Discover the Lemosho Route

Everything You Need to Know About the Lemosho Route

The Lemosho Route is widely considered one of the most beautiful and well-balanced routes to climb Mount Kilimanjaro. If you’re looking for a trekking experience that offers stunning scenery, rich biodiversity, excellent acclimatization, and a high summit success rate — the Lemosho Route should be at the top of your list.

Below is a detailed overview of what makes this route a top choice among climbers from all around the world.

Route Distance and Duration

The total length of the Lemosho Route is approximately 70 kilometers (43 miles) from the Londorossi Gate to the summit and down to Mweka Gate. The trek is typically completed in either 7 or 8 days, with the 8-day itinerary offering a more gradual ascent and better altitude adaptation.

While both durations are possible, the 8-day version is strongly recommended for improved success rates and a more relaxed pace, allowing more time to enjoy the surroundings and reduce the risk of altitude sickness.

Scenery and Landscapes

One of the biggest reasons trekkers love the Lemosho Route is the incredible variety of scenery. This trail showcases nearly every ecological zone found on Kilimanjaro — from lush rainforest to moorland, alpine desert, and finally to the glacial zones near the summit.

On the first day, you walk through thick tropical rainforest filled with moss-covered trees and the sounds of colobus monkeys. By the second day, you’re already high on the Shira Plateau, a vast expanse of open moorland offering panoramic views of the surrounding valleys and Mount Meru in the distance. As the trail progresses, you’ll pass volcanic formations, dramatic ridgelines, and iconic features like the Lava Tower, Barranco Wall, and Karanga Valley before reaching Barafu Camp for your final summit push.

In short, Lemosho offers the most diverse and dramatic scenery of all Kilimanjaro routes — a visual journey that changes every day.

Difficulty Level

The Lemosho Route is classified as moderate to challenging. It is not a technical climb — no ropes or climbing gear are needed — but the trek is physically demanding due to the high altitudes, long days of hiking, and significant elevation gain.

However, thanks to its excellent acclimatization profile, it allows your body to adjust to the altitude more gradually. The route follows the principle of “climb high, sleep low,” especially around the Lava Tower and Barranco areas, which helps minimize the risk of altitude sickness.

This makes Lemosho an ideal route for those with a decent fitness level who want to maximize their chances of reaching the summit safely and successfully.

Success Rate

The summit success rate for climbers on the Lemosho Route is among the highest on Mount Kilimanjaro. On average:

• 7-day Lemosho: ~85% success rate
• 8-day Lemosho: ~90–95% success rate

The longer duration gives your body more time to acclimate to the lower oxygen levels, greatly improving your chances of standing at Uhuru Peak (5,895 meters) and watching the sunrise from the roof of Africa.

Route Layout and Flow

The Lemosho Route starts from the western side of Kilimanjaro at Londorossi Gate, far from the busier southern approaches. It winds through untouched wilderness areas for the first few days before joining the more popular Machame Route near Shira Camp.

From there, it follows the same southern circuit path as Machame, traversing through key landmarks like:

• Shira Plateau
• Lava Tower
• Barranco Wall
• Karanga Valley
• Barafu Base Camp
• Stella Point
• Uhuru Peak
• Descent via Mweka Route

This combination of quiet start and scenic finale makes Lemosho a perfect mix of solitude and shared camaraderie with other climbers as you approach the summit.

Ideal For…

The Lemosho Route is suitable for:

• First-time climbers who want a more scenic and gradual ascent
• Photographers and nature lovers due to its spectacular views and wildlife
• Climbers concerned about altitude sickness who prefer longer acclimatization
• Those looking for a less crowded start compared to routes like Machame or Marangu

While no Kilimanjaro route is “easy,” Lemosho gives climbers a great chance to enjoy the journey and safely reach the summit without rushing.

Why Choose the Lemosho Route?

