7 day climbing machame route Overview:
The 7-day Lemosho Route offers a scenic and less-traveled path to the summit of Mount Kilimanjaro, providing an immersive trekking experience. The journey begins at the Lemosho Gate, climbing through lush rainforest to the picturesque Forest Camp. On the second day, trekkers advance to Shira Camp, where the terrain transitions to moorland with expansive views of the plateau. Day three includes a hike to Lava Tower for acclimatization, followed by a descent to Barranco Camp. The fourth day features the challenging Barranco Wall and a traverse to Karanga Camp, while the fifth day involves a shorter trek to Barafu Camp, the staging point for the summit attempt. The ascent to Uhuru Peak is undertaken on day six, typically starting at midnight to reach the summit by sunrise, followed by a descent to Mweka Camp. The final day concludes with a descent through lush rainforest to Mweka Gate, where climbers celebrate their successful climb. The Lemosho Route is renowned for its stunning scenery, varied landscapes, and excellent acclimatization opportunities, making it a popular choice for those aiming to reach Kilimanjaro's summit.
Tour Itinerary
Day 1: Lemosho Gate to Mti Mkubwa Camp
Elevation: 2,100 m (6,900 ft) to 2,750 m (9,000 ft)
Distance: 6 km (3.7 miles)
Hiking Time: 3-4 hours
Habitat: Rainforest
Overview: After arriving at Lemosho Gate and completing the registration process, you’ll start your trek through the lush rainforest to Mti Mkubwa Camp. The path is relatively gentle, allowing your body to gradually adjust to the altitude.
Day 2: Mti Mkubwa Camp to Shira 2 Camp via Shira 1 Camp
Elevation: 2,750 m (9,000 ft) to 3,610 m (11,847 ft) to 3,850 m (12,630 ft)
Distance: 14 km (8.7 miles)
Hiking Time: 7-9 hours
Habitat: Moorland
Overview: Begin the day with a hike from Mti Mkubwa Camp to Shira 1 Camp. After a brief rest at Shira 1, continue to Shira 2 Camp. This extended trek takes you across the Shira Plateau, offering stunning views of the mountain and diverse landscapes. The extra distance allows for better acclimatization as you traverse through moorland.
Day 3: Shira 2 Camp to Lava Tower to Barranco Camp
Elevation: 3,850 m (12,630 ft) to 4,630 m (15,190 ft) to 3,900 m (12,800 ft)
Distance: 11 km (6.8 miles)
Hiking Time: 6-8 hours
Habitat: Semi-desert
Overview: Today involves a hike to Lava Tower for acclimatization, reaching an elevation of 4,630 m (15,190 ft), followed by a descent to Barranco Camp. The "climb high, sleep low" strategy helps with acclimatization while providing a chance to rest before the next day's challenge.
Day 4: Barranco Camp to Karanga Camp
Elevation: 3,900 m (12,800 ft) to 4,035 m (13,250 ft)
Distance: 5 km (3.1 miles)
Hiking Time: 4-5 hours
Habitat: Alpine desert
Overview: Start with a challenging climb up the Barranco Wall, a steep and rugged ascent that rewards you with spectacular views. After the wall, the trail continues with a series of ups and downs before reaching Karanga Camp, allowing for acclimatization and preparation for the summit push.
Day 5: Karanga Camp to Barafu Camp
Elevation: 4,035 m (13,250 ft) to 4,640 m (15,220 ft)
Distance: 4 km (2.5 miles)
Hiking Time: 4-5 hours
Habitat: Alpine desert
Overview: Hike from Karanga Camp to Barafu Camp, located on a rocky ridge with minimal vegetation. This shorter but steep hike sets you up for the summit attempt. Use the afternoon to rest and prepare for the final push to Uhuru Peak.
Day 6: Barafu Camp to Uhuru Peak to Mweka Camp
Elevation: 4,640 m (15,220 ft) to 5,895 m (19,341 ft) to 3,068 m (10,065 ft)
Distance: 23 km (14.3 miles)
Hiking Time: 12-15 hours (7-8 hours to the summit, 5-7 hours to Mweka Camp)
Habitat: Arctic to rainforest
Overview: Begin your summit ascent around midnight, reaching Uhuru Peak at sunrise. After celebrating your achievement, descend to Mweka Camp for a brief rest. The descent continues through the lush rainforest to Mweka Gate, where you’ll sign out and receive your summit certificates.
Day 7: Mweka Camp to Mweka Gate
Elevation: 3,068 m (10,065 ft) to 1,640 m (5,380 ft)
Distance: 10 km (6.2 miles)
Hiking Time: 3-4 hours
Habitat: Rainforest
Overview: Descend through the beautiful rainforest back to Mweka Gate. This final section of the trek provides a fitting end to your Kilimanjaro adventure, with vibrant vegetation and a sense of accomplishment as you conclude your journey.
