10 day climbing adventure lemosho route

Upon arrival at Kilimanjaro International Airport, you will be warmly welcomed and transferred to your hotel in Moshi. Enjoy a restful evening as you prepare for the adventure ahead. Meet your head guide for a detailed briefing and gear check, ensuring you are fully prepared for the climb. Overnight at Salinero Hotel.

Note: Check-in starts at 2:00 PM

After breakfast, embark on a scenic drive to the Kilimanjaro National Park Gate. Experience the lush rainforest as you trek through the muddy, slippery trails. Your guide will share insights into the local flora and fauna. Spend the night at Mti Mkubwa Camp.

• Distance: 4.8 km / 3 mi

• Duration: 3-4 hours

• Terrain: Rainforest

• Elevation Gain: 396 m (2389m to 2785m)

Note: The acclimatization hike is an easy trek with a slight gain in altitude done in order to speed up the acclimatization process. You should take the acclimatization hikes very seriously.

At night you may experience discomfort associated with acclimatization to the high altitude: because of a reduction in your waking breathing pattern, your body gets less oxygen than during the day. Taking altitude into account, you may therefore start feeling sick and have a headache. Pay attention to your own body and tell your guide if you start feeling any symptoms of altitude sickness.

Acclimatization hike:

Change in Elevation: Mti Mkubwa Camp (2,780 m) Destination point en route to Shira 1 Camp (3,095 m)

Hiking distance: 2 km

Hiking time: 1 hour

Wake up early to a hearty breakfast, fueling up for the day's trek. You'll transition from the lush rainforest to the expansive moorland, gradually ascending to the rim of the Shira Plateau. This stretch of the journey is marked by a gradual climb through a stunning transformation in scenery. As you leave the dense jungle behind, you'll encounter a landscape dominated by Giant Heathers, diverse grasses, and vibrant wildflowers.

The trek begins with a steady climb, passing several refreshing streams along the way. Upon reaching the Shira Ridge, you'll be rewarded with your first breathtaking views of the Shira Plateau and the majestic Kibo Volcano. The panorama of this high-altitude environment is truly awe-inspiring.

The trail from Mti Mkubwa Camp to Shira I Camp (3,505 m) is a manageable 5-6 hour hike, allowing you to acclimatize gradually and set a strong foundation for the climb ahead. Upon arrival at Shira I Camp, your dedicated team will prepare a delicious lunch while you relax in your tent or explore the surrounding area. Enjoy the cooler temperatures and the serene beauty of the plateau as you unwind and prepare for the adventures yet to come.

• Distance: 7.9 km / 5 mi

• Duration: 4-6 hours

• Terrain: Moorland

• Elevation Gain: 719 m (2785m to 3504m)

This segment of your journey involves a gentle ascent to Shira II Camp (3,900 meters). The trek is relatively easy, allowing you to absorb the breathtaking beauty of the moorland meadows and the expansive vistas that unfold around you. Shira II Camp offers one of the best vantage points to view Mount Meru, Africa's fifth highest peak, depending on weather conditions. From this elevated campsite, you'll witness the grandeur of the plateau, with its diverse flora and sweeping landscapes.

After taking in the sights at Shira II Camp, proceed towards Moir Hut (4,139 meters). Moir Hut, a seldom-used campsite nestled at the base of Lent Hills, provides a unique opportunity for acclimatization. The area around Moir Hut features a variety of short walking trails that are ideal for adjusting to the higher altitude. These trails offer panoramic views of the surrounding terrain and contribute to your acclimatization process.

This day on the plateau allows for a gradual and comfortable climb, enhancing your body’s adaptation to the altitude while enjoying some of the most stunning scenery on Kilimanjaro.

• Distance: 6.9 km / 4.3 mi

• Duration: 5-7 hours

• Terrain: Moorland

• Elevation Gain: 391 m (3504m to 3895m)

After a nourishing breakfast at Moir Hut (4,139 meters), set off on a pivotal leg of your Kilimanjaro adventure. The trek begins with an ascent towards Lava Tower (4,630 meters), a striking rock formation that serves as a key acclimatization point on the route. Upon reaching Lava Tower, you’ll take a well-deserved two-hour break. This pause is crucial for acclimatization and allows you to enjoy a hearty lunch amidst the dramatic, otherworldly landscape. The higher altitude and rugged terrain here offer a glimpse of the challenges ahead while providing stunning vistas.

