LEMOSHO GATE – MTI MKUBWA CAMP: 4.8km /3mi | 3-4 hrs | Rainforest

Mount Kilimanjaro - Elevation: 2389m/7838ft to 2785m/9137ft
Altitude gained: 396m

Starting from Moshi, a scenic 3-hour drive leads through charming mountainside villages to the Kilimanjaro National Park Gate. Here, permits are processed amidst the lively preparations of various crews. Enjoy the lush rainforest and winding trails as the guide shares insights about the local flora, fauna, and wildlife. At these lower elevations, the path can be muddy and slippery, so gaiters and trekking poles are highly recommended.

MTI MKUBWA CAMP – SHIRA I CAMP: 7.9km/5mi | 4-6hrs | Moorland

Mount Kilimanjaro - Elevation: 2785m/9137ft to 3504m/11,496ft
Altitude gained: 719m

After a restful night and a hearty breakfast, the journey continues on an ascending path, leaving the rainforest behind. The trail climbs steadily, offering expansive views as it reaches the rim of the Shira Plateau. Temperatures begin to drop.

SHIRA I CAMP – SHIRA HUT: 6.9km/4.3mi | 5-7hrs | Moorland

Mount Kilimanjaro - Elevation: 3504m/11,496ft to 3895m/12,779ft
Altitude gained: 391m

The Shira Plateau is explored for a full day with a gentle walk east toward Kibo’s glaciered peak. The path leads across the plateau to Shira 2 camp on moorland meadows by a stream, then continues to Moir Hut, a less frequented site at the base of Lent Hills. Various walks on Lent Hills provide excellent acclimatization opportunities. Shira is one of the highest plateaus on earth.

SHIRA HUT – LAVA TOWER – BARRANCO CAMP: 10.1km/6.3mi | 4-6hrs | Semi Desert

Mount Kilimanjaro - Elevation: 3895m/12,779ft to 3986m/13,077ft
Altitude gained: 91m

Although the day ends at a similar elevation as it began, it is crucial for acclimatization. From Shira Plateau, the path continues east up a ridge, passing the junction towards Kibo peak, then southeast towards the Lava Tower, known as the “Shark’s Tooth” (elev. 4650m/15,250ft). After the tower, a second junction leads to the Arrow Glacier, followed by a descent to Barranco Camp for the night.

BARRANCO CAMP – KARANGA CAMP: 5.2km/3mi | 4-5hrs | Alpine Desert

Mount Kilimanjaro - Elevation: 3986m/13,077ft to 4034m/13,235ft
Altitude gained: 48m

After breakfast, the journey continues up a steep ridge to the adventurous Barranco Wall, then to the Karanga Valley and the junction connecting with the Mweka Trail. This day showcases the crew’s impressive agility and strength as they navigate the wall with apparent ease. Overnight at Karanga Camp.

HIKE KARANGA CAMP – BARAFU CAMP: 3.3km /2 mi | 4-5hrs | Alpine Desert

Mount Kilimanjaro - Elevation: 4034m/13,235ft to 4662m/15,295ft
Altitude gained: 628m

The ascent continues toward Barafu Camp, completing the South Circuit, which offers stunning summit views from various angles. An early dinner and rest prepare for summit night. Overnight at Barafu Camp.

BARAFU CAMP – SUMMIT: 4.86km /3mi up | 5-7hrs | – MWEKA CAMP: 13km /8mi down | 5-6hrs | Glaciers, Snow Capped Summit

Mount Kilimanjaro - Elevation: 4662m to 5895m
Altitude Gained: 1233m
Descent to: 3106m
Altitude Lost: 2789m

Summit day begins between midnight and 2 a.m., marking the most mentally and physically challenging part of the climb. The ascent follows switchbacks between Rebmann and Ratzel glaciers toward Stella Point, where a breathtaking sunrise can be witnessed. The journey continues for another hour to Uhuru Peak, the highest point in Africa!

Celebrate the achievement at the summit before descending steeply to Mweka Camp, with a stop at Barafu for lunch and rest. Gaiters and trekking poles are recommended for the loose gravel and ash. Enjoy a final evening on the mountain after a long but unforgettable day.

MWEKA CAMP – MWEKA GATE – MOSHI: 9.1km/6mi |3-4hrs | Rainforest

Kilimanjaro Region - Elevation: 3106m/10,190ft to 1633m/5358ft
Altitude lost: 1473m

After breakfast and a heartfelt ceremony of appreciation and team bonding with the crew, it’s time to say goodbye. The descent continues to the Mweka Park Gate to receive summit certificates. With warmer weather, the terrain is wet, muddy, and steep, so gaiters and trekking poles are highly recommended.

From the gate, a vehicle will meet at Mweka village to drive back to the hotel in Moshi (about 30 minutes).

• Transportation to and from the mountain
• Other
• Filtered water throughout the trek
• Lunch
• Dinner
• Oxygen cylinder and pulse oximeter for health monitoring
• Breakfast

• Tanzanian visa
• Travel insurance
• Any Private Expenses

What distinguishes Kilimanjaro Umoja Tours is the deep local knowledge, personalized care, and dedication to giving back. This locally owned company boasts licensed, experienced guides who have reached the summit of Kilimanjaro numerous times. The Lemosho Route trek is celebrated for its stunning beauty, high success rate, and breathtaking sunrise views from Stella Point. The company ensures safe, comfortable climbs with personalized attention, nutritious meals, and a supportive team.

Significantly, 25% of every booking is allocated directly to the Upendo Mama Africa Orphanage Center, aiding in the betterment of vulnerable children’s lives in the community. Traveling with Kilimanjaro Umoja Tours not only takes you to the Roof of Africa but also allows you to make a meaningful impact.

For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.