Kilimanjaro 9 Days Lemosho Route with Crater Overnight
Kilimanjaro 9 Days Lemosho Route with Crater Overnight
Overview
About the 9-Day Kilimanjaro Climb Lemosho Route with Crater Overnight
The Lemosho route is considered the most scenic trail on Kilimanjaro, granting panoramic vistas on various sides of the mountain. As one of the newer routes, Lemosho is a superb choice for your climb. It is our preferred route due to its ideal balance of low crowds, beautiful scenery, and a high summit success rate. Most of the clients climb Kilimanjaro using the Lemosho route and their feedback about this route is excellent. We highly recommend the Lemosho route to our clients. The climb begins at Londorossi Gate at an altitude of 2,360 meters, with an approach far west of the mountain. It then circles Kilimanjaro to the south, passing through the majestic rainforest where some of the region’s most unique wildlife can often be seen. The route continues up to the mountain’s third summit at Shira Ridge.
About Crater Camp on Kilimanjaro
Crater Camp is not a route in its own right but a challenging extension which can, in principle, be added to any route. It involves sleeping overnight in the bowl of the crater. An amazing experience enjoyed by only a few of the most adventurous climbers. The time depends on the route. Camping at the crater is a bit expensive, since it’s charged extra by the park authority as well as the extra crew wages.
Group Price
- The price per person for group expeditions are fixed based on a group size. However, we have optional arrangements for individual private and tailor-made preferences best suited for you, your family and friends.
- All prices are based on shared accommodation. Please inquire for a 1 guest private room accommodation quote
- Prices listed are not final. Please inquire for your final price quote.
2 pax | 3-4 pax | 5-6 pax | 7-10 pax |
---|---|---|---|
US $4,900 | US $4,600 | US $4,300 | US $4,000 |
Included/Excluded
- Private transport to & from Kilimanjaro International Airport to your Accommodations in Moshi.
- 2 nights of accommodation in Moshi
- Transportation to and from the Kilimanjaro gate
- Park entry fees
- Camping fees
- Team Kilimanjaro Rescue fees
- Oxygen cylinder
- 18% VAT on tour fees & services
- All camping equipment
- Friendly and professional mountain guides, cook, and porters
- 3 hot meals a day while on the mountain
- Enough treated & filtered drinking water throughout the trek
- Hot water for washing
- Fair wages for the mountain crew as approved by the Kilimanjaro National Park Authority (KINAPA), Kilimanjaro Association of Tour Operators (KIATO) Government taxes
- Ox meter
- Emergency first-aid kit
- Lunches, dinners, and drinks at your hotel before and after the climb.
- Travel insurance
- Flights
- Laundry (Available at the hotel)
- Personal items and toiletries
- Tips for guides, porters, and cook
Day 1: Arrival Day
Upon your arrival at Kilimanjaro International Airport (JRO), a Nature Horizons team member will be waiting to greet you. We will transfer you to your hotel accommodation for your first night, where you will meet your safari guide that you will be with for the remainder of your tour. Once you are settled in your hotel, you will receive a briefing on our tour. You can now relax at your hotel. Your trek to the roof of Africa starts tomorrow! As always, if you need anything or would like to head out into town, your guide will be there to assist you 24/7. Welcome to Africa!
DAY 2: LEMOSHO GLADES (2385M) TO BIG TREE CAMP (2780M)
You will be picked up at your hotel at around 8:00 am and transferred to the Lemosho gate located on the western side of Kilimanjaro. After the registration process, you will still start your climb steadily through the forests of the Lemosho glades to reach Big Tree Camp, where you will be spending the night.
- Distance covered: 7km / 4.3mi
- time taken: 4 hours
- Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, & Dinner Included
DAY 3: BIG TREE CAMP (2780M) TO SHIRA 1 CAMP (3500M)
Today you will trek across a plateau of grassy moorland and heather scattered with volcanic rock formations. Our destination for today is Shira 1 Camp, from where there are often views of Kibo Peak floating on the clouds. We will be gaining a reasonable amount of altitude today and parts of the route are fairly steep.
