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Kilimanjaro or 'Kili' as it's affectionately known is one of the worlds 'Seven Summit's' and the highest mountain in Africa. Summit success on Kilimanjaro is all about the acclimatisation and our 8-day trek via the Lemosho route takes you along one of the quietest and most varied routes on the mountain. Stand on the roof of Africa and take in the awesome views of the clouds and rolling African plains below.
Kilimanjaro the long way - The quieter little-used Lemosho route which runs along the remote and beautiful Shira Plateau is the best route for acclimatisation. There is no rush and this route will increase your chances of summit success compared to the quicker routes on the mountain. As you hike above the plateau, you will get great views of Kibo's southern glaciers before we reach the easier Barafu Route. You will spend 4 nights above or close to 4000 meters helping you acclimatise before you're ready to tackle the final 2 stages of the summit climb Kilimanjaro. Summit day is an early start as we watch the sunrise whilst we tackle the ascent to the high point at Uhuru Peak (5895m). You have made it to the roof of Africa.
Join us on the Kilimanjaro - The long way
Jambo! Welcome to Tanzania!
One of our team will pick you up at Kilimanjaro International Airport and transfer you to our 'base camp' for the next day or so, Springlands Hotel.
The first day is a free day to relax, grab a shower and recoup after your long flight. As everyone in the group normally arrives at different times of the day, your trip briefing will take place the following day (Day 2). The hotel should communicate where and when you will meet your Guide to recieve more information on your trek plans before the big adventure starts.
Today is all about exploring the local area around Moshi at the base of Kilimanjaro. You'll stretch your legs and head out past rice paddies, through the local forest, towards the centre of Moshi to visit the markets and get a feel for the culture. If this Day falls on a weekday, you may have the opportunity to visit some of the local schools. You will also have your trip briefing and meet your mountain guide today, this is usually at either 11am or 4pm however the specific time & place will have been confirmed with you on Day 1. After your tour and briefing you'll have time to relax and gather all of your equipment as you prepare for the big trip tomorrow.
After breakfast and a briefing from your guide, we will gather our gear and drive from our hotel in Moshi to Londorossi Park Gate (2250m, 1.5 hours). From here we will take a forest track in a 4WD vehicle where we drive to Lemosho Glades (2000m, 11Km. 45minutes).
'It all starts here'. This is where the adventure begins as we hike through the beautiful forest trails to Mt Mkubwa (big tree) campsite (2750m, 3hours).
We will camp here for the night.
It all starts to get real now as the trail gradually steepens. As we hike up we will reach the Shira Plateau at 3600m and enter the giant heather moorland zone which crosses the Shira Ridge at about 3600m before we drop gently down to Shira 1 Camp(3500m). There is a great chance of seeing some wildlife here, especially birds of prey, including the Auger Buzzard. As we hike along the ridge you will see the wall of the Western Breach on Kibo in the distance which is pretty damn awesome when covered in snow.
We take our time today as we let our bodies acclimatise to the high altitude. We will take a slow and steady hike across the plateau that leads us to Shira 2 Camp(3850m, 1.5 hours). As this is a short day, we can explore the Shira Caldera which is Kilimanjaro's oldest volcano (Erupted around 700,000 years ago). Shira Cathedral is a great way to test out the body at this height so we will hike up 200m to the summit. Take in the views of the forest below that you hiked through over the previous day or so.
As we leave the moorlands behind, we will climb the rocky path that passes the amazing Lava tower towards the Baranco Valley. At this point, you should be starting to adjust to the high altitude but we will still take it slow as we head towards our campsite at 3950m.
After breakfast we leave the Barranco ridge and hike up the Barranco wall. After a steady hike, we will hit the foot of the Heim glacier. This is a relatively short day as you will have a free afternoon to relax and enjoy the views.
We start to gain some real altitude as we head towards the Barafu hut, located at an altitude of 4550m. You wil start to notice that you are significantly higher than the clouds below as you hike across the rugged volcanic landscape. The two peaks of Mawenzi and Kibo are seen from this location. We will get an early night as we prepare for the summit push tomorrow. You're getting real close now!
It's time to take on the highest mountain in Africa. One of the 7 summits!
We will get up at around midnight and grab some light breakfast and fuel the body before the big climb. The incline starts to get really steep but we will take it slow and steady. After a number of hours of hiking, we will hit the crater rim as the sun starts to rise. Take in the views of the steep ice cliffs and you may even spot Mt Kenya in the distance. After another couple of hours we will reach the summit at Uhuru peak (5895m). YOU HAVE DONE IT!
After some time taking pictures and catching our breath we will descend all the way back to Barafu hut for brunch and a little rest. We will then descend to Mweka hut for dinner and where we will be camping for the night.
The legs will be a little sore, but after breakfast you will walk down towards the Mweka gate and grab your transfer back to the Springlands Hotel in Moshi. Depending on the speed of your group's decent, and if you haven't already visited the local school in Moshi, you may have time to pay a visit this afternoon. Then it will be time for a beer and a relaxing evening with your group. What an achievement!
