Conquering Kilimanjaro: The 7-Day Lemosho Route Expedition

For those seeking a slightly more relaxed ascent of Kilimanjaro, the 7-day Lemosho Route offers an extended acclimatization period. This route leads through diverse landscapes, providing ample time for your body to adjust to the increasing altitude. It's a superb choice for those who prefer a more measured pace towards the summit.

ITINERARY

Day 1: Lemosho Gate to Mti Mkubwa Camp

• Elevation (ft): 7,742 ft to 9,498 ft

• Distance: 6.8 miles / 10.9 km

• Hiking Time: 4-5 hours

• Habitat: Rainforest

Begin your journey at Lemosho Gate, where you'll go through the necessary formalities. The trail leads you through a lush rainforest, providing a chance to witness the vibrant flora and fauna. The day's hike ends at Mti Mkubwa Camp, nestled at an elevation of 9,498 feet.

Day 2: Mti Mkubwa to Shira 2 Camp

• Elevation (ft): 9,498 ft to 11,500 ft

• Distance: 10.6 miles / 17 km

• Hiking Time: 8-9 hours

• Habitat: Moorland

Today's trek takes you through the moorland, where you'll be greeted by sweeping vistas of the surrounding landscape. The route leads to Shira 2 Camp, situated at an elevation of 11,500 feet. Keep an eye out for the unique flora and fauna that thrive in this region.

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Day 3: Shira 2 to Barranco Camp

• Elevation (ft): 11,500 ft to 13,000 ft

• Distance: 5.1 miles / 8.2 km

• Hiking Time: 5-7 hours

• Habitat: Semi-Desert

Embark on a picturesque trek through the semi-desert terrain, with captivating views of the Shira Plateau. The trail eventually leads to Barranco Camp, nestled at an elevation of 13,000 feet. This section of the hike offers a taste of the diverse landscapes Kilimanjaro has to offer.

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Day 4: Barranco Camp to Karanga Camp

• Elevation (ft): 13,000 ft to 13,300 ft

• Distance: 3.1 miles / 5 km

• Hiking Time: 4-5 hours

• Habitat: Alpine Desert

Continue your ascent through the Alpine Desert, navigating the Barranco Wall. The trail then levels out as you make your way to Karanga Camp. Along the way, you'll be treated to breathtaking views of the surrounding terrain.

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Day 5: Karanga Camp to Barafu Camp

• Elevation (ft): 13,300 ft to 15,331 ft

• Distance: 3.1 miles / 5 km

• Hiking Time: 4-5 hours

• Habitat: Alpine Desert

Today's trek takes you higher into the Alpine Desert, culminating at Barafu Camp. Situated at an elevation of 15,331 feet, this camp is a crucial stop before your final ascent to the summit.

Day 6: Barafu Camp to Summit (Uhuru Peak) to Mweka Camp

• Summit Elevation (ft): 19,341 ft

• Descent to Mweka Camp (ft): 10,065 ft

• Distance to Summit: 3.1 miles / 5 km ascent

• Distance to Mweka Camp: 8.7 miles / 14 km descent

• Summit Hiking Time: 7-8 hours

• Descent Hiking Time: 4-6 hours to Barafu, then 5-7 hours to Mweka Camp

• Habitat: Arctic, Rainforest

This is a pivotal day. The trek to the summit begins in the early hours of the morning, navigating through the Arctic zone. Reach the breathtaking Uhuru Peak, the highest point on Kilimanjaro and in Africa. After soaking in the spectacular sunrise, begin your descent to Barafu Camp. Later in the day, continue your descent through the rainforest to Mweka Camp, situated at an elevation of 10,065 feet.

Day 7: Mweka Camp to Mweka Gate

• Elevation (ft): 10,065 ft to 5,380 ft

• Distance: 10.2 miles / 16.4 km

• Hiking Time: 3-4 hours

• Habitat: Rainforest

Embark on the final leg of your Kilimanjaro journey, descending through the lush rainforest. Arrive at Mweka Gate, where you'll collect your summit certificates. A vehicle will be waiting to take you back to your hotel in Moshi.

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Embarking on the 7-day Lemosho route provides an incredible opportunity to experience the diverse landscapes of Kilimanjaro, from rainforest to alpine desert. Along the way, you'll be guided by experienced professionals who ensure your safety and maximize your chances of reaching the summit. This adventure promises memories that will last a lifetime.