The 8 Days Kilimanjaro Climb via the Lemosho Route is widely considered the most scenic and rewarding way to reach the summit of Mount Kilimanjaro. Beginning on the quieter western slopes, this route leads trekkers through lush montane forests, across the vast Shira Plateau, upward to Lava Tower, and finally toward the breathtaking Uhuru Peak at 5,895 meters — the highest point in Africa.
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With eight full days on the mountain, this itinerary provides excellent acclimatization, stunning panoramic views, and one of the highest summit-success rates among all Kilimanjaro routes.
Why Choose the 8 Days Kilimanjaro Climb?
1. Best Acclimatization Profile
The 8 Days Kilimanjaro Climb is designed to follow the safest and most effective altitude strategy: climb high, sleep low. This gradual ascent helps minimize altitude sickness, giving you a significantly better chance of reaching the summit safely and comfortably.
2. The Most Scenic Route on Kilimanjaro
From rainforest alive with birds and monkeys to high-alpine deserts and glittering glaciers, the Lemosho Route showcases Kilimanjaro’s diverse ecosystems. Key highlights include:
- Dense tropical forest at the start
- Expansive views over the Shira Plateau
- Dramatic rock formations around Lava Tower
- The iconic Barranco Wall
- Spectacular summit approach at dawn
No other 8 Days Kilimanjaro Climb trail offers such a varied and visually stunning trekking experience.
3. Less Crowded & More Peaceful
Unlike popular routes like Machame or Marangu, the Lemosho Route begins in a remote area. The first days offer solitude and tranquility, allowing trekkers to immerse themselves fully in nature before joining the southern circuit.
Who Is the 8 Days Kilimanjaro Climb Ideal For?
- Trekkers seeking a high summit-success rate
- Climbers who prefer a scenic, less crowded route
- Travelers who want a comfortable pace with proper acclimatization
- Photographers seeking diverse landscapes
- First-time high-altitude trekkers wanting a safer climbing profile
The 8 Days Kilimanjaro Climb strikes the perfect balance between adventure, beauty, comfort, and safety.
Upon arrival at Kilimanjaro International Airport, our team will transfer you to your hotel in Arusha. In the evening, attend a pre-climb briefing with your mountain guide to review gear, discuss the route, and ensure you’re fully prepared.
Dinner & Overnight: Hotel in Arusha
After breakfast, drive ~2 hours to Londorossi Gate for registration, then continue through farmlands to the Lemosho trailhead. Begin trekking through a lush rainforest, home to blue monkeys and colobus monkeys.
Hike time: 3–4 hours | Meals: Full Board
Overnight: Mti Mkubwa Camp
Leave the forest behind and enter the heath zone, where rolling hills open to Shira Plateau. Enjoy wide views of the mountain’s western flanks and the endless plains below.
Hike time: 6–7 hours | Meals: Full Board
Overnight: Shira Camp
A gentle walk leads across the plateau toward Shira Cathedral with panoramic vistas. Temperatures drop as altitude rises, offering clear night skies for stargazing.
Hike time: 3–5 hours | Meals: Full Board
Overnight: Shira Hut
Ascend gradually to the Lava Tower (4,600 m) for acclimatization, then descend to Barranco Valley, known for its giant senecio trees and dramatic cliffs.
Hike time: 5–7 hours | Meals: Full Board
Overnight: Barranco Camp
Climb the impressive Barranco Wall, a favorite section for many trekkers. The route then dips into the Karanga Valley before a final ascent to Karanga Camp.
Hike time: 4–5 hours | Meals: Full Board
Overnight: Karanga Camp
A steady climb leads you across alpine desert terrain to Barafu Camp, the base for your final summit push. Rest early and prepare for your midnight ascent.
Hike time: 3–4 hours | Meals: Full Board
Overnight: Barafu Camp
Begin before midnight on a steep climb to Stella Point (5,735 m), then continue along the rim to Uhuru Peak, the Roof of Africa. Celebrate the sunrise before descending via Barafu to Mweka Camp.
Hike time: 13–15 hours | Meals: Full Board
Overnight: Mweka Camp