6-Days Lemosho Route (8-Day Itinerary)

Best Season: Dec–Mar (Jan–Feb peak) and June–Oct.

Max Group Size: 10 People
Elevation Gain: 4800
Book This Itinerary

What to Expect on This 6-Day Lemosho Route

Lemosho is a premier Kilimanjaro trail that’s soared in popularity—and for good reason. Winding along the mountain’s lush western slopes, this route combines breathtaking panoramas, an ideal acclimatization profile, and among the highest summit success rates of all Kilimanjaro paths. Choose from 6-, 7-, or 8-day itineraries, each featuring the unforgettable Cathedral Peak—soaring to 3,872 m (12,703 ft) atop the Shira Volcano. Here, you’ll hike high for acclimatization and be rewarded with some of the most spectacular views on the mountain. Along the way, marvel at the otherworldly Dendrosenecio kilimanjari—giant “senecio” plants found only on these slopes.

Lemosho’s gentle approach even carried 86-year-old Angela Vorobieva to Kilimanjaro’s summit—setting a Guinness World Record as the oldest climber—under the expert guidance of Paraiso’s mountain specialists.

Best season to visit: Dec–Mar (Jan–Feb peak) and June–Oct.

Best Seasons to Trek
Jan–Mar

Peak trekking season: clear skies and stable weather.

Apr–Jun

Shoulder season: fewer crowds, occasional showers.

Jul–Sep

Dry season: best views but can be dusty.

Pricing

No pricing available for this trek.

What’s Included
  • Guided trekking with an experienced guide
  • Meals as per itinerary
  • All park fees & permits
  • Camping equipment & porters
What’s Not Included
  • International & domestic flights
  • Travel insurance
  • Personal expenses & tips
Arrival Day 1

Arrival

You’ll arrive at Kilimanjaro International Airport (JRO), where a Paraiso representative will be waiting to transfer you to the contracted hotel. There, you’ll find everything you need for a restful night—cozy rooms with hot showers, friendly staff, a sparkling pool, and complimentary Wi-Fi. That evening, join our Paraiso managers for a detailed pre-climb briefing to ensure you’re fully prepared for tomorrow’s ascent. Note: Private tour packages include group airport transfers; solo pickups carry an extra fee—so coordinate your group’s flight times to avoid additional charges.

Accommodation
Planet Lodge

Planet Lodge

the best hotel in arusha, you need all your trust to be on this hotgelthe best hotel in arusha, you need all your trust to be on this hotgelthe best … Lodge — 3★ Arusha
High-Altitude Drop-Off & Trek to Camp II Day 2

High-Altitude Drop-Off & Trek to Camp II

11 km — 5-6 hours

Early in the morning, your Paraiso guide and mountain support team will meet you at the hotel and drive 3–4 hours to Kilimanjaro National Park’s Londorossi Gate. After securing your climbing permits and registering with park authorities, you’ll transfer by 4x4 up to 3,414 m, where the breathtaking Shira Plateau unfolds before you. From this high-altitude drop-off, enjoy a gentle trek to Shira II Camp—an ideal introduction to Kilimanjaro’s mountain rhythms. As you walk, you’ll feel the altitude gently rising, helping your body acclimatize while taking in spectacular vistas. At camp, our crew will have your tents ready and dinner …

Accommodation
Shira 2 Camp

Shira 2 Camp

Camp — 1★ Kilimanjaro
Lava Tower Ascent & Barranco Plunge Day 3

Lava Tower Ascent & Barranco Plunge

12km — 6-8 hours

After breakfast, depart Shira II Camp and tackle the rugged ascent to Lava Tower (4,600 m), weaving through steep climbs and rocky descents. Spend 1–2 hours here for lunch and vital acclimatization amid the high-altitude landscape. Then plunge down into the dramatic Barranco Valley, arriving at Barranco Camp beneath the towering Barranco Wall—your thrilling climb tomorrow!

Accommodation
Barranco Camp

Barranco Camp

Camp — 1★ Kilimanjaro
Barranco Camp - Karanga Camp Day 4

Barranco Camp - Karanga Camp

5km — 4-5 hours

Rise early for a hearty breakfast, then set off before dawn to conquer the famous Barranco Wall—an exhilarating one-hour climb that rewards you with sweeping views of Kibo Volcano. Next, journey onward to Karanga Camp, following a mix of climbs and descents paced perfectly by our expert guides. Enjoy a warm lunch upon arrival, then gear up for a brief acclimatization trek toward Barafu Camp—gaining 300 m (984 ft) before returning to Karanga. These acclimatization hikes are key to a successful summit, boosting your altitude fitness and helping you stay strong on Kilimanjaro.

