 821

$4 473

$4 386

$4 179

$4 077

$3 946

The climb cost includes:

Transfers:

Return transfer from Kilimanjaro International Airport to accommodation in Moshi;
Return transfer from accommodation in Moshi to the entry gate into Kilimanjaro National Park.

Entry fees:

Park Fees: All park fees collected by Kilimanjaro National Park (conservation fees, camping fees, crew fees, vehicle fee, rescue fee and all others).

Accommodation:

Accommodation at 3* hotel (Aishi Machame Hotel or Altezza Lodge) one night before and one night after the expedition. You will have all for a comfortable stay - friendly staff, clean rooms, Wi-Fi, restaurant and swimming pool;
For all routes except Marangu: Tented accommodation on Mount Kilimanjaro (modern comfortable 4-season North Face VE-25 tents);
Special for Marangu route: Accommodation in huts. Allocation of huts is ruled by rangers of the national park. We will do our best to arrange separate huts for our groups, but during busy months you’re likely to share huts with climbers from other groups.

Please note: by default, you will share a room and a tent with your travel companion. If you travel solo on a group expedition, we will room you with a same-sex participant. Single supplement is available upon request.

Meals:

Breakfast in the hotel before and after the hike;
All meals on the hike. You will find delicious energy-rich meals on our mountain menus. Our professional chefs will prepare assorted soups, garnishes, several types of fish and meat, fresh fruit and vegetables. Vegetarian/gluten-free/halal options are available at no extra cost;
All drinks on the hike (coffee, tea, hot chocolate and water).

Hiking and safety equipment:

4-inch (10-cm) thick and comfortable sleeping mats;
All group equipment (dining tent, table, chairs, crockery and cutlery);
Oxygen cylinders and oximeters;
GPS-tracking service;
Complete medical kits.

Climbing crew:

Professional guides licensed by Kilimanjaro National Park. All guides are holder of Wilderness First Responder certification. All of them have 7+years of successful experience;
Dedicated support crew (assistant guides, camp master, porters, cooks, etc.).

We are proud to be the members of KPAP (Kilimanjaro Porters Assistance Project). It is an unbiased evaluation of our commitment to fair treatment of our mountain crews. Of all operators Altezza is paying the highest wages to the porters, guides, cooks and other Kilimanjaro teammates. You may read more about our Kilimanjaro crews here.

Taxes:

18% VAT, 1% TDL and 0.3% Service Levy. Altezza Travel is an honest and responsible tour operator working in full compliance with the tax law of the United Republic of Tanzania.

The climb cost excludes:

International flights;
Tips (250-300 USD per climber for the whole mountain crew);
Visa fee (100 USD for American citizens and 50 USD for all others);
Personal gear rentals;
Lunch and dinner at the hotel (before and after the climb);
Portable toilets (if required - 250 USD per unit, one can be shared between 3 people). Portable toilets are not available on Marangu route;
Mountaineering insurance. You'll need special insurance for climbing Kilimanjaro that covers high-altitude trekking up to 6000 m.

All payments in Tanzania are in USD only. The prices in RUB and EUR are given for informational purposes only.

Our premium Kilimanjaro adventures include extra features such as spacious walk-in tents, advanced meal plan on the hike, portable toilet, camping cots, satellite phone to stay in touch with your family and friends and some other upgrades on Kilimanjaro. It is the highest quality service a luxury-focused climber can get here!

Safety protocols for the premium adventures include mandatory Wilderness First Responder Certification of all our guides, oxygen cylinders, medical kits and compulsory medical check-ups (two per day).

Before and after your trip you will be staying in a 5* hotel in Arusha (breakfast and dinner included).

5 days climbing + 2 days in a hotel	1 pax	2 pax	3 pax	4 pax	5 pax	6 pax	7 pax	8+ pax
Marangu route 7 days 7 days	$5 766	$3 924	$3 558	$3 413	$3 320	$3 224	$3 088	$2 994	Details
5-day climbing Marangu route 7 days + 2 days in a hotel Marangu or “Coca-Cola” route is the best route to Kilimanjaro today. It is the only route where overnight stays are in huts. This makes Marangu a good option for hiking during the rainy season. The route takes its start at the south-east of Mt Kilimanjaro. The entrance to the route, Marangu Gate, is quite close to our climbing base at Aishi Machame Hotel. The ride there takes about 1.5 hours. The Kilimanjaro "Coca-Cola" route features a well-trodden trail running through all the climate zones - from tropical rainforest to eternal ice, and will also will treat you to scenic African landscapes. Being the most popular and the least expensive, the route may be crowded in July-September and December - March. A 6-day option is strongly recommended over the 5-day one for better acclimatization.

