Your 6-Day Lemosho Route adventure begins when you arrive at Kilimanjaro International Airport (JRO) in northern Tanzania. A friendly WeWild Travel representative will welcome you at the airport, assist you with your arrival arrangements, and transfer you to Mount Meru Hotel in Arusha, where you will spend the night before your climb.

The journey from Kilimanjaro International Airport to Arusha takes approximately 1-1.5 hours, depending on traffic and road conditions. As you travel, you may see local villages, farms, open landscapes and, on a clear day, views of Mount Meru. It is a relaxing introduction to Tanzania before your mountain adventure begins.

After arriving at Mount Meru Hotel, you will check in and have time to rest after your international journey. Since the 6-Day Lemosho Route is a demanding trek with limited acclimatization time, using this arrival day to recover is important. Avoid unnecessary physical activity, drink plenty of water and give your body time to settle after the flight.

Depending on your arrival time, you may also meet your guide for a pre-trek briefing. Your guide will explain the route, daily schedule, mountain safety procedures, packing requirements and what to expect during the climb. You can also use this time to ask questions and make sure your trekking equipment is properly prepared.

The remainder of the day is free for relaxation. Enjoy your hotel, organize your daypack and prepare mentally for the first hiking day on the Lemosho Route.

• Activity: Airport arrival, transfer and pre-trek preparation
• Airport: Kilimanjaro International Airport (JRO)
• Transfer time: Approximately 1-1.5 hours to Arusha
• Accommodation: Mount Meru Hotel, Arusha
• Meals: Bed & Breakfast

Your 6-Day Lemosho Route begins at Londorossi Gate on the western side of Mount Kilimanjaro. After completing the park registration and meeting your mountain crew, you will start your trek through the lush montane rainforest toward Mti Mkubwa Camp.

The trail is surrounded by tall trees, thick vegetation, moss-covered branches and beautiful forest plants. The cool, shaded environment makes this a refreshing introduction to Kilimanjaro. As you walk, your guide will help you notice the different plants and natural features that make the forest an important part of the mountain’s ecosystem.

Wildlife is one of the highlights of this first day. You may hear or spot black-and-white colobus monkeys, blue monkeys and a variety of forest birds moving through the trees. Wildlife sightings are naturally unpredictable, but the forest is rich in life, and your guide can point out animal sounds, tracks and other signs along the trail.

After several hours of steady hiking, you will reach Mti Mkubwa Camp, meaning “Big Tree” in Swahili. Here, you will settle into camp, enjoy a freshly prepared meal and have time to rest after your first day on the mountain.

Distance: Approximately 6 km
Hiking Time: 3-4 hours
Habitat: Montane rainforest
Accommodation: Mti Mkubwa Camp
Meals: Lunch and dinner

Today’s Highlights

• Begin your Kilimanjaro adventure at Londorossi Gate.
• Trek through the beautiful montane rainforest.
• Look for colobus monkeys, blue monkeys and forest birds.
• Discover unique trees, plants, moss and mountain vegetation.
• Enjoy the cool and peaceful atmosphere of Kilimanjaro’s lower slopes.
• Reach Mti Mkubwa Camp and rest for the night.

Important Note

Today’s hike is relatively short, but it is the beginning of a high-altitude journey. Walk slowly from the start, drink water regularly and follow your guide’s pace. Starting conservatively helps you preserve energy for the longer and more demanding days ahead.

Today, you leave the rainforest behind and continue from Mti Mkubwa Camp to Shira 2 Camp, crossing one of the most dramatic transitions on the 6-Day Lemosho Route. The trail gradually climbs through thinning forest before opening into the moorland zone, where the vegetation becomes shorter and the landscape feels much wider.

As you gain altitude, the scenery changes noticeably. Giant heathers, grasses, rocky ridges and distinctive high-altitude plants replace the dense trees of the previous day. You will continue across the western slopes toward the vast Shira Plateau, an ancient volcanic landscape formed by one of Kilimanjaro’s three volcanic cones.

On clear days, the plateau provides impressive views toward Kibo Peak, the highest point of Mount Kilimanjaro. You may also see distant valleys, ridges and expansive open landscapes stretching across the mountain. Birdlife remains present in the higher areas, although large wildlife becomes less common as you gain elevation.

This is a longer hiking day, so your guide will maintain a steady pace and allow appropriate breaks along the trail. By the time you reach Shira 2 Camp, you will have gained considerable altitude, making this an important day for your body’s adjustment to the mountain environment.

At camp, you can enjoy a hot meal, take in the surrounding views and rest before continuing toward Lava Tower and Barranco Camp on the following day.

Distance: Approximately 15-16 km
Hiking Time: 7-8 hours
Habitat: Moorland
Accommodation: Shira 2 Camp
Meals: Breakfast, lunch and dinner

Today’s Highlights

• Leave the lush rainforest and enter Kilimanjaro’s moorland zone.
• Cross the scenic western slopes of Mount Kilimanjaro.
• Experience the expansive Shira Plateau.
• See giant heather, grasses and unusual high-altitude vegetation.
• Enjoy views toward Kibo Peak when the weather is clear.
• Experience the dramatic change in landscape as you gain altitude.
• Arrive at Shira 2 Camp for dinner, rest and overnight accommodation.

