After breakfast, you will embark on a drive to Londorossi Park Gate (2,250 meters / 7,380 feet), which takes approximately 2.5 hours. From there, you’ll continue on a forest track that requires a 4WD vehicle, heading to Lemosho Glades (2,390 meters / 7,380 feet), a distance of 11 kilometers, which takes about 45 minutes.

Upon reaching Lemosho Glades, you’ll begin a scenic walk along forest trails to the Mti Mkubwa (Big Tree) campsite, where you’ll set up camp for the night. Please note that park fees are not required for camping at this site.

Several streams are crossed as the trail ascends to the Shira Ridge, reaching an elevation of approximately 3,600 meters (11,811 feet).

From the ridge, the path gently descends to Shira 1 Camp, located beside a stream on the Shira Plateau. Here, you’ll enjoy dinner and spend the night, soaking in the serene surroundings and preparing for the next day’s adventure.

After breakfast, embark on a gentle walk across the plateau, heading towards Shira 2 Camp. This camp, situated in the moorland zone beside a stream, offers stunning views and a range of exploration opportunities on the plateau.

It serves as an excellent day for acclimatization, allowing you to adjust to the altitude while enjoying the diverse landscapes. Arrive at Shira 2 Camp in time for dinner and an overnight stay, surrounded by the beauty of the high-altitude environment.

From the Shira Plateau, continue eastward, passing the junction that leads towards Kibo Peak. As you progress, your route shifts southeast towards the Lava Tower, famously known as the “Shark’s Tooth.”

After navigating past the tower, you’ll reach the second junction, which guides you towards Arrow Glacier, located at an altitude of 4,876 meters (15,997 feet). This point offers breathtaking views and prepares you for the high-altitude conditions of the climb ahead.

After breakfast, depart from Barranco and tackle the steep ridge leading past the Barranco Wall. This challenging ascent brings you to the Karanga Valley, situated at 4,200 meters (13,780 feet). Upon arrival at the campsite, enjoy dinner and settle in for the night, preparing for the next stage of your climb.

After breakfast, depart from the Karanga Valley and pass the junction that connects with the Mweka Trail. Continue on to the Barafu Hut, situated at 4,600 meters (15,092 feet).

At this point, you have completed the South Circuit, providing you with panoramic views of Kilimanjaro’s summit from various angles. Set up camp at Barafu Hut, rest, enjoy dinner, and prepare for the summit day. From this vantage point, you’ll have clear views of both Mawenzi and Kibo peaks.

Early in the morning, start your final ascent with a warm cup of tea or coffee. The trek to Uhuru Peak (5,895m/19,341ft) typically takes about 6 hours. Prepare for extreme temperature changes, as it can be frigid during the night but warm up significantly as the day progresses. Make sure you have clothing for both cold and warm conditions.

Upon reaching Uhuru Peak, you’ll be standing at the highest point in Africa. If you’re a fast hiker, you might even catch the sunrise from the summit—a truly spectacular experience.

After celebrating your achievement, begin your descent to Mweka Hut (3,100m/10,171ft), which usually takes about 5 hours. The trail is often covered in loose gravel, so gaiters and trekking poles will help you navigate more comfortably.

Arriving at Mweka Hut, enjoy a well-deserved dinner and a good night’s sleep. Mweka Hut is the only place on this route where you might find beer and soda for purchase, adding a small touch of luxury to your final night on the mountain.

After breakfast, begin your descent to the Mweka Park Gate. As you lower in altitude, the trail can become wet and muddy, so gaiters and trekking poles will be useful. At this point, wearing shorts and a t-shirt should suffice, but keep your rain gear and warmer clothing handy just in case.

Upon reaching Mweka Village, a vehicle will be waiting to transport you back to your hotel. Celebrate your achievement with your fellow climbers!

This marks the end of the 8-day Kilimanjaro Lemosho route. Prepare for your flight home the next day or continue your adventure with wildlife safaris to other destinations.