In 2009 a group of us set off to climb Kilimanjaro via the Lemosho (western approach) route. This will hopefully be a helpful day by day account of our 7 days hike to the top of Africa's highest mountain!!
Day 1, 08th Feb 2009
For 90% of trekkers your first day will most likely start very early, somewhere in Moshi. Moshi and Arusha are the two closest cities (large towns?) to Kilimanjaro. We set off from Moshi with our Guide and driver in a 4 X 4 jeep. The journey to the start of the Lemosho trail (at around 1800m) can be dumpy and slow in places.
After about 2 hours on the road you will reach the park gate, a mere 10 minutes from the start of the Lemosho trail. At the gate you will be required to sign in. Your passport number is required here, but if you forget it like I did then you just make one up!!
The start of the Lemosho trail is in thick forest, almost rain forest. If your lucky you might see some Colubus or Blue Monkeys on the trail. We were luck enough to see both!! The first day on the Lemosho trail is a gentle 2-3 hour walk to Forest Camp (Mti Mkubwa or Big Tree Camp @ around 2620m). The camp site is hidden away amongst the trees. Again you will be required to sign in at this hut to keep a record of your accent of the mountain.
We found this camp like many other quite busy. On most parts of the Lemosho trail we were being passed by groups of porters. The porters are responsible for carrying your heavier pack, and also ensuring your campsite is ready when you arrive. It really is 4 star camping with these guys around!
VIEW DAY 2 ->>
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Reply #1 on : Tue October 27, 2009, 20:08:45