Choosing the right route to climb Mount Kilimanjaro is one of the most important decisions you'll make when planning your trek. With several options available, each offering different scenery, difficulty, and success rates, the Lemosho Route consistently stands out as a top recommendation by experienced climbers, guides, and reputable tour operators.

Here’s a closer look at why the Lemosho Route might be the perfect path for your Kilimanjaro adventure:

1. Unmatched Scenic Beauty

The Lemosho Route is often praised as the most scenic trail on Kilimanjaro — and for good reason. The journey begins on the western slopes of the mountain, where you walk through thick rainforest, home to black-and-white colobus monkeys, blue monkeys, and lush vegetation. As you ascend, the terrain changes dramatically:

• Day 2 leads to the Shira Plateau, a dramatic high-altitude expanse that offers panoramic views stretching toward Mount Meru.
• From there, the trail continues through surreal moorland and alpine desert, dotted with giant groundsels, senecios, and volcanic rock formations.
• Near the summit, you encounter a rugged glacial environment, where icefields sparkle under the rising sun.

If you're someone who values variety in landscapes and photographic opportunities, this route will leave you in awe every single day.

2. Excellent Acclimatization Profile

Altitude sickness is one of the biggest challenges on Kilimanjaro — and acclimatization is key to avoiding it.
The Lemosho Route offers an ideal altitude profile, giving your body more time to adjust gradually. This is especially true in the 8-day itinerary, which includes a valuable acclimatization day that helps your body "climb high, sleep low."
You also pass through Lava Tower (4,600m) on day 4 — a strategic point for gaining elevation before descending to Barranco Camp. This technique boosts red blood cell production and helps prevent Acute Mountain Sickness (AMS).

Result: Higher success rates and a safer, more enjoyable experience.

3. Low Crowds at the Start

While some Kilimanjaro routes, like Machame and Marangu, are known for heavy foot traffic right from the start, the Lemosho Route begins on the remote western side of the mountain, far from the busy southern gates.

For the first two days, you’ll hike in peaceful solitude, enjoying the pristine wilderness with just your team and a few other climbers. It’s not until you merge with the Machame Route near Shira Camp that you'll begin to encounter more people — and even then, it doesn’t feel overcrowded.

For climbers who value privacy, quiet trails, and a connection to nature, this is a huge advantage.

4. Challenging but Not Overwhelming

The Lemosho Route strikes a great balance between challenge and comfort. It’s certainly not the easiest trail — the elevation gain is real, and the terrain includes a few tough sections like the famous Barranco Wall.

However, it’s not the most technically demanding either. You don’t need climbing skills or gear — just a good level of fitness and mental determination.
The trail is designed in a way that allows your body to adapt, and the longer days give you more time to rest at camp. Most hikers find it physically demanding, but very manageable with the right preparation.

5. Strategic Route Structure

The Lemosho Route is intelligently designed:

• Start: Remote, wild, and untouched
• Middle: Joins the Southern Circuit with stunning traverse paths around the mountain
• End: Approaches the summit from the southeast (Barafu) and descends via the Mweka Route

This circular path ensures you don’t retrace your steps, and you get to see multiple sides of Kilimanjaro, unlike some other trails that go up and down the same way.

6. Wilderness Adventure with Professional Support

Because the route passes through remote sections, climbers experience a sense of true expedition-style trekking. You’re in the wild, under starlit skies, camping near massive valleys and rocky outcrops, with nature all around you.

At the same time, reputable tour operators (like us) provide experienced mountain guides, porters, cooks, and gear, ensuring you are fully supported, well-fed, and safe from start to summit.

7. Higher Summit Success Rates

With longer duration, strategic acclimatization, and a balanced pace, the Lemosho Route consistently delivers summit success rates of 85–95%, among the highest of all Kilimanjaro routes.

This makes it a smart investment — not just financially, but physically and emotionally. After all the preparation and travel, choosing a route that gives you the best chance to reach Uhuru Peak is well worth it.