Today is one of the most important acclimatization days on the 6-Day Lemosho Route. You will leave Shira 2 Camp and climb toward Lava Tower before descending to Barranco Camp. This classic “climb high, sleep lower” profile gives your body an opportunity to experience a higher altitude before spending the night at a lower elevation.

The trail begins across the open Shira Plateau, with wide views of Kilimanjaro’s volcanic landscape. As you climb higher, the vegetation becomes increasingly sparse and the environment changes into the alpine desert zone. The landscape becomes rocky, dry and dramatic, with Kibo’s slopes rising ahead of you.

After several hours of hiking, you will reach Lava Tower at approximately 4,630 metres. This impressive volcanic formation is one of the major landmarks on Kilimanjaro. Depending on weather conditions, you can enjoy views across the surrounding valleys and toward the upper slopes of Kibo. Your guide will allow time for a break and lunch around the Lava Tower area.

From Lava Tower, the trail descends toward the spectacular Barranco Valley. The change in altitude also brings a noticeable change in vegetation, with giant senecios and lobelias appearing around the Barranco area. The enormous Barranco Wall dominates the landscape ahead and gives you a preview of tomorrow’s climb.

You will eventually arrive at Barranco Camp, positioned beneath the impressive southern slopes of Kibo. As evening approaches, the changing light can create beautiful views across the valley and toward the mountain.

Distance: Approximately 10-11 km
Hiking Time: 6-8 hours
Highest Point: Lava Tower – approximately 4,630 m
Habitat: Alpine desert
Accommodation: Barranco Camp
Meals: Breakfast, lunch and dinner

Today’s Highlights

• Cross the spectacular Shira Plateau toward the high mountain zone.
• Climb to the impressive Lava Tower at approximately 4,630 m.
• Experience Kilimanjaro’s stark and beautiful alpine desert landscape.
• Practice the important “climb high, sleep lower” acclimatization principle.
• Descend into the scenic Barranco Valley.
• See giant senecios and other unusual high-altitude plants.
• Enjoy views of the dramatic Barranco Wall from camp.

Today is one of the most challenging days of the 6-Day Lemosho Route as you leave Barranco Camp and make your way toward Barafu Camp, the final base camp before the summit. The day begins with the famous Barranco Wall, followed by a series of valleys and ridges before the trail climbs into Kilimanjaro’s high alpine desert.

After breakfast, you will start the ascent of the Barranco Wall. Although the wall looks intimidating from camp, the trail follows a manageable route with sections where you use your hands for balance. Your experienced guide will choose a steady pace and assist you through the more technical-looking sections. Reaching the top rewards you with impressive views back across the Barranco Valley and toward Kibo.

From the top of the wall, the trail continues through a series of ridges and valleys toward Karanga Camp. You will encounter rocky terrain, dramatic mountain slopes and changing views of Kibo as you gradually gain elevation. After a short rest at Karanga, you continue toward Barafu, with the vegetation becoming increasingly sparse as you enter the high alpine environment.

The final section climbs steadily toward Barafu Camp at approximately 4,673 metres. The name Barafu means “ice” in Swahili, reflecting the cold and exposed conditions of this high-altitude area. From camp, you may have impressive views toward Kibo and Mawenzi Peak, weather permitting.

Once you arrive at Barafu Camp, the focus changes from trekking to summit preparation. Your crew will provide a meal and help you prepare for the early-morning summit attempt. You will need to rest as much as possible because the next stage is the most demanding part of the entire climb.

Distance: Approximately 9-10 km
Hiking Time: 7-9 hours
Highest Point: Barafu Camp – approximately 4,673 m
Habitat: Alpine desert
Accommodation: Barafu Camp
Meals: Breakfast, lunch and dinner

Today’s Highlights

• Climb the famous Barranco Wall.
• Enjoy panoramic views across the Barranco Valley.
• Trek through the dramatic Karanga Valley.
• Continue toward Kilimanjaro’s high alpine desert.
• See changing views of Kibo and Mawenzi Peak when conditions are clear.
• Reach Barafu Camp, the main launch point for the summit attempt.
• Prepare your clothing, equipment and daypack for summit night.

Important Note

Today requires careful pacing because you are preparing for the summit attempt. Once you reach Barafu Camp, rest is your priority. Eat well, hydrate and organize your summit equipment before sleeping. Your guide will explain the summit schedule and safety procedures so you know what to expect during the early-morning ascent.

Today is the summit day and the most demanding part of your 6-Day Lemosho Route. You will leave Barafu Camp in the early hours of the morning and begin the final ascent toward Uhuru Peak, the highest point in Africa at 5,895 metres. The climb is slow and steady, with the goal of conserving energy while allowing your body to cope with the extreme altitude.

