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10 Day Mount Kilimanjaro Climbing Via Lemosho Route, Day Summit

Climb Kilimanjaro via the scenic Lemosho Route in 10 days with excellent acclimatization and a daylight summit of Uhuru Peak. Group prices from USD 3,231 pp.

The Lemosho Route is widely regarded as the most beautiful trail on Mount Kilimanjaro. It offers a gradual ascent, excellent acclimatization opportunities and diverse scenery. Unlike the steep Umbwe Route, Lemosho provides a balanced climb, making it one of the most successful routes to the summit. Over 10 days, trekkers experience rainforest, moorland, alpine desert and glaciers, culminating in a summit at Uhuru Peak in daylight. Unlike most other Kilimanjaro itineraries, where trekkers begin their summit push at midnight, this 10 day Lemosho itinerary allows climbers to reach Uhuru Peak during daylight hours. The extended schedule and gradual acclimatization give clearer views, safer conditions and a more memorable summit experience. The route begins at Londorossi Gate (2,100 m) on the western side of the mountain, crosses the Shira Plateau (3,500 m), passes Lava Tower and the Barranco Wall, and finishes with a summit push from Barafu Camp (4,640 m) to Uhuru Peak (5,895 m). Total distance is approximately 70 km round trip. Success rates for 10 day itineraries are among the highest of any Kilimanjaro route (over 90%).

At a glance

Highlights

Day by day itinerary

Day 0: Arrival in Tanzania

Your adventure begins with a warm welcome at Kilimanjaro Airport. After transferring to Arusha, you’ll meet your guides for a detailed briefing on the climb. This evening is for rest and preparation.

Stay: Hotel in Arusha. Meals: Dinner.

Day 1: Arusha to Lemosho Gate to Big Tree Camp (Mti Mkubwa)

A scenic drive through rural Tanzania leads to the trailhead. The trek begins in thick rainforest, where the air is humid and alive with wildlife. Big Tree Camp is nestled beneath giant trees, offering a tranquil first night on the mountain.

Stay: Camping at Big Tree Camp. Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner.

Day 2: Big Tree Camp to Shira 1 Camp

The trail climbs out of the forest into open moorland. Vegetation changes dramatically, with giant heathers and lobelias dotting the slopes. Shira 1 Camp sits on the edge of the Shira Plateau, an ancient volcanic caldera.

Stay: Camping at Shira 1 Camp. Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner.

Day 3: Shira 1 Camp to Shira 2 Camp

A relaxed day across Shira Plateau, one of Kilimanjaro’s most scenic areas. The wide, flat expanse offers stunning views of Mount Meru in the distance. Shira 2 Camp provides excellent acclimatization.

Stay: Camping at Shira 2 Camp. Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner.

Day 4: Shira 2 Camp to Moir Camp

This day takes you off the main trail into a quieter, lesstraveled area. Moir Camp sits at the base of a volcanic ridge, offering solitude and excellent acclimatization. Optional short hikes on nearby ridges provide panoramic views.

Stay: Camping at Moir Camp. Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner.

Day 5: Moir Camp to Barranco Camp via Lava Tower

A demanding day with a long ascent to Lava Tower (4,630 m), an important acclimatization point. After lunch at Lava Tower, descend into the lush Barranco Valley. This “climb high, sleep low” strategy is vital for adjusting to altitude.

Stay: Camping at Barranco Camp. Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner.

Day 6: Barranco Camp to Karanga Camp

The day begins with the famous Barranco Wall, a steep but nontechnical climb offering spectacular views. The trail then undulates across ridges and valleys before reaching Karanga Camp.

Stay: Camping at Karanga Camp. Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner.

Day 7: Karanga Camp to Barafu Camp (Optional Kosovo Camp Upgrade)

A steady climb through barren alpine desert leads to Barafu Camp. Here, trekkers rest early in preparation for the summit push. For those seeking a quieter camp and a slightly shorter summit approach, Kosovo Camp (4,800 m) is available as an optional upgrade at $150 USD per person.

Stay: Camping at Barafu Camp (or optional Kosovo Camp upgrade). Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner.

Day 8: Barafu Camp (or Kosovo Camp) to Uhuru Peak (Day Summit), Overnight at Barafu

Unlike most itineraries with midnight ascents, this route allows a Day Summit. Trekkers begin at dawn, climbing in daylight to Uhuru Peak. The reward is clear skies, safer conditions, and unforgettable views. After celebrating at the summit, descend carefully back to Barafu Camp to recover.

Stay: Camping at Barafu Camp. Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner.

Day 9: Barafu Camp to Mweka Camp

After the summit triumph, today is a steady descent through alpine desert and moorland zones, ending in the forest at Mweka Camp.

Stay: Camping at Mweka Camp. Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner.

Day 10: Mweka Camp to Mweka Gate, Return to Arusha

A gentle descent through rainforest leads to Mweka Gate. Trekkers receive their summit certificates before returning to Arusha for a celebratory dinner.

Stay: Hotel in Arusha. Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Special Dinner.

Price per person by group size

What is included

What is not included

Frequently asked questions

How much does the 10 Day Mount Kilimanjaro Climbing Via Lemosho Route, Day Summit cost?

The 10 Day Mount Kilimanjaro Climbing Via Lemosho Route, Day Summit starts from USD 3,647 per person. The final price depends on your group size, travel dates and accommodation level, so send an inquiry with your dates for an exact quote.

How long is the 10 Day Mount Kilimanjaro Climbing Via Lemosho Route, Day Summit and where does it go?

It lasts 10 days and 9 nights and covers Kilimanjaro National Park. The day-by-day itinerary on this page lists each stop.

What is included in the 10 Day Mount Kilimanjaro Climbing Via Lemosho Route, Day Summit?

The price includes all national park entrance fees, camping or hut fees, rescue fees and 18% VAT, certified wilderness first responder English-speaking head guide, assistant guides, cook and porters, high-altitude 4-season mountain tents, foam sleeping pads, mess tent with tables and chairs, private chemical flush toilet tent throughout the trek, all meals on the mountain (breakfasts, hot lunches on trail, dinners and afternoon snacks) and emergency oxygen cylinder, pulse oximeter and comprehensive medical first-aid kit. The "What is included" list on this page has everything.

What is not included in the 10 Day Mount Kilimanjaro Climbing Via Lemosho Route, Day Summit?

Not included: international and domestic flights, entry visa fees for Tanzania, tips for the mountain crew (recommended guideline: $250–$350 per trekker total), personal trekking gear (sleeping bag, trekking poles, warm apparel — rental available), comprehensive travel and medical insurance with high-altitude evacuation up to 6,000m and alcoholic beverages and personal items. The "What is not included" list on this page has everything.

Do I need to be very fit for the 10 Day Mount Kilimanjaro Climbing Via Lemosho Route, Day Summit?

Good general fitness helps, and so does walking regularly before you travel. Longer routes give your body more time to acclimatise, which improves the chance of reaching the summit. Our preparation guide explains training, gear and altitude.

When is the best time for the 10 Day Mount Kilimanjaro Climbing Via Lemosho Route, Day Summit?

The driest and most popular climbing windows are roughly January to March and June to October. Other months can be wetter, with fewer climbers on the mountain.

How do I book the 10 Day Mount Kilimanjaro Climbing Via Lemosho Route, Day Summit?

Press "Book this safari" on this page or send an inquiry with your dates and number of travellers. We confirm availability and the details by email.

Do I need travel insurance for Tanzania?

Yes. Travel insurance is required for travel to Tanzania, and it should cover medical care and evacuation. See our travel insurance guide before you buy a policy.

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