8 Days Lemosho Route Kilimanjaro Climb – The Scenic Trek to Uhuru Pea

The Lemosho Route is considered one of the most scenic and successful routes up Kilimanjaro. It starts on the western side of the mountain, offering diverse landscapes—rainforest, moorlands, alpine desert, and glacier zones. With 8 days on the mountain, it provides excellent acclimatization time, increasing summit success rates. The route also has fewer crowds than the popular Machame Route, giving you a more peaceful trekking experience.

The 8-Day Lemosho Route is a moderate to challenging trek. It does not require technical climbing skills but does involve long hiking days, high altitude, and cold summit conditions. With proper acclimatization, preparation, and guidance, even first-time trekkers have a high chance of success. Good physical fitness, mental determination, and following your guide’s instructions are the keys to reaching Uhuru Peak.

The best months for climbing are during the dry seasons:

• January to early March (warmer conditions, fewer crowds)

• June to October (cooler, clear skies, most popular season)

Avoid April, May, and November, as these are the rainy seasons, which can make trails slippery and visibility poor.

Accommodation on the Lemosho Route is in mountain tents at designated campsites. Gnade Safaris provides high-quality, all-weather tents, sleeping mats, and dining tents. Campsites such as Mti Mkubwa, Shira 1 & 2, Barranco, Karanga, Barafu, and Mweka are equipped with basic facilities. Travelers will enjoy freshly prepared meals in a communal dining tent, and optional portable toilets are available on request.

Essential gear includes:

• Clothing: Layered hiking clothes, waterproof jacket/pants, warm down jacket, gloves, thermal wear, hat, and sunglasses

• Footwear: Sturdy hiking boots, warm socks, camp shoes

• Gear: Sleeping bag (rated for -15°C), trekking poles, headlamp, hydration system, daypack

• Personal items: Sunscreen, toiletries, snacks, personal medication A detailed Kilimanjaro packing list will be provided after booking to ensure you are fully prepared.

No prior mountaineering experience is required for the Lemosho Route. However, good physical fitness is important since you’ll be walking for 6–8 hours daily at high altitude. We recommend preparing with regular cardio exercises, long hikes, and strength training several months before your trip.

The 8-Day Lemosho Route has one of the highest summit success rates (90%+) on Kilimanjaro. The extra day on the mountain gives your body more time to acclimatize, significantly reducing the risk of altitude sickness and increasing your chances of standing on Uhuru Peak (5,895m).

Yes, altitude sickness is always a risk when trekking at high elevations. However, the 8-Day Lemosho Route’s gradual ascent and acclimatization days minimize the risk. Our guides carry oxygen cylinders and pulse oximeters to monitor your health daily. Staying hydrated, walking slowly, and listening to your guides are crucial in avoiding altitude-related issues.

You will enjoy freshly prepared, nutritious meals three times a day, including breakfast, lunch, and dinner. Meals typically include soups, pasta, rice, vegetables, fruits, and meat or vegetarian options. Hot drinks such as tea, coffee, and drinking water are also included. Special dietary requirements (vegetarian, vegan, gluten-free, halal) can be accommodated upon request.

✅ Included:

• Park entry and camping fees

• Professional mountain guides, cooks, and porters

• Full board meals on the mountain

• Drinking water & hot drinks

• Camping equipment (tents, mats, dining tent, chairs, and tables)

• Oxygen cylinder & pulse oximeter for safety

• Transfers from Moshi/Arusha to the park gate and back

• Government taxes & VAT

❌ Not included:

• International flights

• Visa fees

• Personal trekking gear (available for rental)

• Accommodation before/after trek (can be arranged)

• Travel insurance (strongly recommended)

• Tips for guides, porters & cooks