Overview

This 8-Day Mount Kilimanjaro Climb 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.

Why book this 8-Day Mount Kilimanjaro Climb with us

First, every 8-Day Mount Kilimanjaro Climb 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 Serengeti National Park tours.

Experience the ultimate Mount Kilimanjaro trekking adventure on our 8-Day Lemosho Route Climb. Many regard it as the best route up Mount Kilimanjaro because of its spectacular scenery and excellent acclimatization profile. It also has one of the highest summit success rates on the mountain.

This itinerary is therefore perfect if you want the best chance of standing on Uhuru Peak (5,895 m). At the same time, you pass through every ecological zone of Mount Kilimanjaro National Park, one of Africa's greatest natural wonders.

From remote rainforest to the summit

The Lemosho Route begins on the remote western side of Kilimanjaro, so the start is peaceful and uncrowded. First, you walk through ancient rainforest. Then you cross the magnificent Shira Plateau, one of the highest volcanic plateaus in the world.

During the journey, you pass through lush rainforest, heath and moorland, alpine desert, volcanic landscapes and glaciers. Finally, you reach the snow-covered summit of Africa's Highest Mountain.

Why the 8-day Lemosho itinerary works

Unlike shorter routes, the 8-day itinerary includes an extra acclimatization day. It also follows the internationally recommended "climb high, sleep low" principle. As a result, your body has more time to adjust to the altitude. So your chances of a safe, comfortable summit rise significantly.

At Serengeti Wildlife Safaris, we highly recommend the Lemosho Route. Because it crosses the Shira Plateau, it offers some of the closest and clearest views of Kibo Peak and Uhuru Peak. On clear days, few places on the mountain give you such breathtaking views of the summit.

In addition, you climb with professional mountain guides, experienced cooks, dedicated porters and premium camping equipment. Together, they make this one of the finest trekking adventures in Tanzania.

Itinerary

Day 01 :

Arusha / Moshi – Londorossi Gate – Mti Mkubwa Camp

Your Kilimanjaro adventure begins with an early morning pickup from Arusha, Moshi, Kilimanjaro International Airport (JRO) or Arusha Airport (ARK). After that, a scenic drive takes you to Londorossi Gate, where you complete park registration. Then you continue by vehicle to the Lemosho Trailhead, where your unforgettable trek begins.

Next, walk through the pristine rainforest of Mount Kilimanjaro National Park. All around you are towering indigenous trees, giant ferns and moss-covered branches. Look out for colorful birds, blue monkeys and black-and-white colobus monkeys too. Because it is so peaceful and quiet, this is one of the most enjoyable starts to any Kilimanjaro route.

Later, arrive at Mti Mkubwa Camp (2,650 m), where our experienced mountain crew has already set up your tents. Finally, enjoy a freshly cooked dinner before your first night beneath Africa's star-filled sky.

Hiking Time: 3–4 Hours

Distance: 6 km

Accommodation: Mti Mkubwa Camp

Meals: Lunch & Dinner

Day 02 :

Mti Mkubwa Camp – Shira 1 Camp

After breakfast, leave the rainforest behind as you enter the beautiful heath and moorland zone. Then the trail climbs steadily onto the spectacular Shira Plateau. From here, you enjoy breathtaking views of rolling hills, volcanic landscapes and distant peaks.

Along the way, your guide introduces you to Kilimanjaro's unique alpine plants, such as giant lobelias and everlasting flowers. On clear days, you also get your first unforgettable views of Kibo Peak. So this is one of the most rewarding hiking days of the expedition.

Finally, reach Shira 1 Camp (3,505 m) in the afternoon for dinner and overnight.

Hiking Time: 5–6 Hours

Distance: 8 km

Accommodation: Shira 1 Camp

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner

Day 03 :

Shira 1 Camp – Shira 2 Camp (Acclimatization Hike)

Today's trek crosses the breathtaking Shira Plateau, one of the most spectacular places on Mount Kilimanjaro. This vast volcanic plateau also offers wide-open views of Kibo Peak, glaciers, lava fields and endless alpine landscapes.

