The Lemosho route is the most scenic and uncrowded path on Kilimanjaro, starting on the remote western side and crossing the Shira Plateau before joining the Machame route. Eight days gives the highest summit success rate of any route we offer — ideal for trekkers who want the best chance of standing on the Roof of Africa.
Drive to Londorossi Gate, trek through forest to Mti Mkubwa Camp (2,820m). Distance 6km.
Trek onto the Shira Plateau to Shira Camp 1 (3,610m). Distance 5km.
Cross the plateau to Shira Camp 2 (3,850m). Distance 7km.
Climb to Lava Tower (4,630m) for acclimatization, descend to Barranco Camp (3,900m).
Scramble the Barranco Wall and trek to Karanga Camp (3,995m).
Trek to Barafu Camp (4,673m), summit base.
Midnight summit push to Uhuru Peak (5,895m), descend to Mweka Camp.
Descend to Mweka Gate and drive to Moshi.
I combined the Mara with a Kilimanjaro Machame climb and it was the trip of a lifetime. The river crossings were jaw-dropping, and standing on Uhuru Peak two weeks later was surreal. One company, one seamless booking, zero stress. I cannot recommend CKS highly enough.
Kilimanjaro (5,895m) is higher and more famous, with a higher summit success rate on longer routes but more crowds. Mount Kenya (4,985m trekking peak) is more scenic, much quieter, cheaper, and offers a true wilderness experience. Many climbers do Mount Kenya first to acclimatize, then Kilimanjaro.
The best months to climb Kilimanjaro are January–March and June–October. January–March is colder but quieter; June–October is warmer and busier. Avoid the long rains (April–May) and short rains (November) for safety and comfort.
No. All standard Kilimanjaro routes to Uhuru Peak are trekking routes — no ropes or technical climbing required. You need good hiking boots, layered clothing and a sleeping bag rated to -15°C. A walking pole helps on summit night.
For Point Lenana and Kilimanjaro trekking routes you need good general fitness — able to hike 6–8 hours with a daypack for several consecutive days. No technical climbing skills are needed. For Batian you need rock-climbing experience at Grade IV+.
All our mountain packages include park fees, guide/cook/porter team, all meals on the mountain, tents and sleeping mats, and transfers from Nairobi (or Moshi for Kilimanjaro). Not included: crew tips, travel insurance, personal gear, visas and flights.
Yes. Above 3,500m, altitude sickness can affect anyone regardless of fitness. We minimise the risk with gradual ascent profiles, acclimatization days, hydration and daily health checks. Our guides are trained to spot symptoms and respond, including emergency descent.
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