Following lunch, continue your journey past the Arrow Glacier (4,876 meters). This glacier, situated on the southeastern side of Kilimanjaro, adds to the awe-inspiring scenery and underscores the rugged beauty of the high alpine environment.

After this high-altitude experience, you will begin your descent to Barranco Camp (3,960 meters). The descent to Barranco Camp offers a chance to rest and recover from the day’s altitude gains. The camp is renowned for its proximity to the famous Barranco Wall, a sheer, vertical rock face that you'll encounter the following day. Enjoy a warm dinner and reflect on the day’s achievements.

Important Note: Despite ending the day at a lower elevation than when you started, the trek to Lava Tower and the subsequent descent to Barranco Camp is a vital acclimatization strategy. It helps your body adjust to the high altitudes in preparation for the summit bid.

In the event that any climbers in the group experience altitude sickness, the itinerary may be adjusted. Instead of reaching Lava Tower, the group may take an alternate route, with a maximum altitude of 4,400 meters, to ensure safety and proper acclimatization.

• Distance: 10.1 km / 6.3 mi

• Duration: 4-6 hours

• Terrain: Semi-desert

• Elevation Gain: 91 m (3895m to 3986m)

Acclimatization hike

Change in Elevation:

Hiking distance:

Hiking time:

Early Wake-Up and Barranco Wall Ascent: Start your day early with a hearty breakfast before tackling the iconic Barranco Wall. This imposing vertical cliff, part of the gorge wall, provides a steep yet manageable climb that takes approximately one hour. While the ascent may look daunting from afar, it’s a challenging yet rewarding climb that offers stunning views. Pause at the top for a well-deserved rest and capture memorable photos with the majestic Kibo volcano as your backdrop.

Trek to Karanga Camp: Following the climb, embark on a trek towards Karanga Camp. This section of the trail features a series of ups and downs that demand steady footing and perseverance. The terrain is varied, with rocky paths and occasional ascents, adding a bit of challenge to the journey. Upon reaching Karanga Camp (4,035 m), enjoy a warm, nutritious lunch to replenish your energy.

Afternoon Acclimatization Hike: In the afternoon, take part in a short acclimatization hike. This one-hour trek around the Karanga Valley is designed to help your body adjust to the higher altitude. It’s a gentle yet beneficial walk that aids in acclimatization and enhances your readiness for the upcoming stages of the climb.

Evening Rest and Dinner: Return to Karanga Camp to relax and unwind. Enjoy a hot dinner prepared by our skilled cooks, and take advantage of the serene environment to rest and prepare for the next day's trek. This day is crucial for acclimatization and will fortify your stamina for the ascent ahead.

Note: The Barranco Wall ascent and subsequent trek are designed to acclimate your body to the altitude. However, if any participant shows signs of altitude sickness, the group may opt for an alternate route. In this case, the hike will be adjusted, and the maximum altitude reached will be 4,400 meters, rather than the planned 4,630 meters.

• Distance: 5.2 km / 3 mi

• Duration: 4-5 hours

• Terrain: Alpine Desert

• Elevation Gain: 48 m (3986m to 4034m)

Morning Trek to Barafu Camp After a nourishing breakfast at Karanga Camp, start your trek to Barafu Camp (4,640 m), the base camp for your summit attempt. This section of the trail will take you through the junction that connects with the Mweka Trail. As you ascend, you will complete the Southern Circuit, which offers panoramic views of Kilimanjaro’s glaciers and the expansive wilderness. Upon arrival at Barafu Camp, our team will have already set up the camp, including your tents and sleeping bags, allowing you to settle in and prepare for the final push to the summit.

Acclimatization Hike To help acclimate your body to the high altitude, you will undertake an acclimatization hike toward the intermediate Kosovo Summit Camp (4,800 m). This short but steep hike will give you a taste of the terrain leading up to the summit and further prepare your body for the extreme conditions. After reaching Kosovo, you will return to Barafu Camp for a well-deserved hot lunch and some rest.

