Lemosho Route

The Lemosho Route takes six to eight days on the mountain, plus arrival and departure days in Arusha or Moshi. Eight days is the most comfortable option because the slower ascent helps with altitude adjustment. Seven days suits fit, experienced hikers, while six days is the shortest practical version. We usually recommend seven or eight days for first-time climbers. Arrival and rest days in Arusha help you recover from your flight before starting the trek.

The Lemosho Route is challenging but achievable for healthy, well-prepared hikers without technical climbing experience. Daily walks are mostly steady, with harder sections at the Barranco Wall and the long summit night. Altitude is the main difficulty, not terrain. Train with long hill walks, pace yourself slowly and consult your doctor or a travel clinic about altitude before your trip. Walking slowly, drinking plenty of water and listening to your guide all make a real difference.

Lemosho is better for travellers who want quieter trails, more scenery and a longer acclimatisation profile, while Machame suits those with less time. Both routes meet near Barranco and share the same summit approach. Lemosho starts further west and usually takes a day or two longer. If your schedule allows, an eight-day Lemosho itinerary is a very comfortable way to reach Uhuru Peak. Our team will happily compare both routes against your schedule and fitness before you decide.

The best time to climb the Lemosho Route is during the drier months, from late June to October and from late December to early March. These periods bring clearer skies and firmer trails. April and May are the wettest months, and November brings short rains. Climbing is possible year-round, but we will advise you on conditions for your preferred dates. Clear mornings on the Shira Plateau often reward climbers with excellent views of Kibo.

A private Lemosho climb with Foot Slopes typically includes park fees, licensed mountain guides, porters, a cook, mountain tents, meals on the trek and transfers to and from the gate. Hotel nights before and after the climb can be added. Rental gear can be arranged in Arusha or Moshi. We confirm every inclusion in writing with your personalised quote. We also send tipping guidance for your crew in advance so you can budget with confidence.