Experience Kilimanjaro’s most scenic and successful route with expert guides. The Lemosho trail offers gentle acclimatization, panoramic vistas and a high summit success rate when planned properly.
Distance: Approximately 70 km (43 mi)【415806164614900†L72-L76】 of varied terrain with an elevation gain of 16,000–17,000 feet【979920506380725†L495-L498】.
Recommended days: The trail can be completed in 6–9 days, but an 8‑day itinerary offers the best acclimatization and summit success【979920506380725†L500-L519】.
Difficulty: Moderately difficult; the route’s up‑and‑down profile is strenuous but manageable thanks to its favorable acclimatization schedule【979920506380725†L506-L511】.
Scenery: One of the newest routes, Lemosho is renowned for its gorgeous scenery — from lush rainforest to Afro‑alpine moorland, alpine desert and the arctic summit【415806164614900†L82-L90】.
Acclimatization advantage: Extended length and climb‑high/sleep‑low opportunities make this route a safer choice, with success rates up to 90 % for 8‑day itineraries【979920506380725†L515-L519】 and 92 % on average【783709429171321†L55-L65】.
Who it’s best for: Trekkers seeking spectacular vistas, lower crowds and a higher chance of reaching the summit; beginners and seasoned hikers alike benefit from its gradual ascent【783709429171321†L116-L120】.
The Lemosho route is most commonly climbed in 7 or 8 days. The 8‑day version allows more time around 4,000 m for acclimatization【415806164614900†L116-L137】, leading to higher success rates. Below are day‑by‑day highlights for each option.
The 8‑day route follows the same path as the 7‑day itinerary, but splits the long day between Barranco and Barafu into two days (Barranco→Karanga and Karanga→Barafu) to improve acclimatization【979920506380725†L477-L481】.
Why 8 days? Spending an extra day at altitude improves your body’s ability to adapt. Success rates climb from about 80 % on the 7‑day itinerary to ~90 % on the 8‑day itinerary【979920506380725†L515-L519】【783709429171321†L55-L65】.
Map coming soon: Use the interactive map to explore the full trail from Londorossi Gate to Uhuru Peak. Meanwhile, here’s what to expect: the first days wind through rainforest to Shira Ridge; the route then crosses the Shira Plateau and joins the Machame route near Lava Tower before circling the Southern Ice Field and summiting from Barafu Camp【979920506380725†L453-L473】.
| Route | Success Rate & Days | Difficulty | Highlights | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Lemosho | ~80 % (7 days), ~90 % (8 days)【979920506380725†L515-L519】【783709429171321†L55-L65】 | Moderate【979920506380725†L506-L511】 | Panoramic vistas; rainforest‑to‑arctic scenery【415806164614900†L82-L90】; excellent acclimatization | Those seeking scenic beauty, fewer crowds and higher success rates |
| Machame | ~73 % (6 days) & 85 % (7 days)【783709429171321†L152-L160】 | Moderate; more elevation gain per day【783709429171321†L119-L120】 | Popular “Whiskey” route; scenic but busier; shares trail with Lemosho after day 2 | Trekkers wanting a shorter scenic climb with more company |
| Rongai | ~80 % (7 days)【783709429171321†L152-L160】 | Easy–moderate【604971571259957†L126-L132】 | Remote northern approach; drier trail; solitude【604971571259957†L110-L140】 | Those seeking a quieter, drier climb during rainy season |
| Marangu | 42 % (5 days) & 56 % (6 days)【545284837059390†L42-L47】 | Easy but rapid ascent | Only route with hut accommodation; less scenic【545284837059390†L50-L56】 | Trekkers preferring huts and shorter duration; comfortable lodging |
*Success rates vary by operator; longer itineraries generally improve acclimatization and summit success【783709429171321†L55-L67】.
Summit success depends on itinerary length, pace, acclimatization and support. Longer routes (8 days) have success rates around 90 %【979920506380725†L515-L519】. Shorter routes or rushing the ascent increases the risk of altitude sickness and reduces success to ~60 %【979920506380725†L515-L518】.
The cost of climbing the Lemosho route depends on itinerary length and operator. For example, Ultimate Kilimanjaro quotes $3,149 per person for an 8‑day group climb【979920506380725†L521-L524】. Expect prices to vary based on group size, private climbs and added services. Generally, longer itineraries cost more because of extra days, park fees and staff wages.
Trekking Kilimanjaro requires gear for five climate zones【620270898670033†L93-L100】. Your porters will carry your main duffel; pack your daypack with essentials like water, snacks and camera. Key items include:
Begin preparing 3–4 months before your trek. Start with weekly hikes of 6–12 miles and 1,000–2,500 ft elevation gain【797613643564812†L153-L168】. Gradually increase distance and pack weight (15–20 lbs)【797613643564812†L162-L166】. Focus on building leg and core strength through step‑ups, lunges, wall sits and planks【797613643564812†L176-L189】. Train at altitude if possible and practice slow breathing; use treadmills or stair machines on incline【797613643564812†L196-L205】. Include cross‑training like swimming, cycling and yoga to prevent injuries【797613643564812†L212-L223】. Don’t skip recovery—schedule rest days and get plenty of sleep【797613643564812†L227-L233】.
Follow the safety tips above for ascending gradually, staying hydrated, avoiding alcohol and knowing when to descend【669058539217547†L180-L188】. Carry medication and consult your doctor before your trip【669058539217547†L194-L199】.
Below are answers to common questions. Click each to expand.
The best conditions are generally January–February and June–October when the weather is drier. Avoid the long rains in April–May and the short rains in November.
The 7‑day itinerary is shorter and cheaper but success rates are lower (around 80 %). The 8‑day itinerary includes an extra acclimatization day and raises success rates to ~90 %【979920506380725†L515-L519】【783709429171321†L55-L65】.
It’s a moderately difficult trek due to its length and elevation gain【979920506380725†L506-L511】. However, its gradual ascent makes it manageable for fit hikers with proper training.
No technical climbing is involved. Prior multi‑day hiking experience and good fitness are recommended.
Temperatures range from warm in the rainforest to below freezing at the summit. Be prepared for cold, windy conditions on summit night.
Ascend slowly, stay hydrated, avoid alcohol, listen to your body and descend if symptoms worsen【669058539217547†L180-L188】.
Sturdy, waterproof hiking boots with ankle support and broken‑in soles. Bring extra socks for warmth and hygiene.
Trekking poles reduce impact on knees and help maintain balance, especially on descents.
Charging facilities are limited. Bring power banks and conserve battery life.
Expect basic camp toilets. Some operators provide private portable toilets for an extra fee.
Tipping is customary. Budget around 10–20 % of your trip cost, shared among guides, cooks and porters.
Most travelers need a Tanzanian tourist visa. Check your country’s requirements and obtain your visa before arrival or at the airport.
Ready to take the next step? Complete the form below and our summit experts will contact you with a personalized quote.