Marangu route 7 days 7 days

$5 766

$3 924

$3 558

$3 413

$3 320

$3 224

$3 088

$2 994

6 days climbing + 2 days in a hotel	1 pax	2 pax	3 pax	4 pax	5 pax	6 pax	7 pax	8+ pax
Lemosho route 8 days 8 days	$7 491	$5 130	$4 647	$4 432	$4 316	$4 172	$4 001	$3 912	Details
6-day climbing Lemosho route 8 days + 2 days in a hotel Featuring captivating scenic vistas, pristine wildlife, excellent acclimatization opportunities and low traffic of climbers, Lemosho is our personal first favorite for reaching the roof of Africa. After a 4-hour long drive from Moshi to Londorossi Gate you'll find yourself on the western slope of Mt Kilimanjaro, from there the route will take you to the world-famous Shira Plateau. That's where you'll embark on your adventure through all climate zones - from alpine meadows to eternal ice. The climb is smooth and gradual, featuring the highest success rate of all routes on Kilimanjaro. Six, seven and eight-day programs are available, so you can choose depending on the amount of time at your disposal. Longer programs are always recommended over the shorter ones for better acclimatization. 6 and 7-day Lemosho programs start from a high-altitude drop-off: you’ll be transferred to the elevation of 3,500 m/ 11,500 f by an off-road vehicle and start the hike from there. This is meant to maximize acclimatization transition - the higher you start, the easier your adaptation will be.
Machame route 8 days 8 days	$7 313	$4 993	$4 512	$4 331	$4 228	$4 106	$3 913	$3 819	Details
6-day climbing Machame route 8 days + 2 days in a hotel The second most popular option among the climbers is the Machame route, also known as “the Whiskey Route”. This route offers a wide variety of views, landscapes and experiences. The starting point of the route, Machame Gate, is only a 20-minute drive from Aishi Machame Hotel. Located on the southern slope of Mt Kilimanjaro, Machame Gate will lead you to the top of Kilimanjaro along the exciting footpath which starts at the tropical forest, then runs through all the climate zones and finishes with the Arctic desert in the summit area. Camps along the trek are favorably located for a smooth and gradual acclimatization transition process. On the 3rd day Machame Route converges with Lemosho and Umbwe at Barranco camp. You can choose between a six or seven-day climb for the Kilimanjaro Machame route itinerary. The latter one is highly preferred for better acclimatization transition.
Rongai route 8 days 8 days	$7 656	$5 234	$4 735	$4 507	$4 385	$4 234	$4 041	$3 973	Details
6-day climbing Rongai route 8 days + 2 days in a hotel Rongai is the only of routes of Kilimanjaro starting on the northern slope of the mount. Though this part of the Mountain is rarely visited by hikers, it is not less interesting than the popular southern and western slopes. We recommend Rongai to all those who like reclusive hiking experiences. Getting to the trailhead - Nalemuru Gate - usually takes 3-4 hours from Altezza Lodge or Aishi Machame Hotel. Rongai is also the only route that passes by Mawenzi, one of the three volcanic cones of Kilimanjaro and the third highest peak in Africa. The way back lies through Marangu, and thus you will be able to see both sides of the mountain. Though six and seven-day programs are available for the Rongai route itinerary, a longer option is recommended for better acclimatization transition.
Marangu route 8 days 8 days	$6 600	$4 421	$4 049	$3 844	$3 723	$3 606	$3 422	$3 318	Details
6-day climbing Marangu route 8 days + 2 days in a hotel Marangu or “Coca-Cola” route is the best route to Kilimanjaro today. It is the only route where overnight stays are in huts. This makes Marangu a good option for hiking during the rainy season. The route takes its start at the south-east of Mt Kilimanjaro. The entrance to the route, Marangu Gate, is quite close to our climbing base at Aishi Machame Hotel. The ride there takes about 1.5 hours. The Kilimanjaro "Coca-Cola" route features a well-trodden trail running through all the climate zones - from tropical rainforest to eternal ice, and will also will treat you to scenic African landscapes. Being the most popular and the least expensive, the route may be crowded in July-September and December - March. A 6-day option is strongly recommended over the 5-day one for better acclimatization.
Umbwe route 8 days 8 days	$7 249	$4 986	$4 535	$4 341	$4 228	$4 100	$3 925	$3 833	Details
6-day climbing Umbwe route 8 days + 2 days in a hotel Daring experienced climbers seeking adventure and challenge will find just what they want on Umbwe. A short steep climb traversing all the climate zones - from tropical rainforest to eternal ice - will put your strength and endurance to the test. Like no other route on Kilimanjaro Umbwe gives a sense of achievement to those who reach the summit. Your first day on the mountain will start from Umbwe Gate and continue with a lengthy trek to the first camp on your way - Umbwe camp. In spite of the challenge that Umbwe poses to hikers, well thought-out location of camps will contribute to proper acclimatization. The trek through the Umbwe trail is available only as a 6-day program. Recommended only to experienced hikers in good physical shape, as the Umbwe route difficulty is quite high for inexperienced trekkers.

