7 Day Kilimanjaro Climb Lemosho Route & 2 Day Safari

Conquering the iconic Mount Kilimanjaro through the Lemosho Route is an exhilarating challenge that rewards trekkers with stunning vistas and a profound sense of accomplishment. Complementing this adventure, a captivating safari explores Tanzania’s renowned wildlife havens, offering the chance to witness the iconic Big Five. This meticulously crafted 9-day expedition seamlessly blends the allure of Africa’s highest peak with the raw beauty of its natural wonders, creating an unforgettable experience for the adventurous spirit. Delve deeper to uncover the nuances that make this journey truly exceptional.

Good To Know

• The 7-day Kilimanjaro Lemosho Route offers a scenic and gradual ascent, enhancing acclimatization and minimizing altitude-related issues for experienced climbers.
• Proper physical preparation, gear selection, and knowledge of the route and altitude sickness management are crucial for a successful Kilimanjaro climb.
• The Kilimanjaro trek features diverse landscapes, wildlife-viewing opportunities, and the iconic Uhuru Peak, creating lasting memories for trekkers.
• The 2-day safari component complements the Kilimanjaro climb, showcasing Tanzania’s wildlife in renowned destinations like the Ngorongoro Crater and Serengeti National Park.
• The tour starts and ends in Arusha, Tanzania, with pickup and drop-off at a centrally located hotel, accommodating up to 10 travelers with wheelchair-accessible transportation available.

About the Kilimanjaro Lemosho Route

The Lemosho route is one of the most scenic and unspoiled paths to the summit of Kilimanjaro. It starts in the west and approaches the mountain through the Lemosho Glacier, offering breathtaking views of the iconic peak.

The route is longer and more gradual than other options, allowing for better acclimatization and increased chances of success. Trekkers will traverse diverse landscapes, from dense rainforests to high-altitude moorlands, before reaching the Shira Plateau.

The Lemosho route is considered one of the best ways to experience the majesty of Kilimanjaro while minimizing the risk of altitude-related issues. Its combination of natural beauty and gradual ascent makes it a popular choice for experienced climbers.

Preparing for the Kilimanjaro Climb

How does one prepare for the Kilimanjaro climb? Proper preparation is key to a successful summit. Climbers should train for several months, building up their cardio and strength.

Hiking with a weighted backpack is recommended to simulate the trek. It’s also important to prepare mentally by learning about the route, weather conditions, and what to expect.

Packing the right gear, from proper hiking boots to warm layers, is crucial. Climbers should also be aware of altitude sickness symptoms and have a plan to manage them.

With the right training and gear, and a positive mindset, trekkers can increase their chances of reaching Kilimanjaro’s summit.

Highlights of the Kilimanjaro Trek

Although the Kilimanjaro trek is a challenging endeavor, it offers numerous highlights that make the journey truly remarkable.

Trekkers can delight in the diverse landscapes, from the verdant rainforests to the stark alpine deserts. The trek provides opportunities to spot wildlife like elephants, monkeys, and birds.

Reaching the iconic Uhuru Peak at 5,895 meters is an unforgettable accomplishment, offering panoramic views of the surrounding glaciers and valleys.

The camaraderie among the trekking group and the support of the experienced guides further enhance the overall experience.

Ultimately, the Kilimanjaro trek is a true test of physical and mental fortitude, rewarding climbers with a deep sense of achievement and lifelong memories.

The Safari Experience

Frequently, the safari experience complements the Kilimanjaro trek, offering travelers a chance to witness the stunning wildlife and landscapes of Tanzania.

The 2-day safari adventure includes:

• Exploring the Ngorongoro Crater, a vast, ancient caldera teeming with diverse wildlife like lions, elephants, and black rhinos.

• Traversing the Serengeti National Park, renowned for its annual wildebeest migration and abundant predator sightings.

• Spotting the "Big Five" – lions, leopards, rhinoceros, elephants, and buffaloes – in their natural habitats.

• Observing unique bird species and learning about the region’s rich biodiversity.

• Experiencing the thrill of game drives, where you can get up close to Africa’s magnificent animals.

Packing and Gear Recommendations

Proper packing and gear selection are crucial for a successful Kilimanjaro climb and safari adventure. Climbers should pack warm, moisture-wicking layers, sturdy hiking boots, and a durable backpack.

