Lemosho Route Hike and Self-Drive Safari in Tanzania

The Ultimate Kilimanjaro and Northern Circuit Adventure Guide

Tanzania offers one of Africa’s most rewarding adventure combinations: climbing Mount Kilimanjaro via the scenic Lemosho Route and exploring the legendary Northern Safari Circuit on a self-drive adventure. This itinerary blends high-altitude trekking with wildlife exploration, delivering an unforgettable East African experience.

Why Combine the Lemosho Route and a Self-Drive Safari?

Experience Africa’s highest mountain and world-famous wildlife parks in one trip
Maximize travel value with adventure and safari in a single itinerary
Enjoy flexibility and independence with a 4×4 self-drive
Recover from the climb with relaxed game drives

This combination is ideal for adventurous travelers seeking both challenge and freedom.

Part 1: The Lemosho Route – Kilimanjaro’s Most Scenic Trail

The Lemosho Route is widely considered the best route on Mount Kilimanjaro due to its excellent acclimatization profile, diverse scenery, and high summit success rate.

Route Highlights

Remote western approach
Shira Plateau crossing
Barranco Wall climb
Spectacular summit night via Stella Point
Highest success rate on 8-day itineraries

Recommended Duration

7 Days: Challenging, less acclimatization
8 Days (Recommended): Best balance of success and comfort
9 Days: Ideal for maximum acclimatization

Typical 8-Day Lemosho Itinerary

Day 1: Londorossi Gate – Mti Mkubwa Camp
Day 2: Mti Mkubwa – Shira 1 Camp
Day 3: Shira 1 – Shira 2 Camp
Day 4: Shira 2 – Barranco Camp
Day 5: Barranco – Karanga Camp
Day 6: Karanga – Barafu Camp
Day 7: Summit (Uhuru Peak 5,895m) – Mweka Camp
Day 8: Mweka Camp – Mweka Gate

Cost Estimate (2026)

Group climb: $2,200 – $3,000 per person
Private climb: $3,500 – $5,000+ per person

Includes park fees, guide team, meals, camping equipment, and transfers. Flights, tips, and gear rental are usually additional.

Part 2: Self-Drive Safari in Northern Tanzania

After descending Kilimanjaro, many travelers take 1–2 rest days before beginning a self-drive safari through Tanzania’s Northern Circuit.

Why Choose a Self-Drive Safari?

Total freedom to explore at your pace
Cost-effective compared to private guided safaris
Greater adventure and flexibility
Ideal for experienced travelers

Best Parks for a Self-Drive Safari

1. Tarangire National Park

Famous for elephant herds and ancient baobab trees.

2. Ngorongoro Conservation Area

Home to the Ngorongoro Crater, one of Africa’s most concentrated wildlife areas.

3. Lake Manyara National Park

Tree-climbing lions and flamingos.

4. Serengeti National Park (Advanced Option)

Iconic savannah landscapes and the Great Migration.

Vehicle Rental Costs

Basic 4×4 Land Cruiser: $120–$180 per day
Fully equipped with camping gear: $200–$250 per day
Fuel: approximately $1.30–$1.50 per liter

Park Fees (Non-Residents – Approximate)

Tarangire: ~$53 per adult/day
Ngorongoro: ~$70 per adult/day
Ngorongoro Crater vehicle fee: ~$300 per vehicle
Serengeti: ~$83 per adult/day

Fees are subject to change annually.

Driving Conditions and Important Considerations

Roads can be rough, especially during rainy seasons
Some parks are remote with limited mobile reception
Offline maps are essential
Park fees must be paid online in advance
A 4×4 vehicle is mandatory

The Serengeti is recommended only for experienced self-drivers due to its remote terrain.

Best Time to Travel

Best Seasons

January – March
June – October (dry season, best overall)

Rainy Season

April – May (heavy rains; challenging driving conditions)

Sample 14-Day Itinerary

Day 1: Arrival in Kilimanjaro/Arusha
Day 2–9: Lemosho Route (8-day climb)
Day 10: Rest and recovery
Day 11: Drive to Tarangire
Day 12: Ngorongoro Crater
Day 13: Lake Manyara or Serengeti
Day 14: Return to Arusha
Day 15: Departure

Budget Overview (Mid-Range Estimate)

Item	Estimated Cost
Lemosho (8 days)	$2,500
4×4 Rental (4 days)	$800
Park Fees	$600–$1,200
Lodging/Camping	$300–$800
Estimated Total	$4,500–$6,000

Self-Drive vs Guided Safari

Self-Drive Pros

More affordable
Flexible schedule
Adventurous experience

Guided Safari Pros

Professional wildlife tracking
No driving stress
Easier after summit fatigue

Many climbers prefer a guided safari after Kilimanjaro due to exhaustion, but experienced travelers often enjoy the independence of self-driving.

Final Thoughts

Combining the Lemosho Route with a self-drive safari is one of Africa’s most rewarding adventure itineraries. You summit the continent’s highest peak and then witness elephants, lions, and rhinos roaming vast savannah landscapes — all in one unforgettable journey.

With proper planning, reliable equipment, and the right timing, this Tanzania adventure delivers challenge, freedom, and extraordinary wildlife experiences in a single trip.