7 DAYS LEMOSHO ROUTE CLIMBING
(+ 2 days in a hotel)
Tour Overview
The 7 Days Lemosho Route is one of the most scenic and rewarding ways to climb Mount Kilimanjaro. Known for its beautiful landscapes and excellent acclimatization, this route begins on the western side of the mountain, taking you through lush rainforests, moorlands, and alpine deserts before reaching the majestic Uhuru Peak. The route allows climbers to enjoy breathtaking views, fewer crowds, and a higher success rate compared to other routes.
During the 7 Days Lemosho Route, trekkers will sleep in high-quality, spacious tents provided by Bush Lion Trekking and Tours. For your comfort, we also provide a sleeping pad and a warm sleeping bag as part of your gear package.
Our team ensures you stay comfortable and warm throughout the climb, even as temperatures on Mount Kilimanjaro drop significantly, especially at higher altitudes. You don’t need to bring your own sleeping pad or sleeping bag—just focus on enjoying the adventure and reaching the summit!
Temperatures on Mount Kilimanjaro vary greatly depending on the altitude. At the base, temperatures can range from 15°C to 25°C (59°F to 77°F). As you ascend, the temperatures drop significantly, reaching below freezing at night near the summit. Climbers should prepare for temperatures as low as -10°C to -20°C (14°F to -4°F) at Uhuru Peak.
Do You Need a Sleeping Pad?
Yes, you will need a good-quality sleeping pad to ensure warmth and comfort during the climb. Bush Lion Trekking and Tours provides sleeping pads, but you are welcome to bring your own for extra comfort. Our team also offers quality tents and sleeping bags for a safe and enjoyable experience.
Itinerary summary
- Day 1: Arrive in Tanzania
- Day 2: Lemosho Glades (2385m) to Big Tree Camp (2780m)
- Day 3: Big Tree Camp (2780m) to Shira 2 Camp (3900m)
- Day 4: Shira 2 Camp (3900m) to Barranco Camp (3960m)
- Day 5: Barranco Camp (3960m) to Karanga Camp (3963m)
- Day 6: Karanga Camp (3963) to Barafu Camp (4640m)
- Day 7: Barafu Camp (4640m) to UHURU PEAK (5895m) & down to Millennium Camp (3790m)
- Day 8: Trek Millennium Camp (3790m) to Mweka Gate (1630m)
- Day 9: Depart Tanzania
Who Should Climb the 7 Days Lemosho Route?
The 7 Days Lemosho Route is perfect for adventure seekers who want a scenic and rewarding Kilimanjaro experience. This route is ideal for climbers who prefer a longer journey with more time to acclimatize, increasing their chances of reaching the summit successfully.
Though considered slightly more challenging than other routes, it offers breathtaking views, quieter trails, and diverse landscapes, making it an excellent choice for both beginners and experienced trekkers. Choose the 7 Days Lemosho Route with Bush Lion Trekking and Tours for a scenic, well-paced, and unforgettable Kilimanjaro adventure!
Tour Itinerary
Day 1: Arrive in Tanzania
You will be picked up at the Kilimanjaro International Airport and transferred to your hotel in Moshi town; you will meet your guide who will brief you on your upcoming trek and do an equipment check to make sure you have all the necessary mountain gear. The missing gear can be rented on this day.
- Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner Included
Day 2: Lemosho Glades (2385m) to Big Tree Camp (2780m)
You will be picked up at your hotel at around 08:00am and transferred to the Lemosho gate located on the western side of Kilimanjaro. After the registration process you will still start our climb steadily through the forests of the Lemosho glades to reach Big Tree camp where you will be spending the night.
- Distance covered: 7km / 4.3mi
- Approx. time taken: 4 hours
- Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner Included
Day 3: Big Tree Camp (2780m) to Shira 2 Camp (3900m)
Today you will cover a lot of ground as you trek across a plateau of grassy moorland and heather scattered with volcanic rock formations. We will trek through Shira 1 Camp from where there are often views of Kibo Peak floating on the clouds as we head towards our destination which is Shira 2.. We gain a reasonable amount of altitude as we head towards Shira 1 and parts of the route are fairly steep. As you proceed towards Shira 2 you will get the chance to view the Northern Ice fields from the western side of the mountain with some unusual views of Kibo. Our steady climb across the moorland of the Shira Plateau will help with acclimatization and we enjoy great panoramic views.