Lemosho route 8 days 8 days

$7 491

$5 130

$4 647

$4 432

$4 316

$4 172

$4 001

$3 912

Machame route 8 days 8 days

$7 313

$4 993

$4 512

$4 331

$4 228

$4 106

$3 913

$3 819

Rongai route 8 days 8 days

$7 656

$5 234

$4 735

$4 507

$4 385

$4 234

$4 041

$3 973

Marangu route 8 days 8 days

$6 600

$4 421

$4 049

$3 844

$3 723

$3 606

$3 422

$3 318

Umbwe route 8 days 8 days

$7 249

$4 986

$4 535

$4 341

$4 228

$4 100

$3 925

$3 833

7 days climbing + 2 days in a hotel	1 pax	2 pax	3 pax	4 pax	5 pax	6 pax	7 pax	8+ pax
Lemosho route 9 days 9 days	$8 013	$5 577	$4 977	$4 792	$4 678	$4 565	$4 333	$4 237	Details
7-day climbing Lemosho route 9 days + 2 days in a hotel Featuring captivating scenic vistas, pristine wildlife, excellent acclimatization opportunities and low traffic of climbers, Lemosho is our personal first favorite for reaching the roof of Africa. After a 4-hour long drive from Moshi to Londorossi Gate you'll find yourself on the western slope of Mt Kilimanjaro, from there the route will take you to the world-famous Shira Plateau. That's where you'll embark on your adventure through all climate zones - from alpine meadows to eternal ice. The climb is smooth and gradual, featuring the highest success rate of all routes on Kilimanjaro. Six, seven and eight-day programs are available, so you can choose depending on the amount of time at your disposal. Longer programs are always recommended over the shorter ones for better acclimatization. 6 and 7-day Lemosho programs start from a high-altitude drop-off: you’ll be transferred to the elevation of 3,500 m/ 11,500 f by an off-road vehicle and start the hike from there. This is meant to maximize acclimatization transition - the higher you start, the easier your adaptation will be.
Machame route 9 days 9 days	$7 708	$5 354	$4 817	$4 659	$4 545	$4 434	$4 218	$4 118	Details
7-day climbing Machame route 9 days + 2 days in a hotel The second most popular option among the climbers is the Machame route, also known as “the Whiskey Route”. This route offers a wide variety of views, landscapes and experiences. The starting point of the route, Machame Gate, is only a 20-minute drive from Aishi Machame Hotel. Located on the southern slope of Mt Kilimanjaro, Machame Gate will lead you to the top of Kilimanjaro along the exciting footpath which starts at the tropical forest, then runs through all the climate zones and finishes with the Arctic desert in the summit area. Camps along the trek are favorably located for a smooth and gradual acclimatization transition process. On the 3rd day Machame Route converges with Lemosho and Umbwe at Barranco camp. You can choose between a six or seven-day climb for the Kilimanjaro Machame route itinerary. The latter one is highly preferred for better acclimatization transition.
Rongai route 9 days 9 days	$8 191	$5 698	$5 064	$4 870	$4 752	$4 635	$4 405	$4 302	Details
7-day climbing Rongai route 9 days + 2 days in a hotel Rongai is the only of routes of Kilimanjaro starting on the northern slope of the mount. Though this part of the Mountain is rarely visited by hikers, it is not less interesting than the popular southern and western slopes. We recommend Rongai to all those who like reclusive hiking experiences. Getting to the trailhead - Nalemuru Gate - usually takes 3-4 hours from Altezza Lodge or Aishi Machame Hotel. Rongai is also the only route that passes by Mawenzi, one of the three volcanic cones of Kilimanjaro and the third highest peak in Africa. The way back lies through Marangu, and thus you will be able to see both sides of the mountain. Though six and seven-day programs are available for the Rongai route itinerary, a longer option is recommended for better acclimatization transition.

