Despite being one of the newest routes to the top of Mount Kilimanjaro, the Lemosho Route has quickly become one of the most popular routes for travelers visiting this African wonder. The lower number of trekkers, stunning scenery and higher success rate to reaching the very top makes it a traveler favorite, and most trekkers taking this route fall in love with it. What makes it even more unique is that unlike the more popular Machame Route, this route crosses the majestic Shira Plateau via a flat and easy hike .
The Lemosho route can be done in as little as six days (five nights) on the mountain. However, it is ideally tackled over eight days (seven nights) for a better altitude acclimatization schedule. The trek begins at Londorossi Gate, located in the western base of mountain, within its lush, fertile rainforest. The route heads across the Shira Plateau, before circling along the southern circuit halfway around the mountain, exposing the climber to great views from all angles. The approach to the summit is made from the east, and the descent follows the Mweka trail. With eight days (seven nights) on the mountain, your chances of reaching the “Roof of Africa” are very high, around 90%.
The Lemosho route is approximately 70 km/ 42 miles from gate to gate. It is designed for physically fit people with some hiking experience. There are several variations to the 8-day Lemosho climb regarding starting and finishing points, altitude, distance and hiking time. However, ours is considered to be the ideal Lemosho route variation.