Dream Trails Expeditions

Lemosho Route

Trail of Legends: 8 Days Lemosho Route

Dream Trails Expeditions
8 Day Trek
Kilimanjaro Summit

From - $2200

Trek Overview

The Lemosho Route is one of the most scenic and least crowded trails to the summit of Mount Kilimanjaro. Known for its breathtaking landscapes, diverse ecosystems, and high summit success rate, this route offers a longer acclimatization period, improving your chances of reaching Uhuru Peak (5,895m / 19,341ft). Starting on the western side of the mountain, the trail crosses the Shira Plateau, offering stunning views before merging with the Machame Route.

Duration: 8 days / 7 nights
Distance: 70 km (43.5 miles)
Elevation Gain: From 2,360m (7,742ft) to 5,895m (19,341ft)
Difficulty Level: Moderate to challenging
Accommodation: Camping
Starting Point: Lemosho Gate (2,360m / 7,742ft)
Ending Point: Mweka Gate (1,640m / 5,380ft)
Success Rate: 95%+ with our expert guides

🏞️ Scenic Diversity

Hike through lush rainforests, moorlands, alpine deserts, and the glacier-capped summit
Experience five distinct climate zones on one mountain

⛰️ Iconic Landmarks

Shira Plateau: Expansive landscapes with breathtaking views of Kibo Peak
Barranco Wall: A thrilling but manageable climb, offering a sense of adventure
Karanga Valley: A scenic resting point before the summit push

🌅 Unforgettable Views

Stunning sunrises & sunsets from Shira Plateau and Barranco Camp
Panoramic views from Stella Point & Uhuru Peak
Glaciers and crater views near the summit

Proper acclimatization is crucial for a successful summit. The Lemosho Route follows the "climb high, sleep low" principle, allowing gradual adaptation to altitude.

Key Acclimatization Points:

Shira Plateau (3,505m / 11,500ft): Early exposure to high altitude
Lava Tower (4,630m / 15,190ft): Acclimatization hike before descending to Barranco Camp (3,960m / 13,015ft)
Gradual Ascent Profile: Increases success rates compared to shorter routes
Optional Extra Acclimatization Day: Available at Karanga Camp or Shira Camp upon request

Our Safety Measures:

Daily health checks including oxygen saturation monitoring
Emergency oxygen and comprehensive first aid kits
Experienced guides trained in wilderness first response

💪 Physical Preparation

Begin training 3-6 months before your climb
Focus on cardiovascular endurance (hiking, running, cycling)
Include strength training for legs and core
Practice hiking with a weighted backpack
Complete several long day hikes (6-8 hours) with elevation gain

🎒 Essential Packing List

Clothing

Moisture-wicking base layers (synthetic or wool)
Insulating mid-layers (fleece or down)
Waterproof outer shell jacket and pants
Warm hat, gloves, and neck gaiter
Hiking boots (broken in) and camp shoes

Equipment

Headlamp with extra batteries
Trekking poles (highly recommended)
Sleeping bag rated to -10°C (14°F)
Water bottles or hydration system (3L capacity)
High SPF sunscreen and lip balm

✔️ What's Included

Private transport (airport/hotel to Kilimanjaro & back)
All park fees, climbing permits, and rescue fees
Quality camping equipment (tent, sleeping mat, mess tent)
Professional mountain guide, assistant guides, and porters
Nutritious meals prepared by our private cook
Filtered drinking water throughout the trek
Certificate of achievement

❌ What's Excluded

International flights and visa fees
Additional accommodations before/after the climb
Personal trekking gear (available for rent)
Tips for guides & porters (recommended $250-300)
Travel insurance (mandatory)
Personal expenses (snacks, souvenirs, etc.)

Private Climbs: Exclusive trips for individuals or private groups
Luxury Camping: Upgrade to larger tents with comfortable beds
Photography Packages: Professional summit photos and video
Extra Acclimatization Day: Add a day at Shira or Karanga Camp
Safari & Zanzibar Add-On: Combine with wildlife safari or beach relaxation
Helicopter Evacuation Insurance: Optional emergency coverage

🌟 Our Advantages

Expert Local Guides: KPAP-certified guides with 50+ summits each
High Summit Success Rate: 95%+ with our proven acclimatization strategy
Safety First: Daily health checks, emergency oxygen, and evacuation plans
Ethical Treatment: Fair wages and proper gear for all crew members
Quality Equipment: Weatherproof tents and comfortable dining setup
24/7 Support: From booking to completion, we're with you every step

📩 Book at www.dreamtrailsexpeditions.com or contact us for a personalized Kilimanjaro experience!

