Wild Tanzania - Climb Kili and Safari

A day of Safari in Arusha National Park followed by 9 day Lemosho Glades route climb of Kilimanjaro.

INFO

DATES: August - December (email to enquire about specific dates)

PRICE: $4350

Max People: 12

ABOUT THE LEMOSHO GLADES ROUTE

9 DAYS, 8 NIGHTS ON THE MOUNTAIN:

The Lemosho Glades route is one of the least-used approaches on Kilimanjaro, mainly due to its remote starting point and rough roads leading to the trailhead. Beginning at a high elevation, the journey on this route begins slowly and steadily. In past years, sightings of buffalo and elephants have been possible on the first day of trekking through the forest, where the trail can be overgrown at times.

Ascending towards the western edge of the Shira Plateau, hikers are treated to one of the most breathtaking hikes in Africa. By day four, the trail merges with the Machame Route at Lava Tower before guiding trekkers through the ridges and valleys of the southern circuit trails, accompanied by the impressive glaciers of Kibo to the north.

Reaching Barafu Camp at 15,300 feet (4,670 m), the journey continues towards the crater for a close encounter with Kilimanjaro's receding glaciers, a unique aspect of this trek. The Crater Camp offers a serene setting in soft "beach" sand, with a view of the towering ice walls of the Furtwangler Glacier from the tents.

The following morning is a short 1.5 to 2-hour trek to the summit, completed in daylight to savor the experience. This trek aims to provide a closer connection to nature and a unique Kilimanjaro adventure. While days 4, 5, and 6 involve long treks, they offer ample acclimatization opportunities.

The remarkable hike across the Shira Plateau and the enchanting camping experience at Crater Camp make this trek truly distinctive. Accommodations consist of mountain tents, with dining taking place in mess tents. Convenient and sanitary portable flush toilets are available at all campsites, as there are no huts along this route.

INCLUDED

  • All meals

  • 4* Accommodation in Arusha

  • All relevant transfers

  • Crater fees

  • All safety equipment/hyperbaric chamber

  • 1 professional guide per 2 climbers

  • Camping equipment

  • All mountain meals

NOT INCLUDED

  • Airfare to/from KIA Kili Airport

  • Personal clothing and equipment

  • Medical, baggage and trip cancellation insurance

  • Taxes and gratuities

ABOUT THE ITINERARY

Summary of Lemosho Glades Route for Climbing Kilimanjaro

Embark on an extraordinary adventure to summit the majestic Mount Kilimanjaro, towering at an awe-inspiring 19,340 feet as one of the world's seven summits. Traverse the renowned Lemosho Route, renowned for its breathtaking vistas and considered the premier path on Kilimanjaro.

Previously, climbers mainly tackled Kilimanjaro through the Marangu (Coca Cola) or Machame (Whiskey) routes. However, with Tanzania's burgeoning tourism sector, additional trails were introduced to reach Africa's highest peak. The Lemosho Route, a newer path, is favored by reputable operators for its splendor, seclusion, and high success rates, offering climbers an optimal chance to reach the summit and relish the entire journey.

Journey through six distinct ecological zones, immersing yourself in the transition from lush rainforest to the mesmerizing arctic landscape, each zone providing a unique glimpse of the mountain's diverse topography. Accompanied by seasoned African guides well-versed in the mountain's nuances and surroundings, you'll unravel the rich natural and cultural heritage encompassing this iconic peak.

Experience Adventure Mates' Signature Camping, an exclusive camping experience featuring spacious tents, top-notch amenities, gourmet cuisine, and more, ensuring an unparalleled journey every step of the way. Immerse yourself in Mount Kilimanjaro's unparalleled beauty and craft memories that will endure a lifetime.

  • Begin your journey by taking a flight to Kilimanjaro International Airport (KIA).

  • Your guides will pic you up at the KIA airport and transfer you to the beautiful Arusha Sheraton 5 star hotel.

  • Your day begins with a full day Safari in Arusha National Park followed by gear checks and clmb briefing with head guide Jonas Rutta.