The trip is over but the memories will last a lifetime. One of our team will transfer you back to Kilimanjaro International Airport from Springlands Hotel.
Want to extend your adventure?
Once your trek is finished, why not add on our Serengeti National Park & Ngorongoro Crater trip?
Zanzibar Extension - 5 Days / 4 Nights At Kendwa Rocks Hotel
Want to read more about this incredible extension? Read the itinerary and article here!
or
Zanzibar Extension - 3 Days/2 Nights At Langi Beach Bungalows
Want to read more about this incredible extension? Read the itinerary and article here!
September 21 2025 - October 01 2025
£2,845pp
£441 / 6 Months
September 13 2026 - September 23 2026
£2,995pp
£155 / 18 Months
Tina Barratt
Phil Wills
Anna
Brian Coddington
Embark on a journey of a lifetime by exploring the magnificent Serengeti National Park after your successful summit of Kilimanjaro. The Serengeti is a world-renowned destination and is considered as one of the last remaining unspoiled savannahs in the world. Be prepared to be awed by the vast and diverse wildlife that roam its plains, including the rare black rhino, majestic lions, towering elephants, elusive leopards, sleek cheetahs, crafty hyenas and comical warthogs - keep your eyes peeled for Pumba!
Make the most out of your trip as you go on a thrilling game-viewing adventure that will leave you breathless. And, let's not forget the stunning Ngorongoro Crater, where you will be treated to breathtaking views of the caldera and its surroundings. This experience is an unparalleled opportunity to immerse yourself in the natural beauty of Africa while enjoying game-viewing and adventure at its very best.
Want to read more about this incredible extension? Read the itinerary and article here!
Experience the amazing Lake Manyara national park and Ngorongoro Crater with your own private safari guide once you have summited Kili. These awesome national parks are teeming with life and offer a once in a lifetime experience to see the endangered black rhino, lions as well as the colourful flamingos, leopards, hyena and warthogs.
Want to read more about this incredible extension? Read the itinerary and article here!
Zanzibar is the paradise you have been waiting for after your trek to the summit of Kilimanjaro!
Why not extend your stay in Tanzania and swap the fresh mountain air for the warm sea breeze and enjoy some sun, sea, sand and relaxation in Kendwa Beach. All while you experience the mouth-watering seafood and the sensory overload of the popular spice market and the rich history of Stone Town close by.
A short flight from the hustle of the Tanzanian mainland is the remote paradise of Zanzibar and its stunning beaches surrounded by the most beautiful clear seas. Your time is your own, you can relax by the beach with a cocktail reliving the memories of your epic Kilimanjaro summit or have fun in the tropical water brimming with fish making it ideal for snorkelling and diving.
You will also get to visit the historic Stone Town and experience the Spice Tour. Stone Town is a place steeped in Swahili and Islamic influences and has a rich and interesting history going back centuries. The spice tour is one of the most popular ways to explore Zanzibar. Zanzibar was one of the world’s leading spice producers such as clove, nutmeg and cinnamon. The tour takes you to an organic spice farm where you don’t just see, you also touch, smell and taste.
Zanzibar is the perfect end to an epic adventure after the challenge of Kilimanjaro.
Want to read more about this incredible extension? Read the itinerary and article here!
Zanzibar is the paradise you have been waiting for after your trek to the summit of Kilimanjaro!
Why not extend your stay in Tanzania for a few days and swap the fresh mountain air for the warm sea breeze and enjoy some sun, sea, sand and relaxation at Langi beach bungalows.
A short flight from the hustle of the Tanzanian mainland is the remote paradise of Zanzibar and its stunning beaches surrounded by the most beautiful clear seas. Your time is your own, you can relax by the beach with a cocktail reliving the memories of your epic Kilimanjaro summit or have fun in the tropical water brimming with fish making it ideal for snorkelling and diving.
You will also get to experience the Spice Tour, the spice tour is one of the most popular places to visit in Zanzibar. Zanzibar was one of the world’s leading spice producers such as clove, nutmeg and cinnamon. The tour takes you to an organic spice farm where you don’t just see, you also touch, smell and taste.
Want to read more about this incredible extension? Read the itinerary and article here!
We can forward a detailed equipment list upon booking but here's a nice little tick list for the essentials when taking on Kilimanjaro. Kilimanjaro Kit List.
If you have any other questions, join Head Yeti Andy & Painted Yeti Dave on the Tuesday Tune-In LIVE Q&A over on Facebook each week where we can answer all of your trekking equipment questions as well as any other questions you might have.
The Kilimanjaro - The long way is suitable for keen walkers/trekkers who are able to walk for 4 – 5 hours in a day, with a light rucksack. Ideally, you will be able to walk for consecutive days for this length of time.
Q1. Which route should I choose?
We have made this decision easy for you, its The Lemosho Route! which is the only route we use for our Kilimanjaro trek. When you take on any adventure, it's not all about where you are going but how you get there. The Lemosho Route takes eight days which helps ensure proper acclimatisation - the single most important part of a successful summit. During these eight days you’ll traverse the mountain, trek through many stunning landscapes and spend the nights camping which all add to the thrill of adventure. After a successful summit you’ll descend quickly via the Mweka route for a well earned beer, or two, or three.