- Distance covered: 16.5km / 10.3mi
- Approx. time taken: 9 – 11 hrs
- Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner Included
Day 4: Shira 2 Camp (3900m) to Barranco Camp (3960m)
Your trek starts with an ascent with far-reaching panoramic views, walking in to the climatic zone of the upland desert and on the lava ridges beneath the glaciers of the Western Breach. You will reach the distinct pinnacle of the Lava Tower (4640 m), our high point for the day and a great place to enjoy your lunch. In the afternoon we make a steep descent to our camp for the night, located in the base of the Great Barranco Valley (3960 m), sheltered by towering cliffs but with extensive views of the plains below.
- Distance covered: 10km / 6.2mi
- Approx. time taken: 7 hrs
- Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner Included
Day 5: Barranco Camp (3960m) to Karanga Camp (3963m)
Our day starts by descending into the start of the Great Barranco, a huge ravine. We then exit steeply, up the Great Barranco Wall, which divides us from the southeastern slopes of Kibo. It’s a climb over rock, not technical but long and tiring. Passing underneath the Heim and Kersten glaciers, we head towards the Karanga valley. From here we have a steep climb up from Karanga valley to our night’s camp at Karanga camp, set at 3963m. For those feeling strong we will go for a mid-afternoon acclimatization trek up to around 4200m before descending back to camp for the night.
- Distance covered: 5.5km / 3.4mi
- Approx. time taken: 5 hours
- Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner Included
Day 6: Karanga Camp (3963) to Barafu Camp (4640m)
After a good night’s rest and breakfast, we set off on our walk to Barafu camp at 4640m. The climb will take us across desolate scree slopes with no vegetation around us at all. It’s a tough steep walk made more difficult by the altitude. On arriving at camp we eat and spend the afternoon resting as we prepare for a long night and day ahead. It is important to keep hydrated and warm. We have an early dinner and then try to get some sleep as we will be getting up at between 11pm and 12pm to start the climb to the summit.
- Distance covered: 3km / 1.9mi
- Approx. time taken: 3 hours
- Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner Included
Day 7: Barafu Camp (4640m) to UHURU PEAK (5895m) & down to Millennium Camp (3790m)
We start off at around midnight, and walk steeply upwards to the summit glaciers. We will be climbing scree for 4 to 5 hours but gain incredible height over a short distance. The views are spectacular. We should be on the crater rim at Stella Point (5739m) as the first rays of the sun hit us. Spectacular ice cliffs within the crater surround us and the views to jagged Mawenzi peak and beyond are breathtaking. Another hour’s walking takes us to the summit, Uhuru Peak (5895m). We begin our descent by returning to Stella Point and then descending on scree slope and track back to Barafu Camp for breakfast, before finally heading down to Millennium Camp for a long well-earned rest.
- Distance covered: 13.4km / 8.3mi
- Approx. time taken: 12 – 15 hours
- Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner Included
Day 8: Trek Millennium Camp (3790m) to Mweka Gate (1630m)
A gentle trek takes us down through the rainforest to Mweka Gate, where we complete park formalities and receive certificates, which you can hang up with pride! We are then met by our vehicles and return to the hotel in Moshi, where you can treat yourself to a hot welcome shower.
- Distance covered: 12.1km / 7.5mi
- Approx. time taken: 6 hours
- Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner Included
Day 9: Departure Tanzania
Rest in the hotel and transfer to the airport.
Hotels check out is 11:00am. In case you need a late check-out because of an evening flight, you have the option to extend your hotel stay till 6:00 PM for an extra fee
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PRICE FOR 7 DAYS LEMOSHO ROUTE CLIMBING
Prices (quoted in USD/per person)
1 Person | 2 – 4 People | 5 – 6 People | 7 – 9 People | 10 & Above |
|---|---|---|---|---|
$2,160 USD | $1890 USD | $1840 USD | $1,805 USD | $1750 USD |
Included
- Private transport to & from Kilimanjaro International Airport to your accommodations in Moshi.