  • Today, your climb begins. After a 3 hour drive to the gate, you will climb roughly 4 hrs to your first camp.

  • Day 2 of climbing continues with a 5-6 hour hike up to Shira Camp 1.

  • Roughly 5-6 hours of climbing lands you at the beautiful Shira Camp 2 will will rest and recover for the night.

  • Another day of climbing. Expect to be on the trail for roughly 6 hours today.

  • We stay relatively at the same altitude today but continue to wrap around the mountain. Expect 4hrs of climbing today.

  • Today’s journey takes us up to 15,000 ft where we will get a full nights rest and meal before summit bid the next AM.

  • We wake up at 530am for our summit bid. The good news we get to sleep up in the crater tonight. We will be the only group to do this.

  • Today offers us the opportunity to view sunrise from the Summit followed by 6 hour descent down to Mweka Camp (10,000 ft).

  • Today we exit off of the mountain, get our climbing certificates and celebrate our accomplishments with a tipping ceremony for our guides and porters. You will then be transferred back to your hotel in Arusha where you can have a warm shower and pack your things for travel back home.

  • Fly home from KIA or extend your stay and explore Tanzania or bordering countries.

DAY 7

DAY 9

DAY 11

DETAILED ITINERARY

DAY 1

ARUSHA: SHERATON 5 STAR HOTEL

Upon arriving at Kilimanjaro International Airport, you will be greeted and promptly transferred to the luxurious Sheraton 5-star Hotel in Arusha for a delightful dinner and a restful overnight stay. Start your adventure in comfort and style with exceptional service at one of the finest accommodations in the region.

DAY 2

SAFARI - GEAR CHECKS - CLLIMB BRIEFING

Start the day at Arusha National Park for a game drive with mesmerizing views of Mount Meru. Delight in the diverse wildlife sightings and enjoy in a serene picnic lunch. Gear up for the epic Kilimanjaro climb with a thorough briefing and gear check by the head guide, Jonas Rutta (393 summits and counting).

DAY 3

Lemosho Gate (7,780ft /2,380m ) to Forest Camp (9,300ft /2,750m) ~ 3 hrs

Departure from Arusha is scheduled for around 8:30 am, heading towards Lemosho gate. The journey to the gate will take approximately 3 hours, during which you will need to finalize entry formalities. Following this, there will be a short walk to the Lemosho sign board, around 10 minutes to reach the trailhead. Upon reaching the trailhead, lunch will be provided before starting the trek. The adventure begins through untouched forest paths that lead to the first camp, which is only about 3 to 4 hours of trekking away.

DAY 4

Mti Mkubwa ( 9,300ft / 2,750) to Shira 1(11,500ft /8,610) ~ 5hrs

Once we emerge from the forest, we will traverse a level trail that guides us into a savannah landscape marked by towering grasses, heather, and volcanic rocks adorned with lichen. Ascending through the fertile undulating hills below the Shira Plateau, we will reach the camp perched at the brink of the plateau following a full day of hiking lasting 5 to 6 hours. The view of Kibo from this vantage point on the plateau is undeniably awe-inspiring.

DAY 5

Shira 1(11,500ft /8,610) to Shira 2 Campsite. (13,050ft / 3,850m) ~ 5hrs

Embark on a captivating journey to Shira Plateau leading up to Kibo’s glacier peak. Discover the ancient Shira Cone and trek to Shira Camp (Fischer's Camp) resting at an elevation of 13,050 feet. The trek, lasting 3-4 hours, boasts breathtaking vistas. Opt for an additional excursion to Shira Cathedral for an extended adventure spanning 5-6 hours. Immerse yourself in the beauty of the landscape and the serenity of the surroundings on this remarkable expedition.