Why We Recommend Lemosho to Most of Our Clients

Whether you’re climbing Kilimanjaro solo, with friends, or as part of a group tour — Lemosho ticks all the right boxes. You get:

• Fewer crowds (especially early on)
• Longer and safer acclimatization
• Exceptional views and photo opportunities
• A more immersive trekking experience
• Higher likelihood of reaching the summit

If your goal is to summit Kilimanjaro comfortably, safely, and with memories that last a lifetime, the Lemosho Route is a route you’ll never regret choosing.

Difficulty Level and Acclimatization Advantage

The Lemosho Route is widely regarded as one of the best-balanced options on Mount Kilimanjaro — offering a healthy combination of scenic diversity, physical challenge, and high summit success rates. While it’s not the easiest trail, its gradual elevation gain and longer duration give trekkers an important edge when it comes to acclimatization.

This section explains what to expect in terms of difficulty, how to prepare, and why the Lemosho Route gives you a real advantage in reaching the summit safely.

Difficulty Rating: Moderate to Challenging

Let’s be clear: no route on Kilimanjaro is “easy.” All routes require mental focus, physical effort, and the ability to adapt to high altitude. That said, the Lemosho Route is often rated as:

“Moderate to Challenging” — due to the overall elevation gain and summit altitude, not because of technical difficulty.

• No climbing gear is needed
• No ropes or technical skills are required
• Most terrain is manageable for anyone with average fitness

The primary challenges are:

• Long hiking days (5–8 hours on most days, 12–15 hours on summit day)
• Cold temperatures (especially from Barafu to the summit)
• High altitude (5,000m+ can affect breathing and energy levels)

Acclimatization Advantage: Why Lemosho Wins

Altitude sickness (Acute Mountain Sickness or AMS) is the #1 reason climbers fail to reach Uhuru Peak. Lemosho helps reduce that risk significantly, because of its altitude-friendly profile.
Here’s why:

Longer Itinerary = More Time to Adjust

• Most operators offer 7 or 8-day versions of the route.
• More days = slower ascent = your body has more time to produce red blood cells and adapt to reduced oxygen.

"Climb High, Sleep Low" Strategy

• On Day 4, you ascend to Lava Tower (4,600m) and then descend to Barranco Camp (3,960m).
• This natural acclimatization method trains your body for high elevation.

Gradual Elevation Gains

• The daily altitude increases are sensible and evenly spaced.
• There are no major jumps in elevation, reducing AMS risk.

Diverse Zones Build Endurance

• You cross multiple climate zones (rainforest, moorland, alpine desert, arctic) over time.
• This progressive exposure toughens your body both mentally and physically.

How to Know If You’re Fit Enough

You don’t need to be a professional athlete to complete the Lemosho Route — but you do need preparation. Here’s what will help:

Recommended Fitness Level:

• Ability to hike 6–8 hours per day
• Comfort walking on uneven terrain and moderate slopes
• Experience with multi-day treks or hill training

Training Tips:

• Do cardio workouts (hiking, jogging, swimming, cycling) 3–4 times per week, starting at least 8 weeks before your climb.
• Practice long walks with a backpack (at least 10–15km).
• If possible, do altitude simulation hikes or climbs above 2,500m before your Kilimanjaro trip.

Mental Strength Matters Too

Remember: climbing Kilimanjaro isn’t just physical — it’s also mental. The Lemosho Route tests your resilience, especially on summit night, when you wake at midnight and hike through cold darkness toward the top.
Your mindset should be:

• Stay positive and patient
• Trust your guide and pace
• Take one step at a time (“pole pole” – slowly, slowly in Swahili)

Summit Day: The Real Challenge

The most demanding part of the trek is Day 7, when you summit from Barafu Camp (4,673m) to Uhuru Peak (5,895m) and descend to Mweka Camp (~3,100m) — over 12–15 hours of trekking.
Expect:

• Windy, freezing conditions at night
• Slow walking due to thin air
• Emotional highs and lows
• An unforgettable sunrise at the top of Africa!