Accommodation
Karanga Camp

Karanga Camp

Camp — 1★ Kilimanjaro
Karanga Camp - Barafu Camp Day 5

Karanga Camp - Barafu Camp

6 km — 4-5 hours

After a nourishing breakfast, trek onward to Barafu Camp—your launchpad for the midnight ascent to Uhuru Peak (5,895 m / 19,340 ft). Our crew will have your tents and sleeping bags ready, so you can simply settle in, rest, and recharge before the night’s summit push.

Accommodation
Barafu Camp

Barafu Camp

Camp — 1★ Kilimanjaro
Ascent to Uhuru Peak - Millennium Camp Day 6

Ascent to Uhuru Peak - Millennium Camp

15 km — 8-12 hours

You’ll set off from Barafu Camp under the stars for the final push to Uhuru Peak (5,895 m / 19,340 ft). While the route itself is technically straightforward, the thin air makes every step a challenge. To keep you safe and motivated, each pair of climbers is teamed with a dedicated guide who monitors your condition throughout the ascent. Once you stand atop Africa’s highest summit, you may choose to walk out onto the nearby glacier before beginning your descent. After a well-earned rest back at Barafu Camp, you’ll continue down to Millennium Camp. Pro Tip: Most mishaps happen on …

Accommodation
Millennium Camp

Millennium Camp

Camp — 1★ Kilimanjaro
Descent From Millennium Camp - Mweka Gate Day 7

Descent From Millennium Camp - Mweka Gate

— 4-5 hours

Wake to the soothing sounds of the rainforest at Millennium Camp, where the altitude relief and the pride of your summit fill the air. After a hearty breakfast, descend through lush greenery to Mweka Gate, where your team awaits with cheers and congratulations. Pause to pen your memories in our guestbook before stepping into our office for your well-deserved summit certificate. Finally, relax as we whisk you back to your hotel—your triumphant Kilimanjaro journey complete.

Departure Day 8

Departure

Enjoy a leisurely morning at your hotel before we transfer you to the airport. Check-out is by 11:00 AM, but if your flight departs later, you can arrange a late check-out (for an additional fee) to extend your stay and enjoy a few extra hours of comfort.

Essential Gear for This Trek

🧳 Rent or Buy Your Gear?

If you’ve already climbed peaks above 5,000 meters, you likely have most of the gear needed for Kilimanjaro. But for many of our guests, this is their first big trek — and that’s perfectly okay!

At Africano Paraiso, we recommend renting gear locally if you're not planning future climbs. A full kit can cost over $1,000, while rentals for essentials like sleeping bags, down jackets, and trekking poles are typically just $250–$300.

Planning more hikes? Then investing in your own equipment makes sense. Just remember: a full kit can weigh 15–17 kg. This matters when booking flights to Zanzibar or safari extensions, where luggage limits often cap at 15 kg.

Even experienced hikers often rent heavier gear for convenience. Whether you rent or bring your own, Africano Paraiso ensures you're fully prepared for a smooth and unforgettable Kilimanjaro experience.

Fleece jacket for mid-layer insulation
Fleece jacket for mid-layer insulation

Fleece jackets are an essential part of your Kilimanjaro gear. Whether worn on their own or layered over a trekking shirt, they provide much-needed warmth—especially during chilly evenings at camp. You’ll find yourself using a fleece jacket on most days of your climb, making it a must-have for the trek. For optimal performance, Polartec 200 fleece is highly recommended thanks …

Warm Jacket
Warm Jacket

A warm jacket is essential for your Kilimanjaro climb, especially during cold evenings at camp and the summit push. It’s a key part of your gear that should not be overlooked. Choose a jacket that’s neither too bulky nor too thin, and designed to keep you comfortable in temperatures as low as -15°C (5°F). A hooded design is highly recommended …

Membrane Hard Shell Rain Jacket
Membrane Hard Shell Rain Jacket

A hard shell rain jacket is a must-have from day one—especially on routes like the Lemosho 7-day trek, which begins at elevations around 3,500 m (11,500 ft). Always keep it easily accessible in your daypack, as weather can shift quickly on the mountain. Designed to shield you from wind and light rain, this jacket plays a key role in your …

Trekking Pants
Trekking Pants

A reliable pair of trekking pants is typically all you need for a Kilimanjaro expedition. Even if you enjoy hiking in shorts, it's important to bring long trousers for the colder high-altitude sections and the cool evenings at camp.

