This Western Breach is run by Serengeti Wildlife Safaris, a locally based Tanzanian operator. You climb with experienced mountain guides, porters and cooks, and we plan every detail with you.
First, every Western Breach we run is tailor-made, so we can adjust the dates, accommodation and pace. In addition, our local team supports you from arrival to departure. Before you travel, you can also read about the area on the official Tanzania National Parks (TANAPA) website. For more ideas, see our other Arusha tours.
Embark on an unforgettable 8-day adventure to the summit of Mount Kilimanjaro, Africa’s tallest mountain. This journey follows the breathtaking Lemosho Route, one of the most scenic and less crowded trails. It also offers rich biodiversity, stunning views and excellent acclimatization opportunities.
First, you walk through the lush rainforest of the lower slopes. Then you cross the dramatic alpine desert before you finally reach the snow-capped Uhuru Peak (5,895 m). In this way, the carefully planned trek balances physical challenge with personal achievement.
Experienced guides lead you, and a dedicated crew supports you throughout. Along the way, you pass through diverse ecological zones, camp beneath starry African skies and wake to panoramic views. You also visit iconic spots such as Shira Plateau, Lava Tower and Arrow Glacier. Finally, it all builds up to a sunrise summit attempt on the very roof of Africa.
Whether you are a seasoned trekker or a first-time climber, this expedition suits anyone who wants an immersive, safe and life-changing high-altitude experience. After the summit, you descend via the Mweka route, so you can reflect on and celebrate your journey in comfort. The memories you make on this trek will last a lifetime.
When you land, we pick you up at the airport and transfer you to a luxury lodge or hotel in Arusha.
Later, your head guide gives you a pre-climb briefing.
Then check your equipment and rest before the trek begins.
First, drive to Lemosho Gate (approx. 3–4 hrs).
Then begin your trek through lush rainforest.
Along the way, you may see wildlife such as colobus monkeys, blue monkeys and exotic birds.
Trekking time: 3–4 hours
Overnight: Mti Mkubwa (Big Tree) Camp
Today, climb out of the rainforest and into the moorland.
As you go higher, panoramic views of the Shira Plateau open up.
Trekking time: 5–6 hours
Overnight: Shira 1 Camp
Enjoy a gentle hike across the plateau, with views of Kibo Peak.
This is also an acclimatization day, with optional short hikes.
Trekking time: 3–4 hours
Overnight: Shira 2 Camp
First, trek up to Lava Tower for acclimatization. Then descend to Barranco Camp.
This is a key acclimatization day, because it follows the “climb high, sleep low” strategy.
Trekking time: 6–7 hours
Overnight: Barranco Camp (beneath the iconic Barranco Wall)
In the morning, climb the steep Barranco Wall, a fun and scenic scramble.
After that, a shorter hike brings spectacular views and more time to acclimatize.
Trekking time: 4–5 hours
Overnight: Karanga Camp
Today, a steady uphill trek takes you to Barafu Base Camp.
Then enjoy an early dinner and rest before the midnight summit attempt.
Trekking time: 3–4 hours
Overnight: Barafu Camp
At midnight, wake up for the summit push via Stella Point.
Next, reach Uhuru Peak at sunrise, the roof of Africa.
Afterwards, descend to Barafu, then continue to Mweka Camp.
Summit trek: 12–15 hours total (7–8 hrs ascent, 5–7 hrs descent)
Overnight: Mweka Camp
First, make your final descent through the rainforest to Mweka Gate.
Here, you receive your summit certificates. Then transfer back to your Arusha hotel.
Finally, celebrate your achievement with a farewell dinner.
The Lemosho Route is one of the most scenic and rewarding routes up Mount Kilimanjaro. It is not technically difficult. However, it does require a good level of fitness. The trek includes long days of hiking at high altitude, so proper acclimatization and mental preparation are essential.
On average, you hike 5–7 hours per day. There are also some shorter days and one very long summit day (approximately 12–16 hours of trekking).
The Lemosho Route has one of the highest summit success rates (above 90%). That is because it allows more days for acclimatization than other routes.
The best times to climb are during the dry seasons:
