From Moshi in Tanzania: 7 Days Group Mid-Range Kilimanjaro Climb via Lemosho Route

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 will depart from Moshi and drive approximately three hours to Lemosho Gate, where you will complete the required entry procedures before enjoying lunch. Afterward, you will start your Kilimanjaro 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

After breakfast and getting ready, you proceed along the trail as it exits the forest and enters a savannah dotted with tall grasses, heather, and volcanic rocks blanketed in lichen. Trekking through lush, rolling hills and crossing several streams, you reach the Shira Ridge before gently descending into the Shira 1 Camp Valley. The stunning view of Kibo Peak across the plateau is unforgettable.

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

Spend an entire day discovering the Shira Plateau, enjoying a leisurely walk eastward toward the snow-capped summit of Kibo Peak. The path traverses the vast Shira Plateau and brings you to Shira II Camp, nestled in moorland meadows alongside a flowing river. The Shira Plateau, one of the world’s highest plateaus, is a favorite destination for many.

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

Starting from Shira II Camp, the trek moves east along a ridge, passing a fork leading to Kibo Peak. The Lemosho route then shifts southeast toward Lava Tower Camp, known as the 'Shark’s Tooth.' After passing the tower and enjoying lunch, you reach another junction that climbs to Arrow Glacier at 16,000 feet. From there, you descend to Barranco Campsite at 13,000 feet for rest, dinner, and overnight stay. Though the day ends at the same altitude it began, this camp is crucial for acclimatization, preparing your body for the Kilimanjaro summit push.

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

After breakfast, set off for Barafu Camp by ascending a steep ridge and crossing the famous Barranco Wall on your way to Karanga Camp. From there, continue to the junction where the route meets the Mweka Trail, then proceed to Barafu Camp. This day completes the Southern Circuit of Mount Kilimanjaro, offering stunning views of the summit from multiple angles. At Barafu Camp, you’ll rest, enjoy dinner, and prepare for your summit attempt.

Barafu Camp to Summit 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

At 2 a.m., your Kilimanjaro ascent resumes as you navigate between the Rebmann and Ratzel glaciers. You climb northwest along steep, loose scree toward Stella Point near the crater rim. This section is the most challenging part of the trek, both physically and mentally. Upon reaching Stella Point (18,600 ft), you’ll take a brief rest and, weather permitting, witness an incredible sunrise. Then, you’ll make the final one-hour push—possibly through snow—to Uhuru Peak, the highest point on Mount Kilimanjaro and in Africa. Faster climbers may catch the sunrise right from the summit. After celebrating your achievement, you begin the descent, heading down to Mweka Camp with a stop at Barafu for rest and lunch. Trekking poles and gaiters are highly recommended for the loose gravel on the way down. Mweka Camp is located in the upper forest zone, where afternoon mist or rain is common. In the evening, enjoy your final dinner and a well-earned 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

After breakfast, you begin your descent to Mweka Gate, where you will receive your Kilimanjaro summit certificate. The lower trails can be wet and muddy, so wearing gaiters and using trekking poles is recommended. Lightweight clothing like shorts and T-shirts will be sufficient, but keep rain gear and warmer layers nearby. At Mweka Gate, our 4x4 vehicle will be waiting to drive you back to your mid-range hotel in Moshi.

Moshi to Kilimanjaro International Airport (JRO)

Transfer to Kilimanjaro International Airport (JRO) for departure.