- Distance covered: 8.5km / 5.3mi
- time taken: 7 hours
- Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, & Dinner Included
DAY 4: SHIRA 1 CAMP (3500M) TO SHIRA 2 CAMP (3900M)
Today you will get the chance to view the Northern Ice Fields from the western side of the mountain with some unusual views of Kibo. Our steady climb across the moorland of the Shira Plateau will help with acclimatization and we enjoy great panoramic views. Our destination today is Shira 2 Camp. In the afternoon you will take an acclimatization walk then head back to camp for dinner and rest.
- Distance covered: 8km / 5mi
- time taken: 5 hours
- Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, & Dinner Included
DAY 5: SHIRA 2 CAMP (3900M) TO BARRANCO CAMP (3960M)
Your trek starts with an ascent with far-reaching panoramic views, hiking into the climatic zone of the upland desert and on the lava ridges beneath the glaciers of the Western Breach. You will reach the distinct pinnacle of the Lava Tower (4640 m), our high point for the day and a great place to enjoy lunch. In the afternoon, we will make a steep descent to our camp for the night, located in the base of the Great Barranco Valley (3960 m), sheltered by towering cliffs but with extensive views of the plains below.
- Distance covered: 10km / 6.2mi
- time taken: 7 hours
- Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, & Dinner Included
DAY 6: BARRANCO CAMP (3960M) TO KARANGA CAMP (3963M)
Our day starts by descending into the start of the Great Barranco, a huge ravine. We then exit steeply, up the Great Barranco Wall, which divides us from the southeastern slopes of Kibo. It’s a climb over rock; not technical but long and tiring. Passing beneath the Heim and Kersten glaciers, we head toward the Karanga Valley. From here we have a steep climb up from Karanga Valley to our night’s camp at Karanga camp, set at 3,963m. For those feeling strong, we will go for a mid-afternoon acclimatization trek up to around 4,200m before descending back to camp for the night.
- Distance covered: 5.5km / 3.4mi
- time taken: 5 hours
- Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, & Dinner Included
DAY 7: KARANGA CAMP (3963) TO BARAFU CAMP (4640M)
After a good night’s rest and breakfast, we set off on our walk to Barafu Camp at 4,640m. The climb will take us across desolate scree slopes with no vegetation around us at all. It’s a tough, steep walk made more difficult by the altitude. Upon arriving at camp, we will eat and spend the afternoon resting as we prepare for a long night and day ahead. It is important to keep hydrated and warm. We have an early dinner and will then try to get some sleep as we will be getting up between 11 pm and 12 pm to start the climb to the summit.
- Distance covered: 3km / 1.9mi
- time taken: 3 hours
- Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, & Dinner Included
DAY 8: BARAFU CAMP (4640M) TO UHURU PEAK (5895M) TO CRATER CAMP (5,790M)
Wake before dawn to start your summit approach. You’ll reach Uhuru Peak in the early afternoon when few groups are around. A short descent brings you to Crater Camp, set in soft sands near the famed Furtwangler Glacier. Crater camp is not a route in its own right but a challenging extension which in principle can be added to any route. It involves sleeping overnight in the bowl of the crater. An amazing experience enjoyed by only a few of the most adventurous climbers.
- Distance covered: 3km / 1.9mi
- time taken: 5-6 hours & 1-2hours to Crater.
- Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, & Dinner Included
DAY 9: CRATER CAMP (5,790M) TO MILLENNIUM CAMP (3790M)
In the morning after an early breakfast, we begin our descent by returning to Stella Point and then descending on scree slope passing Barafu Camp for a short break before heading down to Millennium Camp for a long well-earned rest.
