The Best 5 Days Lemosho Route: Kilimanjaro Climbing

5 DAYS KILIMANJARO TREK-LEMOSHO
Duration
5 Days
Destination
Kilimanjaro
Travellers
1
  • Trip Overview
  • Trip Itinerary
  • Similar Tours
KILIMANJARO 5 DAYS LEMOSHO ROUTE CLIMBING TOUR

The Lemosho route is considered the most scenic trail on Kilimanjaro, granting panoramic vistas on various sides of the mountain. Lemosho Route 5 days Climbs is an excellent choice for your trekking Kilimanjaro because it is one of the newer routes.

The 5-day lemosho route approaches Mount Kilimanjaro from the west, beginning with a long drive from Moshi to Londorossi Gate. From there, the first two days are spent trekking through the rain forest to Shira Ridge. The Lemosho route crosses the entire Shira Plateau from west to east in a pleasant, relatively flat hike.

Crowds are low until the route joins the Machame route near Lava Tower. Then the route traverses underneath Kilimanjaro's Southern Ice Field on a path known as the Southern Circuit before summiting from Barafu. Descent is made via the Mweka route.

Kilinge Adventures offers Lemosho as an eight day group climb or as a seven to eight day private climb. The 5 day variation combines days six and seven, going from Barranco Camp to Barafu Camp without staying at Karanga. A nine day variation that includes an overnight at Crater Camp is available as a private climb by special request.

What's included

Destination
Kilimanjaro Discover Kilimanjaro
Departure Location
Moshi, Kilimanjaro - Tanzania
Return Location
Moshi, Kilimanjaro - Tanzania
Tour Start Date & Time
Everyday at 07:00
Price includes
  • 3 Meals while on the mountain + evening tea with popcorn or peanuts.
  • Airport pick up and drop off
  • All meals included
  • Lunch box
  • Professionally guided tour
  • Unlimited bottled water
Price does not include
  • Entry visa for Tanzania
  • Personal expenses
  • Tips to mountain crew

The Best 5 Days Lemosho Route: Kilimanjaro Climbing

Challenge yourself on the scenic Lemosho Route and experience an unforgettable Kilimanjaro climbing adventure through rainforest, moorland, alpine desert, and the spectacular high-altitude landscapes of Mount Kilimanjaro.

Overview of the Best 5 Days Lemosho Route

The Best 5 Days Lemosho Route: Kilimanjaro Climbing itinerary offers an exciting approach to Mount Kilimanjaro through the beautiful western side of the mountain. The route begins in the rainforest and gradually climbs through several ecological zones toward the summit. Because five days provides limited time for acclimatization, this itinerary is best suited to experienced trekkers who are comfortable with demanding mountain conditions.

Duration

5 days of trekking with a challenging summit attempt.

Starting Point

Lemosho Gate on the western side of Mount Kilimanjaro.

Summit

Uhuru Peak at approximately 5,895 meters above sea level.

Lemosho Route Kilimanjaro Climbing Highlights

Beautiful Rainforest

Begin your trek through lush rainforest filled with vegetation, birds, and spectacular mountain scenery.

Shira Plateau

Cross the impressive Shira Plateau while enjoying wide views of Kilimanjaro's dramatic landscapes.

High-Altitude Landscapes

Experience moorland, alpine desert, glaciers, and rugged volcanic terrain as you approach the summit.

Uhuru Peak

Reach the highest point in Africa and celebrate your achievement at the summit of Mount Kilimanjaro.

5 Days Lemosho Route Kilimanjaro Itinerary

Day 1: Lemosho Gate – Big Tree Camp

Drive from your hotel to Lemosho Gate and complete the necessary registration before beginning the trek. Walk through the beautiful montane rainforest toward Big Tree Camp for dinner and overnight.

Day 2: Big Tree Camp – Shira 1 Camp

Continue climbing through the forest toward the Shira Plateau. The vegetation gradually changes as you gain altitude before reaching Shira 1 Camp for the night.

