The Lemosho Route is one of the most scenic and rewarding ways to climb Mount Kilimanjaro. Renowned for its diverse landscapes, varied ecosystems, and higher success rate, it is often considered one of the best routes for those who want a more immersive experience on the mountain. The route is less crowded than others like Marangu and Machame, allowing climbers to enjoy a more peaceful ascent while still providing an excellent opportunity to acclimatize and take in the breathtaking views.
The journey begins at the Lemosho Gate, located on the western side of Kilimanjaro, at an altitude of around 2,100 meters (6,890 feet). The first day’s hike takes climbers through the lush rainforest, where the path is surrounded by dense vegetation, towering trees, and an array of wildlife. The rainforest zone is teeming with biodiversity, and trekkers may spot various species of monkeys, colorful birds, and unique plants. The day ends at the Mti Mkubwa Camp, situated at 2,800 meters (9,186 feet). The climb on the first day is moderate, allowing for a gradual introduction to the mountain.
On the second day, the route continues through the rainforest and into the moorland zone. This day’s trek is a bit more challenging, as the terrain becomes steeper and more rugged. The path winds through open fields dotted with giant lobelias and heather, and the climbers reach Shira 1 Camp, located at 3,500 meters (11,483 feet). As the altitude increases, trekkers are encouraged to take it slow and drink plenty of water to help with acclimatization.
The third day brings climbers to the Shira Plateau, one of the highest plateaus in the world. The day’s journey is mostly spent trekking across this plateau, offering expansive views of the mountain and surrounding valleys. The day ends at the Shira 2 Camp, located at 3,850 meters (12,631 feet). The Shira Plateau is a unique feature of the Lemosho Route, and the climb here is characterized by wide vistas and the sense of being on a high-altitude desert.
On the fourth day, climbers head toward the Lava Tower, a dramatic rock formation that stands at 4,600 meters (15,100 feet). The route takes trekkers through the alpine desert zone, where the landscape is barren and rocky. The Lava Tower is a significant part of the Lemosho Route, not just because of its stunning appearance, but because it serves as an important acclimatization point. After reaching the tower, climbers descend slightly to Barranco Camp, located at 3,960 meters (12,992 feet), allowing the body to adjust to the higher altitude and decrease the risk of altitude sickness.
The fifth day is one of the most iconic sections of the Lemosho Route: the Barranco Wall. This steep rock face requires a short scramble, but it is manageable and often considered one of the fun highlights of the climb. Once at the top, climbers are rewarded with incredible panoramic views of the mountain and surrounding landscape. The day ends at Karanga Camp (4,000 meters/13,123 feet), providing climbers with ample time to rest.
On the sixth day, climbers continue their trek to Barafu Camp, located at 4,640 meters (15,223 feet). From this camp, climbers make their final ascent toward the summit. After a brief rest, they will embark on the summit push, departing from Barafu Camp at midnight for the final climb to Uhuru Peak (5,895 meters/19,341 feet). The ascent is physically demanding, but the reward of reaching the summit at sunrise is unforgettable. The view from Uhuru Peak, with its surrounding glaciers and expansive vistas, is a moment of triumph.
The descent is quick, with climbers returning to Mweka Camp for the night and completing the journey back to the Mweka Gate on the following day.
The Lemosho Route stands out for its gradual ascent, stunning diversity of environments, and the opportunity it provides for acclimatization. The route’s scenic beauty, with expansive vistas, lush rainforests, and alpine deserts, combined with the relatively low traffic, makes it an ideal choice for climbers seeking a more peaceful and immersive Kilimanjaro experience. It is a challenging yet incredibly rewarding climb that offers some of the best views of Mount Kilimanjaro.