Discover the Breathtaking Vistas of the Lemosho Route
The Lemosho Route is widely considered the most scenic trekking path on Mount Kilimanjaro. It traverses the entire Shira Plateau from west to east, offering a pleasant and relatively flat hike. The trail remains quiet and uncrowded until it merges with the Machame route near Lava Tower. As one of the newer routes on the mountain, it shares part of the path with Machame but provides several benefits that make it especially appealing for travelers with extra time. Beginning on the western slopes of Mount Kilimanjaro at the Londorossi Gate, the Lemosho Route climbs through one of the mountain’s more remote and pristine areas.
The trail guides hikers through a stunning rainforest, offering chances to observe diverse wildlife along the route. Black-and-white colobus monkeys are frequently spotted in these forests, alongside blue monkeys, small lizards, and an array of colorful birds. The path then winds onto the Shira Plateau, traversing it from west to east across gently rolling, easy terrain.
The early sections of the Lemosho Route provide abundant solitude, as this trail experiences significantly less traffic than the Machame route and Marangu route. This enhances an already incredible trekking experience, often making you feel like you have the entire mountain to yourself. Eventually, the Lemosho Route joins the Machame route, and the number of trekkers increases. However, if you seek tranquility during the initial stages of your climb, the Lemosho Route is an excellent choice.
Since it shares part of the climb with the Machame Route, the Lemosho Route offers many of the same iconic sights, such as Lava Tower and Barranco Wall. However, during the initial days, this trail reveals unique perspectives of the surrounding landscapes not seen from other paths on the mountain. Adventurers can explore untouched rainforests and ascend to the Shira Plateau, where spectacular views unfold above the tree line.
LEMOSHO ROUTE MAP
To maximize your chances of reaching the summit, the Lemosho route stands out as one of the best choices, particularly when compared to the Machame and Marangu routes. However, it’s important to understand that the Lemosho route is more demanding than the “Whiskey” and “Coca-Cola” routes.
Some sections of the trail are steeper and more challenging, prompting trekkers to spend an extra night or two camping in tents. However, the unique benefits of this route set it apart, making it an increasingly popular option for adventurous travelers.
Lemosho Route Frequently Asked Questions
The questions and answers below are specific to the Lemosho route.
How difficult is the Lemosho Route?
The Lemosho route is considered one of the easiest routes on Kilimanjaro because its longer itinerary allows for better acclimatization. However, hikers will still need to ascend the Barranco Wall and climb steeply on summit night. No technical climbing is required, but a good level of fitness is highly recommended. You can read more about training to climb Kilimanjaro and our Kilimanjaro training program page to help you prepare accordingly.
What is the distance of the Lemosho Route and how many days does it take?
The Lemosho Route covers an exact trekking distance of 71 km (43 miles). While the shortest itinerary is 7 days, including arrival and departure, the total trip typically spans 10 days. Given its longer approach, it’s recommended to plan for 8 to 9 days on the trail to improve your chances of success.
What is the Lemosho Route Summit Success Rate?
Due to its longer itinerary, summit success rates on the Lemosho route are among the highest on the mountain. While there are no official statistics, the average success rate across all operators is 90% for the 8-day trek and 85% for the 7-day trek. However, we have a success rate of over 95% for the 8-day Lemosho route and 92% for the 7-day option. Read more about how many days it takes to climb Kilimanjaro to understand why we recommend longer treks.
What is the Scenery like on the Lemosho Route?
The Lemosho Route is considered the most scenically beautiful of all the routes. It takes trekkers from the west side of the mountain through lush rainforest before joining the Machame Route to cross the spectacular Shira Plateau. The route covers the west and south sides of the mountain, offering incredible views, especially from the southern circuit.
Embark on the Lemosho Route: A Journey to Kilimanjaro’s Summit
Explore the essence of the Lemosho Route, revealing its breathtaking landscapes and tranquil trekking experience as you ascend Mount Kilimanjaro. This guide offers a clear vision of the route’s unique appeal and what adventurers can expect on their climb.
Discover the Lemosho Route’s Wonders
The Lemosho route can be completed in as few as six days (five nights) on the mountain. However, it is best experienced over eight days (seven nights) to ensure proper altitude acclimatization. Spending eight days (seven nights) on the mountain significantly increases your chances of reaching the summit, with a success rate of approximately 90%.
Scenic Shira Plateau
Trek across the breathtaking Shira Plateau with panoramic views and diverse flora.
Joining Machame Trail
Experience the route’s merge with the Machame path near Lava Tower, enhancing your journey.
Peaceful Trekking Experience
Enjoy a tranquil ascent through less crowded paths with stunning natural beauty.
Discover the Route
Access to the trail begins with a long drive from Moshi or Arusha to Londorossi Gate. This can take three to four hours. Londorossi Gate is located at the western base of the mountain
The Lemosho route begins in a lush, fertile rainforest, the first of four ecological zones you will experience on Kilimanjaro. From there, the trail ascends and crosses the Shira Plateau, once Kilimanjaro’s third peak before it collapsed. Next, we head north to Moir Hut, an ideal spot for acclimatization with several short hikes available in the nearby Lent Hills.
Begin Your Journey
Our guide focuses on your unique trekking goals, providing insights and tips tailored to your Kilimanjaro expedition.
Trail Progression
Experience personalized trekking plans that maximize your time on the stunning Lemosho Route for the best possible ascent.
Scenic Highlights
Discover the breathtaking landscapes and the peaceful, tranquil trails that make the Lemosho Route one of the premier and most sought-after choices for adventurers aiming to conquer Kilimanjaro. This route offers an unforgettable experience surrounded by nature’s beauty at every step.
Start Your Lemosho Adventure Now
Discover why the Lemosho Route is the perfect and most rewarding path for your Kilimanjaro climb. Explore its breathtaking scenic beauty, diverse and unique landscapes, and gain valuable insights on how to prepare thoroughly for an unforgettable and life-changing trek. This route offers an exceptional combination of natural wonders and a high success rate, making your adventure truly memorable.