7 Days Lemosho Route Trekking

Overview of This Kilimanjaro Adventure

Embark on a spectacular journey to the roof of Africa via the 7 Days Lemosho Route—widely considered Kilimanjaro’s most beautiful and well-balanced trail. This route begins on the remote western side of the mountain, offering lush rainforest, expansive Shira Plateau views, alpine deserts, and a thrilling final ascent to Uhuru Peak (5,895m).

Originally designed as a longer and less crowded option, the Lemosho Route has gained popularity for its high summit success rate, thanks to its excellent acclimatization profile. The trail gradually climbs through several ecological zones, allowing your body to adjust naturally to increasing altitude.

Historically, the Lemosho Route was only accessible to scientific expeditions and experienced climbers. Today, it’s open to trekkers seeking a more immersive and scenic route compared to the busier Marangu and Machame trails. Its starting point—Londorossi Gate—is also a great area for wildlife encounters, including monkeys, antelope, and sometimes even elephants in the lower forests.

Over the course of seven days, you'll pass through remote camps such as Forest Camp (Mti Mkubwa), Shira Camps, and Karanga Camp, all leading up to your final base at Barafu Camp. From there, the midnight summit push offers breathtaking views at dawn, with glaciers, stars, and the sun rising over the African plains below.

After reaching Uhuru Peak, the descent is made through Mweka Route on the southern side, offering yet another perspective of this incredible mountain.

With Origin Ventures and Safaris, your trek is led by professional mountain guides certified in high-altitude safety and hospitality. Every step of your journey is designed for both safety and soul-stirring adventure.

Lush forest trail on Lemosho Route
Shira Plateau views on the way to Barranco Camp
Trekkers celebrating at Uhuru Peak

7 Days Lemosho Route – Kilimanjaro Trekking Itinerary

The 7-day version of the Lemosho Route is ideal for trekkers seeking a balance between proper acclimatization and a manageable duration. It offers one of the highest summit success rates thanks to its gradual ascent profile and stunningly scenic route.

Day 1: Moshi/Arusha – Londorossi Gate – Mti Mkubwa Camp (2,820m)

After breakfast at your hotel in Moshi or Arusha, drive to Londorossi Gate for registration. Begin your trek through the pristine rainforest of the Lemosho Glades, spotting black-and-white colobus monkeys and exotic birds. Overnight at Mti Mkubwa Camp.

Day 2: Mti Mkubwa – Shira 1 Camp (3,610m)

Trek steadily uphill through the last sections of forest into moorland. Climb to Shira Ridge for panoramic views, then descend gently to Shira 1 Camp across the Shira Plateau. The views of Kibo Peak in the distance are truly memorable.

Day 3: Shira 1 – Shira 2 Camp (3,850m)

Enjoy a slow-paced day across the high-altitude desert of the Shira Plateau. This is an important day for acclimatization. Optional hikes to viewpoints or Cathedral Rock offer additional altitude exposure. Camp overnight at Shira 2, under starlit skies.

Day 4: Shira 2 – Lava Tower (4,600m) – Barranco Camp (3,976m)

This is the toughest yet most vital acclimatization day. Ascend to the famous Lava Tower and have lunch at high altitude before descending into the scenic Barranco Valley. This climb-high, sleep-low strategy helps your body prepare for summit success.

Day 5: Barranco Camp – Karanga Camp (4,035m)

Conquer the iconic Barranco Wall—an exhilarating scramble with stunning views—then trek through glacial valleys to Karanga Camp. A shorter day that offers recovery and time to rest before summit night.

Day 6: Karanga Camp – Barafu Camp (4,640m)

Continue the gradual ascent to Barafu Camp, your base before the summit push. You’ll arrive in the early afternoon, rest, eat early dinner, and sleep before waking for the midnight trek to the summit.

Day 7: Barafu – Uhuru Peak (5,895m) – Mweka Camp (3,100m)

Begin the summit attempt around midnight. Hike under moonlight past Stella Point (5,756m) to Uhuru Peak—Africa’s highest point. Enjoy sunrise on the roof of the continent before descending back to Barafu, then down to Mweka Camp for your final night on the mountain.

Why Trekkers Love the 7-Day Lemosho Route

The 7-day Lemosho itinerary is considered the perfect route for most Kilimanjaro trekkers. It combines excellent acclimatization days with manageable daily distances. Compared to the shorter 6-day route, it offers a greater chance of summit success with reduced risk of altitude sickness.

  • More gradual ascent profile than most routes
  • Stunning landscapes: rainforest, moorland, alpine desert, glaciers
  • High success rate (up to 90% with proper pacing)
  • Less crowded than Marangu and Machame routes
  • More time for acclimatization = safer and more enjoyable

Whether you're a first-time high-altitude trekker or a returning climber, this 7-day journey offers the ultimate combination of comfort, adventure, and summit success.


Included in the Trekking Package

  • Transport from Moshi/Arusha to Londorossi Gate and return
  • Professional guides, porters, and cook
  • All national park, camping, and rescue fees
  • Mountain tents and sleeping mats
  • Three freshly prepared meals per day
  • Safe drinking water throughout the trek
  • Emergency oxygen and first aid

Excluded from the Trek

  • Gratuities for guides, cook, and porters
  • Personal travel insurance and international flights
  • Sleeping bag and trekking gear (available for rent)
  • Visa fees and personal medical requirements
  • Hotel accommodation before and after trek (can be arranged)

Book your Tour

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