The Lemosho Route is one of Kilimanjaro’s most scenic and less crowded routes, offering excellent opportunities for acclimatization and stunning views. It approaches the summit from the west, providing a gradual ascent and allowing climbers to enjoy diverse landscapes, from lush rainforests to high alpine deserts. The 7-day itinerary is an adventurous and rewarding trek ideal for climbers seeking a shorter but effective route.
Elevation: 7,800 ft to 9,500 ft
Distance: 6 km
Hiking Time: 3-4 hours
Habitat: Rainforest
After a 4-hour drive from Arusha or Moshi, you’ll arrive at Londorossi Gate to complete entry formalities. From there, another hour’s drive takes you to the Lemosho trailhead. Upon arrival, enjoy lunch before starting your hike through an untouched rainforest. The trail winds through lush greenery, leading to your first campsite, Forest Camp.
Elevation: 9,500 ft to 11,500 ft
Distance: 8 km
Hiking Time: 5-6 hours
Habitat: Moorland
Leaving the rainforest, the trail transitions into a savanna of tall grasses, heather, and volcanic rock adorned with lichen. As you ascend rolling hills and cross several streams, you’ll reach the Shira Ridge, then descend gently to Shira Camp 1. From here, enjoy stunning views of Kibo across the plateau.
Elevation: 11,500 ft to 13,800 ft
Distance: 14 km
Hiking Time: 5-7 hours
Habitat: Moorland
Spend the day exploring the Shira Plateau, one of the highest plateaus on Earth. The trail leads gently east toward Kibo’s glacier-covered peak, crossing the plateau to Shira Camp 2, located by a stream in moorland meadows. The journey continues to Moir Hut, a less frequented site at the base of Lent Hills. Optional hikes on the Lent Hills provide excellent acclimatization opportunities.
Elevation: 13,800 ft to 13,000 ft
Distance: 7 km
Hiking Time: 4-6 hours
Habitat: Semi-desert
The trail climbs eastward from the Shira Plateau, ascending a ridge toward the Lava Tower, known as the “Shark’s Tooth,” at 16,000 ft. Afterward, the path descends to Barranco Camp at 13,000 ft. This descent helps with acclimatization, despite ending the day at the same elevation you started. Rest, enjoy dinner, and spend the night at Barranco Camp.
Elevation: 13,000 ft to 15,000 ft
Distance: 9 km
Hiking Time: 8-10 hours
Habitat: Alpine desert
Begin the day by ascending the famous Barranco Wall, which looks intimidating but is manageable and rewarding. Continue to Karanga Valley Camp and take a break before heading to Barafu Camp. At Barafu, you complete the South Circuit, offering impressive views of Kibo and Mawenzi. After setting up camp, rest, have dinner, and prepare for the summit attempt.
Elevation: 15,300 ft to 19,345 ft (summit) and down to 10,000 ft
Distance: 5 km ascent / 12 km descent
Hiking Time: 7-8 hours ascent / 4-6 hours descent
Habitat: Arctic
Start your final ascent between midnight and 2 a.m., trekking through scree toward Stella Point on the crater rim (18,600 ft). This is the most challenging section of the climb. At Stella Point, pause briefly to witness a breathtaking sunrise (weather permitting). Continue for about an hour through snow to reach Uhuru Peak (19,345 ft), the highest point in Africa. After celebrating your achievement, descend to Barafu for lunch, then continue to Mweka Hut. Expect mist or rain in the forest as you unwind with dinner and a good night’s sleep.
Elevation: 10,000 ft to 5,400 ft
Distance: 10 km
Hiking Time: 3-4 hours
Habitat: Rainforest
After breakfast, descend to Mweka Gate to receive your summit certificates. The lower trail can be wet and muddy, so gaiters and trekking poles are helpful. Once at the gate, continue for another hour to Mweka Village, where a vehicle will transport you back to your hotel in Arusha or Moshi for a well-deserved shower, meal, and celebration.
Fullmoon Safaris is a locally owned tour operator based in Moshi, Kilimanjaro. They’re registered and managing their own packages, including safaris (Serengeti, Ngorongoro, Manyara, Tarangire) and Kilimanjaro treks, with a local foundation receiving 10% of income.
Founded by Emmanuel Teshaa, the company has been operating since around 2011 with a team of 26–50 employees TanzaPages+1.
A Traveller (Thibaut & Florie) described a 6‑day climb via Machame route as “unbelievable and unforgettable,” praising the guides, cook and cheerful porters. They felt safe and well-supported at all times Tripadvisor.
Another reviewer (Faith Makaza Maipisi, Dec 2022) recounted a 7‑day Lemosho route with Fullmoon Safaris: “guides gave us ample time… the cooks were amazing… hot ginger water… celebration cake… brilliant stuff”—highlighting top-tier service and care Tripadvisor+1.
Returning client Sid (July 2023) booked a 3‑day safari and a coffee/waterfalls day trip with Emmanuel, and praised the accommodation, guide knowledge, and overall seamless experience. “You can be 100% confident…” he wrote Tripadvisor.
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