From Nairobi: 7 Days Group Budget Kilimanjaro Climb via Lemosho Route in Tanzania

Lemosho Gate to Mti Mkubwa Camp

Elevation (ft): 7,800ft to 9,500ft

Distance: 6 km

Hiking Time:3-4 hours

Habitat: Rain Forest

You’ll depart from Moshi and drive for about three hours to arrive at Lemosho Gate, where you’ll complete the required registration procedures. After lunch, you’ll start your trek along a pristine forest trail that leads to your first campsite (Mti Mkubwa Camp).

Mti Mkubwa Camp to Shira I Camp

Elevation (ft): 9,500ft to 11,500ft

Distance: 8 km

Hiking Time 5-6 hours

Habitat: Moorland

You continue along the trail as it emerges from the forest and leads into a savannah landscape of tall grasses, heather, and lichen-covered volcanic rocks. As you ascend through green, undulating hills and cross several streams, you reach Shira Ridge, then descend gradually to Shira 1 Camp. The sweeping view of Kibo across the plateau is simply stunning.

Shira I Camp to Shira II Camp

Elevation (ft): 11,500ft to 13,800 ft

Distance: 14 km

Hiking Time: 5-7 hours

Habitat: Moorland

You'll spend the day discovering the vast Shira Plateau, enjoying a leisurely hike eastward toward the glacier-capped summit of Kibo. The route stretches across the wide plateau and ends at Shira II Camp, nestled in moorland grasslands near a stream. The Shira Plateau is one of the highest plateaus on Earth.

Shira II Camp to Lava Tower Camp to Barranco Camp

Elevation (ft): 13,800ft to 13,000ft

Distance: 7 km

Hiking Time: 4-6 hours

Habitat: Semi Desert

From the Shira Plateau, the trail proceeds eastward along a ridge, encountering a junction that directs toward Kibo’s summit. It subsequently turns southeast towards Lava Tower Camp, commonly referred to as the "Shark’s Tooth." After passing the tower, another junction ascends to the Arrow Glacier at an altitude of 16,000 feet. The route then descends to Barranco Camp at 13,000 feet, where you will have dinner and spend the night. Although you conclude the day at the same elevation as you began, this segment is essential for acclimatization and preparing your body for the summit.

Barranco Camp to Karanga Camp to Barafu Camp

Elevation (ft): 13,000ft to 15,000ft

Distance: 9km

Hiking Time: 8-10 hours

Habitat: Alpine Desert

Following breakfast, depart from Barranco Camp and ascend the steep ridge that leads to the renowned Barranco Wall. Proceed towards Karanga Valley, where you will pause at the campsite before continuing to the trail junction that links with the Mweka Route. The expedition concludes at Barafu Camp, marking the completion of the South Circuit, which provides breathtaking views of the summit from various perspectives. At Barafu, you will establish your camp, savor dinner, rest, and make preparations for your summit attempt, with unobstructed views of both Mawenzi and Kibo peaks.

Barafu Camp to Uhuru Peak to Mweka Camp

Elevation (ft): 15,300ft to 19,345ft (and down to 10,000ft)

Distance: 5 km ascent / 12 km descent

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

Habitat: Arctic

In the early hours between midnight and 2 a.m., the final ascent to the summit begins, guiding you between the Rebmann and Ratzel glaciers. You’ll head northwest, climbing over steep and loose scree toward Stella Point on the crater rim. This stretch is the toughest, both mentally and physically. Upon reaching Stella Point (18,600 ft), you’ll pause briefly and, if the weather is clear, witness a truly unforgettable sunrise. From there, a final hour’s trek—sometimes through snow—takes you to Uhuru Peak, the highest point on Mount Kilimanjaro and in Africa. Faster hikers might catch the sunrise right at the summit. After celebrating your achievement, you’ll begin your descent, heading directly to Mweka Camp with a lunch stop at Barafu. Due to the loose gravel, trekking poles and gaiters are highly recommended. Mweka Camp sits in the upper forest zone, where afternoon mist or rain is frequent. In the evening, enjoy your last dinner on the mountain and a well-earned night of rest.

Mweka Camp to Mweka Gate to Moshi

Elevation (ft): 10,000ft to 5,400ft

Distance: 10 km

Hiking Time: 3-4 hours

Habitat: Rain Forest

Following breakfast, commence your descent to Mweka Gate, where you will receive your summit certificates. The path at lower elevations may be muddy and damp, making gaiters and trekking poles advantageous. Lightweight attire such as shorts and T-shirts should provide comfort, but ensure that your rain gear and warmer layers are readily available. A vehicle will be present at Mweka Gate to transport you back to your hotel in Moshi.

Moshi to Nairobi or Kilimanjaro International Airport (JRO)

You will be taken to Nairobi or Kilimanjaro International Airport (JRO) for your departure.