Lemosho route 9 days 9 days

$8 013

$5 577

$4 977

$4 792

$4 678

$4 565

$4 333

$4 237

Machame route 9 days 9 days

$7 708

$5 354

$4 817

$4 659

$4 545

$4 434

$4 218

$4 118

Rongai route 9 days 9 days

$8 191

$5 698

$5 064

$4 870

$4 752

$4 635

$4 405

$4 302

8 days climbing + 2 days in a hotel	1 pax	2 pax	3 pax	4 pax	5 pax	6 pax	7 pax	8+ pax
Lemosho route 10 days 10 days	$8 724	$5 975	$5 320	$5 206	$5 045	$4 936	$4 681	$4 552	Details
8-day climbing Lemosho route 10 days + 2 days in a hotel Featuring captivating scenic vistas, pristine wildlife, excellent acclimatization opportunities and low traffic of climbers, Lemosho is our personal first favorite for reaching the roof of Africa. After a 4-hour long drive from Moshi to Londorossi Gate you'll find yourself on the western slope of Mt Kilimanjaro, from there the route will take you to the world-famous Shira Plateau. That's where you'll embark on your adventure through all climate zones - from alpine meadows to eternal ice. The climb is smooth and gradual, featuring the highest success rate of all routes on Kilimanjaro. Six, seven and eight-day programs are available, so you can choose depending on the amount of time at your disposal. Longer programs are always recommended over the shorter ones for better acclimatization. 6 and 7-day Lemosho programs start from a high-altitude drop-off: you’ll be transferred to the elevation of 3,500 m/ 11,500 f by an off-road vehicle and start the hike from there. This is meant to maximize acclimatization transition - the higher you start, the easier your adaptation will be.
Northern Circuit 10 days 10 days	$8 843	$6 042	$5 370	$5 253	$5 088	$4 975	$4 715	$4 587	Details
8-day climbing Northern Circuit 10 days + 2 days in a hotel The longest and the newest route on Mount Kilimanjaro, Northern Circuit, is known for excellent acclimatization and breathtaking views of the Kilimanjaro northern slopes. For the present moment a very limited number of travelers have set foot on this trail, and the route is hardly ever crowded. It is recommended to those who enjoy long trekking experiences in remote wilderness with a minimal number of other trekkers around. It takes at least eight days to climb Kilimanjaro through the Northern Circuit which is why the route boasts a very high success rate. An extended 9-day Northern Circuit Kilimanjaro climb with crater camping is also available for an incredible wilderness adventure on Africa’s highest volcano.

Lemosho route 10 days 10 days

$8 724

$5 975

$5 320

$5 206

$5 045

$4 936

$4 681

$4 552

Northern Circuit 10 days 10 days

$8 843

$6 042

$5 370

$5 253

$5 088

$4 975

$4 715

$4 587

10 days climbing + 2 days in a hotel	1 pax	2 pax	3 pax	4 pax	5 pax	6 pax	7 pax	8+ pax
Kilimanjaro climb via Northern Circuit Route (with Crater Camping) 12 days	$7 878	$7 024	$6 756	$6 672	$6 576	$6 483	$6 456	$6 538	Details
10-day climbing Kilimanjaro climb via Northern Circuit Route (with Crater Camping) + 2 days in a hotel The extended version of Northern Circuit route includes two extra days to get proper acclimatization before overnighting at Crater Camp. Situated close to the top of Mount Kilimanjaro at the altitude of 5790 m, this is the highest overnight possible at the equator, so we will do our utmost to make your Kilimanjaro climb comfortable, as well as unforgettable. Only a lucky few can lay claim to having seen the night skies at this altitude and they are indeed a sight to behold: Kilimanjaro Glaciers against the backdrop of the Milky Way! While such ascents are never without their risks, the Altezza Travel Team has both the expertise and equipment to ensure your safety at Kilimanjaro Crater Camp.

