Lemosho Route

The Lemosho Route is a newer route on Mount Kilimanjaro that approaches from the west. It is a difficult and long route, but one that is favored by most reputable Kilimanjaro outfitters due to its smaller crowds, scenic variety and high success rates.

A vehicle is used to bring climbers to the gate, where the trail begins in the rainforest. Lemosho trekkers have a longer distance to cover in the rainforest ecosystem than other routes, and as a result climbers do not exit the rainforest until the end of day two. This schedule means that the Lemosho Route is a longer route,usually taking seven to eight days to complete.

Though considered a difficult route, the added days on the lower slopes of the mountain make this the best route for altitude acclimatization. The descent is down Mweka, in the south-east. Because the starting point is far from Moshi, it is more expensive to climb this route due to the added transportation cost of getting climbers to the gate. Scenically, Lemosho is considered the most varied and most beautiful because it begins in the rainforest, crosses the spectacular Shira Plateau, and then combines with the Machame route to share its viewpoints around the southern circuit. Lemosho has low crowds until it combines with Machame.

Lemosho is ideal for those who place a premium on proper altitude acclimatization, who are confident in their ability to walk over steeper paths for extended periods, and want a lesser used route. However, Lemosho is also more expensive than the other routes.

Trekking Distance

The distance of the Lemosho route is approximately 70 km or 42 miles. The total elevation gain ranges from approximately 16,000 to 17,000 feet.

Trekking Days

The Lemosho route has several variations and thus, the trail can be completed in as little as 6 days and as many as 8 days. The standard itinerary is the preferred variation which requires 8 days.

Trekking Hardness

The Lemosho route is considered a moderately difficult route due to its distance and elevation gain. The up and down nature of the trail is strenuous. However, when you factor in the favorable acclimatization schedule, it is actually fairly easy.

Trekking Success Rate

The success rate depends on the number of days you spend on the mountain. It is estimated that 6 day Lemosho climbs have a success rate of about 60%, 7 day Lemosho climbs have a success rate of around 80%, and 8 day Lemosho climbs have a success rate of about 90%.