- Distance covered: 13.4km / 8.3mi
- time taken: 12 – 15 hours
- Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, & Dinner Included
DAY 10: MILLENNIUM CAMP (3790M) TO MWEKA GATE (1630M)
Today you will walk through the rainforest to Mweka Gate, where we will complete park formalities and receive certificates, which you can hang with pride! We will then be met by our vehicles and return to your arranged hotel in Moshi.
- Distance covered: 12.1km / 7.5mi
- time taken: 6 hours
- Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner Included
Day 11: DEPARTURE DAY
Today is the day that you say goodbye to your team. Congratulations, you just hiked the highest freestanding mountain on planet Earth and the tallest mountain in Mama Africa. Nature Horizons could not be happier that we lead you to the top. You will remember these memories for the rest of your life. Upon waking up today, your guide will be with you until you need to leave for Kilimanjaro International Airport.
ACCOMMODATION
Accommodation in Moshi (Before Hike)
Accommodation during hike
Camping/Tents
How Much Time Do I Need To Climb Mount Kilimanjaro?
Do You Require Technical Skills For Climbing Kilimanjaro?
What Is The Weather Like While Climbing Mount Kilimanjaro?
What Is The Best Time Of The Year To Climb Mount Kilimanjaro?
What Is Provided And What Do I Have To Bring To Kilimanjaro?
- 1 mountaineering sleeping bag
- 1 LED flashlight with spare batteries
- 1 Pair of comfortable trekking boots
- 1 towel
- 2 fleece jackets
- 1 down jacket or long-sleeved wind-breaker
- 1 set of thermal underwear
- 2 pairs of trekking trousers
- 1 waterproof jacket
- 1 pair of waterproof trousers
- 1 sun hat
- 1 pair of sunglasses
What Is The Food Like On Kilimanjaro?
What Are The Health Issues On Mount Kilimanjaro?
What Kind Of Help Is Available In Case Of Emergency On Kilimanjaro?
Drinking Water – Is It Safe And Is There Enough For All The Climbers?
Is High Altitude Medication Required To Climb Kilimanjaro?
Do I Need To Get Any Vaccinations Before I Leave For Kilimanjaro?
Trekking Packing List
Head and Hands:
- Cap or hat to wear while walking in bright sun
- Wool or fleece cap or hat to keep your head warm
- Neck warmer to protect your throat from catching cold
- Uv protection sunglasses
- Warm wind and waterproof gloves
Upper body:
- Dri fit trekking shirts
- Thermals
- Warm trekking shirts
- Hiking hoodie
- Wind and waterproof jacket
- Down jacket
Lower body:
- Trekking pants
- Trekking shorts
- Thermals and inners
- Waterproof pants
- Trekking socks
- Waterproof trekking boots with ankle support
- Slippers or sandals
- Gaiters
- Microspikes
Other items:
- Strong rucksack or large holdall to be carried by porters.
- Day rucksack to be carried personally.
- Plastic bags or stuff sacks to store/separate trekking gear inside your main bag.
- One or two-liter water bottle.
- Personal first aid kit to include essential items.
- Sleeping bag, 4 seasons.
- Torch, ideally head torch.
- Digital Camera and a spare battery and battery charger
- Toilet paper, quick dry towel,
- Toothbrush
- Large handkerchief/bandana for neck
Mountain biking:
- Waterproof/windproof jacket comfortable for riding.
- Long Thermal tops and bottoms for both riding and sleeping
- Fleece Jacket or Jumper
- Cycling Clothing – Long and short sleeve tops, full and half cycling shorts. Arm and leg warmers if you use them, thermal cap for under helmet
- Full Fingered gloves suitable for minus degrees’ temperatures, half fingered gloves
- Warm Hat (for off the bike)
- Buff or Bandana for face protection against dust
- Knee and Elbow Pads are highly recommended
- Helmets are COMPULSORY. We supply if you are hiring from us
- Sunglasses and Sunscreen
- Basic Toiletries, Chapstick, Moisturizer, Hand Sanitizer
- Wet wipes for those times it’s too cold to shower
- A Travel Towel
- Sleeping Bag (Rated 3 Season) Highly recommended from Oct to March. At a minimum a sleeping sheet will be good. Hotels give blankets but don’t always provide sheets. In peak seasons blankets can be limited. Can be hired in Kathmandu
- Socks (thick and thin)
- Cycling Shoes – We recommend mtb shoes with walking soles not stiff ones or any shoe you are comfortable to both pedal and walk in. There are some river crossings where you could possibly get wet feet, so bring some lighter fast drying shoes as there is nothing worse than riding with cold and wet feet! Or pack some flip flops in your day pack.