- 2 nights of accommodation in Moshi (BB) Panama Garden Resort/Parkview inn hotel
- Pre-Climb Briefing And Orientation
- Park Fees And Permits
- 18% VAT on tour fees & services
- Transportation to & from the Kilimanjaro gate Park entry fees,
- Friendly and professional mountain guides, cook and porters
- Double layered Sleeping Mats 4 inches (10cm) thick
- 3 hot meals daily while on the mountain
- Enough treated & filtered drinking water throughout the trek
- Hot water for washing
- 4 Season Mountain Tents
- Fair wages for the mountain crew as approved by the Kilimanjaro National Park Authority (KINAPA), Kilimanjaro Association of Tour Operators (KIATO)
- Safety Equipment (Like Oxygen Tanks, First Aid Kits, Etc.)
- Portable Flush Toilet with a toilet tent
- Kilimanjaro Summit Certificate
Not Included
- Lunches, dinners and drinks at your hotel before and after climb.
- Travel Insurance (Medical, Evacuation, Trip Cancellation, Etc.)
- Personal Gear (Such As Hiking Boots, Clothing, Backpacks, Etc.)
- Tips For Guides, Porters, And Other Staff
- Additional Accommodation And Meals Before Or After The Climb
- Alcoholic Beverages And Other Personal Expenses
- Laundry (Available at hotel).
Payment Terms
Deposit Payment
- Deposit is $100 of the total booking amount.
- Deposit can be paid either via a bank transfer or an online card payment.
- A 5% fee is applicable on all card payments (payment gateway charges), this is non-refundable.
- We offer bank accounts in 10 different currencies for bank transfer.
- Once you make the advance payment you will receive a booking confirmation.
Balance Payment
- Balance can be paid via bank transfer, online card payment, or with cash.
- Bank payment can be done 15 days prior to the tour date (recommended 30 days prior).
- Card Payment can be done 1 day prior to the tour date (recommended 7 days prior).
- A 5% fee is applicable on all card payments (payment gateway charge), this is non-refundable.
- Cash can be paid on arrival (USD printed in or after the year 2009).
Cancellation Policy
8 days and above departure
- No cancellation fees.
0 to 7 days before departure
- 50% of the total tour price will be charged as cancellation fees.
- The 5% surcharge paid for either or both advance and balance payments is non-refundable in case of cancellation of the trek.
FAQs
Before you go
Am I fit enough to climb Kilimanjaro?
The Machame route is considered a moderately difficult route. It involves steep ascents. Hiking days on the 7-Day option are short compared to other routes. The high altitudes make trekking more difficult. While prior hiking experience is beneficial, those with a good level of fitness and determination can complete the route successfully. To train, we recommend running or playing sports at least two to three times a week. It’s also great to do a few practice hikes with a 5kg rucksack before you arrive for your trek.
What should I pack?
Pack warm layers, waterproof gear, good hiking boots, sleeping bag, headlamp, gloves, sunglasses, sunscreen, and a duffel bag. We’ll share a detailed packing list after booking.
What do I need to know about altitude sickness?
Altitude sickness can affect anyone. Our Lemosho route gives you more days to acclimatize, reducing the risk. We also monitor your health daily and carry oxygen and first aid kits.
What's included in the trip price?
The price includes park fees, camping equipment, meals, guides, porters, transfers, accommodation before and after the climb, and rescue fees. No hidden costs!
What is the weather like?
Weather varies with altitude. Expect warm days at lower altitudes and cold nights near the summit. Snow and freezing temperatures are common at higher points.
What should I pack for the Lemosho route?
The following is a recommended packing list for Kilimanjaro:
DOCUMENTS
- Passport
- Travel insurance details
- Boarding passes for flights
- Two passport photos
- Driver’s license (if needed)
- Cards and cash
GEAR & CLOTHING
(please make sure that you have non-cotton clothing for trekking):
- Sleeping bag liner (optional)
- Trekking boots: all-season, lightweight
- Trainers/ Crocs to wear around camp
- 2-3 base-layer t-shirts (e.g. running t-shirts)
- 2 thermal, long-sleeved tops (merino wool works well)
- Fleece/soft-shell jacket
- Lightweight rainjacket for everyday use (keep in daypack)
- Waterproof outer shell jacket
- Down jacket for warmth
- Travel clothes and city wear
- Underwear
- Base-layer trousers/ thermal leggings
- Waterproof trousers
- Trekking trousers
- Trekking shorts (optional)
- 2 pairs of thick wool mountaineering socks
- Lightweight and breathable trekking socks
- Gloves (inners and outers)
- Wool hat/ beanie
- Neck warmer/ buff
- Brimmed hat/ cap
- Small daypack (25l – 35l capacity is generally fine)
- Duffel or rucksack with straps(90L capacity recommended)
- Dry Liner or Dry Bag
- Water bottle/thermos: At least 2L. Nalgene bottles best.
