7 Days Mount Kilimanjaro Climbing Londorossi Route

Home » 7 Days Mount Kilimanjaro Climbing Londorossi Route

Mount Kilimanjaro

7 Days

From US$ 2,250

Overview

Londorosi/Shira is nearly identical to the Lemosho route. In fact, this was the original route and Lemosho is the improved variation. Although Shira is a varied and beautiful route, it is less favorable than its successor due to the relatively high altitude of Shira’s starting point, which is accessed quickly by vehicle. It is possible that climbers will experience some altitude related symptoms on the first day while camping at 11,800 feet.

The route approaches Mount Kilimanjaro from the west, beginning with a long drive from Arusha to Shira Ridge. The vehicle bypasses the rain forest zone and the hiking trail begins on Shira Ridge.

Overview

Tour Summary

Itinerary

Inclusions

Accommodation

Trip Summary

Start: Arusha, Tanzania
End: Arusha, Tanzania
Destinations: Mount Kilimanjaro
Theme: Hiking
Age Requirement: 10 Years minimum
Physical level: Medium
Max group size: Any size

Itinerary

Day 1 – Kilimanjaro International Airport – Arusha:

At Kilimanjaro Airport, you will be greeted by our transfer driver and taken to Arusha Planet Lodge, close to Arusha. The rest of the day is for you to do as you please. You can opt to spend the day relaxing by the lodge pool or explore the town of Arusha. In the late afternoon you will be briefed by our team on what to expect on your upcoming trek.

Day 2 – Londorosi Gate (7381ft/2250m) to Shira 1 Camp (/12,600 ft/ 3840 m) 18 km, 5-7 hours:

After breakfast at the hotel we will drive by forward to Londorosi Gate, for registration and you will meet the crews. After the registration we keep drive to Moram Hill 3395m, where we get drop and start hiking, which is a very short hiking probably one hour to Shira 1 Camp. After arrives at Shira 1 Camp, you get a rest, dinner and sleep.

Day 3 – Shira 1 Camp (12,600 ft/3840m) to Moir Camp (13697ft/4175m) 4 to 5hours moorland:

Wake up, get breakfast and start hiking where you will pass through the moorland where you will get the best view of Kibo Peak and Shira Cathedral therefore we will walk in the shira plateau, a half on the way we will have lunch and then continue to Moir Camp, getting rest and later at evening walk for acclimatization and get back for dinner.

Day 4 – Moir Camp (13697ft/4175m) to Barranco Camp (/12,800 ft/3900m):

Getting breakfast, pack and start hiking, so this day will be a very wonderful because of big time for acclimatization,where we will hike straight to Lava Tower which is 14930ft/4600m, here we will have our lunch for the aim of getting time to gain altitude, and starting ascent to Barranco Camp, rest and waiting for dinner.

Day 5 – Barranco Camp (12,960ft / 3,950m/) to Karanga Valley (13,780ft / 4,035m) 7 Kilometers:

Leave Barranco Camp after breakfast starting climbing Barranco wall, nicknamed as Breakfast wall because after breakfast you have to climb the wall (not technical climbing).Climbing Barranco wall it takes 45 minutes to 1 hour. From there we hike up and down to Karanga camp 13780ft/4035m probably it will take 2 hours also is another short hiking day where we can get a hot lunch, rest and doing acclimatization by the time you will be given from guide.

Day 6 – Karanga Camp (/13,780ft / 4,035m) to Barafu Camp (15,100ft / 4,600m/) 6 kilometers:

After breakfast, begin the hike to Barafu Camp. On the way to Barafu, you view several Kibo’s glaciers, Mawenzi Peak as well as the junction that connects the descent route which is Mweka route. Although the trail to Barafu passes through alpine desert with little vegetation, Barafu Camp offers stunning views of Kibo and Mawenzi peaks. Try to sleep as soon as you finish dinner as you will awake before midnight for your summit hike, and take all your warm gears for hiking to the summit.

Day 7 – Barafu Camp (15,100ft /4,600m) to Uhuru Peak (19,340ft / 5,895m) to Mweka Camp (10,170ft / 3,100m) 18 kilometers:

At the mid night we wake up at 11:30pm and get a light breakfast before we start hiking to the summit. We should start at 12:00am and it will take 5 hours to reach to the Stella point 14000ft/ 5730m which is at the rim of the crater. And from Stella point to UHURU Peak the highest peak of Kilimanjaro mountain which it will take one hour hiking through the rim of the crater. Approximately we will be at the Summit at the sunrise time 6:00am to 7:00am, where you will get time to enjoy and taking pictures.Afterward you will start to descent back to Barafu Camp where we will have lunch packing and keep descending to Mweka camp where you will have dinner and rest.

Day 8 – Mweka Camp (10,170ft / 3,100m/) to Mweka Gate (4,920ft / 1500m/) 10 kilometers:

A scrumptious breakfast is followed by a traditional farewell ceremony from your mountain crew, before you start your final stretch down the mountain. You will once more trek through the rainforest, giving you another opportunity to spot the cheeky colobus monkeys, finally reaching the Mweka Gate. You will be met at the gate and taken back to Arusha Planet Lodge for a long shower and relaxed day by the pool.  Stay overnight at Arusha Planet Lodge on bed and breakfast basis.

How are emergencies handled during the Kilimanjaro climb?

