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7-Day Kilimanjaro Climb via the Lemosho Route (9-Day Tour)

5.0

(2)

7-Day Kilimanjaro Climb via the Lemosho Route (9-Day Tour)
7-Day Kilimanjaro Climb via the Lemosho Route (9-Day Tour)
7-Day Kilimanjaro Climb via the Lemosho Route (9-Day Tour)
7-Day Kilimanjaro Climb via the Lemosho Route (9-Day Tour)
7-Day Kilimanjaro Climb via the Lemosho Route (9-Day Tour)

Climb Mount Kilimanjaro on a seven day Lemosho trek across the Shira Plateau, past Lava Tower and the Barranco Wall, and up to Uhuru Peak (5,895 m).

East African Mountains

9 Days

All year

High

Beginner


Highlights

  • Follow our seven day Lemosho itinerary, which has a 94.9% historical success rate for reaching Uhuru Peak.
  • Support responsible porter treatment through our KPAP partnership.
  • Climb with WFR certified guides and twice daily health checks.

Description

The Lemosho Route approaches Kilimanjaro from the west, opening onto the broad Shira Plateau with views of Kibo and, on clear days, Mount Meru.

The trip has seven trekking days and nine days overall, including arrival and departure. The seven day itineraryon the mountain begins with a vehicle transfer to approximately 3,600 m, followed by a short walk to Shira 1 Camp. From there, you’ll cross the plateau, hike toward Lava Tower for acclimatization, climb the Barranco Wall and make an overnight ascent to Uhuru Peak.

Our records show that 94.9% of climbers on our seven day Lemosho itinerary reached Uhuru Peak. This is a the highest summit rate among all our trips, but not a guarantee: your fitness, acclimatization and conditions on the mountain all matter.

We recommend this itinerary for travelers with trekking experience who want time to adjust to the altitude. The first two walks are relatively gentle, but the high starting point, consecutive days on the mountain and long summit day require good preparation.

Your climb is led by Wilderness First Responder (WFR) certified guides, with health checks every morning and evening to monitor your adjustment to altitude. We carry supplemental oxygen and comprehensive medical kits, and inspect expedition equipment before departure. Meals can be adapted to your dietary requirements at no extra charge.

We are a partner of the Kilimanjaro Porters Assistance Project (KPAP), which independently monitors porter treatment. This includes fair wages, suitable equipment, nutritious meals and safe working conditions for the people supporting your climb.

Send us a request to discuss your dates and plan your Kilimanjaro climb!

Price includes

  • Accommodation included
  • Guiding fee
  • Transportation start and back
  • Permit and entrance fees
  • Porters
  • All meals during trip

Price details

  • ✅Price includes
  • Transfers and hotel accommodation before and after the climb
  • Inspected expedition camping equipment
  • Guiding by WFR certified mountain guides
  • Mountain meals (possibility to adapt to dietary requirements at no extra charge)
  • Porter services with welfare working conditions
  • Park fees and taxes
  • Twice daily health checks, supplemental oxygen and comprehensive medical kits
  • Mountain support Scenic Trekking and Success Rates
  • ❌Price does not include
  • International flights and Tanzanian visa fee
  • Travel insurance
  • Tips for the climbing crew
  • Personal gear or gear rental
  • Single supplement and portable toilet
  • Lunch and dinner at the hotel

Meeting point

Kilimanjaro Airport (airport pickup and drop-off included)

Itinerary

Day 1: Arrival

Meet our representative at Kilimanjaro International Airport (JRO) and transfer to the hotel. Attend a pre-climb briefing in the evening.

Day 2: Trek Day 1: Vehicle drop-off to Shira 1 Camp

Drive via Londorossi Gate, complete park registration and continue by off-road vehicle to approximately 3,600 m. Walk to Shira 1 Camp. 5 km, 1–2 hours.

Day 3: Shira 1 to Shira 2 Camp

Cross the Shira Plateau to Shira 2 Camp (3,850 m). A hike to Cathedral Peak (3,872 m) may be offered along the way. After lunch, take an acclimatization walk toward Lava Tower. 7 km, 3–4 hours for the main trek.

Day 4: Shira 2 via Lava Tower to Barranco Camp

Hike to Lava Tower (approximately 4,600 m) and stop for lunch at altitude before descending to Barranco Camp. 12 km, 6–8 hours.

Day 5: Barranco to Karanga Camp

Ascend the Barranco Wall, then continue across undulating terrain to Karanga Camp (3,960 m). Later, take an acclimatization walk toward Barafu Camp and return to Karanga. 5 km, 4–5 hours for the main trek.

Day 6: Karanga to Barafu Camp

Trek to Barafu Camp and spend the rest of the day resting ahead of the overnight summit ascent. 6 km, 4–5 hours.