Membrane pants of rain pants
Membrane pants of rain pants

Membrane pants are a key part of your Kilimanjaro gear, especially during the rainy season. When layered over your trekking pants, they offer reliable protection from wind and rain, helping you stay dry, warm, and comfortable throughout the climb.

Warm Trouser
Warm Trouser

Warm trousers or ski pants are an essential part of your Kilimanjaro gear—especially for summit night, when temperatures drop well below freezing. These pants should be fleece-lined for insulation and have a water-resistant, windproof outer shell to protect you from harsh alpine conditions. Designed for extreme cold, they should keep you comfortable in temperatures below -15°C (5°F). Even before summit …

Daypack
Daypack

Your daypack is your go-to companion during the Kilimanjaro trek, carrying all your daily essentials—like sunglasses, sunscreen, rain gear, flashlight, water flask, snacks, and any personal gadgets such as a camera or smartphone. Aim to keep your daypack lightweight and compact. Heavier backpacks are better suited for other adventures. Most importantly, ensure it fits comfortably on your back. We strongly …

Duffle bag
Duffle bag

Duffel bags are carried by porters on their heads, so it’s important to choose a soft, flexible model to ensure their comfort. Over the course of the trek, a porter may carry your bag for 40–60 km, and even more on longer routes like the Northern Circuit—making weight and structure crucial. According to Kilimanjaro National Park regulations, your fully loaded …

Dry bag (optional)
Dry bag (optional)

Rain is common on Kilimanjaro, so packing a dry bag is highly recommended. Placing it inside your duffle bag or backpack helps keep your gear dry and ready for use in all conditions. If you bring one, be sure it's large enough to hold your sleeping bag and other essentials.

Water Flask
Water Flask

Certainly! Here's a refined and more engaging version of your passage: --- A water flask is absolutely essential for your Kilimanjaro adventure. Unlike low-quality hydration bladders that can freeze overnight, a sturdy flask keeps your water accessible even in cold conditions. Since you’ll need to drink 3–4 liters of water daily, carrying one or two 1-liter flasks is highly recommended. …

Camel bag / Hydration bladder (Optional)
Camel bag / Hydration bladder (Optional)

A hydration bladder (commonly known as a "camel bag") is strongly recommended for your Kilimanjaro trek. If your daypack is hydration-compatible, using a bladder will make staying hydrated far more convenient during the climb. Be sure to invest in a high-quality model—cheaper versions may fail under extreme conditions. It's especially important to choose one with an insulated drinking tube, as …

Travel bag organizers
Travel bag organizers

Travel organizers are a great addition to your packing system, making it easy to sort your gear inside a duffle bag. They’re especially useful for keeping wet or dirty clothes separate from clean items, helping you stay organized throughout your trip.

Hiking Boots
Hiking Boots

Choosing the right hiking boots is crucial for a successful Kilimanjaro trek. Look for medium-weight, waterproof boots with strong ankle support and a secure lacing system. Break them in with at least two hikes before your trip to avoid blisters and discomfort. Recommended brands include La Sportiva, Zamberlan, The North Face, Asolo, Salomon, and Scarpa. If you’re not planning to …

Sneakers (Optional)
Sneakers (Optional)

On certain routes, the early days of your Kilimanjaro trek are relatively gentle, allowing you to wear lightweight trekking sneakers instead of boots. Later in the journey, once you arrive at camp, you’ll likely want to give your feet a break from heavy boots. That’s when sneakers become especially useful — perfect for walking around camp, exploring nearby areas, or …

Trekking socks
Trekking socks

Trekking socks are essential for a climb like Kilimanjaro. Avoid cotton socks—they trap moisture and increase the risk of blisters. Instead, opt for wool or wool-blend socks, which offer excellent moisture-wicking and comfort. A reliable brand to consider is Bridgedale, known for performance and durability on high-altitude treks.

Thermal socks (Optional)
Thermal socks (Optional)

Thermal socks aren’t mandatory, but they’re highly recommended—especially for summer climbs when warmth at higher altitudes becomes essential. Look for non-cotton options with flat seams for maximum comfort. Wool socks are an excellent choice, offering warmth, breathability, and moisture control. With many quality brands available, it’s easy to find a pair that suits your needs perfectly.

Gaiters (Optional)
Gaiters (Optional)

Gaiters aren’t mandatory for Kilimanjaro, but they become extremely useful during the rainy season. They help keep mud, snow, and small rocks out of your boots, ensuring greater comfort along the trail. While often underestimated, gaiters go a long way in keeping your trekking pants and boots clean and dry, making gear easier to manage each day. They also provide …

Sun hat
Sun hat

A sun hat is an essential item for your Kilimanjaro packing list. For added protection, choose one with a built-in neck flap. It helps shield your face and neck from sunburn and keeps you cool under strong mountain sun.

