Best Time to Climb Kilimanjaro — Lemosho Route
The best time to climb Kilimanjaro via the Lemosho Route is January to March and June to October. Lemosho is widely considered the most scenic route on the mountain, approaching from the west through pristine Shira Plateau wilderness. An 8-day itinerary is strongly preferred for optimal acclimatization, delivering summit success rates above 90%. The route's western starting point means the lower rainforest sections receive more rainfall than eastern routes, making dry-season timing particularly important for Lemosho climbers.
January - March, June - October
July - September
Most crowded, highest prices
November, April
Lower prices, some rain risk
Lemosho Route Climbing Conditions by Month
| Month | Weather | Temperature | Crowds | Rating |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| January | Short dry season. Clear mornings with crisp conditions on the Shira Plateau. Rainforest zone is damp but manageable. | Summit: -7 to -15°C / Shira Plateau: 5-10°C | Low | ★★★★★ |
| February | Excellent conditions. Warm, clear days with stunning Shira Plateau views. Low crowd density makes for a more intimate experience. | Summit: -5 to -12°C / Shira Plateau: 6-12°C | Low | ★★★★★ |
| March | Good early March, deteriorating toward month end. The western rainforest zone gets wet first as long rains approach. | Summit: -5 to -12°C / Shira Plateau: 5-10°C | Low | ★★★★★ |
| April | Long rains hit the western slopes hard. Lemosho's rainforest section becomes very muddy. Not recommended for this route. | Summit: -4 to -10°C / Shira Plateau: 4-9°C | Low | ★★★★★ |
| May | Heaviest rainfall. The Lemosho trailhead and lower forest are waterlogged. Most operators close this route in May. | Summit: -5 to -12°C / Shira Plateau: 3-8°C | Low | ★★★★★ |
| June | Rains end, trails dry quickly. Early June can still be damp in the forest zone. Mid-to-late June is excellent. | Summit: -7 to -15°C / Shira Plateau: 3-8°C | Medium | ★★★★★ |
| July | Core dry season. Shira Plateau is spectacular with clear 360-degree views. Cold but perfect trekking conditions. | Summit: -10 to -18°C / Shira Plateau: 2-7°C | High | ★★★★★ |
| August | Peak dry season. Driest conditions of the year with unobstructed views from the Shira Ridge. Coldest summit temperatures. | Summit: -10 to -20°C / Shira Plateau: 1-6°C | High | ★★★★★ |
| September | Dry and slightly warmer than August. Fewer climbers as peak season winds down. Excellent overall conditions. | Summit: -8 to -17°C / Shira Plateau: 3-8°C | Medium | ★★★★★ |
| October | Dry season ends. Early October is reliable; later in the month clouds build. Good value before the short rains. | Summit: -6 to -14°C / Shira Plateau: 5-10°C | Medium | ★★★★★ |
| November | Short rains arrive. Afternoon showers affect the lower forest zone most. Quietest month on the route — budget-friendly. | Summit: -5 to -12°C / Shira Plateau: 4-9°C | Low | ★★★★★ |
| December | Short rains taper mid-month. Late December sees improving conditions and holiday climbers. Mixed but trending drier. | Summit: -6 to -14°C / Shira Plateau: 4-9°C | Medium | ★★★★★ |
Lemosho Route Weather & Climate
The Lemosho Route approaches Kilimanjaro from the west, starting at Londorossi Gate (2,100m). Its lower rainforest section sits on the mountain's wetter western flank, receiving more annual rainfall than the eastern Marangu or northern Rongai approaches. This makes dry-season timing more important for Lemosho than for other routes. Above the treeline, the Shira Plateau (3,600-3,800m) is exposed and windy — conditions are drier but noticeably colder, especially at night. The 8-day Lemosho itinerary crosses the Shira Plateau at a gradual pace, spending two nights at similar altitude for acclimatization before the final ascent via Barafu or the Southern Icefields. Summit night conditions are identical to all western routes: expect -10°C to -20°C with potential wind chill.
Why Choose Lemosho Route
Lemosho is the premium route for climbers who want the best balance of scenery, acclimatization, and summit success. The 8-day itinerary (7 nights on the mountain) is strongly preferred over the 7-day option — the extra acclimatization day on the Shira Plateau pushes success rates from roughly 80% to above 90%. The first two days through the Lemosho forest are remote and beautiful, with far fewer climbers than the Machame forest gate. From Day 3 onward, Lemosho merges with the Machame route traffic at Lava Tower, so expect more company during the final approach. The route descends via Mweka, the standard descent path shared by most western routes. For climbers willing to invest in an 8-day schedule and dry-season dates, Lemosho consistently delivers the most rewarding Kilimanjaro experience.
Lemosho Route FAQs
Is the Lemosho Route the best route to climb Kilimanjaro?
Lemosho is widely regarded as the best all-around route for most climbers. It offers the highest success rates (90%+ on 8-day itineraries), the best scenery across the Shira Plateau, excellent acclimatization through its gradual western approach, and lower crowd density in the first two days compared to Machame. The main trade-offs are higher cost (longer itinerary plus remote trailhead transfer) and a wetter rainforest zone on the western slopes.
How many days should I allow for the Lemosho Route?
Eight days (7 nights on the mountain) is the strongly recommended itinerary for the Lemosho Route. The extra acclimatization day on or near the Shira Plateau significantly improves summit success rates — from roughly 80% on a 7-day itinerary to over 90% on 8 days. A 6-day Lemosho is technically possible but not offered by reputable operators due to poor acclimatization. Budget at least one extra day in Moshi before and after for travel logistics.
When should I avoid the Lemosho Route?
Avoid Lemosho during April and May when the long rains make the western rainforest section extremely muddy and unpleasant. The Lemosho trailhead road can also become difficult to access in heavy rain. November is manageable but expect wet afternoons in the forest zone. If you must climb during wet months, the Rongai Route (northern approach) is a drier alternative. For the best Lemosho experience, target February, July, August, or September.
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