8 Days Lemosho Kilimanjaro Tanzania safari
The 8-day Lemosho Route on Mount Kilimanjaro is a remarkable adventure that combines stunning scenery with a high success rate for reaching the summit. This route begins on the western side of the mountain, offering a more remote and beautiful experience compared to other paths. It allows for better acclimatization due to its longer duration, which increases the chances of successfully reaching Uhuru Peak, the highest point in Africa. The trek includes diverse landscapes, from lush rainforests to alpine deserts, and provides opportunities to see wildlife such as buffalo and elephants along the way
Tour highlights
Day 1: Arrival in Moshi
Day 2: Mti Mkubwa Camp
Day 3: Shira I Camp
Day 4: Shira Hut
Day 5: Barranco Camp
Day 6: Karanga Camp
Day 7: Barafu Camp
Day 8: Summit and Descent
Price Includes:
- all airport pick up and transfers in private car
- Transport and wildlife drives in modified 4 x 4 Land Cruiser with photographic roof hatch (Change of car at the border)
- Services of a professional English speaking safari guides on Kenyan & Tanzanian side
- All wildlife reserve entry fees
- All game drives as mentioned in the itinerary
- mineral water
- A visit to a Masai Village at Masai Mara or Ngorongoro Crater
- Traditional canoe fishing or bird watching at Speke’s Bay at Lake Victoria as per your wishes
- Value Added Tax by Tanzania Revenue Authority
Price Excludes:
- International Flights
- Any domestic connection flights on arrival or departure
- All items of a personal nature
- Gratuities for safari guide and lodge staff ( please tip separately)
- Travel insurance if needed
- Visa fee for Kenya – 50 US$ – to be paid upon arrival / (51 US$ if you apply for visa online before arrival )
- Visa fee for Tanzania ( 50 US$ /100 US$ for American or Irish Passport holders – to be paid upon arrival)
- Drinks and beverages in lodges and tented camps
- Hot Air Balloon Safari at Masai Mara Game Reserve (485 USD per person)
- Hot Air Balloon Safari at Serengeti (549 USD per person), including concession fees
- Transfer from Arusha to Nairobi (if flying back from Nairobi)
Itinary in details
- Day1Arrival in Moshi
Upon arrival at Kilimanjaro International Airport, you will be greeted and transferred to your hotel in Moshi. After settling in, you will meet your guide for a briefing about the trek, including a gear check to ensure you have everything needed for the climb. Spend the evening relaxing and preparing for the adventure ahead.
- Day2Mti Mkubwa Camp
After breakfast, you will drive to the Lemosho Gate, where you will begin your trek. The first day involves a hike through the rainforest, covering approximately 4.8 km (3 miles) over 3-4 hours. You will gain altitude from 2,389 m (7,838 ft) to 2,785 m (9,137 ft). The trail can be muddy, so trekking poles and gaiters are recommended. Enjoy the lush surroundings and the sounds of nature as you make your way to Mti Mkubwa Camp for the night.
- Day3Shira I Camp
On the second day, you will hike from Mti Mkubwa Camp to Shira I Camp, a distance of 7.9 km (5 miles) over 4-6 hours. The elevation will increase from 2,785 m (9,137 ft) to 3,504 m (11,496 ft). As you leave the rainforest behind, the trail opens up to moorland, providing stunning views of the Shira Plateau. The cooler temperatures at this altitude will be a welcome change as you settle in for the night at Shira I Camp.
- Day4Shira Hut
Day four is dedicated to acclimatization as you explore the Shira Plateau. You will hike approximately 6.9 km (4.3 miles) over 5-7 hours, gaining altitude from 3,504 m (11,496 ft) to 3,895 m (12,779 ft). This gentle walk allows you to enjoy the unique flora and fauna of the plateau while preparing your body for the higher elevations ahead. You will have the option to take shorter hikes to enhance your acclimatization.
- Day5Barranco Camp
On the fifth day, you will hike from Shira Hut to Barranco Camp, covering 10.1 km (6.3 miles) over 4-6 hours. The elevation will fluctuate slightly, starting at 3,895 m (12,779 ft) and reaching 3,986 m (13,077 ft). This day is crucial for acclimatization as you ascend to Lava Tower before descending to Barranco Camp. The views of the surrounding peaks and glaciers will be spectacular, making this a memorable day on the trek.
- Day6Karanga Camp
After breakfast, you will tackle the Barranco Wall, a steep climb that leads to Karanga Camp. This section is about 5.2 km (3 miles) and takes 4-5 hours. You will gain a modest elevation from 3,986 m (13,077 ft) to 4,034 m (13,235 ft). The ascent is challenging but rewarding, providing stunning views of the valley below. Once at Karanga Camp, you can relax and prepare for the next day’s trek.
- Day7Barafu Camp
On day seven, you will hike from Karanga Camp to Barafu Camp, covering 3.3 km (2 miles) over 4-5 hours. The elevation will increase from 4,034 m (13,235 ft) to 4,662 m (15,295 ft). This day marks the completion of the South Circuit, offering various views of the summit. After reaching Barafu Camp, you will have an early dinner and rest in preparation for the summit attempt.
- Day8Summit and Descent
The final day begins with a midnight start for the summit attempt. You will hike from Barafu Camp to Uhuru Peak, a distance of 4.86 km (3 miles) that takes 5-7 hours. After reaching the summit at 5,895 m (19,341 ft), you will descend to Mweka Camp, covering 13 km (8 miles) over 5-6 hours. This day is physically demanding but incredibly rewarding as you celebrate reaching the highest point in Africa. After a well-deserved rest at Mweka Camp, you will descend to the Mweka Gate the following day.