Mount Kilimanjaro 8 Days Lemosho route ( our favorite route)

Embark on an extraordinary Kilimanjaro adventure! Your journey begins with a scenic drive from Arusha or Moshi to the Lemosho Gate, a 3-4 hour passage that sets the stage for the wonders to come. After completing the necessary entry formalities, we'll continue to the Lemosho trailhead, the starting point of your trek.

As we begin our ascent, you'll be immersed in the tranquility of an undisturbed rainforest, where winding trails lead us towards our first campsite, Mti Mkubwa (Big Tree Camp). The air is thick with the scent of damp earth and verdant foliage, a symphony of nature that accompanies your every step.

Upon arrival at Mti Mkubwa, you'll be greeted with warm hospitality and the comforts of camp life. Refresh with boiled washing water, and savor a delicious, hearty dinner as the African night descends. As you settle into your tent for the night, let the sounds of the forest lull you to sleep, preparing you for the challenges and triumphs that lie ahead. Overnight at Mti Mkubwa Camp, a serene haven amidst the wilderness.

Embark on a day of dramatic landscape transitions! We'll continue our ascent, leaving the lush embrace of the rainforest behind and venturing into a captivating savannah. Here, tall grasses sway in the breeze, heather carpets the rolling hills, and volcanic rock formations are draped with ethereal lichen beards, creating a scene of otherworldly beauty.

As we traverse this enchanting terrain, winding through the lush hills and crossing crystal-clear streams, we'll reach the Shira Ridge. From this vantage point, a breathtaking panorama unfolds: our first awe-inspiring glimpse of Kibo, the majestic summit of Kilimanjaro, rising across the vast plateau. We'll descend gently to Shira 1 Camp, a haven where we'll pause to savor a delicious lunch and a hearty dinner, all while basking in the grandeur of our surroundings.

Please note: The overnight location mentioned in your text is Mti Mkubwa Camp, which is incorrect for this day. This day will be spent arriving at Shira 1 Camp.

Overnight Shira 1 Camp, a place where the majesty of Kilimanjaro begins to truly reveal itself.

Immerse yourself in the ethereal beauty of the Shira Plateau! Today is dedicated to exploring this remarkable landscape, one of the highest plateaus on Earth, offering unparalleled acclimatization opportunities. Our journey begins with a gentle eastward walk across the moorland meadows, leading us towards Shira 11 Camp.

From there, we'll venture off the main trail, discovering the secluded beauty of Cathedral Points, a lesser-traveled site nestled at the base of the Lent Hills. A variety of invigorating walks await us on the Lent Hills, providing an ideal opportunity to adjust to the altitude while soaking in the breathtaking scenery.

The Shira Plateau itself is a wonder, a vast expanse of moorland meadows, volcanic rock formations, and ethereal landscapes. The clear mountain air, the panoramic views, and the sense of tranquility create an unforgettable experience. Today is not just about acclimatization; it's about connecting with the raw beauty of Kilimanjaro and preparing your body and spirit for the challenges ahead.

Prepare for a day of exhilarating ascents and otherworldly landscapes! We begin our journey by climbing up a rugged ridge, then head southeast towards the iconic Lava Tower, a 300-foot volcanic rock formation that pierces the sky. Here, amidst this dramatic scenery, you'll savor a hot lunch, fueling your body for the adventures ahead.

Our descent takes us through the surreal beauty of the Senecio Forest, a realm of giant groundsels that create an almost alien landscape. We'll descend to Barranco Camp, nestled at an altitude of 13,000 feet. While our starting and ending points are both Barranco Camp, the significant elevation gain and loss throughout the day provide invaluable acclimatization, preparing you for the higher altitudes to come.

As evening descends, settle into the welcoming embrace of Barranco Camp, where a delicious dinner awaits. Share stories of the day's adventures with fellow trekkers, and rest easy knowing that your body is adapting to the mountain's challenges. Overnight at Barranco Camp, a haven amidst the breathtaking wilderness.

Prepare for a day of exhilarating climbs and stunning vistas! Our adventure begins with a descent into a lush ravine, leading us to the base of the formidable Great Barranco Wall. This imposing cliff, though non-technical, presents a steep and challenging ascent of nearly 900 feet, a true test of your resilience.