- Flip Flops or Sandals for around the Teahouses
- Hiking boots or walking shoes (For Throng La Only)
- Waterproof Pack Cover
- Day Pack for carrying personal belongings while riding
- Camelbak (2lt) or Water Bottles
- Head Torch
- Personal Medicines, rehydration salts
Bringing Your Own Bike
We recommend the following specifications: –
- Full Suspension 110mm to 160mm travel all mountain style bikes are ideal for this trip, but one that can climb.
- Tire recommendation is 2.2 to 2.3. Something like a MAXXIS High Roller or Schwalbe Nobby Nic or equivalent is ideal for this trip.
- Tubeless is recommended and we also recommend you bring a little extra Liquid.
- Hardtails are also okay for these trip’s if that is what you ride.
You should provide for your OWN BIKE
- Chain Links, Spare Chain
- Dry Chain Lube
- Mech Hanger or Drop Out for your model of bike
- Brake Pads for your Model
- Brake fluid for your Model of Brake
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Our TripAdvisor Reviews
Jennifer F2025-04-27Amazing Tanzanian Safari Nature Horizons planned an unforgettable Tanzanian safari for 20 guests on a yoga retreat. Beginning in the planning stages, Dominick was helpful, knowledgeable, and would go out of his way to ensure we had an amazing trip planned. He was on top of the details, such as collecting passport and travel info, and answered all of our questions. Because of NHT’s attention to detail? Our guests enjoyed a once-in-a-lifetime trip. If we needed anything during our stay, Dominick was responsive and would get any problem resolved. Every detail was fine tuned, and several of the accommodations were beyond expectation. The guides he set us up would were funny, personable, and genuinely cared to make sure we had the best safari experience. I highly recommend the hot air balloon ride!If you are looking to plan a Tanzanian safari, FIBI! Look no further and reach out to Dominick for a life-changing vacation.
Erin Y2025-04-23Magical restorative adventure! My yoga studio hosted an unforgettable trip to Tanzania, thanks to Nature Horizon Tours! Every detail was perfectly planned—from the beautiful accommodations to the incredible excursions and welcoming local guides. The trip created space for adventure, reflection, and connection, making it both inspiring and restorative. We came home with lasting memories, a deeper bond as a group, and new friendships that we truly treasure. This experience far exceeded our expectations, and we’re so grateful for the care and thought that went into every moment. We can’t wait to travel with this team again!
Jen B2025-04-08Life-Changing Safari I am very grateful for Natures Horizons Tours for providing the trip of a lifetime. They ensured our safety, took care of all of our needs, and treated us with the best care and consideration even when some of us didn’t deserve it. This tour company is very PROFESSIONAL!! They know what they are doing and they do it very well. I would tour with them again in a heartbeat! The attached photo is completely untouched. This is how close they got us to the action! If we weren’t in the rover, this beautiful but very full, lioness was only feet away. We could see every beautiful detail of her.
Nancy C2025-04-06Lasting memories My trip to Tanzania was amazing. Nature Horizons put together a fantastic itinerary. Our guides were knowledgeable, hard working, and friendly. They turned the Safari from a trip into an awesome and unforgettable experience.