Q2. Can I hire equipment when I arrive?
We do have a store room at our hotel in Moshi which has a limited supply of equipment, however we do recommend using your own equipment as much as possible. This is because you will be familiar with your kit before climbing the mountain which is beneficial. Items like boots, trousers and base layers are always best when you are the only person to have worn them. However you can opt to hire things like sleeping bags, down jackets, duffel bags and poles etc.
Q3. When is the best time of year to climb Kilimanjaro?
We run our treks during the dry seasons which happen twice a year from January to March and then June to October. Trekking during the rainy season is not much fun and heavy rain clouds means the epic views will be few and far between. January to March can be colder at the higher altitudes and there is a good chance of snow. The peak season is during June to October as this coincides with summer holidays in many countries, so you will see more people on the mountain.
Q4. Do we carry our own bags while climbing Kilimanjaro?
You will only have to carry your day pack which we recommend be around 25 to 35 litres for your camp-to-camp essentials like snacks, water, rain clothes and your camera. We have a fantastic team of porters who will be carrying your duffel bags with all your heavy gear and everything else you need to thrive on the mountain, items such as; tents, toilets, kitchen equipment, food and medical supplies.
Q5. Do we use fully qualified mountain guides on Kilimanjaro?
Yes, we are proud to say that our guides are the best in the business. All of our guides are fully qualified mountain guides who have worked their way up to their senior positions gaining all the necessary qualifications and experience. Many of our guides have summited Kilimanjaro over 400 times and guided many happy clients to the roof of Africa. Our guides are also fully-trained high altitude medics, so they know how to look after you on the hill!
Q6. How fit do you have to be to climb Kilimanjaro?
You definitely need to train before you climb Kilimanjaro, if you don’t do the training you can still get there, but doing the training makes the climb so much more enjoyable. You don’t need to be a super athlete or an elite mountaineer, but you should get out on the hills with a pack on your back and put some strength and endurance in your back and legs, we call this being “mountain fit”. You should also do some cardiovascular exercises such as cycling, running or swimming. We recommend to gradually start your training as soon as you book your trip and taper off around two weeks before you head out so that you’re in tip-top shape on arrival.
Q7. What vaccinations and medication do I need to climb Kilimanjaro?
You are strongly advised to get the following vaccinations before heading to Kilimanjaro:
Recommended optional vaccinations for Kilimanjaro:
You will also need to take Malaria medication, how long you take the medication depends on which type you are prescribed, but in all cases it will be for a period before you arrive in Tanzania, during your entire trip and then for a period when you get home.
Q8. Is altitude sickness a risk while climbing Kilimanjaro?
The summit of Kilimanjaro reaches 5895m so it is likely that everyone who starts the climb will at some point experience some degree of discomfort due to the altitude. In most cases this could mean a headache, loss of appetite, mild nausea and a general feeling of tiredness however these are all completely normal and to be expected when humans go to high altitude. The risk of getting altitude sickness is a lot less if you follow the mountain rules:
Stay hydrated. Drink three to five litres of water per day
Manage your pace. Walking slowly helps your body adjust to the altitude, slow at the bottom means fast at the top so our favourite saying is “Pole, Pole” (Slowly, Slowly)
Maintain a good diet. This can be difficult at altitude, but food is energy so try to keep eating the great meals we provide.
Listen to your guide. These guys know the mountain and know how to manage the altitude better than anyone, follow their advice.
Enjoy yourself. Remember, you are on the trip of a lifetime, keep positive and enjoy the experience.
Q9. Should I take Diamox while climbing Kilimanjaro?
Diamox can be a great help while trekking at high altitude, and more people choose to take it than don’t. Our advice is if you are going to take Diamox, do so with the advice of a medical professional who knows about its use at altitude, we use Nomad Travel Clinics and EverTrekkers can benefit from certain discounts if they visit a clinic and mention they are with EverTrek. Our guides also carry Diamox should you need it and not have your own supply.
Q10. What should I tip the porters and guides?
The guides and porters are the most critical part of our team when it comes to climbing Kilimanjaro, we simply could not do it without them, tipping is culturally expected and highly appreciated at the end of your climb. We recommend each person tips 10% of the trip cost, this is usually done by pooling the tips and then dividing them up to the head guide, assistant guides and porters with the head guide receiving the most and so on down This is a general guideline and can be altered, other such gifts are also appreciated such as warm clothes or trekking equipment. As a general rule you can use the following to help you:
Head Guide - $10 to $15 per day
Assistant Guides - $8 to $10 per day
Chef - $7 to $10 per day
Porters - $5 to $8 per day
We're here to make that adventure happen for you so if you do have any questions ping us an email at - This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. or send us a DM via our website chat below and we'll get back in touch with you soon as we can.
Want to know more about this awesome adventure? Read our ultimate beginner’s guide to taking on the highest summit in Africa here.
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