7-DAY KILIMANJARO CLIMBING | LEMOSHO ROUTE

Trekking Time: 5–6 hours
Distance: ~8 km

Leaving the forest behind, the trail ascends into the heath and moorland zone, where expansive views begin to open across the Shira Plateau. The terrain becomes more rugged, dotted with giant heathers and volcanic rock formations.

The gradual altitude gain supports excellent acclimatization. Upon arrival at Shira 1 Camp, you enjoy sweeping vistas of Kibo Peak rising above the clouds.

Overnight: Shira 1 Camp
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner

Trekking Time: 3–4 hours
Distance: ~7 km

A relatively short trekking day allows for deeper acclimatization as you traverse the Shira Plateau, one of the highest volcanic plateaus in the world. The route is gentle and scenic, offering uninterrupted views of Mount Meru and the vast plains below.

In the afternoon, optional acclimatization walks are encouraged. The slower pace of this day is a key contributor to the Lemosho Route’s high summit success rate.

Overnight: Shira 2 Camp
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner

Trekking Time: 6–8 hours
Distance: ~10 km

This is a vital acclimatization day, following the principle of climb high, sleep low. The trek ascends steadily toward Lava Tower, an iconic volcanic formation where lunch is served at high altitude.

Afterward, the trail descends into the lush Barranco Valley, one of the most scenic areas on Kilimanjaro, surrounded by giant senecios, lobelias, and dramatic cliff faces. Oxygen levels improve, aiding recovery.

Overnight: Barranco Camp
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner

Trekking Time: 4–5 hours
Distance: ~5 km

The day begins with the exciting scramble up the Barranco Wall, a non-technical but exhilarating climb requiring hands and balance. From the top, enjoy breathtaking views of Kibo Peak and the southern ice fields.

The trail continues across alpine ridges and valleys to Karanga Camp, an important acclimatization stop before summit night. The afternoon is reserved for rest and short acclimatization walks.

Overnight: Karanga Camp
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner

Trekking Time: 3–4 hours
Distance: ~4 km

A shorter trek brings you to Barafu Camp, the final base camp before the summit attempt. The landscape is stark, rocky, and exposed, with cold winds and thin air.

Upon arrival, you rest, hydrate, and attend a comprehensive summit briefing led by your head guide. An early dinner is served before sleeping in preparation for the midnight ascent.

Overnight: Barafu Camp
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner

Trekking Time: 12–15 hours (summit & descent)

You wake around 11:30 PM for hot drinks and light snacks before beginning the final ascent under a sky filled with stars. The climb follows switchbacks through volcanic scree toward Stella Point (5,756 m), reached at sunrise.

From Stella Point, the final push along the crater rim leads to Uhuru Peak, the highest point in Africa. After photos and celebration at the summit, you descend to Barafu Camp for rest, then continue down to Mweka Camp, where oxygen levels are significantly higher.

Overnight: Mweka Camp
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner

• Highest summit success rate on Mount Kilimanjaro
• Exceptional acclimatization with gradual altitude gain
• Most scenic and least crowded approach
• Ideal for both first-time climbers and experienced trekkers

Note: The 7-day Lemosho Route is widely regarded as the best all-around Kilimanjaro route for safety, scenery, and success.