Kilimanjaro climb via Northern Circuit Route (with Crater Camping) 12 days

$7 878

$7 024

$6 756

$6 672

$6 576

$6 483

$6 456

$6 538

The climb cost includes:

Transfers:

Return transfer from Kilimanjaro International Airport to accommodation;
Return transfer from accommodation to the entry gate into Kilimanjaro National Park.

Accommodation:

Accommodation at 5* Legendary Lodge (Arusha) one night before and one night after the expedition. Legendary Lodge is the ultimate premium retreat with the highest service standards to be found in northern Tanzania;
For all routes except Marangu: Tented accommodation on Mount Kilimanjaro (spacious, custom-designed, 4-season walk-in tents).
Special for Marangu route: Accommodation in huts. Allocation of huts is ruled by rangers of the national park. We will do our best to arrange separate huts for our groups, but during busy months you’re likely to share huts with climbers from other groups.

Please note: by default, you will share a room and a tent with your travel companion. Single occupancy is available upon request.

Park Fees:

All park fees collected by Kilimanjaro National Park (conservation fees, camping fees, crew fees, vehicle fee, rescue fee and all others).

Meals:

Breakfast and dinner at the hotel before and after the climb, including soft drinks from the minibar in your room;
All meals on the hike. Our premium Kilimanjaro packages feature enhanced meals with a wider variety of cheeses, nuts, desserts, snacks, yogurts, local and imported fresh fruit and berries. We guarantee top-notch catering in camping conditions. Vegetarian/gluten-free/halal options are available at no extra cost;
All drinks on the hike (juices, coffee, tea, hot chocolate and water);
Bottled water for the whole climb.

Hiking and Safety Equipment:

4-inch (10-cm) thick and comfortable sleeping mats;
Camping cots;
All group equipment (spacious and comfortable dining tent, camping table and chairs, crockery and cutlery);
Sleeping bag Mountain Hardwear Lamina (Comfort -29°C/-20F);
Portable toilet. Portable toilets are not available on Marangu route;
Oxygen cylinders and oximeters;
GPS-tracking service;
Complete medical kits;
Satellite phone (20 min credit included, 3 USD per every extra min);
Complete medical kits.

Climbing Crew:

Professional guides licensed by Kilimanjaro National Park. All guides are holder of Wilderness First Responder certification. All of them have 7+years of successful experience;
Dedicated support crew (assistant guides, camp master, porters, cooks, etc.).

Taxes

18% VAT, 1% TDL and 0.3% Service Levy. Altezza Travel is an honest and responsible tour operator working in full compliance with the tax law of the United Republic of Tanzania.

The climb cost excludes:

International flights;
Visa fee (100 USD for American citizens and 50 USD for all others);
Personal gear rentals;
Tips (450–600 USD per climber for the whole mountain crew);
Mountaineering insurance. You'll need special insurance for climbing Kilimanjaro that covers high-altitude trekking up to 6000 m.

Dates and Prices

All dates

Lemosho Route Gallery

Dmitriy Andreychuk

Tanzania

ABOUT THE AUTHOR

Dima is a Tanzania-based travel expert with multiple Kilimanjaro hikes under his belt. He contributed his knowledge and skills to many notable expeditions, including Wings of Kilimanjaro 2019, BASE-jump trip with Red Bull, National Geographic trips and many other adventures.

At Altezza Travel Dima is the Kilimanjaro Expeditions Coordinator. Every year he supervises the departure of over 1500 Kilimanjaro trekkers, appoints the guides and makes sure that everything goes as planned before, during and after the expedition.

Frequently Asked Questions

How busy is the Lemosho Route?

Compared to other routes, Lemosho is one of the least busy, even during the hot season. The remote location of the trailhead, more expensive price tag and the popularity of Marangu and Machame routes are the reasons why only 2-3% of all Kilimanjaro climbers choose it.

Also, it is one of the newest routes on Kilimanjaro, which few people know about. Its popularity, however, is increasing every year.

Lemosho route vs Machame route

There are several notable differences between the two routes.

Firstly, Machame route is the second most popular route on Kilimanjaro. It can be somewhat crowded in August-September and January-February. In contrast, Lemosho is still less visited, and will suit those who prefer more reclusive hiking.

