8 Kilimanjaro Lemosho Route Trekking
overview
There are six established routes to climb Mount Kilimanjaro – Marangu, Machame, Lemosho, Shira, Rongai and Umbwe. The Marangu, Machame, and Umbwe routes all approach from the south of the mountain. The Lemosho and Shira routes approach from the west. The Rongai route approaches from the north near Kenya. All routes except Marangu descend via Mweka.
Lemosho Route on Mount Kilimanjaro
Climbing Mount Kilimanjaro via The Lemosho Route
As a newer route, it is more remote and arguably more beautiful, but a bit longer and slightly more expensive. It starts on the Western side of the mountain at the Londorossi Gate which is a further drive from town, and was introduced as an alternative to the Shira route.
After beautiful forests and moorlands it crosses the Shira Plateau on day 3 to connect with the Machame Route at Lava Tower and down towards Barranco Valley via the Southern Circuit. You may be lucky enough to see buffalo, elephant and other game. Because this route can be done over a longer period of time for acclimatization, it has a higher success rate of summit.
Duration: 7 – 8 days
Difficulty: Medium
Scenery: Excellent
Traffic: Medium
daily safari itinerary
Day 1
Arrive in Arusha
Arrive at Kilimanjaro International Airport where you are met after passing through customs. Transfer to Mount Meru Hotel and have a comprehensive briefing and equipment check with your climbing manager and your guide. Overnight at Mount Meru Hotel
Accommodations: Mount Meru Hotel
Meals Included: Breakfast
ACCODATIONS
FOREST HILL LODGE
BED & BREAKFAST
DRINKS NOT INCLUDED
Day 2
TARANGIRE NATIONAL PARK
7,742 ft to 9,498 ft, 4 miles, approx. 3-4 hours
From Arusha, set out in vehicles for the long drive to the starting point of the Lemosho Trail, the Londorossi Gate. Approaching the mountain from the west, the Lemosho Route starts in the Afromontane Rainforest, which is the first of four ecological zones you encounter on Kilimanjaro. Here you meet the rest of your crew and set off at a leisurely pace while keeping your eyes peeled for wildlife. Lunch is taken on the trail and camp is reached mid-afternoon. Overnight at Forest Camp.
Accommodations: Kilimanjaro Camping
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
ACCOMODATIONS
AILEEN"S TREES INN/FARMS OF DREAM
FULL BOARD
DRINKS NOT INCLUDED
Day 3
SERENGETI NATIONAL PARK
After breakfast, travel through the scenic Ngorongoro Conservation Area en route to Serengeti National Park, one of Africa’s most celebrated wildlife destinations. Along the way, marvel at vast landscapes and spot Maasai herders tending cattle. Upon arrival in the Serengeti, the sheer expanse of open plains is awe-inspiring. Begin your game drive, watching for prides of lions lounging beneath acacia trees, cheetahs scanning the horizon, and massive herds of herbivores like zebras and wildebeest. This area hosts the Great Migration—one of nature’s most spectacular events. Enjoy a picnic lunch in the wild. By evening, arrive at your tented camp, where you’ll enjoy a freshly prepared dinner and the sounds of the bush under a starlit sky.
ACCOMODATIONS
ZAWADI CAMP
FULL BOARD
DRINKS NOT INCLUDED
Day 4
FULL DAY SERENGETI NATIONAL PARK
Today offers a full day of game viewing in central Serengeti, one of the world’s most iconic safari locations. Rise early for a sunrise drive—an ideal time to spot predators on the hunt. The Serengeti hosts a wide variety of animals, including elephants, leopards, cheetahs, giraffes, hyenas, and large prides of lions. Your guide will tailor the route based on wildlife movement, possibly taking you to watering holes, kopjes, or migration routes. Enjoy a packed lunch in the bush while surrounded by stunning views. Return to your tented camp in the late afternoon for dinner and another night in the wild..
ACCOMODATIONS
ZAWADI CAMP
FULL BOARD
DRINKS NOT INCLUDED
Day 5
FULL DAY SERENGETI NATIONAL PARK
You remain in the Serengeti to dive deeper into this vast ecosystem. You can explore a different region of the park today—perhaps the river areas where crocodiles and hippos gather, or the rock outcrops (kopjes) where lions love to bask in the sun. Whether it’s the Great Migration or quiet moments with nature, it’s a day full of unforgettable sightings.
ACCOMODATIONS
ZAWADI CAMP
FULL BOARD
DRINKS NOT INCLUDED
Day 6
SERENGETI-NGORONGORO CRATER
After breakfast, enjoy a final game drive through the Serengeti as you make your way to the Ngorongoro Conservation Area. Arrive at the crater rim and descend 600 meters into the world’s largest intact volcanic caldera for an unforgettable game drive. The Ngorongoro Crater is home to over 25,000 animals, including rare black rhinos, large lion prides, elephants, and flamingos. Its diverse habitats range from forest and grassland to swamps and a salt lake. Enjoy a picnic lunch inside the crater before ascending and continuing to Karatu for the night.
ACCOMODATIONS
EILEEN'S TREES INN/FARM OF DREAMS
FULL BOARD
DRINKS NOT INCLUDED
Day 7
KATARU - ARUSHA
After breakfast, enjoy a leisurely drive back to Arusha, passing coffee farms and scenic landscapes. Upon arrival, you may have time for lunch or souvenir shopping, depending on your flight schedule. Your guide will transfer you to Kilimanjaro International Airport (JRO) or Arusha Airport (ARK) for your departure flight. If you’re continuing your journey, a short flight to Zanzibar is an excellent option for some beach relaxation after your safari. Whether heading home or off to the coast, this day marks the end of a memorable Tanzanian adventure.
INCLUDED
- Park fees
- All accommodation as stated in the itinerary
- All Meals (as specified in the day-by-day section)
- Drinks (as specified in the day-by-day section)
- All transportation
- Roundtrip airport transfer
- A professional driver/guide
- All activities (unless labeled as optional)
- All Taxes/VAT
EXCLUDED
- International flights (from/to home)
- Additional accommodation before and at the end of the tour
- Personal items (souvenirs, travel insurance, visa fees, etc.)
- Tips to your safari Guide (tipping guideline US$15.00 pp per day)
- Additions Optional Activities After Booking Confirmations
- Travel insurance;
- Visa fee
