Climbing Kilimanjaro
Lemosho Route - 8 days
Kilimanjaro via Lemosho route 8 days
- Start - 2024
- Places already reserved: 4 / 15
- Guaranteed Departure
- Full Moon Climb
- High-Altitude Drop-Off
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Extra Summit
Cathedral Point - 3872 m/12703 ft
High success Rate
Rest assured - climbing Mount Kilimanjaro with our professional guides will be successful.
Superb Acclimatization
Our climbing itineraries are crafted in a way that ensures the smoothest acclimatization transition.
Bottled Oxygen
Each expedition is supplied with unlimited bottled oxygen for making acclimatization less stressful.
Lemosho Route Overview
The Lemosho route has become increasingly popular in recent years, and rightfully so. This classic trail boasts breathtaking vistas, optimal acclimatization conditions, and some of the highest summit success rates among all Kilimanjaro routes. Beginning on the western slope of the mountain, the Lemosho route offers three distinct itineraries: 6, 7, and 8 days, catering to various preferences and schedules.
A standout feature of the Lemosho route is the majestic Cathedral Peak, situated atop the Shira Volcano at an impressive elevation of 3872 meters. Here, climbers have the opportunity to embark on an acclimatization hike to Cathedral Peak, reveling in unparalleled views of Kilimanjaro’s stunning landscapes. Additionally, the route is renowned for its striking Dendrosenecio kilimanjari plants, which lend an otherworldly atmosphere unique to this mountain.
Notably, the Lemosho route gained further acclaim when Angela Vorobieva, aged 86, ascended to Kilimanjaro’s summit with Pumba Safaris, establishing a Guinness World Record as the oldest person to achieve this remarkable feat.
Lemosho Route Expert Advice
The Lemosho route holds a special place in the hearts of both the Pumba Safaris team and our clients for several compelling reasons. Foremost among these is the Lemosho 7-day itinerary, which commences from an elevation of 3414 meters. This strategic starting point allows for extended periods at altitude and entails shorter hiking distances over the initial two days. Such a setup facilitates superior acclimatization, consequently yielding the highest summit success rates on Kilimanjaro.
While the 6-day variation is advisable solely for seasoned trekkers or individuals with prior acclimatization experience, the 7-day itinerary is deemed suitable even for beginners. This extended timeframe ensures a more gradual ascent, promoting optimal adaptation to the altitude and enhancing overall trekking enjoyment and success.
Lemosho Route Summit Success Rate
At Pumba Safaris, we’ve meticulously compiled comprehensive statistics on each route throughout the years. Here are the success rates for reaching the Crater Rim and Uhuru Peak on the Lemosho 6, 7, and 8-day itineraries, derived from data spanning thousands of our climbers:
- Lemosho 7 – Crater Rim: 97.5%, Uhuru Peak: 96.0%
- Lemosho 8 – Crater Rim: 96.5%, Uhuru Peak: 93.8%
You might be curious as to why the longer 8-day itinerary exhibits a slightly lower success rate. The explanation is straightforward: Furthermore, the 8-day route begins at 2100m, requiring climbers to ascend to 3610m within 24 hours, which is a demanding task. Hence, the 7-day itinerary is often recommended for beginners, offering the best chance of summiting. Additionally, if one climber descends while their partner accompanies them, we record it as two unsuccessful attempts. Consequently, your prospects of summiting may be even more promising than the figures suggest.
Numerous factors contribute to Pumba Safaris’ ability to boast such remarkable summit success rates. Firstly, we prioritize providing the finest working conditions and salaries in the Kilimanjaro region, attracting top-tier guides, mountain crews, and operations specialists. Secondly, we place utmost importance on our clients’ well-being. Pumba Safaris maintains an extensive array of oxygen systems, surpassing all other operators combined, leveraging them to enhance acclimatization and address symptoms of altitude sickness. Our guides conduct thorough medical check-ups twice daily, ensuring your acclimatization progresses smoothly. Finally, our guides are extensively trained in mountain first-aid, and all our expeditions are equipped with comprehensive medical kits.
Prices for Lemosho route
Classic Tarif
Our classic adventures cater to the preferences of the majority of climbers, offering a blend of exceptional comfort and stringent safety standards that render our classic Kilimanjaro hikes both enjoyable and unforgettable. It’s no surprise that this option stands as the most favored among our clients.
Our comprehensive climbing package encompasses everything a climber could possibly need for the journey: a seasoned mountain crew, top-tier group equipment, and meticulously crafted meals designed by nutritionists. Across all our hiking adventures, our safety protocols remain consistent – only guides certified as Wilderness First Responders are entrusted with leading expeditions. Additionally, we uphold strict safety measures, including the provision of oxygen cylinders, fully stocked medical kits, and mandatory medical check-ups (twice daily).
To ensure peace of mind, the progress of each trekking party is monitored via GPS devices. You can easily share the tracking link with your loved ones, enabling them to follow your journey in real-time.
Before and after your adventure, you’ll enjoy accommodations in reputable hotels boasting attentive staff, hot water, reliable Wi-Fi, on-site dining options, and refreshing swimming pools.
Prices for Lemosho route
LemoshoRoute Detailed Itinerary
DAY 1: ARRIVAL
Our driver will meet you at Kilimanjaro Airport (JRO) and take you to your hotel in Moshi. Do not worry if you are slow clearing customs, our driver will be waiting for as long as necessary. After you settle in at your hotel, we will go through an equipment check with you. If any items are lacking, they can be rented at this time. Your guide will meet you for a thorough pre-climb briefing where all questions will be answered. For night time arrivals these things can be done the early the next morning.
