SHIRA ROUTE

6 Days

Succes rate
Medium
Accomodation
Tents
Language
English, French

The Shira Route, a less-traveled path near Shira Ridge, closely resembles the Lemosho route and is, in fact, its predecessor on the western side of Kilimanjaro. Lemosho is essentially an enhanced version of the Shira route. Despite its scenic diversity and beauty, the Shira Route has some drawbacks, notably its higher starting altitude, quickly accessible by vehicle. This could lead to altitude-related symptoms for climbers camping at 11,800 feet on the first day. Beginning with a lengthy drive from Moshi to Shira Ridge, the route skips the rainforest zone, and the trek officially starts on Shira Ridge. It then traverses the entire Shira Plateau in a relatively flat hike from west to east. The path continues beneath Kilimanjaro’s Southern Ice Field on the Southern Circuit before the final ascent from Barafu. The descent follows the Mweka route. ___ The only difference between the two occurs, of course, in the first two days. With Lemosho, you start your walk in the forest. With the Shira Plateau Route, however, you usually take a car all the way up to the plateau. As a result, you miss out on the finest forest on Kilimanjaro.

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Day 1 :

Arrival Kilimanjaro airport

Upon your arrival at Kilimanjaro International Airport, our driver will transfer you to the hotel. Settle in and take time to relax and to get used to the African atmosphere. It is possible to book an extra day of rest prior to start of the climb, to give you ample time to acclimatise and recover from the flight. This extra day increases your chances of reaching the summit.

NOTE: The hotel is not included in the price because depending on your preference we can offer you various options, from basic to luxurious accommodations. The choice is yours!

Day 2 :

Shira Gate – Shira 2 Camp

Embark on your Kilimanjaro ascent by driving to Shira Gate. Upon registering with the park authorities, commence your hike through the rainforest along a meandering trail that ascends a ridge leading to Shira 2 Camp. Be prepared for potentially muddy and slippery conditions at lower elevations, making gaiters and trekking poles advisable for added stability and comfort.

Day 3 :

Shira 2 Camp – Barranco Camp

Following breakfast, embark on an eastward trek across the expansive Shira plateau for approximately two hours until you reach the intersection with the Machame route. Continuing on, the direction shifts to the Southeast, leading you towards the impressive Lava Tower. Shortly after the tower, encounter the second junction, guiding you up to the Arrow Glacier. Descend from this point to reach the Barranco Hut. Despite finishing the day at nearly the same elevation as the start, this leg of the journey plays a crucial role in acclimatization.

Day 4 :

Barranco Camp – Karanga Valley

After breakfast we leave Barranco camp and continue on a steep ridge passing to the great Barranco Wall, climb this imposing obstacle which turns out to be easier than it looks. You can now appreciate how beautiful Kilimanjaro is. Descend to the Karanga valley where you will set camp for the night.

Day 5 :

Karanga Valley Camp – Barafu Camp

As we press on with our ascent, we make our way to the Barafu camp, navigating eastward across the intervening ridges and valleys. Here, we seamlessly merge with the Mweka route, which will serve as your descent path. Setting up camp, take the opportunity to rest and indulge in an early dinner before retiring early in anticipation of the summit day ahead.

Day 6 :

Barafu Camp – Uhuru Peak – Mweka Camp

Commencing just past midnight, initiate the climb through dense scree, heading toward Stella Point on the crater rim. This segment stands out as the most mentally and physically demanding phase of the trek. Upon reaching Stella Point at 4,200 meters, take a brief break and be treated to a breathtaking sunrise—a sight of unparalleled magnificence. Proceed with a 50-minute walk from here to reach Uhuru Peak, the pinnacle of Mt. Kilimanjaro.

Following a short duration at the summit, commence your descent to Barafu camp for some rest and a hearty brunch. Subsequently, continue the descent to Mweka camp, marking your final dinner on the mountain and a well-deserved period of rest.

Day 7 :

Mweka Camp – Mweka Gate

Following breakfast, proceed with the descent towards the Mweka Park Gate. Each trekker will be presented with a certificate acknowledging the successful ascent of Mt. Kilimanjaro. Extend your journey by another hour from the gate to reach Mweka Village. A vehicle will be arranged to meet you at Mweka Village, facilitating your return to your hotel. It’s a moment for jubilation!

Day 8 :

to Kilimanjaro airport or let's discover Tanzania

After this amazing experience, you can choose to fly home on the day after or choose to discover what esle Tanzania has to offer you such as safaris, several day trips or going to relax on the beautiful coasts rather on the Mainland or on Zanzibar. We will be glad to help you to choose within all those possibilties.