Day 7: Barafu to Uhuru Peak, then Millennium Camp

Set out at night for Uhuru Peak (5,895 m). Descend to Barafu for a rest, then continue to Millennium Camp. 15 km, 8–12 hours.

Day 8: Descend through rainforest to Mweka Gate and transfer back to the hotel. 12 km, 4–5 hours.

In the morning after breakfast you will be trekking down to Mweka gate. The trek is a pleasant one through the lower rain-forested slopes and down to Mweka Gate (1,640 meters). Although you cover 9km / 5.5 miles, the trek only takes 3-4 hours. Assuming you successfully reach Stella Point or Uhuru Peak you will be presented with official certificates – a green certificate for the former and a gold certificate for the latter. It is customary to tip your trekking crew before being transported back to your hotel in Moshi.

Day 9: Departure

Transfer to the airport for your onward journey.

 

Details

Accommodation

Hotel accommodation is included before and after the climb (3* hotel in the area of Moshi Town. By default - shared double occupancy room unless you order a single supplement). During the trek, you’ll stay in tented camps, with the mountain crew setting up camp and preparing meals.

More info

Difficulty: Moderately challenging. The route requires no technical climbing skills, but you should be fit enough for consecutive days of hiking at altitude and an 8 to 12 hour summit day. Previous trekking experience is recommended for this seven day option.


Equipment you will need to bring

Clothing

  • Breathable hiking shirts: 3–4 short-sleeved and 2 long-sleeved
  • Thermal base layers: 2–3 sets, including a warm set for summit night
  • Fleece jackets: 2–3
  • Hooded insulated jacket suitable for very cold conditions
  • Waterproof, windproof jacket
  • Hiking trousers, waterproof overtrousers, and warm trousers for summit night
  • Hiking underwear: 5–6 pairs
  • Sun hat and warm beanie
  • Lightweight gloves and warm, waterproof gloves or mittens

Footwear

  • Broken-in, waterproof hiking boots with ankle support
  • Moisture-wicking trekking socks
  • Optional: comfortable camp shoes, warm socks and gaiters

Bags and sleeping gear

  • Comfortable daypack with a rain cover
  • Soft, water-resistant duffel bag, approximately 90–120 L. Keep the packed weight within the 15 kg porter limit
  • Sleeping bag with a comfort rating of −10°C or warmer
  • Optional: dry bags, sleeping bag liner and inflatable pillow

Equipment and personal items

  • Headlamp with spare batteries for camp and the overnight summit ascent
  • Sunglasses with strong UV protection
  • Water bottles or flasks; a hydration bladder and thermos are optional
  • Trekking poles
  • Sunscreen and any personal medication
  • Optional: neck warmer or balaclava, wet wipes, camera and power bank

Packing tip: Keep your waterproof jacket, warm layer, water, sunglasses and headlamp in your daypack. The porter carries your duffel, so you will not have access to it while hiking. Personal equipment can be rented locally if needed.


FAQs

Is the seven day Lemosho itinerary suitable for a first Kilimanjaro climb?

Yes, if you have trekking experience and prepare for the altitude and summit day. We recommend the seven day option for hikers who are comfortable spending consecutive days on the trail, even if they have limited high-altitude experience.

Does this itinerary start in the rainforest?

No. We drive beyond Londorossi Gate to a drop-off at approximately 3,600 m, then walk to Shira 1 Camp. You’ll walk through rainforest during the final descent to Mweka Gate.

Do I need technical climbing experience?

No technical climbing skills are required. Fitness and preparation for hiking at altitude matter more, particularly for the overnight ascent to Uhuru Peak.

Is Cathedral Peak included?

We can offer the hike to Cathedral Peak on the way to Shira 2 Camp. You may continue directly to camp if you prefer or if conditions are unfavorable.

What is the summit success rate for the seven day Lemosho Route?

Based on our records from past climbs, 94.9% of participants on the seven day Lemosho itinerary reached Uhuru Peak, while 96.5% reached the crater rim. These figures describe previous groups and cannot predict an individual outcome. Arriving fit, allowing your body to acclimatize and following your guide’s advice remain essential.

What added value does this expedition offer?

Our price reflects investment in trained guides, medical preparedness, inspected equipment and responsible crew treatment. These services support you throughout the climb, from preparation to summit day.

What does your KPAP partnership mean?

KPAP independently monitors porter welfare on our expeditions, including wages, food, equipment and working conditions. Your booking supports these standards.

Can I rent equipment for my Kilimanjaro climb?