Getaway310895774142025-03-24A bucket list trip dreams are made of! Nature Horizons organized a trip for 20 people from our yoga community for a yoga and safari tour in Tanzania. Every detail was curated perfectly from the those greeting us at the airport to those touring us through the urban and cultural centers of Arusha all the way though an unforgettable experience in the Serengeti. Our 5 tour guides were friendly and fun and beyond knowledgeable and we got to see THE BIG 5!!! The locations they choose for our Safari camp and for our journey along the way were superb with perfect views for our yoga practice and the food was out of this world every place we went! We will for sure be traveling with Nature Horizons again, in fact we already have Egypt booked as our next destination!!! For world class bucket list travel these are your people. Rarely does one get the owner and CEO of a travel company hand selecting every detail of your trip and ensuring it goes off without a hiccup… this oversight and hand on help is unbeatable in the travel industry… trust me after a decade of taking yoga groups traveling, this is something you never see! Thanks Dominick and Team for a memorable bucket list trip and for taking superb care of us along the way!
Shreya B2025-03-11Excellent customer care! We travel a lot and for the first time let Nature Horizons Tours plan our trip for us! It was an amazing experience as there was always someone to take care of us and our needs. Our daughter needed urgent care on the last day of the trip and we were helped all the way through! Better than 5*s!!!
Mary D2025-02-11Fantastic Safari My husband and I thoroughly enjoyed the safari that we took thru Nature Horizons Tours in Tanzania last month. It truly was a trip of a life time. We saw lots of animals and birds throughout Lake Manyara, Ngorongoro and the Serengeti. To see 20 elephants (including babies) casually stroll by us was an experience I will never forget. Another time, we saw two herds of zebras that must have totaled 20,000 zebras. WOW! Our guide, Praygod was great and we really enjoyed spending time with him. He was great at identifying animals and provided lots of the environmental, historical and cultural information. I recommend bringing a notebook to write down all the animals you will see.One advantage we had with Natures Horizon compared to other Safari companies is that there are only four people in a jeep during the safari (well, plus the driver). This was really nice being able to easily see animals on both sides of the jeep without stepping over people. We saw a lot of jeeps that had 6 people in them.Everyone associated with Nature Horizons Tours and the lodges we stayed at went out of their way to make our stay/experience fantastic. We learned that if there was something that we wanted, we just had to ask. At the Kilimanjaro Lux Camp, Grace personally made avocado toast for us each morning. In Zanzibar, we asked the driver where we could buy spices and he took us to a local outdoor market which I appreciated as I enjoy experiencing the local experience.It was a great trip and I would have no doubt that I would go on another tour led by Natures Horizons
Trail311312224182025-02-11Fantastic Photo Safari I traveled with Nature Horizons to Tanzania in 2024. I am writing this review as a Travel Agent. My clients just returned from their safari with Nature Horizons. From the time they booked, Dominick was in close contact with both me and my clients. He made sure that all of our questions or concerns were handled very quickly. He took the time to do zoom calls with me and my clients more than once to make sure that they were comfortable with everything to do with the trip. While there were a couple of things lost in translation with his team in Tanzania, they were minor and were dealt with immediately. The driver/guide is the absolute best. The lodging, while not close to town, was all very nice with fabulous food. The balloon ride is not to be missed! One of the things that I appreciate the most is that Dominick will not take more than 4 people in a vehicle, even though more can fit. He wants every passenger to have the best view, no matter which side of the vehicle has the views of the wildlife. I am very happy with Dominick and his team at Nature Horizons and would not hesitate to use them again for myself and my clients!
Geri M2025-02-10Tanzania and Serengeti Safari Phenomenal experience! Once in a lifetime trip! The guide was top of the line! I would suggest this trip to everyone! We added on Zanzibar and that was beautiful as well
Byrd B2025-01-14The BEST Partner for a Travel Agency!! Nature Horizons has been an amazing partner for us. I own a travel agency that does $13MM in revenue and when it comes to unique, off the beaten path, this partner always delivers exactly what my clients are looking for. The support is impressive and the work has love poured into every detail. You cannot go wrong with this company!Tripadvisor rating score: 5.0 of 5,
based on 73 reviews