Sleeping bags can be rented, but bringing one’s own is recommended for comfort. Trekking poles are essential for navigating the trail, and a water bottle and snacks should be readily available.

For the safari, comfortable, neutral-colored clothing and sun protection are a must. Binoculars will enhance the wildlife viewing experience.

Remember to pack any necessary medications and personal items. Proper preparation ensures a safe and enjoyable journey on Kilimanjaro and the Tanzanian safari.

Kilimanjaro Climb Difficulty and Fitness

Scaling the imposing heights of Kilimanjaro is a physically demanding undertaking that requires a moderate level of fitness.

While the Lemosho Route is considered one of the more gradual and scenic routes, it still presents significant challenges:

• Trekking for 6-8 hours per day at high altitudes, often on steep terrain
• Dealing with cold temperatures, strong winds, and potential altitude sickness
• Carrying a daypack with essential gear, while the rest is transported by porters
• Sleeping in basic camping accommodations on the mountain
• Maintaining a steady pace and hydration level to ensure a successful summit

Prospective climbers should be prepared for the rigors of this iconic trek and ensure they possess the necessary physical and mental endurance.

Arrival and Departure Logistics

The tour starts and ends at the Mvuli Hotel in Arusha, Tanzania. Pickup and drop-off are provided at this centrally located hotel. The tour begins at 12:00 AM, so participants should plan to arrive the day before. After the 7-day Kilimanjaro climb and 2-day safari, the tour concludes back at the Mvuli Hotel.

Pickup Point	Drop-off Point	Start Time
Mvuli Hotel, Kundayo Rd, Arusha, Tanzania	Mvuli Hotel, Arusha	12:00 AM

The tour can accommodate up to 10 travelers and offers wheelchair-accessible transportation. Infants must sit on laps, and the experience is not recommended for those with certain medical conditions. Free cancellation is available up to 24 hours before the tour start.

Frequently Asked Questions

Commonly, prospective travelers ask about the physical difficulty of the Kilimanjaro climb. The tour operator emphasizes that a moderate level of fitness is required, as the trek involves hiking for several hours each day at high altitudes.

Some key questions and answers include:

• What’s the altitude range of the climb? The trek covers an altitude range of 6,000 to 19,341 feet, which can pose challenges for those not acclimatized.

• How strenuous is the hiking? The Lemosho route is considered one of the more challenging, with steep ascents and descents, but the pace is designed to allow for proper acclimatization.

• What gear is provided? Sleeping bags, cooking equipment, and dining tents are included, though personal gear like hiking boots must be brought.

• Can children participate? The tour isn’t recommended for young children due to the physical demands.

• What’s the success rate? Past travelers have enjoyed a high summit success rate of over 90% on this route.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I Bring My Own Food on the Climb?

Travelers can bring their own food on the climb, but the tour operator provides all meals. Bringing additional snacks or specialized dietary items is allowed, but the included meals are comprehensive and appropriate for the tour.

Is There a Weight Limit for My Luggage?

Yes, there is a weight limit for luggage on this tour. According to the tour details, the maximum number of travelers per tour is 10, suggesting a weight limit to ensure safe and comfortable transportation.

Are There Any Age Restrictions for the Tour?

The tour doesn’t have an age limit, but it’s not recommended for young children or the elderly due to the physical demands. Infants can join but must sit on laps during transportation.

Can I Extend the Safari Portion of the Trip?

Travelers can extend the safari portion of the tour, though this may incur additional costs. The tour operator can provide options and pricing for extending the safari component to meet the traveler’s preferences.

What Happens if I Need to Leave the Trek Early?

If a traveler needs to leave the trek early, they can notify the tour provider. The company will assist with transportation arrangements and refund any unused portions of the trek, subject to their cancellation policy.

The Sum Up

The Kilimanjaro Lemosho Route and Tanzania Safari combo offers trekkers a comprehensive experience, blending the challenge of scaling Africa’s highest peak with the wonder of witnessing the continent’s diverse wildlife. With its gradual ascent and subsequent safari, this adventure provides the perfect balance of adrenaline-fueled exploration and leisurely wildlife encounters, creating an unforgettable journey for the intrepid traveler.