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Empaalai African Adventure

Kilimanjaro hike via Lemosho / Shira Route

From

$2550.00

Duration

7 days

Tour Type

4.2 by 3 reviews
  • Quality4.33
  • Location4
  • Amenities4
  • Services4.33
  • Price4.33

Overview

Experience the Ultimate Kilimanjaro Adventure

The Kilimanjaro Hike via Lemosho / Shira Route offers one of the most breathtaking and rewarding ways to summit Mount Kilimanjaro, the highest peak in Africa. This route is designed for climbers who want not only to reach the summit but also to fully enjoy the journey through diverse and ever-changing landscapes. From the very first day, you will be immersed in natural beauty, starting in the lush rainforest and gradually ascending through moorland, alpine desert, and finally into the icy summit zone. Each stage of the climb reveals a new environment, making the experience both visually stunning and deeply memorable.

What makes the Kilimanjaro Hike via Lemosho / Shira Route truly special is the sense of progression and adventure it offers. As you move higher each day, the air becomes thinner, the terrain more dramatic, and the views more expansive. You will witness incredible sunrises above the clouds, vast open plateaus, and distant horizons that stretch endlessly across Tanzania. This journey is not just about reaching the summit, but about experiencing every moment along the way.

Choosing the Kilimanjaro Hike via Lemosho / Shira Route means you are selecting a path that prioritizes both safety and success. The longer itinerary allows your body to properly acclimatize to the altitude, which is one of the most important factors in reaching the summit. This gradual approach reduces the risk of altitude sickness and increases your confidence as you climb higher each day.

Another major advantage of the Kilimanjaro Hike via Lemosho / Shira Route is the high level of support you receive throughout the trek. A professional team of experienced guides, porters, and a dedicated cook will accompany you every step of the way. They handle all the essential logistics, including navigation, setting up camp, and preparing nutritious meals, allowing you to focus entirely on your climb and personal experience.

Ultimately, the Kilimanjaro Hike via Lemosho / Shira Route is more than just a mountain trek—it is a life-changing adventure. The physical challenge, combined with the stunning scenery and the emotional reward of reaching the summit, creates an unforgettable experience. Standing at the top of Mount Kilimanjaro is a powerful moment that symbolizes determination, resilience, and achievement, making this journey truly worth every step.

Why Choose the Kilimanjaro Hike via Lemosho / Shira Route?

One of the main reasons climbers choose the Kilimanjaro Hike via Lemosho / Shira Route is its excellent acclimatization profile. Unlike shorter routes, this trail allows you to ascend gradually, giving your body enough time to adjust to the high altitude. This “climb high, sleep low” approach is proven to improve summit success rates and reduce the risk of altitude sickness. For many climbers, this becomes the deciding factor between reaching the summit and having to turn back early due to altitude-related challenges.

Another key benefit of the Kilimanjaro Hike via Lemosho / Shira Route is the balance it offers between adventure and safety. The longer duration of the trek means that each day is carefully planned to allow proper rest, recovery, and steady progress. This not only improves your physical performance but also boosts your confidence as you move higher up the mountain. With the guidance of experienced professionals, you are able to maintain a safe pace that maximizes your chances of success.

The Kilimanjaro Hike via Lemosho / Shira Route is also famous for its incredible scenery and diverse landscapes. The route begins in a remote and less crowded area on the western side of Mount Kilimanjaro, offering a peaceful and immersive trekking experience right from the start. As you continue, the environment transforms dramatically, taking you from dense rainforest to open moorlands and eventually into the stark beauty of the alpine desert.

As you progress along the Kilimanjaro Hike via Lemosho / Shira Route, you will encounter some of the mountain’s most iconic features, including the expansive Shira Plateau and unique volcanic formations. The wide-open landscapes provide breathtaking panoramic views that stretch for miles, giving you a true sense of the scale and grandeur of Kilimanjaro. These scenic moments create unforgettable memories that stay with you long after the climb is over.

