From Moshi in Tanzania: 8 Days Group Mid-Range Kilimanjaro Climb via Lemosho Route

Moshi – Lemosho Gate – Mti Mkubwa Camp

Altitude: 1,200m (Moshi) - 2,100m (Lemosho Gate) - 2,650m (Mti Mkubwa Camp) 

Hiking Time: 3–4 hours 

Distance: 6 km 

Habitat: Rainforest 

After an early breakfast, you will take a scenic 3 to 4-hour drive from Moshi to Lemosho Gate (2,100m), passing through local villages and coffee plantations. At the gate, you will complete the necessary park formalities before starting the trek. The hike begins in the lush rainforest, where you will walk under a canopy of tall trees, with a chance to see colobus monkeys and exotic bird species. The trail is relatively gentle but can be muddy, especially if it has rained. After about 3 to 4 hours of hiking, you will reach Mti Mkubwa Camp (2,650m), also known as Big Tree Camp, where you will have dinner and rest for the night.

Mti Mkubwa Camp to Shira 1 Camp

Altitude: 2,650m - 3,610m 

Hiking Time: 5–7 hours 

Distance: 8 km 

Habitat: Moorland 

Leaving the rainforest behind, you will begin your ascent into the moorland and heath zones. The trail becomes steeper as you climb over Shira Ridge (3,500m), where you will get your first breathtaking view of Kibo Peak, the highest part of Kilimanjaro. From here, you descend slightly and cross the Shira Plateau, a vast high-altitude desert created by ancient lava flows. The terrain is more open, offering incredible panoramic views. After a 5 to 7-hour trek, you will arrive at Shira 1 Camp (3,610m), where you will spend the night .Oxygen is provided, and Africa Natural Tours’ experienced guides monitor climbers’ health closely. After dinner, climbers get a briefing for the next day and enjoy a peaceful evening under the stars.

Shira 1 Camp to Shira 2 Camp

Altitude: 3,610m - 3,850m 

Hiking Time: 3–4 hours 

Distance: 7 km 

Habitat: Moorland 

This is a relatively short day of trekking, designed to help with acclimatization. The route gradually ascends across the Shira Plateau, where the landscape is dotted with giant lobelias and groundsels, unique plants adapted to high altitudes. You will enjoy stunning views of Kilimanjaro’s glaciers as you make your way to Shira 2 Camp (3,850m). Once you arrive at camp, you may take an optional acclimatization hike to higher elevations before returning to rest. The trek takes about 3 to 4 hours, allowing plenty of time to relax before the next day’s challenge.

Shira 2 Camp to Barranco Camp (via Lava Tower – Acclimatization Day)

Altitude: 3,850m - 4,630m (Lava Tower) - 3,960m (Barranco Camp) 

Hiking Time: 6–8 hours 

Distance: 10 km 

Habitat: Alpine Desert to Moorland 

This is an important day for acclimatization as you trek to higher altitudes before descending again. The hike starts with a gradual ascent towards Lava Tower (4,630m), a prominent volcanic rock formation. This section is challenging due to the high altitude, and you may begin to feel the effects of lower oxygen levels. After spending some time at Lava Tower for lunch and acclimatization, you will begin a steep descent into the Barranco Valley, where the landscape transforms into a lush environment with giant groundsels and lobelias. After about 6 to 8 hours of trekking, you will arrive at Barranco Camp (3,960m), which is set beneath the towering Breach Wall, offering one of the most dramatic views on Kilimanjaro. Oxygen is provided, and guide support are critical. After a long day, dinner is served.

Barranco Camp to Karanga Camp

Altitude: 3,960m - 4,035m 

Hiking Time: 4–5 hours 

Distance: 6 km 

Habitat: Alpine Desert 

The day begins with an exciting climb up the Barranco Wall, often referred to as the "Breakfast Wall" because it is the first challenge of the day. Although the wall looks intimidating, the climb is non-technical and involves some scrambling with the help of your guide. Once at the top, you will be rewarded with spectacular views of Mount Meru and the valleys below. From here, the trail has several ups and downs before reaching Karanga Camp (4,035m) after about 4 to 5 hours of trekking. This is a shorter day, allowing your body to continue adjusting to the altitude. Oxygen is provided, so the pace remains slow to ensure safety. Guides offer briefings after dinner to prepare for the final high camp push the next day.

Karanga Camp to Barafu Camp

Altitude: 4,035m - 4,673m 

Hiking Time: 4–5 hours 

Distance: 4 km 

Habitat: Alpine Desert 

Today’s hike is relatively short but steep as you ascend through the barren alpine desert to Barafu Camp (4,673m), the final camp before the summit attempt. The landscape becomes more rugged, with strong winds and cold temperatures. After about 4 to 5 hours of trekking, you will arrive at Barafu Camp, meaning “Ice Camp” in Swahili. Here, you will have an early dinner and rest, as the summit push begins at midnight. Africa Natural Tours provides expert guidance and meals, oxygen tanks are available, making the slow climb and hydration even more crucial. Early dinner is served before climbers sleep briefly ahead of the summit night.

Barafu Camp – Summit Uhuru Peak – Descend to Mweka Camp

Altitude: 4,673m - 5,895m (Uhuru Peak) - 3,100m (Mweka Camp) 

Hiking Time: 10–14 hours (7–8 hours to the summit, 4–6 hours down) 

Distance: 17 km 

Habitat: Arctic Zone (Summit) - Alpine Desert - Rainforest 

Upon arrival at Kilimanjaro International Airport (JRO), you'll be welcomed by your tour representative and transferred to Moshi, offering scenic views of plantations and villages. At your hotel, you'll have time to rest and prepare for the climb. In the evening, a detailed briefing will take place where you'll meet your guides and porters. They will conduct an equipment check, share trek details, and discuss safety procedures. The briefing also covers support services on the mountain, including oxygen tanks, private toilets, and wash tents, ensuring comfort and hygiene during the journey. This session will equip you with the knowledge and resources for the climb ahead.

Mweka Camp to Mweka Gate to Moshi

The journey from Mweka Camp to Moshi marks the final leg of the Mount Kilimanjaro descent. After a night at Mweka Camp, climbers begin their trek through the lush rainforest, enjoying the fresh mountain air and vibrant natural scenery. The trail gradually descends, becoming less steep as it leads to Mweka Gate, where successful climbers receive their summit certificates. From the gate, a short drive returns climbers to Moshi town, where they can rest, celebrate their achievement, and reflect on the unforgettable experience of conquering Africa’s highest peak.

Moshi – Transfer to Kilimanjaro International Airport (JRO)

Altitude: 1,200m (Moshi) - 890m (JRO)

Time: 3–4 hour

Distance: 10 km

Habitat: Rainforest

After a well-deserved rest at your hotel in Moshi, it’s time to conclude your Mount Kilimanjaro adventure. You will enjoy a leisurely breakfast, reflecting on your incredible journey to Africa’s highest peak. Depending on your flight schedule, you may have some time to explore Moshi or shop for souvenirs. At the designated time, you will be transferred to Kilimanjaro International Airport (JRO) for your departure. As you bid farewell to Tanzania, you leave with unforgettable memories of the 10-day Lemosho Route trek, the breathtaking landscapes, and the triumph of reaching Uhuru Peak.