The Lemosho Glades route is one of the lesser used initial ascent routes on Kilimanjaro, partly because of its remote location and likewise the difficult roads leading to the trailhead. The trailhead is at relatively high elevation, and thus we start slow and easy on this route. Buffalo and elephant sightings are possible on the first day trekking through the forest. The route leads up to the western edge of the Shira Plateau, and the hike across the plateau is said to be one of the most stunningly beautiful hikes in Africa.

The trail merges on day four of the trek with the Shira Route (which begins near this point, at the end of the 4×4 track at the Morum Barrier Gate), and on day five merges with the Machame Route. From this point all three trails continue to Lava Tower, and then down into the Great Barranco Valley, where the Umbwe route joins steeply from the south.  From here, the trail circumvents counter-clockwise around the upper slopes of the Kibo massif, over the high-desert ridges to the Karanga Valley, then to an exposed campsite set on a high ridge; Barafu (meaning literally “ice” in Kiswahili). From Barafu Camp we make our attempt at Africa’s highest peak…an experience that few ever forget.

This itinerary allows a full night of rest and a daytime ascent to the summit, allowing a leisurely pace and often reaching the summit at a time when few others will be there, making it a truly special experience.The route as per this itinerary is the longest distance to trek up Kilimanjaro, so fitness certainly plays a role in the enjoyment and success of this trek. We start slow, and gain altitude slowly for the first four days, then the physical and mental demands increase.

The treks from Shira 2 to the Barranco valley and likewise from Barranco to Barafu are usually each done in one day but on this 9-day trek we take 2-3 days for each of these treks, allowing for plenty of acclimatisation and time to take in this truly spectacular mountain wilderness. The trek to the summit is still a serious challenge due to the long trekking day of 9-13 hours. The many changes of scenery and spectacular hike across the Shira Plateau make this trek truly special. There are no huts on this route; the accommodation is in mountain tents and dining is in our mess tents.