Beanie
Beanie

A beanie is an essential item for your Kilimanjaro climb. As you gain altitude, temperatures drop significantly — especially near the summit. A warm, well-fitting beanie will help protect your head and ears from the cold and wind, making a big difference in comfort during early mornings and snowy summit conditions.

Balaclava (Optional)
Balaclava (Optional)

A balaclava is an excellent choice for hikers who are sensitive to cold. A wool or thermal balaclava helps shield your chin, nose, cheeks, and forehead from biting winds—especially during the summit night. While you may not need it often during the trek, it becomes invaluable at high altitudes.

Neck warmer (Optional)
Neck warmer (Optional)

A neck warmer can be a great addition to your gear. It offers extra warmth for your neck and face in cold conditions and also helps protect against dust on windy trails. Many trekkers find it surprisingly useful.

Sun Glasses
Sun Glasses

Sunglasses are essential for your Kilimanjaro climb. At altitudes nearing 6,000 meters, UV radiation is significantly stronger than at sea level, making proper eye protection critical. In addition to direct sunlight, snow near the summit reflects intense glare, increasing the risk of snow blindness—a painful and potentially serious condition that can cause lasting eye damage. To stay protected, always wear …

Headlamp
Headlamp

A headlamp is an essential item for anyone trekking Mount Kilimanjaro. Once the sun sets at camp, visibility drops significantly, making it difficult to move around or even find your tent. Without a headlamp, navigating tent ropes or heading to the bathroom at night can become hazardous. Most importantly, during the summit attempt, climbers typically begin the ascent around midnight …

Trekking Poles
Trekking Poles

Trekking poles are highly recommended for Kilimanjaro—not just for comfort, but for joint support. Daily hikes range from 7–10 km over rugged terrain, often lasting 4–8 hours. This puts significant strain on your knees, especially at high altitude. Poles provide extra balance, reduce impact, and become especially helpful during the summit push when fatigue sets in. By shifting some weight …

Lightweight gloves
Lightweight gloves

Lightweight gloves are essential from Day 2 of your Kilimanjaro trek onward. Most trekkers wear them until reaching the summit camp, where they switch to outer gloves. Choose inner gloves made from quality materials like wool, Polartec, or synthetics for warmth and moisture control. Avoid cotton, as it lacks proper wicking ability and won’t keep your hands dry in mountain …

Mittens
Mittens

You'll need warm, waterproof gloves or mittens for the summit night. Comfort and insulation are key, as you’ll be holding trekking poles for up to eight hours in freezing temperatures. Mittens are often the better choice, offering superior warmth in the -15°C / 5°F summit zone—where keeping your hands protected is absolutely essential.

Sleeping bag
Sleeping bag

No matter the season or route you choose to climb Mount Kilimanjaro, a warm sleeping bag is essential. Even on the Marangu route, where huts are provided, the shelters are not heated, and temperatures drop significantly at night. Staying warm is entirely up to you. When selecting a sleeping bag, pay close attention to its temperature ratings: The comfort level …

Sleeping bag liner (Optional)
Sleeping bag liner (Optional)

A sleeping bag liner adds valuable warmth during the coldest nights of your Kilimanjaro climb, especially near the summit. Mummy-shaped liners are more efficient than rectangular ones, and both fleece and insulated options work well. A quality liner can increase your sleeping bag’s comfort range by 3 to 8°C, making it possible to bring your own bag—even if it doesn’t …

Inflatable pillow (Optional)
Inflatable pillow (Optional)

An inflatable pillow is a great comfort item, especially for those who enjoy reading or relaxing in the tent. That said, if you prefer to pack light, you can always improvise by using your backpack or rolled-up clothes as a makeshift pillow.

Wet wipes (Optional)
Wet wipes (Optional)

Wet wipes are a great alternative for staying fresh on Kilimanjaro, especially if you’re not using a portable shower. Bring two packs—one small pack in your daypack for quick refreshes during the trek, and a larger pack in your duffel bag for evening hygiene at camp.

Camera
Camera

The views from Mount Kilimanjaro are absolutely breathtaking, and capturing them is a highlight for many trekkers. Whether it’s the sunrise over the clouds or the rugged summit landscape, these are moments you’ll want to remember. Bring a smartphone with a power bank or a GoPro with extra batteries to document your journey and preserve the magic of your adventure.

Power Banks
Power Banks

If you're bringing any electronic devices, a power bank is essential. With no power outlets available on Mount Kilimanjaro, it's the only reliable way to keep your smartphone, e-reader, or other gadgets charged during the trek.

