7 Days Kilimanjaro Climbing – Lemosho Route
Trekk OVERVIEW
Day 1: Londorossi Gate to Big Tree Camp
Begin your adventure at Londorossi Gate, where you register, meet your guides, and begin the trek through dense rainforest. The trail winds along moss-covered trees, vines, and streams, providing a true immersion into Kilimanjaro’s lower-elevation ecosystem. The hike is moderate, allowing your body to adjust while you spot monkeys, birds, and butterflies along the path. Big Tree Camp offers a peaceful resting spot among giant forest trees. Enjoy a hot meal and hydrate before settling into your tent. Guides provide briefings about the upcoming days, safety protocols, and acclimatization strategies. The forest night ambiance is serene, preparing you for the higher zones ahead.
Day 2: Big Tree Camp to Shira 1 Camp
Today’s trek transitions from rainforest to moorland, opening up vast landscapes and panoramic views of Kibo and Shira Plateau. The trail steadily ascends through giant heathers and sparse vegetation, signaling your entry into higher altitude zones. Wildlife sightings become rarer, replaced by unique alpine plants and volcanic terrain. Shira 1 Camp sits on a plateau, offering excellent opportunities to rest, hydrate, and acclimatize. After a warm meal, guides explain the next section toward Shira 2 Camp and Barranco Wall. Evening offers stunning sunsets over Kilimanjaro, highlighting the mountain’s grandeur. Sleep early to allow your body to recover for more challenging terrain tomorrow.
Day 3: Shira 1 Camp to Shira 2 Camp
The trail today follows a gentle ascent across Shira Plateau, crossing undulating volcanic terrain with breathtaking panoramic views of Kibo and Mawenzi Peaks. Hikers can admire the vastness of the plateau and unique plant life, including lobelias and groundsel. The moderate pace allows for continued acclimatization, vital for preventing altitude sickness. Shira 2 Camp sits slightly higher, providing a strategic resting spot before heading toward Barranco Wall. Guides provide educational insights on geology, ecology, and weather patterns on Kilimanjaro. Evening at camp includes dinner, hydration, and a briefing for the next day’s challenging climb. The tranquility and wide-open spaces create a memorable trekking experience.
Day 4: Shira 2 Camp to Barranco Camp
Ascend gradually from Shira 2 Camp toward Barranco Wall, passing through alpine desert zones with sparse vegetation and stunning volcanic rock formations. The trail offers incredible vistas and challenging sections, preparing climbers for the steep Barranco Wall ahead. Upon arrival at Barranco Camp, rest and enjoy a hearty meal, surrounded by dramatic cliff faces and sweeping valley views. The climb to Barranco Wall the following morning will be a physical and mental test, so proper rest and hydration are emphasized. Evening briefings cover safety techniques and climbing strategies. Barranco Camp provides a comfortable base for acclimatization and preparation for the high-altitude zones above.
Day 5: Barranco Camp to Karanga Camp
Today’s hike begins with the famous Barranco Wall climb, a physically engaging ascent requiring careful navigation of steep rock faces. Experienced guides provide hands-on assistance to ensure safety and success. After conquering the wall, the trail descends into Karanga Valley, offering beautiful valley views and alpine landscapes. Karanga Camp sits at a higher elevation, providing the final acclimatization stop before the summit push. After a nutritious meal, relax in your tent while absorbing the surrounding scenery. Guides discuss the route to Barafu Camp and summit strategy, including early wake-up times and pacing techniques. Proper rest and hydration remain key for tomorrow’s demanding journey.
Day 6: Karanga Camp to Barafu Camp
A moderate morning trek from Karanga Camp leads to Barafu Camp, the staging point for the midnight summit attempt. The trail ascends steadily, passing rocky terrain and sparse vegetation. Arriving at Barafu Camp, rest, hydrate, and have a light meal before beginning the most challenging part of the expedition. Evening briefings focus on summit strategy, pacing, and acclimatization techniques. Sleep early to conserve energy, as climbers wake around midnight for the ascent. Barafu Camp offers basic shelter, and guides ensure tents are properly set for the cold, high-altitude environment. Mental preparation and rest are crucial before the long night ahead.
Day 7: Summit Day and Descent to Mweka Camp
Begin the summit climb around midnight, navigating steep switchbacks in low temperatures and thin air. Follow the trail to Stella Point along the crater rim, then continue to Uhuru Peak, Africa’s highest point, for sunrise. The ascent is grueling, requiring patience and consistent pacing, but the panoramic views and achievement are unparalleled. Descend to Barafu Camp for lunch and then continue to Mweka Camp for overnight rest. Celebrate the successful summit with your team and enjoy a warm meal. Overnight at Mweka Camp marks the end of the climb, with guides ensuring proper hydration, nutrition, and comfort after an incredible high-altitude experience.
Included
Excluded