Meanwhile, the gradual ascent helps you acclimatize and leaves plenty of time for photos and the mountain's peaceful beauty. Once you arrive at Shira 2 Camp (3,850 m), enjoy an optional acclimatization walk. Then return to camp for dinner and overnight.

This extra acclimatization day also greatly improves your chances of reaching Uhuru Peak.

Hiking Time: 4–6 Hours

Distance: 7 km

Accommodation: Shira 2 Camp

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner

Day 04 :

Shira 2 Camp – Lava Tower – Barranco Camp

Today's hike follows the internationally recommended "climb high, sleep low" acclimatization strategy. First, trek gradually toward the impressive Lava Tower (4,630 m). On the way, you also cross dramatic alpine desert with breathtaking views of glaciers and volcanic rock formations.

After lunch near Lava Tower, descend to Barranco Camp (3,960 m). Here the lower sleeping altitude helps your body adapt naturally. Along the trail, admire giant senecio plants, volcanic valleys and spectacular cliffs. In fact, Barranco is one of Kilimanjaro's most scenic camps.

Hiking Time: 6–8 Hours

Distance: 10 km

Accommodation: Barranco Camp

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner

Day 05 :

Barranco Camp – Barranco Wall – Karanga Camp

Begin the day by climbing the famous Barranco Wall, an exciting but non-technical scramble. However, our experienced mountain team guides you safely all the way. Once at the top, you enjoy unforgettable panoramic views of Kibo Peak, glaciers, valleys and the southern slopes of Mount Kilimanjaro.

Then continue across rolling alpine terrain toward Karanga Camp (4,035 m). This shorter hiking day therefore allows extra acclimatization. It also gives you time to relax, drink plenty of water and prepare for the final ascent.

Hiking Time: 4–5 Hours

Distance: 5 km

Accommodation: Karanga Camp

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner

Day 06 :

Karanga Camp – Kosovo Camp (Acclimatization Camp)

After breakfast, climb gradually toward Kosovo Camp (4,870 m). This camp sits higher than Barafu, so summit night is shorter and acclimatization improves. Along the trail, you also see Kibo Peak, glaciers, Mawenzi Peak and the surrounding volcanic landscapes.

In the afternoon, rest, enjoy an early dinner and receive a detailed summit briefing from your guides. This extra acclimatization stop significantly increases summit success, because your body has more time to adjust to the altitude.

Hiking Time: 3–4 Hours

Distance: 4 km

Accommodation: Kosovo Camp

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner

Day 07 :

Kosovo Camp – Uhuru Peak – Mweka Camp

Around midnight, begin your summit attempt beneath a spectacular African sky full of stars. First, climb steadily toward Stella Point (5,739 m). Then continue to Uhuru Peak (5,895 m), the highest point on the African continent.

Next, watch an unforgettable sunrise above the clouds, celebrate your incredible achievement and take breathtaking photos from the Roof of Africa. After that, descend to Mweka Camp (3,100 m) for your final night on Mount Kilimanjaro.

Hiking Time: 11–14 Hours

Distance: 16 km

Accommodation: Mweka Camp

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner

Day 08 :

Mweka Camp – Mweka Gate – Arusha / Moshi

Enjoy your final breakfast on the mountain, and then descend through the beautiful rainforest of Mount Kilimanjaro National Park. Listen to the birds while you walk beneath towering tropical trees on your way to Mweka Gate.

At the gate, receive your official Kilimanjaro Summit Certificate and celebrate with your mountain crew. Afterwards, transfer back to Arusha, Moshi, Kilimanjaro International Airport (JRO) or Arusha Airport (ARK). Finally, you leave with unforgettable memories of conquering Africa's Highest Mountain.

Hiking Time: 3–4 Hours

Distance: 10 km

Meals: Breakfast & Lunch