Day 3: Shira 1 – Shira 2 – Barranco Camp

Trek across the spectacular Shira Plateau before continuing toward Barranco Camp. Enjoy views of the mountain and surrounding volcanic landscapes during this challenging trekking day.

Day 4: Barranco – Karanga – Barafu Camp

Climb the famous Barranco Wall before continuing through the alpine desert toward Karanga Camp and eventually Barafu Camp. Rest and prepare for the demanding summit attempt.

Day 5: Barafu – Uhuru Peak – Descent

Begin the summit attempt during the early hours. Reach Stella Point and continue to Uhuru Peak, the highest point in Africa. After celebrating at the summit, descend toward the lower mountain for overnight.

Ecological Zones on the Lemosho Route

Rainforest Zone

Lush vegetation, tall trees, birds, and a cool forest environment.

Moorland Zone

Open landscapes with giant heather and changing mountain scenery.

Alpine Desert

Rocky terrain, volcanic landscapes, low vegetation, and dramatic views toward the summit.

Arctic Summit Zone

The high-altitude summit environment around Uhuru Peak, where temperatures can become extremely cold.

Is the 5 Days Lemosho Route Difficult?

The 5-day Lemosho Route is considered a demanding Kilimanjaro itinerary because the schedule is relatively short. Trekkers should prepare for long hiking days, steep sections, cold temperatures, and the effects of high altitude.

Physical Preparation

Regular walking, hiking, cardio exercise, and strength training can help prepare you for the mountain.

Altitude Awareness

Follow your guide's instructions, maintain a steady pace, stay hydrated, and report altitude-related symptoms promptly.

Slow and Steady

A controlled pace helps conserve energy and makes the trek more manageable at higher elevations.

What to Pack for 5 Days Lemosho Route

Category Recommended Equipment
Clothing Moisture-wicking layers, fleece, warm jacket, trekking trousers, and thermal clothing.
Footwear Comfortable waterproof hiking boots and warm trekking socks.
Protection Sun hat, sunglasses, sunscreen, gloves, and rain protection.
Sleeping Warm sleeping bag suitable for cold mountain temperatures.
Personal Items Water bottles, headlamp, toiletries, personal medication, and essential documents.

5 Days Lemosho Route Climbing Package Includes

Professional Mountain Guides

Experienced mountain guides to lead and support you throughout the climb.

Mountain Crew

Porters and mountain staff to assist with luggage, camps, and essential trekking services.

Park Fees

Applicable Kilimanjaro National Park entrance, camping, and conservation fees.

Meals & Camping

Mountain meals and camping arrangements during the trek according to the selected package.

Frequently Asked Questions About 5 Days Lemosho Route

Is 5 days enough to climb Kilimanjaro via Lemosho?

Five days is possible, but it is a challenging schedule with less acclimatization time than longer Lemosho itineraries. Trekkers should understand the altitude demands before choosing this option.

What is the highest point on the Lemosho Route?

The highest point is Uhuru Peak, approximately 5,895 meters above sea level.

What is the best time to climb Kilimanjaro?

The main dry seasons, generally from June to October and January to February, are popular periods for climbing because of generally favorable trekking conditions.

Can beginners climb the Lemosho Route?

Beginners can climb Kilimanjaro, but the 5-day version is demanding. Less experienced trekkers may benefit from choosing a longer itinerary that allows more time for acclimatization.

Start Your Kilimanjaro Adventure on the Lemosho Route

Take on Africa's highest mountain and experience the spectacular landscapes of the Lemosho Route from the rainforest to Uhuru Peak.

Plan Your Kilimanjaro Climb
  • Day 1
  • Day 2
  • Day 3
  • Day 4
  • Day 5
Day 1

Londorossi gate (2,250 m) – Big Tree Camp (2,780 m)

After breakfast you will be picked up at the lodge and drive to the Londorossi Gate at the height of 2,250 m to start your 5 Days Lemosho Route Climbs. After the necessary registration has been completed, a bumpy drive will take you into the dense rainforest, from where your adventure commences. The moderately steep track makes its way through an unspoilt natural forest to the Big Tree Camp (2,780 m). You will be accompanied by an armed ranger for the first 2 days of your trek as wild game can be found in the area. You will spend the night in tents at Big Tree Camp.
Day 2

Big Tree Camp (2,780 m) – Shira Camp 2 (3,900 m)– Lava Tower (4,640 m)

You have a long trek ahead today on a small trail, passing through the rainforest. As you ascend, the forest gradually thins out and the landscape becomes more dry and bare. On the moorland you will find lobelia and ericas dotting the landscape. You will pass Shira ridge before reaching Shira Camp 1 after 4 to 5 hours. Here you will have your lunch break and rest your limbs, enjoying the views of Mt Meru and the Rift Valley in the distance. You will trek for about another 3 hours, ascending 250 m. Walking on solidified lava, you will pass giant senecios, almost 9 meters in height, before finally reaching your destination of the day, the Shira Camp 2. You will enjoy an evening meal and with a little bit of luck you will be able to see the summit basking in the orange glow of the sunset.
Day 3

Lava Tower (4,640 m) – Barranco Camp (3,960 m)– Karanga Camp (4,035 m)

Today’s stretch will allow your body to acclimatise to the ever increasing altitude. Your destination for the day is the Barranco Camp, only slightly higher than the previous night’s stay, but it will be reached through a detour to Lava Tower at 4,640 m in height. T Many ascents and descents are on the agenda for today. You will start the journey tackling the steepest part of the entire route – the Barranco Wall. As you climb you might need to use your hands, but your guides will always be close by to offer assistance. At the top of the Barranco wall you will walk along the mountain ridge, which offers spectacular views of the southern glacier of Kibo as well as the summit itself. Around lunch time you will arrive at Karanga Camp, where a well-deserved rest is the order of the day.
Day 4

Karanga Camp (4,035 m) – Barafu Camp (4,640 m) – Uhuru Peak (5,895 m)

After breakfast you will continue through the alpine desert until you have reached the Barafu Camp, situated at an altitude of 4,640 m. The journey takes about 3 to 4 hours giving you enough time to relax and prepare for the summit night ahead. An early dinner will be followed by an early bedtime, before being awoken at around midnight.
Day 5

Uhuru Peak (5,895 m) – Mweka Camp (3,080 m) – Moshi

After a light snack and some hot tea, you will be ready to start the dark ascent to Uhuru Peak at around midnight. You will walk on frozen lava ash, using your headlamp to light the way. After 5 to 7 hours you will arrive at the crater rim of Mt Kilimanjaro, Stella Point. You will continue along the crater ridge which will lead you to the “Roof of Africa”, the summit of Uhuru Peak (5,895 m). The landscape shimmers and shines in the light of the rising sun before you. After all the necessary photos have been taken, you will return to a smiling crew at Barafu Camp. After a hot lunch and well-deserved break, you will make your way to Mweka Camp, where you will camp for the night.
Your driver will be waiting for you and he will take you back to the Hotel, where you can enjoy a shower and celebrate your wonderful achievement.
Share on social networks
About Us

Kilinge Adventures dreamed of bringing tourists into this beautiful country, having the best Kilimanjaro Trekking experiences with the African wildlife experiences and be able to share the best of what Africa has to offer especially our lovely country Tanzania.

Our Facebook Page
TripAdvisor
Our Newsletter

Subscribe to our newsletter and get exlusive first minute offers straight into your inbox.


    https://www.kilingeadventures.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/11/Credit-Card-Button-3.png

    Kilinge Adventures ©2026 All rights reserved

    Close

    The Best 5 Days Lemosho Route: Kilimanjaro Climbing

    Duration
    5 Days
    Destination
    Kilimanjaro
    Travellers
    1

      Fill out the form to book the Tour. Required fields are marked *



        Enquiry about the Tour availability or anything you’d like to know. Required fields are marked *