Today is a rest day, the perfect opportunity to relax and finalize preparations before embarking on your Kilimanjaro climb. Surrounded by beautiful gardens and stunning views of the mountain, the peaceful environment allows you to recover from travel and mentally prepare for the adventure ahead. Begin your day with a leisurely breakfast in the hotel’s dining area, where you can savor fresh local fruits and a variety of nourishing dishes. Afterward, take some time to explore the hotel’s grounds, soaking in the tranquil atmosphere as you take gentle walks or simply relax in the comfortable lounge areas. Later in the morning, meet with your guide for a thorough gear check. Your guide will go over your equipment to ensure that everything is in order, from your hiking boots to warm clothing and essential items like trekking poles and headlamps. This is also a valuable time to ask any questions or clarify concerns regarding the trek. In the afternoon, enjoy a hearty lunch at the hotel, then participate in a climb briefing with your guide. During the briefing, your guide will outline the full itinerary, explain the altitude acclimatization process, and provide essential tips for staying healthy and comfortable during the climb. You’ll discuss the challenges and the strategies for tackling different stages of the trek, ensuring you feel well-prepared. The remainder of the day can be spent resting or doing light activities, allowing you to conserve energy while enjoying the hotel’s serene ambiance. As evening approaches, enjoy a relaxing dinner and retire early, knowing that everything is in place for your Kilimanjaro adventure.

Departing from Marangu, you’ll travel to the entrance to the Kilimanjaro National Park at 2,000 meters to complete entrance formalities. This process provides an opportunity to stretch your legs, take in your surroundings, and observe the excitement of other climbers. After formalities, continue the journey to Lemosho Glades, located at 2,200 meters. The forest road leading to the trailhead is often in poor condition, especially during wet seasons. In such conditions, vehicles may have to stop short of the trailhead, requiring a brief walk to the official start point of your trek. From Lemosho Glades, you begin your hike through the lush montane forest, a scenic introduction to Kilimanjaro’s diverse ecosystems. The walk is about 3 to 4 hours and involves a steady climb, with the trail ascending steeply in places as you navigate through thick forest canopies. You’ll be surrounded by towering trees, rich vegetation, and may spot wildlife, such as monkeys or birds, along the way. This section of the trek provides shade and a cool environment as you acclimatize to the altitude. Your destination for the day is Mti Mkubwa camp, sitting at 2,800 meters in a forest clearing. The name “Mti Mkubwa” means “Big Tree,” and the campsite is aptly named after a large, prominent tree that dominates the area. After a long day, you’ll enjoy a well-earned rest, set up camp, and have dinner prepared by your team. The serene forest setting offers a peaceful atmosphere as you settle in for your first night on Kilimanjaro, surrounded by the sounds of nature. This night is important for acclimatization as you prepare for the challenges ahead.

Your second day on the Lemosho route begins with an early breakfast at Mti Mkubwa camp, allowing you to fuel up for the trek ahead. You’ll begin your ascent through the remaining forested areas, but after about an hour of hiking, the landscape dramatically changes as you emerge onto the moorland zone. This shift marks your entrance into Kilimanjaro’s unique and rugged ecosystems, leaving behind the dense canopy of the forest and entering the expansive, open terrain of the moorland. The trail winds through this beautiful moorland landscape, offering stunning panoramic views. To the north and west, you’ll catch glimpses of the vast plains stretching below Kilimanjaro, reminding you of the altitude you’re quickly gaining. The air becomes noticeably thinner as you climb, and the vegetation shifts to hardier plants such as heathers, giant lobelias, and groundsels, which thrive in the harsher, high-altitude environment. The path continues with a detour northward, taking you around the Shira Ridge, a volcanic feature of the mountain. This section of the trail offers some of the most picturesque scenery of the entire trek, with the rocky terrain and dramatic ridgelines providing a rugged beauty. Take time to enjoy the landscape, where the mix of volcanic rock and alpine vegetation creates an otherworldly atmosphere. As you hike, you’ll appreciate the balance of the day’s challenges with the serenity of Kilimanjaro’s untouched wilderness. At the northern edge of the Shira Ridge, the trail turns eastward, leading you toward the vast Shira Plateau. Here, the trail descends slightly as you cross the plateau, which was formed by ancient lava flows from Kilimanjaro’s volcanic past. The plateau’s flat, expansive terrain provides some respite from the steeper climbs earlier in the day. This is a perfect spot to pause and take in the incredible views of Kibo Peak ahead and the expansive landscape surrounding you.

