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8 Days Lemosho Route Kilimanjaro Climb – Best Route for High Summit Success
Overview of the 8 Days Lemosho Route Kilimanjaro Climb
The 8 days Lemosho Route Kilimanjaro climb is widely considered the best route for reaching the summit of Mount Kilimanjaro. It offers excellent acclimatization, diverse scenery, and one of the highest success rates among all routes.
Starting on the western side of the mountain, Lemosho is less crowded at the beginning and gradually joins the Machame Route. This allows climbers to enjoy quieter trails while still benefiting from a well-established path.
Because of its longer duration, this route gives your body more time to adjust to altitude, making it ideal for those who want to increase their chances of reaching Uhuru Peak.
Why Choose the Lemosho Route
The Lemosho Route is often recommended for climbers who want the best overall Kilimanjaro experience.
It is ideal for:
- First-time climbers seeking higher success rates
- Travelers who want a less crowded start
- Photographers and nature lovers
- Climbers who can commit to a longer itinerary
This route combines comfort, scenery, and proper acclimatization.
Route Highlights
- High summit success rate
- Excellent acclimatization profile
- Diverse landscapes from rainforest to alpine desert
- Less crowded starting point
- Scenic views across the mountain
Detailed Itinerary
Day 1: Lemosho Gate to Mti Mkubwa Camp
The climb begins on the western side of the mountain.
You hike through rainforest, where wildlife sightings are possible.
- Elevation: 2,100m to 2,850m
- Hiking time: 3–4 hours
Day 2: Mti Mkubwa Camp to Shira Camp 1
You leave the forest and enter moorland terrain with open views.
- Elevation: 2,850m to 3,500m
- Hiking time: 5–6 hours
Day 3: Shira Camp 1 to Shira Camp 2
A gradual climb across the Shira Plateau.
This day helps your body begin adapting to altitude.
- Elevation: 3,500m to 3,850m
- Hiking time: 4–5 hours
Day 4: Shira Camp 2 to Lava Tower to Barranco Camp
This is a key acclimatization day.
You ascend to Lava Tower (4,600m) before descending to Barranco Camp.
- Elevation: 3,850m to 3,950m
- Hiking time: 6–8 hours
Day 5: Barranco Camp to Karanga Camp
You climb the Barranco Wall, one of the most memorable parts of the route.
- Elevation: 3,950m to 4,035m
- Hiking time: 4–5 hours
Day 6: Karanga Camp to Barafu Camp
You continue to base camp for the summit attempt.
- Elevation: 4,035m to 4,640m
- Hiking time: 4–5 hours
Day 7: Summit Day – Uhuru Peak to Mweka Camp
You begin the summit push at midnight.
Reaching Uhuru Peak (5,895m) is the highlight of the climb.
After the summit, you descend to Mweka Camp.
- Hiking time: 10–14 hours
Day 8: Mweka Camp to Mweka Gate
Final descent through rainforest.
- Hiking time: 3–4 hours
Difficulty Level
- Moderate to challenging
- Requires good physical fitness
- No technical climbing required
The longer duration makes the climb more manageable compared to shorter routes.
Success Rate
The 8 days Lemosho Route has one of the highest success rates due to:
- Gradual ascent
- Better acclimatization
- Longer duration
What Is Included
- Park fees
- Professional mountain guides and crew
- Camping equipment
- Meals during the climb
- Drinking water
- Transfers to and from the mountain
What Is Not Included
- International flights
- Visa fees
- Travel insurance
- Tips for guides and porters
- Personal climbing gear
Best Time to Climb Kilimanjaro via Lemosho Route
Best months:
- January to March
- June to October
These periods offer the most stable weather conditions.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Lemosho better than Machame?
Lemosho offers better acclimatization and a quieter start, making it slightly more favorable.
Is this route suitable for beginners?
Yes, especially those with good fitness and enough time.
Do I need prior climbing experience?
No technical experience is required.
How cold does it get?
Temperatures can drop well below freezing near the summit.
Is camping required?
Yes. This route uses tents for accommodation.
Why is this route more expensive?
It is longer and requires more logistics, which increases cost.
Conclusion
The 8 days Lemosho Route Kilimanjaro climb is one of the best choices for climbers who want a high chance of reaching the summit while enjoying a scenic and less crowded experience.
For those who can commit to the extra days, this route provides the most balanced and rewarding Kilimanjaro climb.