From Moshi in Tanzania: 8 Days Group Budget Kilimanjaro Climb via Lemosho Route

Moshi to Lemosho Gate to Mti Mkubwa Camp

Elevation: 2,750m (Mti Mkubwa Camp) 

Distance: 6 km 

Hiking Time: 3-4 hours 

Habitat: Rainforest 

After breakfast, you’ll be driven to Lemosho Gate to start your trek. The path begins through lush rainforest, offering a cool and shaded environment with abundant wildlife and plant life. The initial hike is relatively easy and offers a good opportunity to adjust to the altitude. Tented accommodation at Mti Mkubwa Camp, with basic amenities, including public toilets. Oxygen can be provided if necessary.

Mti Mkubwa Camp to Shira 1 Camp

Elevation: 3,550m (Shira 1 Camp) 

Distance: 8 km 

Hiking Time: 5-6 hours 

Habitat: Moorland 

You will ascend into the moorland zone today, passing through rocky terrain and grassy meadows. This section of the route provides stunning views of the surrounding valleys and Mount Kilimanjaro’s towering peak. Tented accommodation at Shira 1 Camp, with basic facilities and public toilets. Oxygen: Oxygen is not typically required at this altitude unless there’s an emergency.

Shira 1 Camp to Shira 2 Camp

Elevation: 3,850m (Shira 2 Camp) 

Distance: 7 km 

Hiking Time: 4-5 hours 

Habitat: Moorland 

Today’s trek takes you across the Shira Plateau, offering expansive views of the mountain and the surrounding landscape. The route remains relatively gentle, but the altitude may begin to feel more challenging. Tented accommodation at Shira 2 Camp, with public toilets. Oxygen can be provided if needed.

Shira 2 Camp to Barranco Camp

Elevation: 3,950m (Barranco Camp) 

Distance: 10 km 

Hiking Time: 6-7 hours 

Habitat: Semi-desert / Alpine desert 

This is a longer day, and it will take you around the southern slopes of Kilimanjaro to the famous Barranco Wall, which is a steep but manageable climb. The terrain becomes more barren, and you’ll witness beautiful views of the mountain and surrounding valleys. The Barranco Wall presents a mild scrambling challenge, but the views are amazing. You may see rock hyraxes or other alpine animals as you climb. Tented accommodation at Barranco Camp, with public toilets, While oxygen can be provided in case of any emergencies.

Barranco Camp to Karanga Camp

Elevation: 3,995m (Karanga Camp) 

Distance: 5 km 

Hiking Time: 4-5 hours 

Habitat: Alpine desert 

Today’s trail takes you from Barranco to Karanga, with a gentle descent followed by a short ascent. The scenery becomes increasingly barren, with rocky paths and sparse vegetation. Views of the valleys and Mount Kilimanjaro's slopes. Occasionally, you might see high-altitude birds like the white-necked raven or some hardy alpine plant life. Tented accommodation at Karanga Camp, with public toilets. Oxygen can be provided in case of emergencies.

Karanga Camp to Barafu Camp

Elevation: 4,600m (Barafu Camp) 

Distance: 4 km 

Hiking Time: 4-5 hours 

Habitat: Alpine desert / Rocky terrain 

Today’s ascent takes you to Barafu Camp, where you’ll rest and prepare for your summit attempt. The landscape is rocky and barren, offering incredible views of Mount Kilimanjaro’s summit. The terrain is harsh with minimal vegetation, but the panoramic views make the journey worthwhile. Tented accommodation at Barafu Camp, with public toilets, supplemental oxygen can be provided if requested or needed during the summit attempt.

Barafu Camp to Summit (Uhuru Peak) - Descent to Mweka Camp

Elevation: 5,895m (Uhuru Peak) 

Distance: 13 km 

Hiking Time: 12-14 hours 

Habitat: Arctic / Summit zone 

You’ll start your summit attempt around midnight. The climb is long and challenging, and you’ll reach Uhuru Peak, the highest point in Africa. After taking in the breathtaking views, you’ll descend to Mweka Camp to rest. The landscape is cold, barren, and snow-covered near the summit. It’s a physically demanding day, and the air will be thin. The descent through the alpine desert back to Mweka offers stunning views of the valleys below. Tented accommodation at Mweka Camp, with public toilets. Supplemental oxygen is available at the summit if needed.

Mweka Camp to Mweka Gate to Moshi

Elevation: 1,640m (Mweka Gate) 

Distance: 10 km 

Hiking Time: 3-4 hours 

Habitat: Rainforest 

You will descend to Mweka Gate today, passing through lush rainforest again. The air is thicker at this altitude, and you’ll feel the warmth as you descend. rainforest is full of life, with opportunities to see monkeys, birds, and vibrant plant life. The descent is easier than the ascent but still requires careful attention. After reaching Mweka Gate, you’ll be transferred back to Moshi for your final night in Tanzania.

Departure from Moshi

On the final day of your journey, you’ll have the morning to relax or explore Moshi before being transferred to Kilimanjaro International Airport (JRO) for your flight back home.