After a restful night at Shira One Camp, the morning of Day 3 begins with a hearty breakfast, as today offers a relatively shorter trek to Shira Hut, but with exciting opportunities for side excursions. You’ll set out across the vast Shira Plateau, a flat expanse that stretches ahead with Kibo, Kilimanjaro’s highest peak, looming in the distance. The terrain here is open and expansive, with fewer vegetation zones as the landscape shifts to volcanic rock and alpine desert. The trail from Shira One to Shira Hut takes about 3 hours if you opt for the direct route, making it a shorter day of trekking. After roughly 2 hours of walking, you’ll reach the edge of the Shira Plateau. From here, a 40-minute climb brings you to Shira Hut at 3,800 meters. This gentle ascent offers time to further acclimatize to the altitude and take in the stunning vistas. The open views across the plateau toward Kibo are striking, and with fewer trees, the sense of scale and altitude becomes ever more apparent. However, Day 3 is also filled with the chance to explore the Shira Plateau’s fascinating volcanic features. If time and energy allow, consider branching off the main trail for one of the following optional excursions: Shira Cathedral and Shira Needle: These imposing volcanic hills dominate the southern edge of the Shira Plateau. Climbing them adds an adventurous element to your day, providing rewarding views of the surrounding landscape, including the Machame ridge. From the tops of these peaks, you can gaze down across the plateau, gaining a unique perspective on the vastness of Kilimanjaro’s terrain. Cone Place and the Shira Volcano’s Centre: Another fascinating detour is a visit to Cone Place, which marks the center of the extinct Shira volcano. This area gives trekkers a glimpse into Kilimanjaro’s volcanic past, with the chance to look toward the highest points of the Shira Plateau, including Johnsell Point and Klute Peak on the western Shira ridge. This optional excursion is a great way to learn about Kilimanjaro’s geology while experiencing more of its diverse landscape. After enjoying any of these optional climbs or detours, return to the main path and continue on to Shira Hut. At 3,800 meters, Shira Hut offers a fantastic place to set up camp for the night, with panoramic views of the Shira Plateau, Kibo’s snow-capped peak, and the vast plains stretching out below. After a warm meal and some well-deserved rest, you’ll have time to acclimatize further in preparation for the increasing altitude in the days to come. The shorter hiking day, combined with the optional side trips, allows you to pace yourself while exploring the stunning volcanic features of the Shira Plateau. The atmosphere at camp will be lively, with climbers sharing stories of their excursions as the day winds down beneath the ever-clear night sky.

Day 4 of the Lemosho route brings you deeper into the high-altitude desert as you continue your steady approach toward Kilimanjaro’s iconic peak, Kibo. After an early breakfast at Shira Hut, you’ll pack up and set out on a long and varied day of trekking. The landscape becomes increasingly stark and barren as you leave the moorland behind and enter the alpine desert zone. This section of the trail involves gradual but consistent elevation gain, and it’s important to maintain a steady pace, allowing your body to continue adjusting to the altitude. The day’s hike takes you up a ridge that directly faces Kibo. For the next 4 hours, you’ll be traversing this rocky and exposed landscape, which can feel harsh and otherworldly. There is little vegetation at this altitude, and the path is lined with volcanic rock and loose scree. As you move higher, the air becomes thinner, and you’ll need to take frequent breaks to rest and hydrate. The expansive views of Kilimanjaro’s looming peak are awe-inspiring and will serve as a constant reminder of the challenge ahead. After approximately 4 hours of steady trekking, you’ll reach the Lava Tower, an imposing rock formation that rises to 4,600 meters. The Lava Tower is a significant milestone on your journey, as it represents the highest altitude you will have reached so far on the trek. This towering natural monument is the result of ancient volcanic activity and stands at the foot of the Great Western Breach, an enormous rock wall that marks Kibo’s western side. The Breach was formed by a prehistoric avalanche, which also carved out the Umbwe Valley below. At the Lava Tower, you’ll take a well-earned break for lunch, allowing your body time to adjust to the high altitude. Spending time at this elevation is key for acclimatization, helping to prepare you for the higher altitudes in the coming days. The atmosphere around Lava Tower is rugged and dramatic, with the vast, open skies above and the steep volcanic slopes surrounding you. After lunch and rest, the trail continues with a descent into the Umbwe Valley, also known as the Barranco Valley. The descent brings immediate relief from the high-altitude exposure of the Lava Tower area, and you’ll begin to feel the air grow slightly thicker as you move lower. The landscape also changes as you descend, with the alpine desert giving way to more vegetation, including giant groundsels and lobelias that thrive in the Barranco Valley’s unique microclimate. The descent into the valley is steep in sections, but the path is well-trodden. As you make your way down, the towering rock walls of the Barranco Valley enclose you, providing a sense of scale and the distinct feeling of being deep within Kilimanjaro’s volcanic terrain. The lush greenery of the valley contrasts sharply with the barren desert you’ve just crossed, creating a beautiful and surreal atmosphere. After about 2 to 3 hours of descending from the Lava Tower, you’ll arrive at Barranco Camp, located at 3,985 meters on the valley floor. Despite descending from Lava Tower, Barranco Camp still sits at a relatively high altitude, making this day an excellent one for acclimatization as you’ve trekked high and slept low. The camp is set in a picturesque location, surrounded by dramatic cliffs and offering stunning views of the Barranco Wall, which you will tackle tomorrow. After a long day of hiking, you’ll settle into camp for the night. The evening is spent relaxing, enjoying a hot meal, and preparing for the next day’s ascent of the Barranco Wall. The unique landscape of Barranco Valley, with its giant plant life and towering rock faces, creates a serene and almost mystical atmosphere as you reflect on the day’s achievements. With the Barranco Wall ahead and Kibo looming ever closer, the sense of adventure continues to build as you rest in the heart of Kilimanjaro’s dramatic terrain.