DAY 6

Shira 2 campsite to Barranco Campsite ( 13,000ft / 3,950m) ~ 6 hrs

Proceed steadily upward over expansive ridgelines of high desert to reach Lava Tower for lunch. The trek typically takes about 4 hours. Lava Tower, a 300-foot volcanic plug, serves as a distinctive marker at an exposed passageway, situated at 15,000 feet. In the afternoon, descend the steep trail into the stunning Great Barranco Valley. Barranco Camp awaits, nestled in a valley bordered on three sides by towering valley walls and the impressive Kibo massif itself. Above, hanging glaciers glisten in the sunlight, adding to the picturesque landscape adorned with unique flora like the giant groundsels (Senecio kilimanjari) and the endemic Giant Lobelia. The total trekking time for the day ranges from 6 to 7 hours.

Barranco (13,000ft / 3950m) to Karanga Camp (13,300ft / 4,000m) ~ 4hrs

The day kicks off with a challenging ascent up the steep Barranco Wall, followed by navigating the ridges and valleys along the southern face of the mountain. To the left, Kibo's glacier provides a looming presence, while the sharp peaks of Mawenzi extend into the African sky at nearly 17,000 feet straight ahead. After 4-5 hours of trekking, we arrive at the Karngaa valley to enjoy a well-deserved hot lunch.

Barafu to Summit (19,341ft) + Crater Camp( 18,500ft) ~ 6hrs

At 5 a.m., you start the day with a wake-up call for a joggernaut, a 5 to 6-hour trek that begins officially at 6 a.m. The path has winding switchbacks, leading you to Stella Point on the crater rim at 18,870 feet (5,750 meters) after 6 to 7 hours. From there, a 30-minute to 1-hour gentle slope takes you to the crater camp, set against the striking Furtwangler Glacier ice wall. Here, you can relax, enjoy snacks, and hot drinks in the mess tent. You have the option to explore the unique lunar-like landscape of the inner crater, such as the Reusch Crater, ash pit, and glaciers, making this Kilimanjaro summit experience exceptional for those who embark on it.

Mweka Campsite (10,200ft) to Mweka Gate (5,370ft) ~3hrs

Descend directly to the gate, which typically takes around 2-3 hours. At the gate, you will enjoy a lunch break and be presented with your climbing certificates. Head back to Arusha to freshen up with a relaxing shower and settle back into your hotel. Savor a delicious meal and unwind for the evening as you prepare for your journey back home.

DAY 8

DAY 10

Karanga (13,300ft / 4,000m) to Barafu Camp (15,300ft / 4,6700m) ~4hrs

On our journey today, we steadily ascended uphill. Expect a drop in temperature and a shift to a more barren landscape as we approach Barafu Camp near the base of Mount Kilimanjaro. Barafu Camp is situated on a small, open flat spot along a ridge. It serves as a base camp for many climbers who begin their summit push at midnight. Be sure to hydrate and fuel up before heading to your tent for much-needed rest. Today's trek will take approximately 4-5 hours.

Summit (19,341ft) to Mweka Campsite (3,100m / 10,200ft)~ 6hrs

Begin your day early to witness the magical sunrise from the summit of Mount Kilimanjaro. Embark on a roughly 1.5-hour ascent from Crater Camp to reach the summit, where you can revel in the breathtaking panoramic views. After soaking in the scenery, make your way down to Stella Point before returning to Barafu Camp for a well-deserved lunch. The descent continues through the Heather Zone, culminating in an overnight stay at Mweka Camp. The trek from Uhuru Peak to Mweka Camp typically spans 6 to 8 hours, with the total trekking time, including breaks, averaging around 7 to 8 hours. Immerse yourself in the thrill of this adventure and the natural splendor of Mount Kilimanjaro.

Other Important Info

  • Fly in and out of Kilimanjaro International (KIA).

  • Kindly note that the itinerary, activities, and hotel arrangements may be subject to alterations. These adjustments may occur with minimal notice, often due to factors like availability, inclement weather, seasonal transitions, or unforeseen circumstances. Please rest assured that we are committed to minimizing any disruptions to your overall experience. Additionally, on occasion, we may introduce modifications to your itinerary to explore new concepts and maintain a fresh and stimulating adventure.

  • Arrival any time before 4pm is recommended. Your hosts will be waiting to pick you up.

  • Any time on the 12th day works. We will eat breakfast and then your hosts will take you to the airport.

  • Our private chef can accomodate all dietary restrictions.