Yes. Our rental facility stocks high-quality equipment from brands such as The North Face, Marmot, Red Fox and Black Diamond. We regularly replace and restock our gear so you can rent the items you need in good condition. Rental fees apply, but if your luggage is delayed or lost in transit, we’ll provide the equipment you need for your climb at no extra cost.

Can you accommodate dietary requirements?

Yes. We cater to vegetarian, vegan, gluten-free, lactose-free, halal and allergy-related dietary requirements at no extra charge. Let us know your needs before the trip so our chefs can prepare suitable meals throughout your climb.

What are the groups like, and do we all hike at the same pace?

Our groups usually have 10–12 climbers, with a maximum of 15, bringing together travelers from around the world. Women-only groups are also available. You don’t need to match everyone else’s pace: our guides accompany hikers at different speeds, so you can walk at a pace that feels comfortable for you.

Do you offer women-only Kilimanjaro climbs? On which dates?

Yes. Our women-only expeditions bring together women from around the world to climb Kilimanjaro with an entirely female support team, including guides, cooks, and porters. By joining, you’ll share the adventure with fellow women and support opportunities for local women working on the mountain.

These are the scheduled women only groups, let us know you want to join one of them when sending a request:

  • December 26th to January 3rd (2026-27)
  • January 3rd to 11th (2027)
  • January 16th to 24th (2027)
  • February 6th to 14th (2027)
  • March 7th to 15th (2027)
  • June 4th to 12th (2027)
  • June 25th to 3th (2027)
  • July 5th to 13th (2027)
  • July 20th to 28th (2027)
  • August 6th to 14th (2027)
  • August 20th to 28th (2027)
  • September 1st to 9th (2027)
  • September 12th to 20th (2027)
  • October 2nd to 10th (2027)
  • December 26th to 3rd (2027)

When is the best time to climb Kilimanjaro?

We recommend late December to early March and mid-June to late October, when conditions are generally drier and more favorable for climbing. Rain can still occur, so waterproof clothing is essential whenever you travel. The long rains usually fall from late March through May, sometimes extending into June, while the short rains occur in November and December

Can I join during the rainy season, and what weather should I expect?

Yes, we offer some open group departures during the rainy season, during which you can enjoy quieter trails. Rain usually arrives later in the day, often leaving mornings clear for trekking, and some days have no rain at all. You should still prepare for wet and muddy trails, cloudier views and possible snowfall higher on the mountain. Waterproof clothing and dry bags will help keep you and your belongings protected.

About the guide

Guide profile image

Altezza

5.0

(2)

Tour Operator

We are a locally based team in Moshi, at the foot of Mount Kilimanjaro, specializing in guided climbs and wildlife safaris across Tanzania. We combine local knowledge with careful expedition planning and personal support, from your arrival to your final day.

On Kilimanjaro, our Wilderness First Responder certified guides lead each climb with twice daily health checks, supplemental oxygen and comprehensive medical kits. Our crew prepares the camps and meals, using regularly inspected mountain equipment and catering to your dietary requirements.

We believe a well-run expedition should look after everyone on the mountain. As a partner of the Kilimanjaro Porters Assistance Project (KPAP), we support independently monitored standards for fair wages, proper equipment, nutritious meals and safe working conditions for our porters.

Whether you are preparing for your first high-altitude trek or planning another mountain adventure, we’ll help you choose an itinerary that suits your experience and goals. Get in touch to start planning your trip.

Languages

English


What people are saying about this trip

Peter

We booked the 7 day Lemosho route with a 5 day Safari after the hike. Altezza was fantastic in every way. When we arrived our entire group's baggage was lost. Altezza rented our missing gear at no cost and took care of getting our baggage once it finally arrived. On the mountain, the guides were highly professional and very experienced. It seemed like our lead guide, Abraham, knew and was friendly with all the other guides on the mountain - probably doesn't hurt he has led over 350 groups in his career. The other guides (Tumaini, Beltram, and Eric) were also great at keeping spirits up and the group moving along (pole pole). They had medication if needed, and nobody went anywhere close to hungry on the trip (there was a daily mid hike tea). We had rain and the guides and porters dried everything out. We really couldn't have asked for a better crew to help us up the mountain.

Aaron

Just completed the Lemosho route with the magnificent team at Altezza Travel. I have been fortunate to travel extensively in my life so far but this was hands down the best customer experience I have ever had travelling and otherwise. Mesmerising mountain and pushed myself on summit day, but it was the experienced, dedicated and enthusiastic guides, porters and all other staff that made the trip so great. They all went to such extraordinary lengths to ensure we were kept safe (including with regular medical checks), comfortable (including by serving exceptionally tasty and hearty hot meals), informed (including about regional flora and fauna and key Swahili expressions), entertained (including with local songs) and optimistic (which given their tremendous efforts, wasn't hard).


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