If you’re exploring this website, it’s likely that the allure of climbing Mount Kilimanjaro through the Lemosho Route has captured your curiosity. Widely acknowledged as the premier trail on Mount Kilimanjaro, the Lemosho Route has emerged as a game-changer in the climbing experience. In the not-so-distant past, the Marangu (Coca-Cola) route and the Machame (Whiskey) route were the primary choices for Kilimanjaro ascent.

However, the rapid growth of Tanzania’s tourism industry prompted the Kilimanjaro park authority to cultivate a multitude of trails leading to Africa’s pinnacle. This strategic move aimed to disperse climbers across the park’s various zones, alleviating congestion and fostering a more serene journey. Furthermore, these innovative trails were meticulously designed to enhance climber acclimatization through extended distances, lengthier mountain sojourns, and gradual elevation gains. Among these contemporary routes, the Lemosho Route stands out as a relatively recent addition, embodying the essence of this progressive approach.

The Lemosho Route is frequently regarded as the most picturesque among the trails leading up Mount Kilimanjaro. Spanning the entire Shira Plateau from west to east, it offers a delightful, largely level walk. Until it meets the Machame route by the Lava Tower, there are fewer crowds on this trail.

Introduced as one of the more recent routes on the mountain, the Lemosho Route overlaps with a section of the Machame route. Nevertheless, the Lemosho Route presents several benefits over the Machame, especially for those travelers who aren’t constrained by time.

During your Mount Kilimanjaro Trek, the Lemosho Route approaches the summit from the western side. It starts with hikers being driven from Moshi town to the Londorossi Gate, from where they spend the following two (2) days hiking through the verdant rainforest until they reach the Shira Ridge. The route proceeds across the flat pleasant Shira Plateau crossing from the west to the eastern side. As you approach the Lava Tower, the crowd of people increases as this route joins the Machame Route. You will follow the southern circuit which traverses the lower southern ice-field of the mountain before reaching the summit via Barafu. The descent will be along Mweka route back to the mountain gate.

Originating from the western side of Mount Kilimanjaro at the Londorossi Gate, the Lemosho Route meanders through one of the mountain’s more secluded sections. The journey leads trekkers through a captivating rainforest where there’s potential to encounter wildlife. Frequently spotted are black and white colobus monkeys, blue monkeys, small lizards, and a diverse array of birds. Following the forest, the trail extends onto the Shira Plateau, traversing it from west to east across a terrain that’s predominantly flat and easy for walking. The initial days on the Lemosho Route are marked by tranquility, seeing considerably less footfall compared to the Machame and Marangu routes. This lends an added charm to the trekking experience, often giving the sensation of having the entire mountain exclusively to oneself.

While the Lemosho Route does eventually converge with the Machame route, leading to a rise in traffic, its early stages offer a serene atmosphere ideal for climbers seeking solitude.

Much of the terrain and scenery covered by the Lemosho Route overlaps with the Machame, encompassing landmarks such as the Lava Tower and Barranco Wall also referred as ‘the Wall of Death’. However, the initial stages of the Lemosho present unparalleled panoramic views of the surrounding landscapes that can’t be glimpsed from any other trail on Mount Kilimanjaro.

The route beckons adventurers to traverse untouched rainforests and ascend to the Shira Plateau. Once above the forest canopy, the plateau unveils breathtaking views. Lemosho’s distinctive trail, combined with its longer duration, requires trekkers to set aside seven or eight days, but this extra acclimatization time contributes to a notably higher success rate in summiting the mountain.

For those aiming to optimize their odds of standing atop Mount Kilimanjaro, the Lemosho Route emerges as a top choice, surpassing both the Machame and Marangu routes in this regard. However, climbers should be cognizant that, despite its higher success rate, Lemosho is a more challenging trek compared to the colloquially named “Whiskey” (Machame) and “Coca-Cola” (Marangu) routes.

Certain stretches of the Lemosho Route are notably steeper and require more exertion from trekkers. Additionally, this route involves spending an extra night or two in tents, adding to the overall adventure. Nonetheless, the unique benefits of the Lemosho Route distinguish it from other trails, leading to its rising popularity among adventurous spirits.

For those seeking to conquer Kilimanjaro via the Lemosho Route, there are options for both a 7-day and an 8-day climb. The 7-day variant streamlines the journey by combining the itinerary for days five and six, transitioning directly from Barranco Camp to Barafu Camp, bypassing the typical stop at Karanga.

The climb can be done in different variations including the seven (7) Days trek combines the hike from Barranco camp to Barafu Camp eliminating a night at Karanga camp, the eight (8) days trek, or the Nine (9) Days itinerary which allows a night at Crater Camp.