In the event of an emergency during the Kilimanjaro climb, the mountain rescue services in Tanzania are not comparable to those found in the European Alps. If you cannot walk, you will either be carried or transported on a wheeled stretcher, which is an unpleasant experience. It is important to only push yourself as far as your body allows to prevent emergencies. Helicopters are not often deployed due to altitude limitations. It is recommended to have adequate health insurance coverage for medical expenses, including rescue and repatriation costs.

Is vaccination required for Tanzania?

The Tanzanian health department does not require vaccinations for entry. However, visitors are advised to receive a yellow fever vaccination as Tanzania is a yellow fever region. Additionally, it is recommended to have all other shots such as Tetanus, Diphtheria, Polio, and Hepatitis A & B up to date. Malaria is present in Tanzania, but there are no mosquitoes at high altitude. It is advisable to consult with your doctor or travel clinic for taking any precautionary medication.

What are Tanzania’s visa requirements?

For most travelers, it is possible to obtain a visa upon arrival. It is still every visitor’s obligation to check the latest visa regulations with their respective embassies. Every traveler is responsible for carrying the required travel documents.

What kind of clothes and gear are recommended for Kilimanjaro?

There are specific items that should be packed for a Kilimanjaro climb, and a detailed packing list is provided once the booking is confirmed. For convenience, essential clothing items and gear are available for rent.

Is tipping required for the mountain crew?

Tipping the mountain crew is a common practice, and gratuities are a large portion of the crew’s income, so they are highly appreciated. Recommended tipping amounts per group, not per person, are provided by the tour provider.

Should I bring extra money?

It is recommended to bring extra money for tips, souvenirs, and personal expenses. If bringing USD, it is essential to ensure that the bills have been printed after 2009 as earlier printed ones will not be accepted.

How can I cope with altitude sickness during the climb?

Almost everyone climbing Kilimanjaro will be affected by altitude sickness in some way. Symptoms include headaches, fatigue, loss of appetite, and nausea. It is essential to replace lost body fluids by drinking enough water and taking magnesium to prevent muscle cramps. Mild symptoms allow continuing the hike, but severe altitude sickness is a serious matter and can be life-threatening. It is vital to bear in mind that a medical descent may be required.

What meals will be provided during the climb?

Meals are included in the itinerary. For breakfast, there is a choice of fruit, scrambled eggs, porridge, toast, jam, hot chocolate, coffee, or tea. Lunch is provided in a lunch box containing sandwiches, boiled eggs, chicken, etc. Dinner consists of soup and bread followed by meat or poultry with starch (i.e., chips, mashed potatoes, pasta, or rice) and vegetables, topped off with dessert in the form of fresh fruit, hot chocolate, coffee, or tea, and milk. Special dietary requirements or food allergies can be catered with advanced notification.

What are the ablution facilities like?

Basic long drops (simple latrines) are available, and climbers are provided with a bowl of warm water for daily wash.

How big is the group?

This is a private tour, and there won’t be any other climbers joining the group. The group will only consist of the people who chose to travel together and their mountain crew.

Is there an age limitation for this climb?

Yes, there is an age limitation for this climb. Climbers must be at least 18 years old to participate. This is to ensure that climbers have the necessary physical and mental maturity to undertake the climb safely and responsibly.

Can I bring my own climbing gear?

Yes, you are allowed to bring your own climbing gear. However, it must meet our safety requirements and pass a safety inspection before use. If you are unsure whether your gear meets our safety standards, we recommend renting equipment from our facility.

Do I need prior climbing experience?

Prior climbing experience is not required, but it is recommended. Our climb is designed to be accessible to climbers of all skill levels, but it can be physically demanding. We recommend that you are in good physical shape and have some familiarity with climbing techniques.

Is there a weight limit for climbers?

Yes, there is a weight limit for climbers. Climbers must weigh between 100 and 250 pounds to participate. This is to ensure that our safety equipment can support your weight and that you can physically handle the demands of the climb.

What happens in case of inclement weather?

In the event of inclement weather, we may need to postpone or cancel the climb for safety reasons. We will do our best to notify you as soon as possible if this occurs and work with you to reschedule your climb for a later date.

Is there a refund policy?

We offer a full refund for cancellations made at least 48 hours prior to the scheduled climb time. Cancellations made within 48 hours of the scheduled climb time will not be refunded. However, we understand that unforeseen circumstances can arise, and we will work with you to reschedule your climb for a later date if possible.

End of the Trek

Price: US$ 2,250 per person
Single Supplement: US$ 300. This is applicable for a single climber only.

Price Includes

  • Kilimanjaro trekking according to the itinerary
  • Professional, English-speaking guide
  • Mountain crew (cook & porters)
  • Overnight stays in hotels and mountain huts
  • Meals according to the itinerary
  • Drinking water
  • All national park fees
  • All mentioned transfers

Price Excludes

  • Sleeping bag
  • Flights
  • Alcoholic and soft drinks
  • Visa fees
  • Tips
  • Personal spending money for souvenirs etc.
  • Travel insurance

Accommodation

Bookings

Let's plan your African Safari.

Follows the steps below, make sure you everything and submit the form. We will get back you as soon as possible.

    Please send us any questions using the form below. We will reply to your message within one business day. If you would rather speak to Aardvark Expeditions Consultant, please call us at +255784424905