Mount Kilimanjaro stands tall at 19,341 ft (5,895 m) above sea level, making it the highest free-standing mountain in the world and the "Roof of Africa." There are seven routes to reach the summit, but the Lemosho Route is widely considered the most scenic with breathtaking landscapes, abundant wildlife. It offers excellent acclimatization opportunities as well as lower foot traffic compared to other routes. No wonder it’s our personal favorite for reaching the "Roof of Africa."This route's gradual ascent over five days, with its steady altitude gain, significantly improves the chances of successfully reaching the summit.
The adventure begins with a four-hour drive from Moshi to the Lemosho Glades on Kilimanjaro's western slope. From there, your journey takes you to the famous Shira Plateau, marking the start of the true adventure. Along the route, you'll pass through all of Kilimanjaro’s diverse climate zones, from lush rainforest to alpine meadows, and eventually to the snow-capped summit. The climb itself is gradual, making it perfect for first-time climbers or those who prefer to take their time and enjoy the stunning scenery. Additionally, Lemosho has the highest success rate of all Kilimanjaro routes, increasing your chances of reaching the top. The longer trek duration allows for better acclimatization, which is crucial for maximizing your summit success.
Kilimanjaro trip includes premium comfort features such as Kosovo camp supplement, Bed Cot, sleeping bags, spacious walk-in tents and better ratio of portable toilets, client to support staff ratio during trek on the summit day to improve success rate.
Upon arrival at Kilimanjaro International Airport (JRO), a private transfer will be arranged to take you to your hotel. Local representative will meet you and have a full pre-climb briefing in the evening.
After breakfast, we will drive to Lemosho Glades (approximately a 4-hour journey from Moshi). Following the registration, you'll embark on a trek through the pristine rainforest, beginning your ascent up the mountain. While this initial trek is not overly demanding, it offers ample opportunity to acclimatize to the altitude and immerse yourself in the vibrant Tanzanian wilderness. Keep a watchful eye for glimpses of Black and White Colobus monkeys, small antelope, and perhaps even the majestic presence of buffalos or elephants! After 3 to 4 hours of trekking, you'll reach Mti Mkubwa Camp, aptly named "Big Tree Camp", due to the towering conifer trees that provide shade and shelter for the campsite.
On the second day, you'll rise early for breakfast and begin a steeper ascent through the moorland vegetation zone. As you climb, you'll be rewarded with breathtaking views of Kibo, the summit cone of Mt. Kilimanjaro. You'll continue along a rocky ridge to Shira Plateau, an ancient volcanic crater that was the first of Kilimanjaro's three volcanic cones to become extinct. The hike across the plateau offers stunning vistas of the eastern side and the dramatic glaciers of the western breach. As you approach the Shira Camp - 2 campsite, you'll be on the western side of Kibo Peak.
The route now leads you through semi-desert and rocky landscapes surrounding Lava Tower, a 300-foot volcanic rock formation. You'll ascend a steep, rocky path to the top of Lava Tower, where you'll be rewarded with panoramic views. After a challenging descent, you'll reach the Barranco Valley.
This day's trek is often more demanding than previous days, as some hikers may start to experience symptoms of altitude sickness (Climb high and sleep low). Although you'll finish at a similar elevation to where you started, this is excellent practice for acclimatization and will prepare your body for the summit push. Barranco Camp is nestled in a beautiful, sheltered valley beneath the imposing Barranco Wall.
This will be a shorter day of hiking to allow for acclimatization. After breakfast, you'll begin ascending the challenging Barranco Wall, which involves some scrambling. Once you conquer the wall, you'll be rewarded with stunning views of glacial valleys.
From the top of the wall, you'll traverse a series of hills and valleys before descending into Karanga Valley. Barranco, Spanish for "gorge," is a steep, 843-foot climb. After one final steep ascent, you'll reach Karanga Camp, where you can relax for the afternoon before dinner and a good night's rest.
After breakfast, you'll leave Karanga and reach the junction with the famous Mweka Trail. You'll then continue along a rocky ridge for 1-2 hours, arriving at Barafu Camp. This camp offers stunning views of Mt. Kilimanjaro's summit from various angles. Your tents will be pitched on a narrow, windy ridge.
It's recommended to take a short acclimatization hike towards Kibo Hut to familiarize yourself with the terrain. Spend the afternoon resting and catching up on sleep. After dinner, head to bed early to prepare for the summit attempt. Prioritize sleep over thinking about summit day; more the rest you get, better equipped you'll be, for the challenge ahead.
This will be one of the longest and toughest days on the mountain. Just before midnight, you'll embark on your final ascent to the summit of Mt. Kilimanjaro. You'll head northwest through heavy scree, following multiple switchbacks between the Ratzel and Rebmann glaciers until you reach Stella Point (5,756 m/18,885 ft). This is the most challenging part of the route and will require significant physical and mental exertion. Walking slowly (Pole – Pole) and following directions of your guide is very important.
After a short rest at Stella Point, you'll hike along the crater rim for another hour, reaching your ultimate goal—Uhuru Peak (5,895 m/19,341 ft)! Congratulations! You've made it to the "Roof of Africa." Take a moment to absorb the achievement and congratulate yourself on reaching the summit. Remember to take photos of the precious moments at the summit.
Weather conditions on the summit will determine how long you can stay, but it's crucial to start your descent in good time to ensure adequate rest at Barafu Camp. After resting, you'll gather your belongings and descend to Mweka Hut (3,100m), where you'll enjoy dinner and a well-earned sleep.
After eating breakfast, you will begin the easiest part of your adventure on Mount Kilimanjaro via a scenic path through the forest to Mweka Gate. Successful hikers who made it to Stella Point and Uhuru Peak will be awarded their certificates at the gate. Then it’s time to drive back to your hotel to enjoy a shower, dinner, and celebrations
After breakfast, you will be transferred to Kilimanjaro International Airport (JRO), ensuring arrival at least three hours before your scheduled departure.
Embark on an unforgettable journey through stunning mountain landscapes. Our Mountain Trek takes you through picturesque trails, dense forests, and serene valleys. Experience the natural beauty and tranquility of the mountains as you trek through diverse terrains and enjoy breathtaking views. Whether you're an adventure enthusiast or a nature lover, this trek offers something for everyone.
Mi Adventures'23 Coordination fee - US$ 130 [at the time of enrollment]
Trip Cost (double occupancy) - US$ 2350
Trip Deposit - US$ 350 [150 days before start date of trip]
Final payment - US$ 2000 [90 days before start date of trip]
Terms and condition apply [Link]