8-Day Lemosho Route Itinerary

Day 1: Arrival in Moshi

Kilimanjaro International Airport → Moshi

Elevation: 915m (3,000ft)
Transfer Time: 1 hour

Activities:

Arrival at Kilimanjaro International Airport (JRO)
Transfer to your hotel in Moshi
Gear check and briefing with your mountain guide
Relax and prepare for the adventure ahead

Overnight: Parkview Inn or similar (bed & breakfast)

Day 2: Lemosho Gate to Big Tree Camp

Lemosho Gate (2,360m) → Big Tree Camp (2,895m)

Elevation Gain: +535m
Distance: 6 km
Hiking Time: 3-4 hours
Habitat: Rainforest

Activities:

Drive to Lemosho Gate (2-3 hours)
Register with park authorities
Trek through lush montane forest
Chance to spot blue monkeys and colorful birds

Overnight: Big Tree Camp (full board)

Day 3: Big Tree Camp to Shira 1 Camp

Big Tree Camp (2,895m) → Shira 1 Camp (3,505m)

Elevation Gain: +610m
Distance: 8 km
Hiking Time: 5-6 hours
Habitat: Moorland

Activities:

Gradual ascent through changing vegetation
Enter the heather zone with giant lobelias
First stunning views of Kibo Peak
Arrive at Shira Plateau, one of Kilimanjaro's highlights

Overnight: Shira 1 Camp (full board)

Day 4: Shira 1 Camp to Shira 2 Camp

Shira 1 Camp (3,505m) → Shira 2 Camp (3,850m)

Elevation Gain: +345m
Distance: 7 km
Hiking Time: 3-4 hours
Habitat: Moorland

Activities:

Gentle hike across Shira Plateau
360-degree panoramic views
Visit the ancient Shira Cathedral
Afternoon acclimatization walk (optional)

Overnight: Shira 2 Camp (full board)

Day 5: Shira 2 Camp to Barranco Camp via Lava Tower

Shira 2 Camp (3,850m) → Lava Tower (4,630m) → Barranco Camp (3,960m)

Elevation Gain: +780m to Lava Tower
Descent: -670m to Barranco
Distance: 10 km
Hiking Time: 6-8 hours
Habitat: Alpine Desert

Activities:

Key acclimatization day - "climb high, sleep low"
Hike to Lava Tower for lunch
Descend through scenic valleys to Barranco
Prepare for the Barranco Wall tomorrow

Overnight: Barranco Camp (full board)

Day 6: Barranco Camp to Karanga Camp

Barranco Camp (3,960m) → Karanga Camp (4,035m)

Elevation Gain: +75m
Distance: 5 km
Hiking Time: 4-5 hours
Habitat: Alpine Desert

Activities:

Conquer the famous Barranco Wall (non-technical)
Spectacular views of Heim Glacier
Short hiking day to aid acclimatization
Afternoon rest before summit push

Overnight: Karanga Camp (full board)

Day 7: Karanga Camp to Barafu Camp

Karanga Camp (4,035m) → Barafu Camp (4,640m)

Elevation Gain: +605m
Distance: 4 km
Hiking Time: 3-4 hours
Habitat: Arctic Zone

Activities:

Short but steep hike to base camp
Final preparations for summit night
Early dinner and rest before midnight departure
Summit briefing with your guide

Overnight: Barafu Camp (full board)

Day 8: Summit Day! Barafu Camp to Uhuru Peak to Mweka Camp

Barafu Camp (4,640m) → Uhuru Peak (5,895m) → Mweka Camp (3,100m)

Elevation Gain: +1,255m to summit
Descent: -2,795m
Distance: 17 km
Hiking Time: 12-15 hours
Habitat: Arctic Zone to Rainforest

Activities:

Midnight start for summit attempt
Reach Stella Point at dawn for sunrise
Final push to Uhuru Peak - Africa's highest point!
Celebrate your achievement at the summit
Descend to Mweka Camp for well-earned rest

Overnight: Mweka Camp (full board)

Day 9: Mweka Camp to Mweka Gate to Moshi

Mweka Camp (3,100m) → Mweka Gate (1,640m) → Moshi

Descent: -1,460m
Distance: 10 km
Hiking Time: 3-4 hours
Habitat: Rainforest

Activities:

Final descent through lush rainforest
Receive your summit certificate at Mweka Gate
Transfer back to Moshi hotel
Celebration dinner and farewell

End of Trek: Transfer to airport or extend your stay

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