Upon reaching the summit of the Barranco Wall, we'll traverse a series of rolling hills and verdant valleys, a landscape that unfolds like a tapestry of natural beauty. Our journey continues with a sharp descent into the picturesque Karanga Valley, followed by one final, invigorating climb that leads us to the welcoming embrace of Karanga Camp.

This shorter day is strategically designed for acclimatization, allowing your body to adapt to the increasing altitude while enjoying the breathtaking scenery. Savor a well-deserved lunch and dinner at Karanga Camp, sharing stories and camaraderie with fellow trekkers. As the sun sets over the valley, settle into your tent for a restful night, knowing that you're one step closer to conquering Kilimanjaro. 

Overnight at Karanga Camp, a serene haven amidst the mountain's grandeur.

Embark on a day of pivotal progress as we leave Karanga Camp and ascend towards the heart of Kilimanjaro! We'll join the junction that connects with the Mweka Trail, a significant milestone in our journey. Our trek continues upward, navigating a rocky section that leads us to the iconic Barafu Hut.

Upon reaching Barafu Hut, you'll have achieved a remarkable feat: completing the Southern Circuit. This accomplishment offers breathtaking panoramic views of Kilimanjaro's summit from a multitude of angles, a testament to your perseverance and the mountain's grandeur.

Here, at Barafu Hut, we'll establish our camp, a strategic location for our summit attempt. We'll prioritize rest and enjoy an early, nourishing dinner, preparing our bodies and minds for the challenges that lie ahead. From this vantage point, the majestic peaks of Mawenzi and Kibo stand proudly in view, inspiring us with their beauty and reminding us of the ultimate goal. Overnight at Barafu Camp, a haven of anticipation and preparation.

Prepare for the ultimate challenge, a night of unwavering determination culminating in triumph! In the pre-dawn hours, around midnight, we embark on our summit push, the most demanding portion of the entire trek. The biting wind and frigid temperatures at this elevation test both your mental and physical fortitude. We ascend in the darkness, a line of headlamps illuminating our path, taking frequent, brief breaks to conserve energy.

As we approach Stella Point (18,900 ft), a breathtaking reward awaits: a sunrise of unparalleled magnificence, painting the sky with vibrant hues as it crests over Mawenzi Peak. This is a moment that will forever be etched in your memory. Finally, we reach Uhuru Peak, the highest point on Mount Kilimanjaro and the entire African continent. You've conquered the roof of Africa!

From the summit, we begin our descent, a journey that takes us straight down to the Mweka Hut campsite, pausing at Barafu for a well-deserved lunch. The rocky terrain can be demanding on the knees, making trekking poles invaluable. Mweka Camp, nestled in the upper forest, often experiences mist or rain in the late afternoon, adding to the mystical atmosphere.

As evening descends, we gather for our final dinner on the mountain, a celebration of our shared accomplishment. The air is filled with camaraderie and the satisfaction of a challenge overcome. We retire to our tents for a well-earned, deep sleep, the sounds of contentment echoing through the camp. 

Overnight at Mweka Camp, a haven of accomplishment and rest.

Awaken to a morning of celebration and heartfelt gratitude! After a final breakfast on the mountain, immerse yourself in the vibrant rhythms of African songs, a joyous tribute to your incredible achievement. This is the moment to express your appreciation to the dedicated crew who made your journey possible, with each member receiving their well-deserved tips in personalized envelopes. Capture the spirit of the moment with group photos and warm handshakes, solidifying the bonds forged during your Kilimanjaro adventure.

We continue our descent to Mweka Gate, where you'll be presented with your official summit certificates, tangible proof of your triumph. The lower elevations can be wet and muddy, a reminder of the mountain's diverse terrain. A vehicle awaits us at Mweka Gate, ready to transport you back to your hotel in Moshi or Arusha, where a hot shower and comfortable bed await.

As you return to civilization, carry with you the indelible memories of your Kilimanjaro conquest. And remember, you've only experienced one of the mountain's six breathtaking routes! We extend a warm invitation to return and explore the remaining five, each offering unique vistas and challenges. 

(Karibu sana - You're very welcome!) Overnight in Arusha, where you can reflect on your remarkable journey.