Day 5 of the Lemosho trek presents one of the most thrilling and physically demanding sections of the journey, with the ascent of the famous Barranco Wall. After an early breakfast, you’ll pack up and set off from the Barranco Valley, immediately facing the imposing Barranco Wall, a steep rock face that rises approximately 300 meters above the valley floor. The climb up the Barranco Wall is challenging, but it is not a technical climb. It requires some scrambling over rocks, where you’ll need to use your hands to steady yourself on certain sections. This climb typically takes between 1 to 2 hours, depending on your pace and weather conditions. Although steep, the climb is incredibly rewarding, with stunning views unfolding as you ascend. Along the way, you’ll likely pause to take in the surrounding scenery, including the towering southern glaciers of Kibo, which dominate the horizon on clear days. Once you reach the top of the Barranco Wall, you’ll feel a sense of achievement as you look back at the valley below. From here, the path levels out as you follow the gently undulating Kibo South Circuit, a scenic trail that offers a more relaxed pace after the morning’s challenging climb. This section of the trek is less strenuous but equally impressive, as you traverse Kilimanjaro’s alpine desert zone. The barren, rocky terrain is interspersed with giant groundsels and lobelias, and the views of Kibo’s southern glaciers continue to inspire. The South Circuit trail provides panoramic views not only of Kibo but also of the surrounding valleys and plains far below. If the weather is clear, the sweeping landscapes create an unforgettable backdrop as you make your way toward Karanga Valley. The trail alternates between ascents and descents, creating a rhythmic pace that allows for steady progress and moments to catch your breath while soaking in the beauty of the mountain.

Day 6 marks the beginning of your final preparations for the summit push, as you make your way to Barafu Camp, the launching point for your ascent to the top of Mount Kilimanjaro. After a hearty breakfast at Karanga Valley Camp, you’ll break camp and begin the steady climb toward Barafu. The trek today is relatively short but challenging, as you continue gaining altitude, which becomes increasingly noticeable. The path from Karanga Valley to Barafu Camp takes about 3 hours, starting with a steady climb through the alpine desert zone. This section of the trail is barren and rocky, with very little vegetation, giving the landscape a lunar feel. The altitude becomes more significant at this point, and it’s important to maintain a slow and steady pace, allowing your body to continue acclimatizing. The trek involves moderate but consistent uphill walking, with occasional steeper sections. As you ascend, the air becomes thinner, and you’ll need to focus on controlled breathing and staying hydrated. Throughout the morning, the terrain is rugged but rewarding, with dramatic views of Kibo’s towering peak ahead and Mawenzi’s jagged outline to the east. The high-altitude desert is exposed and often windy, with little shade, so be prepared for the harsh conditions. On clear days, you’ll be able to see for miles, taking in the sweeping panoramas of the lower slopes and surrounding plains far below. After about 3 hours of hiking, you’ll reach Barafu Camp, situated at 4,600 meters. “Barafu” means “ice” in Swahili, and the camp’s name is fitting, as the temperature here can drop significantly, especially at night. Upon arrival at Barafu, you’ll be greeted by your support team, who will set up camp as you settle in for lunch. The camp is perched on a rocky ridge with expansive views of Kibo Peak, and the air here feels crisp and thin due to the high altitude. Barafu Camp is a busy, bustling place, as many climbers converge here to prepare for their summit attempt. After lunch, the primary focus is rest and acclimatization. You’ll have the afternoon to relax in your tent, conserving your energy for the final ascent, which will begin later in the night. Hydration is critical at this altitude, so be sure to drink plenty of water and warm drinks provided by your team. As evening approaches, your guides will brief you on the plan for the summit push. They’ll provide details on what to expect, the timing of the ascent, and what to wear to stay warm during the night. You’ll also finalize your gear, making sure your headlamp, layers, and snacks are packed and ready