Beyond the physical and visual rewards, the Kilimanjaro Hike via Lemosho / Shira Route offers a deeper sense of connection with nature. The quieter start of the route allows you to fully appreciate the sounds, sights, and atmosphere of the mountain without heavy crowds. This combination of tranquility, natural beauty, and well-planned trekking conditions makes the journey just as meaningful and memorable as standing on the summit itself.

Route Highlights of Kilimanjaro Hike via Lemosho / Shira Route

The Kilimanjaro Hike via Lemosho / Shira Route takes you through several remarkable landmarks that truly define the Kilimanjaro experience. One of the most outstanding highlights is the Shira Plateau, a high-altitude plateau that offers wide-open views and a unique perspective of Mount Kilimanjaro. Walking across this vast and ancient volcanic landscape gives you a deep sense of the mountain’s scale and natural beauty, making it one of the most memorable and visually rewarding sections of the trek.

Another unforgettable part of the Kilimanjaro Hike via Lemosho / Shira Route is the ascent of the Barranco Wall. Although it may look intimidating at first, it is a non-technical climb that most trekkers can manage with guidance from experienced guides. Reaching the top of the wall rewards you with spectacular views of glaciers, valleys, and distant landscapes, giving you a strong sense of achievement and boosting your confidence for the journey ahead.

The route also includes a visit to the famous Lava Tower, which serves as a crucial acclimatization point during the Kilimanjaro Hike via Lemosho / Shira Route. At this stage, you climb to a higher altitude before descending to sleep at a lower elevation, helping your body adjust more effectively to the thinner air. This strategic approach plays a vital role in increasing your chances of successfully reaching the summit while minimizing the risks associated with altitude sickness.

As you continue the Kilimanjaro Hike via Lemosho / Shira Route, you will pass through the beautiful Karanga Valley, known for its unique vegetation and scenic surroundings. This area provides a perfect place to rest and recharge before continuing toward the higher camps. The changing landscapes along the route ensure that each day feels different, keeping the experience fresh and exciting throughout the trek.

One of the most powerful highlights of the Kilimanjaro Hike via Lemosho / Shira Route is the final summit push toward Uhuru Peak. Starting in the early hours of the morning, you climb under a sky full of stars, gradually approaching the highest point in Africa. Watching the sunrise from the summit of Mount Kilimanjaro is an unforgettable moment that makes all the effort worthwhile, marking the successful completion of an incredible and life-changing journey.

Difficulty Level of Kilimanjaro Hike via Lemosho / Shira Route

The Kilimanjaro Hike via Lemosho / Shira Route is considered moderately difficult to challenging, making it suitable for physically fit individuals who are prepared for a multi-day trek at high altitude. While no technical climbing skills are required, the altitude and long trekking days can be demanding. Proper preparation, including physical training, endurance building, and mental readiness, is essential for a successful climb on Mount Kilimanjaro.

One of the biggest challenges of the Kilimanjaro Hike via Lemosho / Shira Route is not the terrain itself, but the high altitude. As you ascend higher, oxygen levels decrease, which can make even simple activities like walking feel more exhausting. This is why pacing is extremely important, and climbers are encouraged to walk slowly and steadily to conserve energy and allow the body to adjust naturally.

The daily trekking distances on the Kilimanjaro Hike via Lemosho / Shira Route can vary, with some days requiring several hours of continuous hiking. Summit day is particularly demanding, often involving a long night climb in cold temperatures before reaching the peak at sunrise. This part of the journey requires determination, resilience, and a strong mindset to push through fatigue and reach the top.

Despite its challenges, the Kilimanjaro Hike via Lemosho / Shira Route is achievable for many people with the right preparation and support system. You do not need prior mountaineering experience, but engaging in activities such as hiking, running, or cardio training before the trip can significantly improve your performance and comfort during the climb.