- Sunglasses
- Suncream
- General toiletries, contact lenses, glasses (if needed)
- Towel
- Head torch,
- Electronics (travel adaptor, phone & charger, power bank)
- Lip Balm and moisturising lotion
- Travel wash & small washcloth
- Hand sanitiser, wet wipes
- Trekking poles (optional)
If you don’t want to purchase your own kit or need to travel light, you can hire most of the equipment from our guides in-country. Get in touch for the list and rental prices. Please note that all plastic bags, regardless of their thickness, are prohibited from being brought into Tanzania. This excludes packaging for medical supplies.
What is the tipping policy?
It is customary in Tanzania to tip guides and porters. The amount that you tip is completely up to you. As a good rule of thumb, generally, participants will tip around US$250 – US$350 per customer (not per guide). You can give this to the head guide, and they will distribute it amongst the team of guides, porters, and cooks.
Are single supplements available?
Yes. If you prefer your own room before/after the climb, we can arrange that at an extra cost. On the mountain, you’ll have your own tent if you book solo.
What currency should I take?
US Dollars (newer than 2009) are widely accepted in Tanzania. You can also use Tanzanian Shillings for small local purchases. ATMs are available in towns before the climb.
Do I need a visa?
Yes. Most nationalities can get a visa on arrival or online (e-visa). Please check with your local Tanzanian embassy or our team for updated advice.
Where is the start/end point?
The climb starts and ends in Moshi. We provide airport transfers from Kilimanjaro International Airport and transfers to the Lemosho Gate.
Are porters included? What are bag weight limits?
Yes, porters are included! They carry your main duffel bag (up to 20kg). You’ll hike with a small daypack for essentials like water, snacks, and a camera.
Do I need travel insurance?
Absolutely. Travel insurance covering high-altitude trekking, medical emergencies, and trip cancellation is mandatory. We can recommend trusted providers.
On your trip
What type of food do we eat on the trek?
You have chefs with you on the hike who can cater to all dietary requirements. During the trek, you will be provided with three nutritious and filling meals each day to keep energy levels high. Please provide full details of any dietary requirements and allergies on your Trip Form. You will receive a link to fill this out shortly after booking. Note that lunch and Dinner (at the hotel) on your first and final day is not included.
Do we get our own portable toilet?
Portable toilets are available as an optional extra to enhance your comfort during the climb. For individual travelers, this service costs $70 per person, payable at our offices in-country. However, for groups, we provide portable toilets free of charge as part of our commitment to making your group adventure as enjoyable and convenient as possible.
How many people are in the group?
Most groups have around 3, with a maximum of 14. We can accommodate bigger private groups on request for any date.
Note that you will be trekking with a team of porters, and chefs who usually hike ahead to set up camp. Each group is also allocated guides and assistant guides according to the group size.
What is the accommodation like on the Lemosho route?
Accommodation during the trek is in campsites in spacious tents shared between two people. The campsites provide basic facilities, such as toilets and dining tents. In Moshi (before and after the trek), you stay in hotel accommodation.
What about water on the trek?
Every day on the trek we will provide you with filtered water to fill up your bottles. The water is filtered and boiled by a Katadyn filtration system. We recommend you also bring water purification tablets or a filter bottle.
Am I guaranteed to reach the summit?
We cannot guarantee 100%, but with our expert guides, gradual acclimatization, and support, our summit success rate is over 95% on the Lemosho route.
Other FAQs
Do I need immunisations?
We recommend Hepatitis A & B, Typhoid, Tetanus, and Yellow Fever (especially if coming from another African country). Speak to your doctor before travel.
Can I extend my trip with a safari?
Yes! After your Kilimanjaro climb, you can add a wildlife safari to Serengeti, Ngorongoro Crater, or Tarangire. We offer great combination packages.
Is there an age limit for this tour?
The minimum age is 10 years, and there’s no strict upper limit. Older trekkers should be fit and cleared by a doctor. We’ve guided climbers aged 70+ successfully!
