8 Days Lemosho Route
Zuriafrica Safaris specializes in guiding treks up the Lemosho Route, a scenic and less-traveled path that runs parallel to the lower section of the Shira Route. The Lemosho Route is known for its untouched beauty, remote atmosphere, and limited foot traffic. It offers a captivating ascent to the Shira Plateau, followed by a route that leads you towards Kilimanjaro's magnificent western Breach. From there, you will continue along the south circuit until you reach the more accessible Barafu Route. It's worth noting that for safety and preservation purposes, an armed ranger accompanies our groups on this route due to the presence of wildlife in the forests surrounding the Lemosho Glades.
About
Day 1:
Upon arrival at Kilimanjaro International Airport/Alternative Airport, you will be picked up and transferred to the Hotel. Enjoy dinner and breakfast at the hotel.
Day 2:
After breakfast and a briefing from your guide, drive from Moshi or Arusha to Londorossi Park Gate (2250m, 1.5 hours). From there, a forest track accessible by a 4WD vehicle takes you to Lemosho Glades (2000m, 11Km, 45 minutes) where you may find a suitable campsite. Embark on a scenic hike through the beautiful forest trails to reach Mti Mkubwa (big tree) campsite (2750m, 3 hours).
Day 3:
The trail gradually becomes steeper as you enter the vast heather moorland zone. It then crosses the Shira ridge at approximately 3600m before descending gently to Shira 1 camp, situated near a stream on the Shira plateau (3500m, 5 hours).
Day 4:
Take a leisurely walk across the plateau to reach Shira 2 camp, located in moorland meadows by a stream (3850m, 1.5 hours). This day provides an opportunity for various walks on the plateau, allowing for effective acclimatization.
Day 5:
The moorlands eventually give way to a rocky path, meandering through outcrops to the Lava Tower (optional if not taking the western breach route), where you can find suitable campsites (4600m, 5 hours). Continue the trek to Barranco Hut (3900m, 2 hours).
Day 6:
After breakfast, leave Barranco Ridge and ascend the Barranco Wall until you reach the foot of the Heim glacier. Proceed along the trail to Karanga Valley (4 hours).
Day 7:
Continue the trek to Barafu Hut, situated at an altitude of 4550m. Set up camp, rest, enjoy dinner, and spend the night. From this location, you can observe the two peaks of Mawenzi and Kibo.
Day 8:
Wake up very early, around midnight, and have some light tea with cookies. Begin the ascent towards the summit, Uhuru Peak (5895m, 8 hours). Spend some time at the summit before descending to Barafu Hut for brunch and rest. Then, continue walking down to Mweka Hut for dinner and overnight stay.
Day 9:
After breakfast, descend through the Mweka Montane Forest to reach the Mweka Gate. Board the waiting vehicle and drive back to Moshi, where you will stay overnight at Springlands Hotel.
Note: An additional day may be added for acclimatization purposes at either Shira 2, Barranco, or Karanga, extending the program to 9 days. If you prefer an 8-day climb, you can omit Day 3 and hike directly from Shira 1 to Barranco Camp.