Day 7 marks the most challenging and rewarding day of your Kilimanjaro adventure. The summit attempt begins long before dawn. You’ll be woken up around 11 p.m., and the excitement and nervous anticipation in the camp will be palpable. After dressing in all your warmest clothing – layering carefully to protect against the freezing temperatures – you’ll have a hot drink to warm up and energize. The night is cold and dark, but the anticipation of reaching the summit propels you forward. At midnight, you set off from Barafu Camp. The first part of the ascent involves trekking along a rocky ridge. The air is thin, and the pace is slow and deliberate. The cold bites at your face and hands, but as you ascend, the body begins to generate heat. The trail then transitions into loose volcanic scree, which is one of the most challenging parts of the climb. The scree is unstable underfoot, and with each step, it can feel like you’re sliding back. To manage this, the path zigzags up the slope in a switchback pattern, allowing for a more gradual ascent. For the next several hours, you’ll be walking uphill, with only the light of your headlamp illuminating the way. As the hours pass, the altitude becomes more significant, and the climb becomes increasingly exhausting. It takes an average of 7 hours to reach Stella Point on the crater rim, located at 5,750 meters. The climb is slow, and the cold intensifies as you get higher. Breaks are kept to a minimum to avoid the risk of getting too cold, but your guides will encourage you, reminding you of the goal ahead. As you near Stella Point, the first light of dawn may begin to appear. If the weather is clear, you’ll be rewarded with spectacular views of the sun rising from behind Mawenzi Peak. The golden light breaking over the horizon, illuminating the glaciers and snow-capped slopes, is a breathtaking sight, providing a much-needed morale boost after the grueling ascent. Once you reach Stella Point, you’re only an hour away from your ultimate goal: Uhuru Peak. The path from Stella Point follows the crater rim, and while the trail is less steep than the scree slopes you’ve just climbed, the altitude and exhaustion make the final push challenging. However, the sense of achievement and determination will carry you forward. After about an hour of walking along the crater rim, you’ll reach Uhuru Peak, the highest point in Africa, at 5,896 meters. The sense of triumph and elation is overwhelming as you stand on top of Kilimanjaro, taking in the stunning 360-degree views of the glaciers, volcanic landscape, and the clouds below. This moment is the culmination of days of hard work, endurance, and determination. You’ll have a short time at the summit for photos and to savor the accomplishment before the cold and thin air make it necessary to begin your descent. The descent back to Barafu Camp begins shortly after you leave the summit. While the downhill walk is faster than the ascent, it can be tough on the knees, and the loose scree makes it tricky to stay balanced. The descent typically takes 3 to 4 hours, and as you lose altitude, the air becomes warmer and thicker, making breathing easier. By the time you reach Barafu Camp, you’ll be physically exhausted but relieved to have completed the summit. Upon returning to Barafu Camp, you’ll rest for a short while and enjoy a warm meal prepared by your team. This rest is crucial for recovering from the intense physical exertion of the summit attempt. However, the day is not over yet. After regaining some strength, you’ll pack up and continue the descent. The next part of the day involves a 4-hour trek down to Mweka Camp, located at 3,100 meters. This section of the descent is easier on the body as you move into lower altitude zones with more oxygen, but after the long night and summit trek, you may be tired. The terrain becomes more manageable as you pass through the alpine desert and into the moorland and forest zones. If climbers are particularly fatigued or if it’s late, there’s the option to camp at Millennium Camp at 3,800 meters, which shortens the day but lengthens the final day’s trek. By the time you reach Mweka Camp, you’ll be ready to relax and reflect on the incredible achievement of summiting Kilimanjaro. The air will feel warmer and more humid as you descend into the lower altitudes, and the forest setting provides a comforting backdrop as you enjoy dinner and settle into your tent for a well-earned rest. The exhilaration of reaching the summit, combined with the physical demands of the day, will make this one of the most memorable days of your Kilimanjaro adventure.

