Lemosho route

Safari summary

8 Days Lemosho Route Overview
The 8-day Lemosho Route is widely regarded as one of the best and most scenic paths to the summit of Mount Kilimanjaro. Starting on the western side of the mountain, this 8 days Lemosho route traverses a variety of landscapes, from lush rainforest and moorland to alpine desert and arctic summit zones. Its longer itinerary provides more time for acclimatization, which significantly increases the chance of a successful summit. The 8 days Lemosho route joins the Machame Route on the third day and shares the same trail to the summit thereafter, offering trekkers both beauty and challenge in a well-paced journey.

8 Days Lemosho Route Distance Covered
Over the course of the 8 days Lemosho route, trekkers cover approximately 70 kilometers (43.5 miles) from gate to summit and back. The daily hiking distances range from 5 to 15 kilometers, with a gradual ascent that allows the body to adapt to increasing altitude. This extended length compared to shorter routes contributes to a higher summit success rate, as it helps prevent altitude sickness by allowing the body to adjust more gradually.

8 Days Lemosho Route Weather & Temperature
Weather conditions on the 8 days Lemosho route vary greatly depending on altitude and season. The lower forested areas are humid and warm, while higher altitudes, especially near the summit, can be freezing with nighttime temperatures dropping well below zero Celsius (32°F). Rainfall is common in the lower zones, especially during the rainy seasons (March–May and November), while the summit region remains dry and cold. Proper gear is essential to cope with these changing temperatures and conditions.

8 Days Lemosho Route Elevation Gain
The total elevation gain on the 8 days Lemosho route is about 4,000 meters (13,100 feet), starting from the Lemosho Gate at approximately 2,100 meters (6,900 feet) and culminating at the Uhuru Peak, Kilimanjaro’s summit, at 5,895 meters (19,341 feet). The 8 days Lemosho route includes gradual ascents with some steep sections, especially on summit night. The elevation profile allows for better acclimatization compared to shorter routes, reducing the risk of altitude sickness.

8 Days Lemosho Route Itinerary Summary (in paragraph form)
The 8 days Lemosho route trek begins at Lemosho Gate, with an initial hike through lush rainforest to Mti Mkubwa Camp. Day two moves into the heather and moorland zone, reaching Shira Camp 1. On day three, trekkers continue across the Shira Plateau to Shira Camp 2, enjoying panoramic views. Day four includes a climb to Lava Tower for acclimatization before descending to Barranco Camp. Day five tackles the famous Barranco Wall en route to Karanga Camp. Day six is a shorter hike to Barafu Camp, the base for the summit push. On day seven, trekkers begin the midnight ascent to Uhuru Peak, followed by a descent to Mweka Camp. The final day involves a descent through rainforest to Mweka Gate, concluding the trek.

8 Days Lemosho Route Acclimatization & Success Rate
The 8 days Lemosho route is highly regarded for its excellent acclimatization profile, which significantly improves trekkers' chances of reaching the summit. The gradual ascent, combined with the inclusion of acclimatization days and climbs like Lava Tower, helps the body adjust to the thinning air. As a result, the 8 days Lemosho route boasts one of the highest success rates on Kilimanjaro, with summit success rates ranging from 90% to 95% for those who follow the full 8-day itinerary.

8 Days Lemosho Route Cost and Price (Starting from $1800 per person)
The cost for the 8 days Lemosho route starts from $1800 per person, depending on the, group size, and level of service. This price generally includes park fees, camping equipment, guides, porters, meals, and transportation to and from the trailhead. Premium packages with additional amenities such as portable toilets, upgraded meals, and pre/post-trek accommodation can raise the cost to $2000 or more. Despite the higher price compared to shorter routes, the scenic value and increased success rate make it a worthwhile investment.

About this tour

	Tour type	Set-date, set-itinerary, group
	Main focus	None
	Activity level	Strenuous activity
	Best months	All months
	Countries	Tanzania
	Parks	Kilimanjaro

Fine details

Safari highlights

• Hiking | trekking

What’s included?

• Accommodation
• Airport transfers
• All drinks
• Meals
• Park fees

What’s not included?

• Alcoholic beverages
• Hot air balloons
• Internal flights
• International flights
• Laundry
• Premium alcoholic beverages
• Spa treatments
• Tips and gratuities
• Visas