Welcome to Origin Ventures and Safaris! Take on Africa’s highest peak via the breathtaking Lemosho Route. This 8-day itinerary offers the perfect balance of acclimatization, scenery, and summit success – starting from the remote western side and merging with the Machame Route for a dramatic finish.

Best Time to Trek: January–March and June–October, when skies are clear, temperatures are favorable, and the trails are at their best. The Lemosho Route is particularly scenic in both dry and lush green seasons.

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

After breakfast, depart Moshi or Arusha and drive westward for approximately 4 hours to Londorossi Gate (2,250m) on Kilimanjaro’s remote western flank. After registration and logistics checks, proceed to the trailhead where your trek begins.

Today’s trek is relatively short but scenic, winding through dense montane rainforest filled with towering fig trees, colobus monkeys, and endemic bird species. Arrive at Mti Mkubwa Camp (Swahili for “Big Tree”) in the late afternoon. Overnight in tents surrounded by forest ambiance.

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

Leave the forest behind and ascend steadily into the heath and moorland zone. The trail steepens as you climb up the Shira Ridge, where you’ll be treated to your first panoramic views of the Shira Plateau and the surrounding mountain ranges.

Reach Shira 1 Camp in the early afternoon, located on the western edge of the plateau — one of Kilimanjaro’s oldest volcanic features. Rest and enjoy views of Kibo Peak in the distance.

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

Today’s hike is a gentle traverse across the vast, surreal Shira Plateau, offering exceptional views of Mount Meru and the Great Rift Valley. The trail passes through ancient lava flows and unique high-altitude flora, including giant lobelias and everlasting flowers.

Arrive at Shira 2 Camp where you'll enjoy an easy afternoon, optional acclimatization hikes, and a spectacular sunset over the plateau.

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

A challenging but essential day for acclimatization. Ascend gradually to Lava Tower, a 300-foot volcanic rock formation sitting at 4,600 meters. Spend some time here for lunch and altitude adaptation.

Then, descend into the lush and surreal Barranco Valley, passing waterfalls, giant groundsels, and dramatic cliff faces. Camp overnight at Barranco Camp, under the shadow of the famous Barranco Wall.

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

Today starts with a climb up the Barranco Wall, a non-technical scramble that rewards you with stunning views over the Karanga Valley and far across the plains of Tanzania.

The trail continues over undulating terrain of lava ridges and alpine desert before arriving at Karanga Camp. Spend the afternoon resting or taking a short acclimatization hike. This is a shorter day to allow your body time to adjust to altitude.

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

Continue your ascent across bleak alpine desert to Barafu Camp, the final base before your summit push. “Barafu” means “ice” in Swahili — a nod to the freezing nighttime temperatures here.

Settle in early, enjoy a warm dinner, and rest. Your summit push begins in the middle of the night. Ensure all gear is ready and layered for extreme cold.

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

Wake around midnight for your summit attempt. Hike by headlamp through cold, dark volcanic scree to reach Stella Point (5,756m) in time for sunrise — a dramatic moment with glaciers glowing in golden light.

After a short rest, push on along the crater rim to reach the top of Africa: Uhuru Peak (5,895m). Congratulations — you’ve conquered Kilimanjaro!

After photos and celebration, begin your long descent. Return via Barafu Camp, then down into the rainforest zone to Mweka Camp for your final night on the mountain.

Day 8: Mweka Camp – Mweka Gate – Moshi/Arusha

After breakfast, hike down a well-maintained trail through cloud forest to Mweka Gate (1,640m), where you’ll sign out and receive your official summit certificate.

Transfer back to your hotel in Moshi or Arusha for a hot shower, celebration dinner, and a well-deserved rest after completing the Lemosho Route — one of Kilimanjaro’s most beautiful and rewarding treks.