How does the 9 day Kilimanjaro Lemosho route compare with Machame?

The 9 day Kilimanjaro Lemosho route starts in a quieter forest on the west side and crosses the Shira Plateau, then joins Machame's southern circuit. It is more remote and scenic at the start, with a similar summit day.

Is the 9 day Lemosho route long enough?

Seven days on the mountain is a good length, with nights at Barranco and Karanga helping acclimatisation. If this is your first time at altitude, the 10 day version adds a night on the Shira Plateau.

When is the best time to climb the Lemosho route?

The best months are January to mid-March and June to October. The western forest can be very wet in April and May.

Will I see wildlife on the Lemosho route?

The western forest is one of the best places on Kilimanjaro for black-and-white colobus monkeys and birds. Larger animals are rarely seen, but you may spot their tracks.

Can a group climb the Lemosho route together?

Yes. The Lemosho route is popular with clubs, charities and groups of friends. We add guides so the group can split by pace on summit night, and plan rooms and transfers for everyone. Contact us with your numbers and dates.

9 Day Kilimanjaro Lemosho Route From the Western Forest

This 9 day Kilimanjaro Lemosho route starts in Kilimanjaro’s remote western rainforest and joins the southern circuit to Uhuru Peak.

Overview

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FAQs

This 9 day Kilimanjaro Lemosho route is one of the most beautiful ways up Kilimanjaro, starting and ending in Moshi. You start at Londorossi Gate on the quiet western side, walk through rainforest to Mti Mkubwa, cross the Shira Plateau, then follow the southern circuit via Lava Tower, Barranco and Karanga to Barafu and the summit of Uhuru Peak (5,895 m).

It suits fit trekkers who want wilderness and good acclimatisation in a week on the mountain.

Why choose the 9 day Kilimanjaro Lemosho route?

Lemosho’s first two days are among the quietest on the mountain, through old forest where colobus monkeys are common. Crossing the whole Shira Plateau gives stunning views of Kibo, and joining Machame at Lava Tower means you get its best scenery too. For an even gentler pace, choose our 10 day Kilimanjaro Lemosho route.

What to expect on the 9 day Kilimanjaro Lemosho route

Day 2 drives to Londorossi Gate and walks to Mti Mkubwa Camp (about 2,780 m). Day 3 climbs onto the Shira Plateau to Shira 2 Camp (about 3,900 m). Day 4 goes over Lava Tower to Barranco, day 5 to Karanga, day 6 to Barafu, and summit night reaches Uhuru Peak at sunrise before descending to Millennium Camp. Day 8 walks out to Mweka Gate.

When is the best time to climb?

January to mid-March and June to October are the driest months. Read our month-by-month guide to climbing Kilimanjaro and compare all routes in our Kilimanjaro routes guide.

How do I book this climb?

Prices depend on your dates, group size and whether you want huts, camping or extra nights, so we quote every climb personally. WhatsApp us on +254 706 223888, email [email protected] or request a tailor-made quote. If you are travelling with friends, a club or colleagues, see our page on climbing as a group.