Preparation and Rest With the remainder of the day at Barafu Camp, it’s crucial to conserve your energy for the summit attempt. Rest and relax as much as possible, ensuring you are well-hydrated and nourished. Our team will provide a hot dinner to fuel your body for the overnight ascent to Uhuru Peak. Given the importance of the summit attempt, use this time to mentally prepare and ensure all your gear is ready for the challenging climb ahead.

Note: Barafu Camp is the final camp before the summit, and the altitude can be demanding. It is essential to take full advantage of this time to rest and acclimate to optimize your chances of a successful summit.

• Distance: 3.3 km / 2 mi

• Duration: 4-5 hours

• Terrain: Alpine Desert

• Elevation Gain: 628 m (4034m to 4662m)

Acclimatization hike:

Change in Elevation: Barafu Camp (4,640 m) — Kosovo Camp (4,800 m)

Hiking distance: 2 km

Hiking time: 1 hour

Summit Ascent Your summit day begins with a very early wake-up call, between midnight and 2 a.m. Departing from Barafu Camp (4,640 m), you will start your ascent to Uhuru Peak. The climb begins between the Rebmann and Ratzel glaciers, navigating through heavy scree and challenging terrain. Each climber will be paired with a personal guide to monitor your physical and mental well-being throughout this demanding journey.

Climbing to Stella Point As you ascend, the climb becomes increasingly strenuous due to the high altitude. Your target is Stella Point (5,669 m), where you’ll pause for a brief rest. This is a critical moment in the climb, as it offers a chance to recharge and take in the breathtaking sunrise, weather permitting. For those who ascend quickly, the sunrise may be visible from the summit itself.

Reaching Uhuru Peak From Stella Point, continue the final hour of your ascent to Uhuru Peak (5,895 m). The terrain here can be snow-covered and challenging, so prepare for cold and potentially snowy conditions. Upon reaching Uhuru Peak, you will stand at the highest point in Africa. Take time to celebrate your incredible achievement, enjoy the expansive views, and capture memorable photos at the summit.

Descent to Mweka Camp After your summit celebration, begin the descent back to Mweka Camp. Stop at Barafu Camp for a much-needed rest and a warm lunch. The descent requires careful navigation through loose gravel, so gaiters and trekking poles are recommended for stability.

As you continue down, you will enter the lush upper forest zone where mist and rain are common. Upon reaching Mweka Camp, you will enjoy a hearty final dinner on the mountain and get a well-earned night’s rest.

• Distance Up: 4.86 km / 3 mi

• Duration Up: 5-7 hours

• Terrain: Glaciers, Snow-Capped Summit

• Elevation Gain: 1233 m (4662m to 5895m)

• Distance Down: 13 km / 8 mi

• Duration Down: 5-6 hours

• Altitude Lost: 2789 m (5895m to 3106m)

Descent and Final Celebration: Upon waking, you’ll feel a profound sense of relief and accomplishment from your descent and summit achievement. After a warm breakfast at Mweka Camp, begin your final trek through the rainforest to Mweka Gate (1,650 m). The descent is a pleasant journey through lush vegetation, where you can appreciate the vibrant flora and listen to the soothing sounds of the rainforest.

Arrival at Mweka Gate: Upon reaching Mweka Gate, you will be greeted with your well-deserved summit certificate, celebrating your successful climb to the highest point in Africa. This marks the formal end of your climbing adventure.

Transfer to Mweka Village and Moshi From Mweka Gate, take a scenic drive of approximately one hour to Mweka Village. Here, the whole group will gather at a local hotel for a celebratory reception. This is a special moment to reflect on your journey, share experiences with fellow climbers, and receive your commemorative certificates in a warm and festive atmosphere.

Final Reflections: Back at the hotel in Moshi, take time to relax, enjoy a hearty meal, and reflect on your remarkable achievement. This is a perfect opportunity to celebrate with your team and reminisce about the unforgettable experiences of your Kilimanjaro climb.

• Distance: 9.1 km / 6 mi

• Duration: 3-4 hours

• Terrain: Rainforest

• Altitude Lost: 1473 m (3106m to 1633m)

As your adventure comes to an end, it's time to say goodbye. Check out of your accommodation by 11 am, and enjoy a seamless transfer to the airport provided by one of our friendly Morning Glory team members. We hope you had an unforgettable experience and look forward to welcoming you back soon! Safe travels!