The trail initially climbs over rocky and increasingly barren terrain toward Stella Point, located on the crater rim at approximately 5,739 metres. As you gain height, temperatures become colder and the air becomes noticeably thinner. Your guide will maintain a controlled pace and provide regular breaks when necessary.

As dawn approaches, the horizon can begin to brighten with spectacular colors. If weather conditions are clear, you may see the sun rising over the surrounding African landscape while the summit glaciers and upper slopes of Kibo come into view. From Stella Point, you continue around the crater rim toward Uhuru Peak.

Reaching Uhuru Peak is a major achievement. At the summit, you will have time for photographs and to appreciate the incredible views, subject to weather and your physical condition. After celebrating your achievement, you begin the descent back toward Barafu Camp, where you will take a short rest and have something to eat.

The journey does not end at Barafu. You will continue descending through the alpine desert and upper moorland toward Mweka Camp, located at approximately 3,100 metres. The descent allows your body to move to a much lower elevation and provides a welcome change in temperature and vegetation.

By the time you reach Mweka Camp, you will have completed an exceptionally long and challenging day. Enjoy your dinner, rest your legs and celebrate reaching the highest point of your Kilimanjaro adventure.

Distance: Approximately 14-16 km
Hiking Time: 12-15 hours
Highest Point: Uhuru Peak – 5,895 m
Habitat: Arctic zone → Alpine desert → Moorland
Accommodation: Mweka Camp
Meals: Breakfast, lunch and dinner

Today’s Highlights

• Begin the summit attempt from Barafu Camp before dawn.
• Trek through Kilimanjaro’s cold and high-altitude summit zone.
• Reach Stella Point on the crater rim.
• Experience a spectacular sunrise, weather permitting.
• Continue along the crater rim to Uhuru Peak at 5,895 m.
• Celebrate reaching the highest point of Mount Kilimanjaro.
• Descend through several ecological zones toward Mweka Camp.
• Enjoy a well-earned dinner and overnight rest after the summit.

After breakfast at Mweka Camp, your final day on the mountain begins with a gentle descent through the lush montane forest toward Mweka Gate. After the demanding summit day, today’s shorter hike gives you time to enjoy the changing scenery and reflect on your Kilimanjaro achievement.

The trail descends through dense forest, where you may hear birds and spot black-and-white colobus monkeys or blue monkeys moving among the trees. The cooler, greener environment is a welcome contrast to the rocky alpine landscapes you experienced near the summit.

As you lose altitude, the vegetation becomes thicker and the air warmer. Your guide and mountain crew will accompany you throughout the descent, ensuring you reach the gate safely. At Mweka Gate, you will complete the final park formalities and receive your Kilimanjaro summit certificate if you successfully reached the required summit point.

After saying goodbye to your mountain crew, our WeWild Travel team will transfer you back to Arusha, where you can enjoy a well-deserved shower, comfortable surroundings and a relaxing evening at Mount Meru Hotel.

This marks the official end of your 6-Day Lemosho Route adventure, but the memories of reaching Uhuru Peak will stay with you long after you leave the mountain.

Distance: Approximately 10 km
Hiking Time: 3-4 hours
Habitat: Montane rainforest
Accommodation: Mount Meru Hotel, Arusha
Meals: Breakfast and lunch

Today’s Highlights

• Descend through Kilimanjaro’s beautiful montane rainforest.
• Look for forest birds and monkeys along the trail.
• Complete your final hike to Mweka Gate.
• Complete Kilimanjaro National Park exit procedures.
• Receive your summit certificate when applicable.
• Say goodbye to your mountain crew.
• Transfer back to Arusha and relax at Mount Meru Hotel.

Your Kilimanjaro adventure comes to an end today. After breakfast at Mount Meru Hotel in Arusha, you will have time to relax, organize your luggage and prepare for your journey home. Depending on your flight schedule, our WeWild Travel team will arrange your transfer from the hotel to Kilimanjaro International Airport (JRO).

The drive to the airport takes approximately 1–1.5 hours, depending on traffic and road conditions. As you leave Arusha, you can enjoy one last look at the landscapes of northern Tanzania and, on a clear day, catch a final glimpse of Mount Meru or Kilimanjaro.

If your flight departs later in the day, you may have additional time to relax at the hotel or explore Arusha before your airport transfer. Our team will ensure you have the information and assistance needed for a smooth departure.

We hope your 6-Day Lemosho Route has given you unforgettable memories, from the rainforest and Shira Plateau to Barranco, the summit of Uhuru Peak and the descent through Mweka.

• Activity: Breakfast, hotel check-out and airport transfer
• Transfer: Arusha – Kilimanjaro International Airport
• Driving time: Approximately 1-1.5 hours
• Accommodation: None
• Meals: Breakfast

End of Your Kilimanjaro Adventure

Thank you for choosing WeWild Travel for your Kilimanjaro climb. We wish you a safe journey home and hope to welcome you back to Tanzania for another adventure.