The Lemosho route is the most scenic and uncrowded path on Kilimanjaro, starting on the remote western side and crossing the Shira Plateau before joining the Machame route. Eight days gives the highest summit success rate of any route we offer — ideal for trekkers who want the best chance of standing on the Roof of Africa.
Drive to Londorossi Gate, trek through forest to Mti Mkubwa Camp (2,820m). Distance 6km.
Trek onto the Shira Plateau to Shira Camp 1 (3,610m). Distance 5km.
Cross the plateau to Shira Camp 2 (3,850m). Distance 7km.
Climb to Lava Tower (4,630m) for acclimatization, descend to Barranco Camp (3,900m).
Scramble the Barranco Wall and trek to Karanga Camp (3,995m).
Trek to Barafu Camp (4,673m), summit base.
Midnight summit push to Uhuru Peak (5,895m), descend to Mweka Camp.
Descend to Mweka Gate and drive to Moshi.
The Machame route tested me but the guides read my pace perfectly. Pole pole — slowly slowly — is real wisdom on this mountain. Summit night was the hardest thing I've ever done, and reaching Stella Point at sunrise with the glaciers glowing gold made every aching step worth it. The crew sang with me at Uhuru Peak. Unforgettable.
I chose Lemosho for the extra acclimatisation days and it was the right call. Eight days gave my body time to adjust and I summited with zero altitude sickness. The Shira Plateau and the Lava Tower day were spectacular. The porters are the unsung heroes of this mountain — their strength and kindness humbled me every single day.
The Marangu route's huts meant I didn't have to camp, which suited me perfectly. The Mandara and Horombo huts were comfortable and the communal dining was a lovely way to meet other climbers. Summit night was tough but the guides kept me going with encouragement and hot tea. Standing on Uhuru Peak is something I'll never forget.
Kilimanjaro (5,895m) is higher and more famous, with a higher summit success rate on longer routes but more crowds. Mount Kenya (4,985m trekking peak) is more scenic, much quieter, cheaper, and offers a true wilderness experience. Many climbers do Mount Kenya first to acclimatize, then Kilimanjaro.
The best months to climb Kilimanjaro are January–March and June–October. January–March is colder but quieter; June–October is warmer and busier. Avoid the long rains (April–May) and short rains (November) for safety and comfort.
No. All standard Kilimanjaro routes to Uhuru Peak are trekking routes — no ropes or technical climbing required. You need good hiking boots, layered clothing and a sleeping bag rated to -15°C. A walking pole helps on summit night.
For Point Lenana and Kilimanjaro trekking routes you need good general fitness — able to hike 6–8 hours with a daypack for several consecutive days. No technical climbing skills are needed. For Batian you need rock-climbing experience at Grade IV+.
All our mountain packages include park fees, guide/cook/porter team, all meals on the mountain, tents and sleeping mats, and transfers from Nairobi (or Moshi for Kilimanjaro). Not included: crew tips, travel insurance, personal gear, visas and flights.
Yes. Above 3,500m, altitude sickness can affect anyone regardless of fitness. We minimise the risk with gradual ascent profiles, acclimatization days, hydration and daily health checks. Our guides are trained to spot symptoms and respond, including emergency descent.
The Machame route (the 'Whiskey Route') is the most popular path on Kilimanjaro, offering the best acclimatization profile with a climb-high…
The Marangu route (the 'Coca-Cola Route') is the only Kilimanjaro route with sleeping huts, making it popular with trekkers who prefer not t…
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