E-Book
E-Book

If you enjoy reading before bed, this is a must-pack essential.

Mp3 Player
Mp3 Player

This is the secret to making your Kilimanjaro adventure unforgettable — especially on summit night. Listening to your favorite songs will lift your spirits, boost your energy, and make those magical moments at the Roof of Africa even more special.

Frequently Asked Questions

Lemosho is known as one of the most beautiful and well-balanced routes on Kilimanjaro. It offers great scenery, low crowds, and a gradual altitude gain, improving your chances of reaching the summit successfully.

Yes, 6 days is possible and often chosen by fit trekkers. However, it’s a compressed version of the longer 7 or 8-day itineraries. While still scenic and rewarding, there’s less acclimatization time, so we recommend it for those with prior hiking or altitude experience.

Lemosho is a camping route, so you’ll sleep in tents provided by Africano Paraiso, set up each day by our support crew. We use high-quality, 4-season mountain tents, sleeping mats, and offer cozy mess tents for meals.

The main difference is in how quickly you move between camps. The 6-day Lemosho route skips acclimatization stops like Shira 1 or Moir Hut, which means longer trekking days and a quicker gain in elevation. The scenery is the same — just the pacing is tighter.

It’s a moderately challenging trek, with long hiking hours and significant altitude gain. The summit night is especially tough — a midnight start, steep climb to Uhuru Peak, and a long descent. Physical preparation and mental determination are key.

Yes, with less time to acclimatize, there’s a higher risk of symptoms like headaches or fatigue. That’s why our guides monitor you closely using pulse oximeters, ensure a slow pace ("pole pole"), and encourage hydration and rest.

Everything you need: park fees, tents, meals, guides, porters, pre-climb briefing, transfers, and a full support team. You’ll also receive a packing list, and we can arrange gear rental if needed.

Essential items include thermal layers, waterproofs, a warm sleeping bag (rated to -15°C), headlamp, trekking poles, and a 30–40L daypack. Even with porters, you’ll carry your personal day gear each day.

The best months are January–March and June–October, when the weather is more stable. These windows offer clear views, lower chances of rain, and better summit conditions.

Absolutely! Africano Paraiso offers tailor-made extensions, from a wildlife safari in Serengeti or Ngorongoro, to a Zanzibar beach retreat. We’ll help you design a perfect reward after your climb.

Price

Group Size & Pricing
Climbing Cost Includes
  • All airport & trailhead transfers (Toyota Alphard, Hiace/Coaster)
  • 3★ hotel in Moshi (bed & breakfast; half- & full-board upgrades available)
  • Premium camping equipment: 4-season tents, 3″ mats, tables, chairs, mess tents, hand-washing station
  • All meals on the mountain (custom diet plans at no extra cost)
  • Experienced WFR-certified guides & porter support team
  • Preventive oxygen bottles
  • Real-time GPS tracking link
  • Daily medical check-ups, fully-stocked medical kits & in-company doctor
  • 24/7 satellite-phone emergency support
  • All park fees & Tanzanian taxes (VAT, crew, rescue, conservation fees)
  • Dedicated back-office support team
  • Innovative online Personal Trip Board
  • Free safe-room & luggage storage
  • “Leave No Trace” waste-management team
  • Social-impact contributions to local communities
Climbing Cost Excludes
  • International flights to/from Tanzania
  • Tips for guides & porters (recommended US $250–350 pp)
  • Tanzania visa fee (approx. US $50; US citizens pay US $100)
  • Personal gear rentals (boots, sleeping bags, poles, etc.)
  • Single-occupancy supplement (hotel & tent)
  • Travel insurance (6 000 m altitude & helicopter evacuation required)
  • Portable toilet rental on mountain
  • Lunch & dinner at hotel before/after climb

Trekking Overview

Your 8-day adventure at a glance

8-Day Itinerary Overview

  • Day 1
    Arrival
  • Day 2
    High-Altitude Drop-Off & Trek to Camp II
    11 km  — 5-6 hours
  • Day 3
    Lava Tower Ascent & Barranco Plunge
    12km  — 6-8 hours
  • Day 4
    Barranco Camp - Karanga Camp
    5km  — 4-5 hours
  • Day 5
    Karanga Camp - Barafu Camp
    6 km  — 4-5 hours
  • Day 6
    Ascent to Uhuru Peak - Millennium Camp
    15 km  — 8-12 hours
  • Day 7
    Descent From Millennium Camp - Mweka Gate
     — 4-5 hours
  • Day 8
    Departure

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