The presence of experienced guides plays a crucial role in making the Kilimanjaro Hike via Lemosho / Shira Route safe and manageable. Guides monitor your health daily, provide advice on pacing, and offer encouragement throughout the trek. With proper guidance, regular health checks, and a well-planned itinerary, the climb becomes not only achievable but also an incredibly rewarding and unforgettable experience.

Best Time for Kilimanjaro Hike via Lemosho / Shira Route

Timing plays an important role in the success of your Kilimanjaro Hike via Lemosho / Shira Route. The best months to climb are during the dry seasons, from January to March and from June to October. During these periods, the weather is more stable, skies are clearer, and the trails are easier to navigate, providing better overall trekking conditions.

Climbing during the recommended seasons for the Kilimanjaro Hike via Lemosho / Shira Route also enhances your experience by offering better visibility of the surrounding landscapes. You can enjoy panoramic views, stunning sunrises, and unforgettable moments at the summit. Avoiding the rainy seasons helps reduce the risk of slippery trails and discomfort, ensuring a safer and more enjoyable climb.

Ready for Your Kilimanjaro Hike via Lemosho / Shira Route?

Embarking on the Kilimanjaro Hike via Lemosho / Shira Route is more than just a trek; it is a life-changing adventure that challenges you physically and inspires you mentally. Reaching the summit of Mount Kilimanjaro is a powerful achievement that stays with you forever, reminding you of your strength, determination, and ability to overcome challenges. Every step you take on this journey builds confidence and creates memories that will last a lifetime.

The Kilimanjaro Hike via Lemosho / Shira Route offers a complete adventure experience, combining breathtaking landscapes, personal growth, and the thrill of reaching Africa’s highest point. From the quiet rainforest trails to the dramatic high-altitude zones, each day brings a new sense of excitement and discovery. This journey is not just about the destination, but about embracing the entire process and enjoying every moment along the way.

Choosing the Kilimanjaro Hike via Lemosho / Shira Route means you are giving yourself the best chance to succeed while enjoying one of the most scenic routes on the mountain. With a well-planned itinerary, experienced guides, and a strong support team, you will have everything you need to complete the climb safely and confidently. The sense of achievement you feel at the summit is unmatched and truly worth the effort.

If you are ready to take on the challenge, now is the perfect time to book your Kilimanjaro Hike via Lemosho / Shira Route. Proper preparation, including physical training and the right gear, will set you up for success and help you fully enjoy the experience. With the right mindset and determination, you can push beyond your limits and achieve something truly extraordinary.

Don’t miss the opportunity to stand on the “Roof of Africa” and witness the world from above. The Kilimanjaro Hike via Lemosho / Shira Route is waiting for you — an unforgettable journey filled with adventure, beauty, and achievement. Book your climb today and take the first step toward conquering Mount Kilimanjaro.

Included/Exclude

  • 2 nights’ hotel accommodation in Moshi/Arusha (before & after the climb)
  • Group transport to and from Moshi to the trail head
  • Kilimanjaro National Park permits, camping/hut fees, rescue fees, and Value Added Tax (VAT)
  • Expert guide, assistant guides, cook, and porters
  • Bottled oxygen, for emergency rescue only
  • mountain tents, double occupancy
  • Sleeping pad, foam, sleeping bag & trekking poles
  • Mess tents, tables, chairs, lanterns
  • Fresh, nutritious meals on the mountain
  • Pick up and drop off at Kilimanjaro or Arusha Airport
  • All Ground Transfers
  • flights
  • Lunch or dinner at the hotel
  • Beverages at the hotel
  • Personal gear and equipment (see rental prices)
  • Tips (see recommended tipping guideline)
  • Kilimanjaro search & rescue – air evacuation

Tour Amenities

Accepts Credit Cards
Reservations

Itinerary Day By Day

Upon landing at Kilimanjaro Airport in Tanzania, our friendly transfer driver will greet you and escort you to your overnight accommodation. The remainder of the day is yours to explore Moshi town or Arusha city or simply relax by your hotel’s pool. Later, our operations team will provide a comprehensive briefing to prepare you for your upcoming trek.

