Lemosho is our favorite route on Kilimanjaro. Its combination of stunning landscapes, fewer crowds, and a smooth acclimatization profile makes it the top choice especially for first-time climbers.

We offer three itinerary options for the Lemosho Route: 6, 7, and 8 days. Each is designed for different levels of hiking and altitude experience.

🗓️ 6-Day Itinerary

Best for: Experienced hikers with recent high-altitude exposure.
This option is suited for climbers who have recently completed a multi-day hike above 4,000 m (13,100 ft) within the last three months. It’s a great fit for those with high-altitude experience looking for a shorter trek.

🗓️ 7-Day Itinerary

Best for: Hikers with trekking experience, limited high-altitude exposure.
Our most popular Lemosho option—used for over 50% of our climbs. This version skips the rainforest section, with a drive taking you directly to 3,414 m (11,200 ft).
The first two days involve easy hikes with minimal altitude gain, conserving energy for the summit push. Even climbers without prior hiking experience achieve high success rates on this itinerary.

🗓️ 8-Day Itinerary

Best for: Beginners or those returning to trekking after a break.
The best choice for those new to mountain hiking or looking to maximize their chances of summiting.
You’ll start in the lush tropical rainforest, with a full day dedicated to acclimatization and adjusting to the trekking rhythm. The additional day significantly boosts success rates.

🧗‍♀️ Is Lemosho Right for You?

Regardless of the itinerary, Kilimanjaro requires at least an average fitness level. Even the beginner-friendly 8-day version demands preparation.

Lemosho Route – Summit Success Rate

Over the years, we’ve gathered extensive data from thousands of our climbers across all Kilimanjaro routes. The Lemosho Route stands out for its combination of beauty, acclimatization profile, and high summit success rates.

Here are the actual success rates from safari tours africa on the three Lemosho itineraries:

Itinerary Crater Rim Uhuru Peak

6 Days 64%

7 Days 85%

8 Days 91% 

Why is the 8-day trek best for beginners despite a lower summit rate?

It’s a great question — and the answer lies in who chooses which itinerary:

6-Day Itinerary: Often chosen by well-prepared, experienced hikers with prior high-altitude exposure. Their training and conditioning drive up success rates despite the more aggressive pace.

8-Day Itinerary: Popular with beginners and first-time trekkers who may lack trekking experience or preparation. While this version offers the best acclimatization profile, less experience can lower overall success percentages.

Also, many climbers travel in pairs or groups. If one person decides to turn back, others often follow — which impacts the statistics.

In short, the 68% success rate for the 6-day trek reflects experienced hikers. The 91% success rate on the 8-day trek is impressive considering it’s often the first major mountain adventure for those climbers.

Why Our Climbers Succeed More Often

Our summit success rates consistently outperform other operators — and here’s why:

✅ Top-Tier Teams: We offer the best salaries and working conditions on Kilimanjaro, which allows us to attract and retain the region’s most skilled guides, porters, and logistics professionals.

✅ Unmatched Safety Protocols:

Two medical check-ups per day on every trek

Extensive medical kits and company-trained doctors

More oxygen systems than any other operator — used both for emergencies and to aid acclimatization

✅ World-Class Training: All our guides are certified Wilderness First Responders (WFR), the highest standard for remote medical care in mountaineering.

Whether you’re a seasoned trekker or a first-time adventurer, Lemosho offers your best shot at reaching Uhuru Peak — and our team is proud to help you get there.