9-Day Lemosho Route – Kilimanjaro
A scenic 9-day Kilimanjaro trek through rainforest, moorland and alpine desert to Uhuru Peak.
9 Days to the Roof of Africa
The 9-Day Lemosho Route is a scenic and gradual Kilimanjaro trekking adventure designed to give trekkers more time for acclimatization while experiencing the mountain's diverse landscapes. The route begins at Lemosho Gate and passes through lush rainforest before ascending into the moorland, Shira Plateau and alpine desert zones. As the trek continues, you will pass through Shira 1, Shira 2, Moir Camp, Lava Tower, Barranco, Karanga and Barafu before making the final summit attempt. The journey culminates at Uhuru Peak, the highest point of Mount Kilimanjaro at 5,895 metres above sea level. The descent continues through Millennium Camp to Mweka Gate, where the trek officially ends before transferring back to Moshi. This itinerary combines scenic landscapes, progressive altitude gain and additional acclimatization time for a rewarding Kilimanjaro experience.
Experience Mount Kilimanjaro through the scenic Lemosho Route on a 9-day trekking adventure. The gradual itinerary allows you to explore the mountain's changing landscapes while giving your body valuable time to adjust to increasing altitude.
From the lush rainforest to the dramatic alpine desert and the final summit push, every day offers a different perspective of Kilimanjaro. Reach Uhuru Peak at 5,895 m before descending through Millennium Camp and Mweka Gate.
- 019-day scenic Lemosho Route
- 02Summit Mount Kilimanjaro at 5,895 m
- 03Trek through the lush Kilimanjaro rainforest
Route Notes & Variations
The Lemosho Route is known for its scenic approach and gradual progression toward the higher elevations of Mount Kilimanjaro. The first days provide an opportunity to enjoy the rainforest and moorland before reaching the Shira Plateau.
Day 4 includes an optional short acclimatization walk from Moir Camp, depending on weather conditions and the group's energy levels.
Day 5 follows the important acclimatization principle of climbing high and sleeping lower. The trek reaches Lava Tower at approximately 4,630 m before descending to Barranco Camp at approximately 3,960 m.
The summit attempt begins around midnight from Barafu Camp. After reaching Uhuru Peak, trekkers descend to Barafu for a short rest before continuing to Millennium Camp.
Trekking times and distances may vary depending on weather, trail conditions, group pace and individual fitness.
The full line, day by day.
Click any day below to read the full story — every day carries its own photo, elevation and overnight details.
Day 1: Lemosho Gate – Big Tree Camp
Drive from Moshi to Lemosho Gate for registration and park formalities. Begin trekking through the beautiful rainforest towards Big Tree Camp. Dinner and overnight at Big Tree Camp.
FROM THE LINE
The route in pictures.
Press any photo to open it full-screen.
THE FINE PRINT
What the price covers.
Clear terms, no surprises on the mountain or the plain — every trip is quoted privately, per departure.
In the price
- Park entrance fees
- Kilimanjaro camping fees
- Professional mountain guide
Not included
- International flights
- Tanzania visa fees
- Travel insurance
WE SUPPLY, YOU PACK
Waterproof hiking boots · Warm fleece and insulated jacket · Waterproof hiking jacket and trousers
OPTIONAL COMFORT & TREK ADD-ONS
Enhance your climb.
Add any of these to your booking — tell your trip planner which options you would like.
Private tent
$100 per trekA private tent option for guests who prefer additional privacy during the mountain experience.
Luxury mattress
$35 per climberA 3-inch-thick, 2.5-foot-wide mattress, compared with the standard 1.5-inch-thick, 2-foot-wide mattress.
High-profile tent
$40 per tentA higher-profile tent option providing additional space and comfort.
Required when using a camp cot — add it separately if you book a cot.
Camp cot
$150 per cotAn optional raised sleeping arrangement for additional comfort.
A high-profile tent is required when using a camp cot.
Hot water bottle
FREE upon requestAvailable to help keep the sleeping bag warm during cold mountain nights.
Day pack porter
$10 per dayAn optional porter service for guests who prefer additional assistance carrying their day pack.
Gamow bag
$300 per trekAn optional altitude-support equipment service.
Post-climb massage
$20 per half hourA post-trek recovery option available after completing the climb.
Post-trek laundry service
$10/kgSame-day laundry service is available.
Please note: Some optional add-ons may require additional porters during the trek. The salaries for any additional porters required because of these services are included in the applicable add-on price.
Asked on every briefing call.
How difficult is the 9-day Lemosho Route?+
The 9-day Lemosho Route is a demanding high-altitude trek. The longer itinerary provides additional time for acclimatization, but reaching Uhuru Peak at 5,895 metres requires physical preparation, proper pacing and careful attention to altitude-related symptoms.