Secondly, on Machame you will be going through the rainforest on the first day of your hike. On Lemosho this experience is available only on an 8-day climb, while 7 and 6-day variations start straight in the moorland zone.

Thirdly, Machame route climb is available in six and seven-day options. The first one is very physically taxing and features one of the worst acclimatization transitions of all. On the contrary, the shortest trek on Lemosho - six-day - provides good acclimatization possibility even for beginners.

Finally, because Machame trailhead is located on the southern face of Kilimanjaro, close to Moshi, the prices for Machame trek are usually less expensive than the Lemosho route.

Machame and Lemosho converge on Barranco camp, from where all hikers head for Karanga and Barafu summit camp via the same trail.

Lemosho vs Marangu

Marangu and Lemosho routes differ in many ways.

Firstly, the Marangu route is a hut-to-hut route. In contrast, overnights on Lemosho are in tents, which are set up by your Kilimanjaro crew.

Secondly, nowadays Marangu is the most popular route on Kilimanjaro. It is the least expensive and the most marketed by the tour operators. In August-September and January-February this route is particularly crowded. In contrast, Lemosho is much less busy and should be chosen by those who want more private experiences on Mount Kilimanjaro.

Please note that the huts on Marangu are public and sleep 4-10 hikers (depending on a camp). The park rangers may assign the hikers from other trekking groups to your hut.

Thirdly, the Marangu route is available in five and six-day variations. While a five-day option should be considered by experienced hikers with prior acclimatization only, a six-day trek offers a good acclimatization profile. On seven and eight-day Lemosho route treks acclimatization route is more suitable for beginners.

Lemosho vs Rongai

Together with Lemosho, Rongai is another good way to experience Kilimanjaro off-the-beaten-track.

Both routes feature remote starting locations on the western and northern slopes of the mountain respectively. Both take around 3-4 hours to reach from Moshi or Arusha. Because of that, these routes are less popular than Machame and Marangu.

The Rongai route is flatter than Lemosho, making it difficult to follow one of the most essential principles of acclimating - “climb high and sleep low”. Yet, a seven-day variation of Rongai is nevertheless much better in terms of acclimatization than Maragu 5-day or Machame 6-day treks.

The northern parts of the mountain are known to get less precipitation, making Rongai an option to think about for a climb during the rainy season.

Lemosho vs Northern Circuit

Together with Lemosho and Rongai, Northern circuit is among the least visited.

Both Lemosho and Northern Circuit start on the western part of Kilimanjaro and follow almost the same itinerary on the first days.

At Lava Tower area the two routes split - while Lemosho trekkers will keep trekking to Barranco Camp on the southern side of Kilimanjaro, Northern Circuit trekkers will go to the seldom-visited northern parts of the Mountain.

Both routes provide excellent scenic value, yet Barranco and other high-elevation camps of Lemosho may be busy in August-September and January-February. The whole Northern Circuit, however, is always desolate, making it ideal for those who like reclusive experiences.

Northern Circuit is almost 20 km longer than Lemosho and is available in eight and nine-day (with crater camping) variations. It is also the most expensive of all routes.

What is the best time to hike Lemosho?

For the majority of trekkers the ideal time to hike Kilimanjaro in general and Lemosho in particular, is in July-September and January-early March, when the chances of rain are minimal.

You should not, however, unconditionally cross out the rainy season - the periods in between the dry and the rainy season feature (March, June and end of December) have relatively good weather (most of the days are sunny) and much less climbers than usual.

Rainy season climbs have some advantages of their own:

Few other hikers on the trek
Lush green vegetation around - the landscapes are truly unique!
The peak of Kilimanjaro is snow-capped, giving you a chance to make one-of-a-kind pictures.

You may read more about the best time to climb Kilimanjaro in our article.

How hard is the Lemosho route?

Compared to the other routes, Lemosho is the easiest on Mount Kilimanjaro. It combines an excellent acclimatization profile with gradual ascent and ideal location of camps.

Because of that, choosing the Lemosho route is recommended for beginner and experienced climbers alike.

How long is the Lemosho route?

The Lemosho route is 71 km/43 miles long. It is one of the longest routes on Kilimanjaro, surpassed by Northern Circuit (97 km/60 miles) only.

