9-Day Kilimanjaro Lemosho Route Climb
A Premier Adventure to the Roof of Africa
Route: Lemosho | Duration: 9 Days / 8 Nights | Style: Full-Service Camping
Start/End: Kilimanjaro International Airport (JRO)
Trip Overview
Embark on the ultimate trek along Kilimanjaro’s most scenic and least-crowded trail — the Lemosho Route, enhanced by the Northern Circuit for optimal acclimatization. This route offers incredible panoramic views, diverse ecosystems, and the highest summit success rate. With an experienced team, top-tier equipment, and comfortable camping, you’ll climb with confidence and comfort.
Day-by-Day Itinerary
- Arrival at Kilimanjaro International Airport (JRO)
- Private transfer to your hotel in Moshi town
- Overnight at Park View Hotel or similar (Bed & Breakfast)
- Drive to Lemosho Gate for park registration
- Short scenic hike through rainforest to Lemosho Big Tree Camp (2,650m)
- Trekking Time: 3 hours
- Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
- Climb out of the forest into moorland covered in giant heathers
- Camp at Shira 1 Camp (3,550m)
- Trekking Time: 6–7 hours
- Hike to Shira Cathedral for amazing panoramic views
- Overnight at Shira 2 Camp (3,840m)
- Trekking Time: 5–7 hours
- Trek to Lava Tower (4,600m) for acclimatization
- Overnight at Moir Hut (4,200m)
- Trekking Time: 5–7 hours
- Optional hike to Little Lent Hill (4,375m)
- Continue on the remote Northern Circuit trail
- Overnight at Buffalo Camp (4,150m)
- Trekking Time: 4–7 hours
- Trek across alpine terrain to Third Cave Camp (3,940m)
- Trekking Time: 5–7 hours
- Hike across the Saddle between Mawenzi and Kibo
- Rest at School Hut (4,700m) before the summit push
- Trekking Time: 4–5 hours
- Midnight start for the summit attempt
- Reach Gilman’s Point, then Uhuru Peak – the highest point in Africa!
- Descend to Millennium Camp (3,800m)
- Trekking Time: 11–15 hours
- Hike through lush rainforest to Mweka Gate
- Receive your summit certificate
- Transfer to Moshi town
- Overnight at Park View Hotel or similar (Bed & Breakfast)
- Trekking Time: 4–6 hours
- After breakfast, transfer to Kilimanjaro International Airport
- Or continue with your next adventure (e.g., safari or Zanzibar)
A: What to Wear on Day 1 (From Park Gate to First Camp)
Day 1 is usually warm to mild — you’ll start in a rainforest zone (around 1,800 m) with temperatures
15–22°C, but it can get cooler higher up.
Clothing:
• Base Layer Top – Moisture-wicking T-shirt (avoid cotton; use synthetic or merino wool).
• Light Hiking Pants – Quick-dry and breathable.
• Light Fleece Jacket – For when it gets cooler.
• Sun Hat or Cap – For UV protection.
• Underwear & Hiking Socks – Breathable, preferably merino wool.
• Trail Shoes or Lightweight Hiking Boots – Waterproof, broken-in, with good grip.
Accessories:
• Sunglasses (for sun & dust protection)
• Lightweight gloves (optional, in case of chill)
• Gaiters (optional, but useful if the trail is muddy)
B: Day Pack (Max 8 kg)
You carry this yourself. It contains everything you need during the hike — not what you’ll only use at camp.
1) Water – 2–3 liters in bottles or hydration bladder.
2) Snacks – Energy bars, nuts, dried fruit.
3) Rain Gear – Lightweight waterproof jacket & rain pants.
4) Light Warm Layer – Small fleece or windbreaker.
5) Hat & Buff/Neck Gaiter – For sun, wind, or dust.
6) Sunscreen & Lip Balm – SPF 30+ minimum.
7) Sunglasses – If not wearing already.
8) Personal Items – Toilet paper (small roll), wet wipes, hand sanitizer.
9) Small First Aid Kit – Plasters, blister pads, personal meds.
10) Camera or Phone – Fully charged, in waterproof pouch.
11) Trekking Poles – If collapsible, attach to side when not in use.
C: Rucksack/Duffel (Max 12 kg)
Porters carry this — you access it only at camp. Pack it in a waterproof liner or dry bags.
1) Warm Jacket – Down or synthetic, with hood.
2) Base Layers – Thermal tops x 2 & bottoms x 2
3) Hiking Pants – two pairs
4) Fleece Jacket
5) Warm Hat & Gloves – For evenings/mornings.
6) Extra Socks & Underwear – Keep dry pairs for camp. x 5 pairs
7) Sleeping Bag – Rated to -10°C or lower
8) Sleeping Bag Liner – Optional, adds warmth & keeps bag clean.
9) Camp Shoes or Sandals – To rest your feet.
10) Headlamp – With spare batteries.
11) Toiletries – Toothbrush, toothpaste, biodegradable soap.
12) Towel – Small quick-dry towel.
13) Balaclava
14) Wool hat
15) Small Pillow
16) Hand warmers
17) Sleeveless Down Jacket
18) Mittens Gloves
19) Power bank (for charging phone)
20) Book, journal, or small cards for downtime
21) Extra snacks for in between and the final ascent to the summit.