Approach Kilimanjaro from the west on the Lemosho Route: an 8-day guided climb that trades a brutal sprint for steady gains and better acclimatization. This route threads cloud forest, moorland, and alpine desert before the long, cold summit night to Uhuru Peak.
More ways to explore the area's outdoor wonders
The trail opens like a turning page: you leave Moshi’s warm, banana-scented air and drive toward the western flank, where cloud forest waits behind a narrow gate. On the first day the path climbs gently from Lemosho Gate (2,385 m) to Big Tree Camp (2,780 m), the forest canopy closing overhead and bird calls moving through the leaves like a conversation. Over the next week the mountain reveals itself in stages—shrubby moorland, heath, and then the lunar scrub of high alpine desert—each band of vegetation changing color and attitude as altitude steals oxygen and widens the vistas.
Difficulty
challenging
Duration
8 days (summit day 10–14 hours)
Fitness Level
Good aerobic base and experience with multi-day hiking; ability to carry a daypack for long hours and recover quickly between days.
Wildlife
History
Kilimanjaro has long been a cultural landmark for the Chagga and other highland peoples; European exploration intensified in the late 19th century and the mountain became a national park in 1977.
Conservation
Kibo’s glaciers are retreating due to climate change and park management emphasizes regulated trekking, waste management, and fair employment practices for guides and porters.
Reserve your spot on the Mt Kilimanjaro Climb - 8 days Lemosho today and enjoy a trusted, highly rated experience designed to help you make the most of your adventure.
Pace for altitude
Walk slowly on ascent days—maintain a conversational pace to reduce AMS risk and preserve energy for summit night.
Hydrate and salt
Drink 3–4 liters daily and use electrolyte supplements; altitude increases fluid needs even when you don’t feel thirsty.
Layer for extremes
Temperatures swing dramatically—bring a warm insulated midlayer plus a waterproof shell for wind and rain.
Protect summit night
Carry a high-quality headlamp, spare batteries, and crampon-compatible boots; the summit push is long, dark and cold.
Insulated down jacket
Lightweight, high-fill jacket for summit-night temperatures well below freezing.
winter
Waterproof breathable shell
Protects against wind and intermittent rain at exposed high camps.
Sturdy hiking boots (broken-in)
Support and traction on scree, rocky trails, and muddy forest sections.
Adjustable trekking poles
Reduce knee strain on long descents and aid balance on loose scree.