Conclusion: Why Choose Lemosho Route to Hike Kilimanjaro

Overall, of all routes available on Kilimanjaro we recommend choosing Lemosho because of the following:

Excellent acclimatization profile (best on Kilimanjaro)

So far, the Lemosho route features one of the highest success rates of all, especially on the seven and eight-day treks. If Kilimanjaro is your first high-altitude adventure, then you should definitely consider Lemosho for your trip as a safest and least physically taxing option.

Less travelled than other routes

Though its popularity is rising every year, Lemosho is not yet a popular route on Kilimanjaro. Less than 2-3% of all trekkers choose it for their trip. If you want more reclusive hiking experiences, then Lemosho will be a perfect match to your expectations.

Beautiful scenery

Lemosho route treats visitors to its magnetizing panoramic views of Shira Plateau, Barranco Wall and other famous places on Kilimanjaro.

Three options, all with great acclimatization transition

Lemosho route is offered in six, seven and eight-day variations. All of them provide good acclimatization transition and visual experiences, offering choices in your travel dates.

Reviews

Altezza Travel on TripAdvisor

750 reviews 5

Thoroughly recommended

Richard K

We were very happy with the support provided during the trek and I feel that the local mountain crew did everything they could to make the trek a success. The attitude of the crew was professional, the food provided was first rate and every day we were monitored for blood oxygen level and pulse rate. The pre-trek hotel used at Aishi is an idyllic oasis of calm on the edge of the forest and we had equipment check and briefing lecture so that as little as possible was left to chance to ensure a memorable experience.

An unforgettable experience

Bookyourwellness

An unforgettable experience For some years it was high on my list to go with my daughter (12 years old) travelling, to let her see elephants in the wild. This year was the year, we went to Tanzania with Altezza Travel to Tanzania and it was an unforgettable experience. For me to see how my daughter is experiencing her great adventure, I will never forget it and I am very grateful for having these memories now. I booked a private safari of 4 days, Simon was our guide and driver, we were fortunate to be in his company, we not only enjoyed his professionality but also we had a very good time together and I thank him very much for giving us this experience! We visited 3 parks; Tarangire National Park, were we saw elephants for the first time! Ngorongoro Conservation Area (which is inside an unactive volcano) and Serengeti National Park, here my daughter also celebrated her 12th birthday at The Sound of Silence, at diner the entire Sound of Silence team came singing and dancing for her, you should see her face! Unforgettable!!! Thank you, Jan (owner) and your entire team, for such a hart warming birthday celebration!! After the Serengeti back on the East African Highway for an African massage (because according to Simon, it is the worst highway in Tanzania, it is a very long dirt road), were we spent our last night at Ngare Sero Mountain Lodge. The next day we continued our journey to Zanzibar for more amazing experiences. Thank you very much Altezza, Anastasia, Ana and Simon for giving us such a wonderful, everlasting experience,

Great experience climbing Kili

GLD5959

We completed the Kili climb with Altezza which we'd highly recommend. They were very professional and had our safety and goals in mind the entire trip. The climb was very organized, they communicated with us each step of the climb. Our guides Victor, Peter, Amos, and Joseph were very very knowledgeable and helpful. They got us to the summit on a beautiful morning safely and made the experience more than we anticipated. The whole team was committed to our success. We would definetly recommend Altezza if you plan on making the climb. And we'd recommend climbing Kili its a really cool experience.

View All Reviews on TripAdvisor

Kilimanjaro Climbing Routes

There are six routes leading to the peak of Kilimanjaro. Each route has something special to offer. Some are known for great acclimatization, others for epic panoramic landscapes. Two of them - Lemosho and Machame - are our favorites.They combine great acclimatization transition and high scenic value. Though Machame is sometimes crowded, Lemosho is always a great choice. You should not, however, think that the other routes are bad. Despite the fact that acclimatization on other routes may be more challenging, the hiking experiences are nevertheless unique.

Recommended

Lemosho route

Our favorite, this trail begins on the picturesque western side of the Mountain and offers stunning views on Shira plateau.

Success Rate: High

Difficulty: Moderate

Days(recommended): 7

Crowds: Low

Recommended

Rongai route

Approaching Kilimanjaro from the north, Rongai route is a great way to explore the less travelled paths on Kilimanjaro.

Success Rate: High

Difficulty: Moderate