8 Days Kilimanjaro Lemosho Route with Crater Overnight

Day 1: Arrival in Tanzania – Moshi Town

Welcome to Tanzania! Upon arrival at Kilimanjaro International Airport or Arusha Airport, our friendly driver will meet you and transfer you to your hotel in Moshi town. You will meet your trekking guide, who will provide a detailed briefing about the trek, including safety tips, route overview, and a gear check to ensure everything is in order. Any essential equipment may be rented today. This day is designed to help you acclimatize and prepare mentally for your adventure.

• Meals: Not included
• Accommodation: Hotel in Moshi

Day 2: Moshi – Lemosho Glades (2385m) to Big Tree Camp (2780m)

Your adventure begins with a scenic drive to the Lemosho Gate on the western side of Kilimanjaro. After completing park formalities, you will start your trek through the lush rainforest of Lemosho Glades. Marvel at giant trees, ferns, and endemic birds as your guides lead you steadily uphill. Arrive at Big Tree Camp, your first night on the mountain, and enjoy a well-earned dinner in your cozy tents.

• Distance covered: 7 km / 4.3 mi
• Approx. time taken: 4 hours
• Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner Included

Day 3: Big Tree Camp (2780m) to Shira 2 Camp (3900m)

Today’s trek takes you across the open Shira Plateau, a moorland dotted with unique volcanic rock formations. As you climb, you may catch glimpses of Kibo Peak floating above the clouds. Shira 1 Camp provides the perfect spot for photos and rest before continuing to Shira 2 Camp. This day offers excellent acclimatization and stunning panoramic views across the plateau.

• Distance covered: 16.5 km / 10.3 mi
• Approx. time taken: 9–10 hours
• Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner Included

Day 4: Shira 2 Camp (3900m) to Barranco Camp (3960m)

Begin your trek into the high-altitude desert zone, navigating the lava ridges beneath the Western Breach glaciers. Reach the impressive Lava Tower (4640m), a perfect location for a scenic lunch break. Afterward, descend steeply to the base of the Great Barranco Valley, where your camp is sheltered by massive cliffs yet offers spectacular views of the plains below.

• Distance covered: 10 km / 6.2 mi
• Approx. time taken: 7 hours
• Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner Included

Day 5: Barranco Camp (3960m) to Karanga Camp (3963m)

Today you tackle the famous Barranco Wall, a steep but non-technical climb. After conquering the wall, traverse the Karanga Valley and ascend to Karanga Camp. For those with energy, an optional afternoon acclimatization hike to 4200m provides further preparation for the summit. Enjoy a peaceful evening and dinner in camp after a rewarding day of trekking.

• Distance covered: 5.5 km / 3.4 mi
• Approx. time taken: 5 hours
• Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner Included

Day 6: Karanga Camp (3963m) to Barafu Camp (4640m)

Ascend across barren scree slopes to reach Barafu Camp. This challenging day prepares you for the late-night summit climb. Spend the afternoon resting, hydrating, and mentally preparing for the long night ahead. An early dinner and a good rest are essential before the summit attempt.

• Distance covered: 3 km / 1.9 mi
• Approx. time taken: 3 hours
• Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner Included

Day 7: Barafu Camp (4640m) to Uhuru Peak (5895m) & Crater Camp (5790m)

Wake before dawn to begin the summit push. Trek through the night over steep scree and glaciers, arriving at Stella Point as the sun rises, revealing breathtaking views. Continue to Uhuru Peak, Africa’s highest point, for a triumphant moment. Descend to the rare Crater Camp, nestled near Furtwangler Glacier, for an overnight experience few climbers enjoy.

• Distance covered: 3 km / 1.9 mi
• Approx. time taken: 5–6 hours to summit + 1–2 hours to Crater Camp
• Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner Included

Day 8: Crater Camp (5790m) to Millennium Camp (3790m)

After an early breakfast, descend carefully via Stella Point, passing Barafu Camp for a short break. Continue down to Millennium Camp to relax and recover from the previous night’s efforts.

• Distance covered: 13.4 km / 8.3 mi
• Approx. time taken: 12–15 hours
• Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner Included

Day 9: Millennium Camp (3790m) to Mweka Gate (1630m)

Trek through the lush rainforest to Mweka Gate, completing park formalities and receiving your official Kilimanjaro summit certificate. Transfer back to your arranged hotel in Moshi for rest.

• Distance covered: 12.1 km / 7.5 mi
• Approx. time taken: 6 hours
• Meals: Breakfast & Lunch Included

Day 10: Departure and Optional Excursions (Standard Last Day)

On your final day, we ensure your adventure concludes smoothly and memorably. Depending on your flight schedule, our team will provide a comfortable transfer from your hotel to Kilimanjaro International Airport.

For guests with extra time, optional activities can be arranged: cultural experiences, nearby wildlife sanctuary visits, scenic nature excursions, or relaxing opportunities. For extended stays, we can also assist with planning safaris or beach holidays to continue your unforgettable Tanzanian adventure.

• Meals: Not included