On the final day of your Kilimanjaro adventure, you’ll wake up at Mweka Camp after a restful night, knowing that the hardest part of the journey is behind you. The day begins with a hearty breakfast, providing you with the energy needed for the last leg of your trek. The path today leads you on a steady descent through the lush montane forest, a sharp contrast to the alpine desert and rocky landscapes you’ve experienced over the past few days. The trek from Mweka Camp to Mweka Gate takes about 3 hours, with the trail becoming increasingly green and alive with the sounds of nature. As you descend, you’ll notice the environment growing warmer and more humid, and the thick canopy of trees provides welcome shade. The trail can be slippery, especially if the ground is wet, so careful footing is needed on this final stretch. The dense forest is home to a variety of wildlife, and as you pass through this vibrant ecosystem, you may spot monkeys, colorful birds, and other animals that make this region their home. The descent is relatively easy compared to the grueling days on higher ground, and the final hours of the trek offer time to reflect on your incredible achievement. The air grows richer with oxygen, and the sense of accomplishment becomes more tangible with every step toward the finish. Upon reaching Mweka Gate, located at an altitude of 1,640 meters, you will complete the formalities of signing out of Kilimanjaro National Park. This is an exciting moment, as you officially conclude your trek and celebrate your success. Vehicles will be waiting at Mweka Gate to transport you and your team back to Marangu Hotel, a drive of about 1 to 2 hours. The journey back allows you to relax and unwind as you take in the changing scenery, from the rainforest slopes of Kilimanjaro to the cultivated fields and villages surrounding the base of the mountain. Upon arrival at Marangu Hotel, you’ll be warmly welcomed and checked into your room. After days of camping and trekking, the comfort of a hot shower, clean clothes, and a cozy bed will be a luxury. You’ll have the rest of the day to recover, reflect, and enjoy the peaceful surroundings of the hotel. The beautiful gardens of Marangu Hotel provide the perfect backdrop for relaxation, and you can savor a leisurely lunch or afternoon tea in the calm environment. You’ll also have the opportunity to tip your guides, porters, and crew – the dedicated team who supported you throughout your journey. This is a customary part of the trekking experience and a chance to show your appreciation for their hard work. In the evening enjoy a celebratory dinner at the hotel’s restaurant, sharing stories with fellow trekkers and reflecting on the incredible challenge you’ve overcome. The sense of achievement will be immense, knowing that you’ve successfully summited Mount Kilimanjaro and completed one of the world’s most iconic treks. After dinner, retire to your room for a well-deserved night’s sleep in the comfort of the hotel. The journey may be over, but the memories and triumph of your Kilimanjaro experience will stay with you for a lifetime.

Your final day begins with a relaxed morning at Marangu Hotel, where you can savor a well-earned breakfast after your successful Kilimanjaro Lemosho climb. As you enjoy your meal, there’s a sense of accomplishment in the air, reflecting on the incredible journey you’ve just completed—from the forests of Lemosho Glades to the summit of Uhuru Peak, the roof of Africa. The day is dedicated to unwinding and reflecting on the trek. Take a leisurely walk around the hotel’s lush gardens or relax in the lounge, soaking in the peaceful surroundings and letting your body recover from the physical demands of the climb. If time allows, you may wish to share stories with fellow trekkers or spend a few quiet moments in reflection, knowing that you’ve achieved something remarkable. Later  your driver will arrive to take you to the airport for your flight onward. As you depart, you carry with you the memories of scaling Africa’s highest peak, the stunning views from the top, and the camaraderie shared with your team and guides. Whether heading home or continuing your journey, the experience of conquering Kilimanjaro’s Lemosho Route will stay with you for a lifetime—a reminder of your strength, resilience, and adventurous spirit. Your Kilimanjaro adventure has come to an end, but the memories of standing on Uhuru Peak, walking through diverse landscapes, and witnessing Tanzania’s natural beauty will forever be a part of your story.