Lemosho route is one of the best routes for acclimatization. The route is less used and a beautiful way up to the Shira Plateau.
The route is one of the few where groups may be accompanied on the first day by an armed ranger, as the forests around the Lemosho Glades are inhabited by buffalo, elephant and other wildlife.
The minimum duration for the Lemosho route is 6 days, however we strongly recommend hiking the route in 7 days. The additional 7th day will give your body more time to acclimatize, reducing the effects of altitude sickness and give you more time to rest before attempting the summit.
After breakfast and a briefing, we embark on a drive to Londorossi Park Gate, approximately a 3-hour journey. From there, a forest track accessible only by a 4WD vehicle leads us to Lemosho Glades. We begin our trek along forest trails to Mti Mkubwa (big tree) campsite.
Following breakfast, we continue our journey as the trail gradually steepens, transitioning into the giant heather moorland zone. Crossing several streams, we proceed over the Shira Ridge, passing Shira 1 camp en route to Shira 2 camp nestled amidst moorland meadows by a stream.
From the Shira Plateau, our journey continues eastward up a ridge, passing the junction toward Kibo's peak. Progressing southeast, we approach the Lava Tower, nicknamed the “Shark’s Tooth” (elev 4650m/15,250ft). Descending after the tower, we reach Barranco Camp. Despite ending the day at a similar elevation as we began, this day aids acclimatization, crucial for summit day.
After breakfast, we depart Barranco, ascending the steep Barranco Wall to the Karanga Valley and the junction connecting with the Mweka Trail.
Our ascent continues to Barafu Camp, marking the completion of the South Circuit, offering diverse views of the summit. Here, we make camp, rest, dine, and prepare for summit day.
Commencing very early (midnight to 2 am), we proceed toward the summit between the Rebmann and Ratzel glaciers. Heading northwest, we ascend through scree toward Stella Point on the crater rim. This marks the most mentally and physically demanding segment of the trek. At Stella Point, a brief rest precedes the awe-inspiring sunrise view. From there, snow may be encountered on the ascent to Uhuru Peak, Africa's highest point. Following the summit, we descend to Mweka Camp via Barafu, arriving in the late afternoon.
After breakfast, we descend to Mweka Park Gate to receive summit certificates. Lower down, expect wet and muddy terrain. Gaiters and trekking poles may be beneficial. Awaiting us at Mweka gate, the Africa Porini Safaris vehicle transfers us back to the hotel in Moshi (approximately 60 minutes).
