8 DAYS MOUNT KILIMANJARO CLIMB – LEMOSHO ROUTE

We depart Arusha for Londorossi Gate (about 4 hours), where you complete entry formalities, then drive to the Lemosho trailhead (another hour). On arrival we eat lunch, then set off through undisturbed forest winding to the first campsite. Accommodation: Forest Camp.

We continue out of the forest into a savannah of tall grasses, heather, and volcanic rock draped with lichen. Ascending through lush rolling hills and crossing several streams, we reach the Shira Ridge before dropping gently down towards Shira Camp, with amazing views of Kibo across the plateau.

From the Shira Plateau we continue east up a ridge, passing the junction towards Kibo’s peak, then change direction southeast towards the Lava Tower, known as the ‘Shark’s Tooth.’ Shortly after the tower we reach a second junction leading to Arrow Glacier (4,876m / 16,000ft), then continue down to Barranco Hut (3,962m / 13,000ft). Although you end the day at the same elevation you started, this day is important for acclimatization. Accommodation: Barranco Camp.

The day starts by descending into the Great Barranco, a huge ravine, then exiting steeply up the Great Barranco Wall, a long but non-technical scramble over rock dividing us from the southeastern slopes of Kibo. Passing beneath the Heim and Kersten glaciers, we head towards Karanga Valley and climb steeply up to camp at 3,963m. For those feeling strong, an optional mid-afternoon acclimatization trek up to about 4,200m is available before descending back to camp. Accommodation: Karanga Camp.

After breakfast, leave Karanga and reach the junction connecting with the Mweka Trail, continuing up to Barafu Hut. At this point you’ve completed the South Circuit, with views of the summit from many angles. Camp, rest, have dinner, and prepare for summit day. Accommodation: Barafu Camp.

Very early (midnight to 2am), we head northwest between the Rebmann and Ratzel glaciers, ascending through heavy scree towards Stella Point on the crater rim — the most mentally and physically challenging portion of the trek. At Stella Point (18,600ft / 5,685m) you stop for a short rest, rewarded with a magnificent sunrise (weather permitting). From there you may encounter snow on the 1-hour ascent to Uhuru Peak, the highest point on the continent. We then descend straight down to Mweka Hut campsite, stopping at Barafu for lunch. Gaiters and trekking poles help with the loose gravel.

After breakfast, continue the descent to Mweka Park Gate to receive your summit certificates. At lower elevations it can be wet and muddy, so gaiters and trekking poles help. From the gate, continue another hour to Mweka Village, where a vehicle meets you to drive back to your hotel in Arusha for an overnight stay.

Time to say goodbye. After breakfast, our driver will pick you up and drop you at Kilimanjaro International Airport for your departure flight (booked by you). End of our service.