8-Day Lemosho Route Climb: Mount Kilimanjaro Trek for Experienced Trekkers
Difficulty
challenging
Duration
8 days
Fitness Level
Good aerobic fitness with experience in multi-day hikes; ability to handle consecutive days of 4–8 hours of uphill walking.
Overview
Take the Lemosho Route to Mount Kilimanjaro’s summit over eight days—an approach that eases acclimatization with quiet early days on Shira Plateau, a dramatic summit push from Barafu, and a descent through rainforest to Mweka. This guide covers terrain, logistics and what to pack.
8-Day Lemosho Route Climb: Mount Kilimanjaro Trek for Experienced Trekkers
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The first morning in Moshi tastes of strong coffee and nervous anticipation. A short drive through banana groves and coffee farms delivers you to Londorossi Gate at 2,360 m, where the trail slips into a cathedral of rainforest—ferns and lianas drip with condensation as the path climbs out of the lowlands. On the Lemosho Route you don’t just ascend; you travel through Kilimanjaro’s stacked ecosystems: rain forest to heath, moorland to the stark alpine desert beneath Kibo’s glaciers. The mountain moves around you.
Adventure Photos
Adventure Tips
Acclimatize by moving slowly
The itinerary stretches over eight days to reduce altitude sickness risk—stick to the planned pace and communicate symptoms early to guides.
Layer for extreme temperature swings
Expect hot, humid jungle days and sub-zero summit nights—pack a warm down jacket and a breathable shell.
Hydration and electrolytes
Drink frequently—aim for 3–4 liters a day above 3,000 m—and use electrolyte tabs to maintain salt balance.
Respect the crew and tipping norms
Porters and cooks make summit success possible; tip according to group size and performance (discuss recommended amounts with your operator).
Local Insights
Wildlife
- Blue monkeys (in rainforest)
- Colobus monkeys and abundant birdlife including sunbirds
History
Kilimanjaro’s first recorded ascent to the inner crater rim was in 1889; the mountain is central to Chagga culture and long used for grazing and water collection.
Conservation
Park fees fund management and rescue services; traveling with licensed operators who pay fair porter wages reduces environmental and social impacts.
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Adventure Hotspots in Moshi
Frequently Asked Questions
Recommended Gear
Waterproof hiking boots
Support and traction for steep, often muddy trails and scree sections.
Warm down jacket (parka)
Critical for summit night when temperatures plummet.
winter specific
Insulated sleeping pad
A 1.5-inch foam pad is provided but bring your own for extra insulation and comfort.
Trekking poles
Helps with balance on steep descents and reduces knee strain on long downhill sections.