Itineraries of the Mount Kilimanjaro Trek along the Lemosho Route

Choose your Mount Kilimanjaro Route

Machame Route

Machame Route

At Kilimanjaro Trails we offer Mount Kilimanjaro climbing through the Machame
machame Route

Marangu Route

Also known as the Coca-Cola route, this is the easiest route of all Kilimanjaro trails
Lemosho Route

Lemosho Route

This is a fairly new route on the mountain and it is greatly recommended by operators.
Northern Circuit Route

Northern Circuit Route

Climbers having ample time for this trek should actually think of taking
Rongai Route

Rongai Route

The only route that approached the summit from the north, close to Kenyan border
umbwe route

Umbwe Route

This is the most challenging route on mountain Kilimanjaro.

Lemosho Route Frequently Asked Questions

The following Q&A pertains specifically to the Lemosho route on Mount Kilimanjaro:

  1. How difficult is the Lemosho Route?

The Lemosho route is often seen as one of the less challenging routes on Kilimanjaro due to its extended itinerary, which facilitates improved acclimatization. Nevertheless, trekkers will face the Barranco Wall and a steep ascent on the night they aim for the summit. While there’s no need for technical climbing skills, maintaining robust fitness is essential. For preparation tips, refer to our articles on “Training for Kilimanjaro” and the dedicated “Kilimanjaro Training Program.”

  1. What is the distance of the Lemosho Route, and how many days does it take?

The Lemosho Route spans approximately 71km or 43 miles. The minimum duration for the Lemosho journey is 7 days, but with the addition of arrival and departure days, it rounds off to 10 days. Considering its extended approach, it’s advisable to allot 8 or 9 days to this route to bolster the odds of reaching the summit.

  1. What is the Lemosho Route Summit Success Rate?

Owing to its extended distance, the Lemosho route boasts one of the highest summit success rates on Mount Kilimanjaro. Although official figures aren’t available, the average success rate across various operators hovers around 90% for the 8-day itinerary and 85% for the 7-day trek. In our experience, the 8-day Lemosho route has a commendable 95% success rate, while the 7-day variant sees a 92% success rate. For insights on why extended treks are beneficial, consult our guide on the ideal duration for climbing Kilimanjaro.

  1. What is the Cost of Climbing Kilimanjaro via the Lemosho Route?

Climbing Mount Kilimanjaro comes with various price points, influenced by factors like your chosen operator, trip duration, and group size.

The Lemosho route can be tackled within a range of 6 to 9 days. Naturally, with an increase in the number of days, expenses related to park fees, crew salaries, and food provisions also rise, causing the overall cost to ascend.

Outlined below are our present rates for a group of 4 individuals opting for different Lemosho route versions:

Lemosho Route Pricing

  • Lemosho 6 Day Itinerary: We do not recommend this itinerary, hence it’s not on offer.
  • Lemosho 7 Day Itinerary: Suited for those with a decent pace, this is priced at $2,879 per person for a private expedition.
  • Lemosho 8 Day Itinerary: Our preferred choice for most climbers, the cost stands at $3,249 per person for a private trek. Alternatively, if you opt for a group expedition, the price per individual is $3,149.
  • Lemosho Crater 9 Day Itinerary: Designed exclusively for seasoned trekkers, this itinerary is available at $4,099 per person for a private expedition.

Please remember that prices can fluctuate based on unforeseen factors, so it’s advisable to confirm the latest rates and check for any potential discounts or promotions when booking.

5. What is the Scenery like on the Lemosho Route?

The Lemosho Route is a visual feast, celebrated for its unparalleled scenic splendor compared to the other routes leading up to Kilimanjaro.

Rainforest

Starting from the west, the journey kicks off amidst the verdant embrace of thick rainforest. The dense canopy overhead, the interplay of light and shade, and the symphony of forest sounds make this section truly enchanting. Trekkers might even spot wildlife such as colobus monkeys and exotic bird species during this phase.

Shira Plateau

As you venture further, the trail merges with the Machame Route to traverse the expansive Shira Plateau. It’s a vast, almost surreal expanse of flat moorland that provides trekkers with panoramic views of the mountain in all its majesty.

Western and Southern Faces

The Lemosho Route offers a comprehensive Kilimanjaro experience by covering its western and southern aspects. These sections of the mountain are less frequented, granting trekkers an unspoiled view of Kilimanjaro’s landscapes.

Southern Circuit Views

As the trail meanders along the southern circuit, it grants awe-inspiring views of valleys, ridges, and the mountain’s towering peaks, with sights that remain etched in memory long after the trek concludes.