Lemosho Route Kilimanjaro Altitude
Lemosho Route Kilimanjaro Altitude
The Lemosho Route is one of the most scenic and successful routes to climb Mount Kilimanjaro. It approaches the mountain from the western side and gradually ascends across several ecological zones, which helps climbers acclimatize better to the altitude.
Below is the typical altitude profile for the 7–8 day Lemosho Route itinerary.
Day 1: Lemosho Gate to Mti Mkubwa Camp
- Starting point: Lemosho Gate – 2,100 m (6,890 ft)
- Camp: Mti Mkubwa Camp – 2,650 m (8,694 ft)
The trek begins in a lush rainforest environment where you may see monkeys and tropical birds. The hike is relatively gentle and allows your body to start adjusting to the altitude.
Day 2: Mti Mkubwa Camp to Shira 1 Camp
- Start altitude: 2,650 m (8,694 ft)
- Camp altitude: Shira 1 Camp – 3,500 m (11,483 ft)
The trail gradually leaves the forest and enters the heath and moorland zone. The views begin to open up as you approach the Shira Plateau.
Day 3: Shira 1 Camp to Shira 2 Camp
- Start altitude: 3,500 m (11,483 ft)
- Camp altitude: Shira 2 Camp – 3,850 m (12,631 ft)
This day involves a gentle hike across the Shira Plateau with spectacular views of Kilimanjaro’s summit and surrounding valleys.
Day 4: Shira 2 Camp to Barranco Camp (via Lava Tower)
- Start altitude: 3,850 m (12,631 ft)
- Lava Tower: 4,630 m (15,190 ft)
- Camp altitude: Barranco Camp – 3,960 m (12,992 ft)
This is an important acclimatization day. Climbers hike up to a higher altitude at Lava Tower before descending to Barranco Camp to sleep.
Day 5: Barranco Camp to Karanga Camp
- Start altitude: 3,960 m (12,992 ft)
- Camp altitude: Karanga Camp – 4,035 m (13,238 ft)
The day begins with the famous Barranco Wall climb. Although steep, it is not technical and rewards climbers with incredible views.
Day 6: Karanga Camp to Barafu Camp
- Start altitude: 4,035 m (13,238 ft)
- Camp altitude: Barafu Camp – 4,640 m (15,223 ft)
Barafu Camp is the final base camp before the summit attempt. Climbers rest in the afternoon and prepare for the midnight summit push.
Day 7: Summit Day – Uhuru Peak
- Start altitude: 4,640 m (15,223 ft)
- Stella Point: 5,739 m (18,829 ft)
- Uhuru Peak – 5,895 m (19,341 ft)
Climbers begin the summit push around midnight and reach Uhuru Peak, the highest point in Africa. After celebrating at the summit, trekkers descend back to a lower camp for the night.
Why the Lemosho Route Is Good for Altitude Acclimatization
The Lemosho Route is known for its high success rate because it:
- Starts at a moderate altitude
- Gradually increases elevation
- Includes acclimatization days
- Follows the “climb high, sleep low” principle
These factors help the body adjust to lower oxygen levels and reduce the risk of altitude sickness.
Final Tip
Even with a good altitude profile, climbers should:
- Walk slowly (“pole pole” as guides say in Tanzania)
- Drink plenty of water
- Listen to guides about altitude symptoms
With proper preparation and pacing, the Lemosho Route offers one of the most beautiful and successful paths to the summit of Mount Kilimanjaro.