Depart Arusha/Moshi for Londorossi Gate, which will take about 4 hours. Then we will drive to the Lemosho trailhead (another hour to reach the trailhead). Upon arrival at trailhead, we will have lunch and then commence through undisturbed forest which winds to the first campsite, Forest camp Know as (Big tree Camp).

Elevation (ft): 7,800ft to 9,500ft
Distance: 6 km
Hiking Time:3-4 hours
Habitat: Rain Forest
Full board at Forest camp Know as {Big tree Camp}.

After your breakfast, we will continue on the trail leading out of the forest up into a savannah of tall grasses, heather, and volcanic rock draped with lichen beards.
As we climb up through the lush rolling hills and cross several streams, we will reach the Shira Ridge before dropping gently down to Shira 1 camp. The view of Kibo from across the plateau is amazing.
Dinner and overnight at Shira One Camp.

Today is the gentle walk east toward Kibo’s glaciered peak, across the plateau which leads to Shira 2 camp on moorland. Stay at Shira 2 camp or continue to Moir Hut, a little-used site on the base of Lent Hills.
A variety of walks are available on Lent Hills making this an excellent acclimatization opportunity. Shira is one of the highest plateaus on earth.

Elevation (ft): 11,500ft to 13,800 ft.
Distance: 14 km.
Hiking Time: 5-7 hours.
Habitat: Moorland.
Full Board at Shira 2 camp.

Soon after our breakfast, will start a walk, our direction will change to the South East towards the Lava Tower. Our direction will change to a place called the “Shark’s Tooth.”
Shortly after the tower, we come to the second junction which brings us up to the Arrow Glacier at an altitude of 16,000ft. We now continue down to the Barranco Hut at an altitude of 13,000ft.
You will have a rest, enjoy dinner, and overnight.

Elevation (ft): 13,800ft to 13,000ft.
Distance: 7 km.
Hiking Time: 4-6 hours.
Habitat: Semi Desert.
Full Board at Shira 2 or Moir Hut camp.

After your breakfast, will leave Barranco and continue on a steep ridge passing the Barranco Wall, to the Karanga Valley campsite. This is a short day and it is meant for giving your body more acclimatization time.

Elevation (ft): 13,000ft to 13,100ft.
Distance: 5km.
Hiking Time: 4-5 hours.
Habitat: Alpine Desert.
Full Board at Karanga Camp.

At midnight to 1200am, we continue our way to the summit between the Rebmann and Ratzel glaciers. You head in a northwesterly direction and ascend through heavy scree towards Stella Point on the crater rim. This is the most mentally and physically challenging portion of the Kilimanjaro trekking.

At Stella Point (18,600 ft), you will stop for a short rest and will be rewarded with the most magnificent sunrise you are ever likely to see (weather permitting). From Stella Point, you may encounter snow all the way on your 1-hour ascent to the summit.
At Uhuru Peak, you have reached the highest point on Mount Kilimanjaro and the continent of Africa. Faster hikers will see the sunrise from the summit.

Celebrate, take pictures, and make memories before descent straight down to the Mweka Hut campsite, we will stop at Barafu for lunch.
You may need gaiters and trekking poles for the loose gravel going down. Mweka Camp is situated in the upper forest and mist or rain can be expected in the late afternoon.
Later in the evening, we enjoy our last dinner on the mountain and a well-earned sleep.

Elevation (ft): 15,300ft to 19,345ft (and down to 10,000ft).
Distance: 5 km ascent / 12 km descent.
Hiking Time: 7-8 hours ascent / 4-6 hours descent.
Habitat: Arctic.
Full Board at Mweka hut Camp.

After breakfast, we will continue with our descent down to the Mweka Park Gate.

Our vehicles will be waiting for you at the Mweka gate to drive you back to your hotel in Arusha or Moshi.

Elevation (ft): 10,000ft to 5,400ft.
Distance: 10 km.
Hiking Time: 3-4 hours.
Habitat: Rain Forest.
Half Board.

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