LEMOSHO ROUTE

Lemosho Route overview

The Lemosho Route is one of the most scenic and less crowded trails for climbing Mount Kilimanjaro, offering a remote and immersive wilderness experience. At Kilimap Adventures, we lead many successful expeditions along this breathtaking trail each year. The route begins on the western slopes of the mountain in a pristine rainforest and gradually ascends across the Shira Plateau. It is available in both 7-day and 8-day variations, with the 8-day option providing excellent acclimatization and one of the highest summit success rates among all Kilimanjaro routes.
Lemosho is ideal for both beginners and experienced trekkers, offering a perfect balance of low foot traffic, stunning panoramic views, and a well-paced ascent. The route passes through all five of Kilimanjaro’s climatic zones—starting in lush forest, moving through heath and moorland, and eventually reaching the arctic summit zone. Key highlights include the wide-open expanse of the Shira Plateau, the challenge of the iconic Barranco Wall, and sightings of the rare Dendrosenecio kilimanjari plants that grow only on the high slopes of Kilimanjaro.
The name Lemosho is believed to originate from local dialects spoken in the western region of Kilimanjaro, an area traditionally inhabited by the Chagga and Maasai communities. Historically, this region was rich in wildlife and served as grazing grounds for Maasai cattle, while the fertile lower slopes supported Chagga agriculture and settlements. Although less documented than other parts of Kilimanjaro, the western slopes hold cultural and ecological significance and offer a deeper connection to the mountain’s natural and human history.
Overall, the Lemosho Route is a top choice for those seeking a scenic, quiet, and highly successful path to the Roof of Africa.

Map of Lemosho Route

success Rate Lemosho Route

Here are the summit success rates for our Lemosho Route expeditions:
- Lemosho 7-Day – Crater Rim: 96.4%, Uhuru Peak: 92.7%
- Lemosho 8-Day – Crater Rim: 98.3%, Uhuru Peak: 96.8%
As the numbers show, the Lemosho 8-Day itinerary offers one of the highest summit success rates on Mount Kilimanjaro. The extra day allows for better acclimatization, significantly increasing your chances of reaching both the Crater Rim and Uhuru Peak. The 7-day version is also highly successful and a great option for trekkers with limited time.
The Lemosho Route merges with the Machame and Umbwe routes on the third day, and from there, all three trails follow the same scenic path toward the summit. With its low starting traffic, gradual elevation gain, and stunning natural beauty, Lemosho is widely considered one of the best routes for both first-time climbers and seasoned adventurers looking for a quieter, more immersive Kilimanjaro experience.

MACHAME ROUTE ITINERARIES