8 Days Mount Kilimanjaro Climb – Lemosho Route (No Accommodation)

Today’s trek leads out of the rainforest and onto the open moorland of the Shira Plateau. The vegetation changes dramatically as trees give way to giant heathers and expansive volcanic landscapes. The climb is steady and scenic, with increasing views of Kibo Peak and the surrounding plains. The Shira Plateau is one of the oldest volcanic areas on Kilimanjaro and provides breathtaking panoramic scenery. This gradual ascent helps with acclimatization as the air becomes thinner. Upon reaching Shira 1 Camp, you will enjoy dinner and overnight rest in preparation for higher elevations ahead.

This day is relatively short and focuses on acclimatization while crossing the Shira Plateau. The terrain is mostly flat with gentle ascents, allowing your body to adjust to the increasing altitude. Along the way, you will enjoy spectacular views of Mount Meru in the distance and the Western Breach of Kilimanjaro. The landscape is dotted with volcanic rocks and alpine vegetation unique to this altitude zone. Your guide may lead short acclimatization walks in the afternoon to improve altitude adaptation. Dinner and overnight take place at Shira 2 Camp.

This is a crucial acclimatization day following the “climb high, sleep low” principle. You will ascend gradually toward Lava Tower, reaching an altitude of about 4,600 meters. The environment becomes increasingly rugged and barren, giving you a true sense of high-altitude trekking. After lunch near Lava Tower, you descend to Barranco Camp, which helps your body adjust to altitude. Barranco Camp sits in a scenic valley beneath the impressive Barranco Wall, offering dramatic views and excellent photo opportunities. Dinner and overnight are spent at this beautiful campsite.

The day begins with an exciting climb up the famous Barranco Wall, a steep but non-technical scramble that rewards climbers with stunning views. With guidance from your professional mountain crew, the climb is safe and manageable. After reaching the top, the trail continues across ridges and valleys with views of glaciers and alpine desert landscapes. The trek to Karanga Camp is relatively short, allowing time for rest and acclimatization in the afternoon. This day plays an important role in preparing your body for the summit push. Dinner and overnight are at Karanga Camp.

Today’s trek takes you higher into the alpine desert zone as you ascend toward Barafu Camp, the final base camp before the summit attempt. The terrain becomes rocky and barren, with strong winds and colder temperatures. The pace is slow and steady to conserve energy. Upon arrival at Barafu Camp, you will rest, hydrate, and enjoy an early dinner. Your guide provides a detailed briefing about the summit night, including safety tips and pacing. Climbers are encouraged to sleep early in preparation for the midnight ascent to Uhuru Peak.

Summit day begins around midnight with a slow and steady ascent under the stars. The climb is physically and mentally demanding as you make your way to Stella Point, then continue along the crater rim to Uhuru Peak at 5,895 meters—the highest point in Africa. After celebrating and taking photos at the summit, you begin a long descent back to Barafu Camp for a short rest, then continue down to Mweka Camp. The descent is challenging but rewarding as oxygen levels increase. Dinner and overnight are at Mweka Camp.

The final day involves a descent through the lush rainforest zone, where the air becomes warmer and richer in oxygen. The trail can be muddy and slippery, so trekking poles are helpful. Along the way, you may spot wildlife and enjoy the sounds of the forest. Upon reaching Mweka Gate, you complete park formalities and receive your summit certificates if successful. This marks the end of your Mount Kilimanjaro Lemosho Route adventure. No accommodation or transfers are included after the trek.