08 DAYS
SHIRA ROUTE – KILIMANJARO
Trekking Duration
08 Days 7 Nights
Group Size
Unlimited
Trip Type
Trekking, Climbing
Route Details
The Shira Route is one of the lesser-used trails for climbing Mount Kilimanjaro, offering a unique and scenic approach to Africa’s highest peak. Starting at the western side of Kilimanjaro, it is ideal for trekkers seeking a more remote and adventurous experience. The route crosses the Shira Plateau, a high-altitude volcanic plateau offering breathtaking views and diverse landscapes.
Key Features of the Shira Route
- Scenic Landscapes: Diverse ecosystems including montane forests, moorlands, and the Shira Plateau.
- Lower Crowds: Offers a more peaceful climbing experience compared to busier routes like Machame or Marangu.
- High Success Rate: With 8 days, the itinerary allows better acclimatization, increasing summit success chances.
Recommendations
- Acclimatization: Spend an extra day on the mountain if possible to adjust to the altitude.
- Gear: Ensure proper layering for changing weather and temperatures.
Difficulty Level: Moderate to Challenging
Duration: 6 to 8 days recommended for proper acclimatization
Best Time to Climb: January to mid-March, and June to October
Trekk Schedule On Day by Day
- Activity: Arrive at your hotel in Moshi or Arusha for briefing and gear check.
- Elevation: 915m/3,000ft
- Accommodation: Hotel
- Meals: Dinner
- Drive Time: 3-4 hours to Londorossi Gate
- Hiking Time: 3-4 hours
- Distance: ~7km/4.3 miles
- Starting Elevation: 2,100m/6,890ft
- Ending Elevation: 3,500m/11,485ft
Highlights: After registration at Londorossi Gate, a 4x4 drive takes you closer to the trailhead. Trekking begins through lush montane forest before reaching Shira 1 Camp.
- Hiking Time: 5-6 hours
- Distance: ~10km/6.2 miles
- Starting Elevation: 3,500m/11,485ft
- Ending Elevation: 3,850m/12,630ft
Highlights: Traverse the Shira Plateau, with panoramic views of Kibo Peak. The terrain transitions to heath and moorland. Acclimatization begins.
- Hiking Time: 7-8 hours
- Distance: ~10km/6.2 miles
- Starting Elevation: 3,850m/12,630ft
- Peak Elevation (Lava Tower): 4,630m/15,190ft
- Ending Elevation: 3,960m/12,992ft
Highlights: This is an important acclimatization day. Pass the Lava Tower, then descend into the Barranco Valley, known for its giant Senecio trees.
- Hiking Time: 4-5 hours
- Distance: ~5km/3.1 miles
- Starting Elevation: 3,960m/12,992ft
- Ending Elevation: 4,035m/13,238ft
Highlights: The day begins with a climb of the Barranco Wall, a steep but non-technical scramble. Enjoy stunning views as you trek through alpine desert.
- Hiking Time: 4-5 hours
- Distance: ~4km/2.5 miles
- Starting Elevation: 4,035m/13,238ft
- Ending Elevation: 4,640m/15,223ft
Highlights: A short but steep trek leads to Barafu Camp, the final base camp. Rest and prepare for the summit attempt.
- Hiking Time: 6-8 hours ascent, 5-7 hours descent
- Distance: ~17km/10.5 miles (round trip)
- Starting Elevation: 4,640m/15,223ft
- Peak Elevation: 5,895m/19,341ft (Uhuru Peak)
- Ending Elevation: 3,080m/10,105ft
Highlights: Start the summit attempt at midnight to reach Uhuru Peak at sunrise. After celebrating at the summit, descend to Mweka Camp for a well-deserved rest.
- Hiking Time: 3-4 hours
- Distance: ~10km/6.2 miles
- Starting Elevation: 3,080m/10,105ft
- Ending Elevation: 1,640m/5,381ft
Highlights: A gentle descent through the rainforest brings you to the gate. Receive your summit certificate before transferring back to Moshi/Arusha.