Overnight Location: Hotel in Moshi
Travel Time: 45 minutes drive to Moshi
DAY 2: Day 1: Londerossi Gate to Big Tree Camp (Mti Mkubwa)
After breakfast at your hotel you will be picked up from your Moshi hotel for the drive to Londrossi Gate. This small village is where you’ll begin your trek. Columbus monkeys are common along the beginning of your trail through the rainforest. Your first camp Mti Mkubwa is on the edge of the forest, so there could be wildlife sightings here as well.
Overnight Location: Camping on Mount Kilimanjaro (2,650m / 8,694’)
Trekking Duration and Distance: 2 to 3 hours, 6 km, 820m of elevation gain
Meals: Breakfast, lunch, dinner
Day 3: Hike Shira Ridge to Shira Plateau to Shira 1 Camp
As the rainforest fades into moorland you’ll experience sweeping views, especially as you climb up the dramatic Shira Ridge. You’ll trek through the heather and across some streams before arriving at Shira 1 Camp in the meadow.
Overnight Location: Camping on Mount Kilimanjaro (3,500m / 11,482’)
Trekking Duration and Distance: 4 to 5 hours, 8 km, 850m of elevation gain
Meals: Breakfast, lunch, dinner
Day 3: Cross the plateau to explore or relax at Shira 2 Camp
You will have plenty of time today to cross the plateau to Shira 2 Camp. From here you’ll be able to explore the area or take in the views and relax at camp. This rest day will help you acclimate to the altitude before you continue higher.
Overnight Location: Camping on Mount Kilimanjaro (3,810m / 12,500’)
Trekking Duration and Distance: 4 to 5 hours, 8 km, 310m of elevation gain
Meals: Breakfast, lunch, dinner
Day 4: Visit the Lava Tower and trek to Barranco Camp
You will be hiking out of the valley and up to the Lava Tower today. This volcanic rock outcropping is shaped like a shark’s tooth, and you have the choice to scramble up it. Today you’ll be climbing to a higher altitude before descending again to camp for the night at Barranco Camp.
Overnight Location: Camping in Mount Kilimanjaro (3,900m / 12,795’)
Trekking Duration and Distance: 5 to 6 hours, 8 km, 90m of elevation gain
Meals: Breakfast, lunch, dinner
Day 5: Conquer the Barranco Wall and hike to Karanga Camp
Today you’ll be hiking up the imposing Barranco Wall. This will be good practice for the challenging ascent to the summit. From the top, you’ll have views clear into the Karanga Valley, which you’ll be trekking across before camping for the night.
Overnight Location: Camping on Mount Kilimanjaro (3,995m / 13,160’)
Trekking Duration and Distance: 3 to 4 hours, 5 km, 95m of elevation gain
Meals: Breakfast, lunch, dinner
Day 6: Short trek to Barafu Camp to prepare for summit day
As you hike through the alpine desert this morning, you’ll have completed the South Circuit of the peak and seen it from many different angles. You won’t have a lot of ground to cover before you arrive at Barafu Camp for an early dinner. Head to bed early in preparation for tomorrow’s long day.
Overnight Location: Camping in Mount Kilimanjaro (4,673m / 15,331’)
Trekking Duration and Distance: 3 to 4 hours, 4 km, 650m of elevation gain
Meals: Breakfast, lunch, dinner
Day 7 Midnight hike and reach the top of Uhuru Peak - Descend to Mweka Camp
It will be dark out when your trek begins around midnight. You’ll have to dig deep through this challenging section of heavy scree and steep ascent. After you cross between Rebmann and Ratzel glaciers you’ll begin climbing up to Stella Pont. Here you’ll have a break to take in a magnificent sunrise before you attempt the summit. It takes another hour through snow to reach the peak. Congratulations! You’ve reached the highest point in Africa, and the views will be incredible. Take a moment to celebrate your success before beginning the trek back down. You still have a long day ahead of you, as you’ll have to hike down to a safer altitude before you can camp for the night at Mweka Camp.
Overnight Location: Camping on Mount Kilimanjaro (3100m / 10,170’)
Trekking Duration and Distance: 10 to 13 hours, 16 km, 1195m of ascent and 2795m of descent
Meals: Breakfast, lunch, dinner
Day 8: Hike to Mweka Gate and return to Moshi
You’ll appreciate the warmer temperature and how much easier it is to breathe as you descend back into the rainforest. Upon your arrival at Mweka Gate, the Gladys Adventure driver will meet you to take you back to Moshi.
Overnight Location: Hotel in Moshi
Trekking Duration and Distance: 3 to 4 hours, 10 km, 1410m of descent
Meals: Breakfast, lunch
Departure
Breakfast at the hotel is included in the climb package. Our driver will be available at any time to take you to Kilimanjaro Airport. If you have booked a safari, we typically will leave just after breakfast. Checkout time at the hotel is 10am. If you have a flight departing later in the day, we will try to obtain a late checkout for you or arrange for a day room if you desire.
Travel Time: 45 minutes drive to Kilimanjaro Airport
What Includes
- All transfers
- Hotel before and after the hike
- Camping equipment
- Meals on the hike
- Professional guides and porters
- Oxygen tanks
- GPS Trackers
- Fully-loaded medical kits
- All park fees and taxes
- Safe room and storage room
- Impactful change for the local communities
What excludes
- International flights
- Tips to the climbing crew
- Visa fee
- Personal gear rentals
- Single supplement
- Travel insurance
- Portable toilet
- Lunch and dinner in the hotel