From Dar Es Salaam, Tanzania: 7 Days Group Budget Kilimanjaro Climb via Lemosho Route

Moshi to Mti Mkubwa Camp via Lemosho Gate

Destination: Mti Mkubwa Camp

Elevation: 7,800 ft / 2,380 m to 9,500 ft / 2,900 m

Distance: 6 km

Time: 3-4 hours

Climatic Zone: Rainforest

Overnight: Mti Mkubwa Camp

From Moshi, transfer to Lemosho Gate, where your expert trekking team—guides, porters, and cooks—ensures a seamless start. After registration, embark on a trek through lush rainforest, alive with exotic flora and wildlife, including vibrant birds and elusive monkeys. Covering 6 km, arrive at Mti Mkubwa Camp, enveloped by pristine mountain air. Savor a hearty lunch and dinner, resting in the serene wilderness, poised for the adventure unfolding ahead.

Mti Mkubwa Camp to Shira 1 Camp

Destination: Shira 1 Camp

Elevation: 9,500 ft / 2,900 m to 11,500 ft / 3,500 m

Distance: 8 km

Time: 5-6 hours

Climatic Zone: Moorland

Overnight: Shira 1 Camp

Emerge from the rainforest into a savannah of tall grasses, heather, and volcanic rocks draped in lichen. Ascend through verdant hills, crossing streams to reach Shira Ridge, then gently descend to Shira 1 Camp. The panoramic vista of Kibo across the Shira Plateau captivates, offering a breathtaking backdrop. Relish three wholesome meals, fueling your journey, and rest in the moorland’s tranquil embrace, preparing for the high-altitude challenges ahead.

Shira 1 Camp to Shira 2 Camp

Destination: Shira 2 Camp

Elevation: 11,500 ft / 3,500 m to 13,800 ft / 4,200 m

Distance: 14 km

Time: 5-7 hours

Climatic Zone: Moorland

Overnight: Shira 2 Camp

Explore the vast Shira Plateau, one of Earth’s highest, on a leisurely eastward trek toward Kibo’s glacier-capped summit. The trail weaves through moorland grasslands near a serene stream, concluding at Shira 2 Camp. The expansive plateau’s stark beauty and distant peak views invigorate the spirit. Enjoy three nourishing meals, bolstering your stamina, and rest under the starlit sky, acclimatizing for the ascent’s next phase.

Shira 2 Camp to Lava Tower Camp to Barranco Camp

Destination: Barranco Camp

Elevation: 13,800 ft / 4,200 m to 15,190 ft / 4,630 m to 13,000 ft / 3,960 m

Distance: 7 km

Time: 4-6 hours

Climatic Zone: Semi-Desert

Overnight: Barranco Camp

From Shira Plateau, trek east along a ridge, passing a junction toward Kibo’s summit, then veer southeast to Lava Tower, dubbed “Shark’s Tooth.” After reaching 15,190 ft, descend to Barranco Camp at 13,000 ft. This acclimatization-focused day, ending at the starting elevation, strengthens your body for the summit. Stunning views and a hearty dinner at Barranco Camp, nestled in a dramatic valley, prepare you for the challenging ascent ahead.

Barranco Camp to Karanga Camp to Barafu Camp

Destination: Barafu Camp

Elevation: 13,000 ft / 3,960 m to 13,200 ft / 4,020 m to 15,300 ft / 4,670 m

Distance: 9 km

Time: 8-10 hours

Climatic Zone: Alpine Desert

Overnight: Barafu Camp

Depart Barranco, scaling the steep Barranco Wall to reach Karanga Valley. After a brief stop, proceed to the Mweka Route junction, completing the Southern Circuit with multifaceted summit views. Arrive at Barafu Camp, where clear vistas of Mawenzi and Kibo inspire. Savor a fortifying dinner and rest early, mentally and physically priming for the pre-dawn summit push. Expert guides ensure your readiness for this pivotal ascent.

Barafu Camp to Uhuru Summit to Mweka Camp

Destination: Mweka Camp

Elevation: 15,300 ft / 4,670 m to 19,345 ft / 5,895 m to 10,000 ft / 3,050 m

Distance: 5 km ascent / 12 km descent

Time: 7-8 hours ascent / 4-6 hours descent

Climatic Zone: Arctic

Overnight: Mweka Camp

Begin the summit ascent between midnight and 2 a.m., navigating between Rebmann and Ratzel glaciers over steep scree to Stella Point (18,600 ft). Witness a stunning sunrise, then trek to Uhuru Peak, Africa’s zenith. Celebrate with a summit photo before descending to Barafu for lunch, then to Mweka Camp in the misty upper forest. Trekking poles and gaiters aid the loose gravel descent. Enjoy your final mountain dinner, resting in triumph.

Mweka Camp to Mweka Gate to Moshi

Destination: Moshi

Elevation: 10,000 ft / 3,050 m to 5,400 ft / 1,640 m

Distance: 10 km

Time: 3-4 hours

Climatic Zone: Rainforest

After breakfast, descend through lush rainforest to Mweka Gate, where summit certificates await. Muddy trails suggest gaiters and poles; light attire suits, but keep rain gear handy. A vehicle transfers you to Moshi, where accommodation and meals are your responsibility. Reflect on your achievement, having conquered Kilimanjaro’s heights, and prepare for your departure.

Moshi to Kilimanjaro International Airport (JRO)

After breakfast in Moshi, arrange your transfer to Kilimanjaro International Airport (JRO) for your onward journey to Dar es Salaam or beyond, with meals and accommodation at your expense. Reflect on traversing Kilimanjaro’s diverse ecosystems, from rainforest to Arctic summit, carrying memories of Tanzania’s majestic beauty and your indomitable spirit.