From Zanzibar: 7 Days Group Budget Kilimanjaro Climb via Lemosho Route in Tanzania

Lemosho Gate to Mti Mkubwa Camp

Elevation (ft): 7,800ft to 9,500ft

Distance: 6 km

Hiking Time: 3-4 hours

Habitat: Rain Forest

After breakfast, you’ll drive from Moshi to Lemosho Gate, where registration is completed. Your trek begins through lush rainforest, home to unique plants and wildlife. The trail gradually ascends to Mti Mkubwa Camp, your first overnight stop. Dinner and overnight stay at Mti Mkubwa Camp under the forest canopy.

Mti Mkubwa Camp to Shira I Camp

Elevation (ft): 9,500ft to 11,500ft

Distance: 8 km

Hiking Time: 5-6 hours

Habitat: Moorland

Leaving the rainforest, the path opens into a moorland filled with heather and volcanic rock formations. You’ll climb steadily with beautiful views of the Shira Ridge before descending slightly to Shira I Camp. Enjoy a warm meal and relax as you admire your first full view of Kibo Peak.

Shira I Camp to Shira II Camp

Elevation (ft): 11,500ft to 13,800ft

Distance: 14 km

Hiking Time: 5-7 hours

Habitat: Moorland

You’ll hike across the expansive Shira Plateau, one of the highest plateaus in the world. The trail is gentle and scenic, passing through open moorland with panoramic views. The day ends at Shira II Camp, where you’ll have dinner and rest in preparation for the next stage.

Shira II Camp to Lava Tower to Barranco Camp

Elevation (ft): 13,800ft to 13,000ft

Distance: 7 km

Hiking Time: 4-6 hours

Habitat: Semi Desert

From the Shira Plateau, you continue east toward Lava Tower (15,190 ft), known as the “Shark’s Tooth.” After lunch near the tower, descend to Barranco Camp for dinner and overnight stay. This climb-high, sleep-low day helps with acclimatization before the summit push.

Barranco Camp to Karanga Camp to Barafu Camp

Elevation (ft): 13,000ft to 15,000ft

Distance: 9 km

Hiking Time: 8-10 hours

Habitat: Alpine Desert

Start your morning with the ascent of the Barranco Wall, one of the most scenic parts of the climb. Continue across ridges and valleys to Karanga Camp for lunch, then proceed to Barafu Camp. You’ll rest here, have dinner early, and prepare for your midnight summit attempt.

Barafu Camp to Uhuru Summit to Mweka Camp

Elevation (ft): 15,300ft to 19,345ft (and down to 10,000ft)

Distance: 5 km ascent / 12 km descent

Hiking Time: 7-8 hours ascent / 4-6 hours descent

Habitat: Arctic

Wake up around midnight and begin your final climb to the Uhuru summit. Trek slowly over steep scree toward Stella Point (18,600ft), where you’ll witness a magical sunrise. Continue to Uhuru Peak (19,345ft), the highest point in Africa. After celebrating your achievement, descend to Barafu for a short rest and continue to Mweka Camp for your last night on the mountain.

Mweka Camp to Mweka Gate to Moshi

Elevation (ft): 10,000ft to 5,400ft

Distance: 10 km

Hiking Time: 3-4 hours

Habitat: Rain Forest

After breakfast, descend through the lush rainforest to Mweka Gate, where you’ll receive your summit certificate. Celebrate your success with your team before returning to Moshi for a well-deserved rest at your hotel.

Moshi to Kilimanjaro International Airport (JRO)

You will be taken to Kilimanjaro International Airport (JRO) for your flight back to Zanzibar or onward destination.