Overview
The Shira Route is one of the scenic western approaches to Mount Kilimanjaro, offering expansive views across the famous Shira Plateau and dramatic landscapes of Kilimanjaro’s high-altitude terrain. The route begins with a drive to the plateau before trekking through moorland, alpine desert, and glacial zones on the way to the summit.
Low season (April 1st – May 19th)
Mid season (May 20th – June 30th)
(October 1st – December 19th)
(January 11th – March 31st)
High season (July 1st – September 30th)
(December 20th – January 10th)
Highlights
Trip highlights
- Trek across the spectacular Shira Plateau
- Enjoy panoramic views of Kibo Peak and surrounding valleys
- Experience the famous Barranco Wall scramble
- Gradual acclimatization through diverse ecosystems
- Reach Uhuru Peak, the highest point in Africa
Inclusions
What's included
- Professional mountain guides and porters
- Park entry and camping fees
- All meals during the trek
- Camping equipment (tents and mattresses)
- Drinking water during the trek
- Transfers to and from the mountain gates
Days 1
Londorossi Gate to Shira 1 Camp
Your Kilimanjaro adventure begins with registration at Londorossi Gate on the western side of the mountain. After completing park formalities, a short drive takes you to the starting point of the Shira Route. The trek begins across open moorland with spectacular views of the surrounding valleys and volcanic ridges. As you gradually ascend onto the vast Shira Plateau, the landscape opens dramatically, offering wide panoramic views of Kilimanjaro’s western slopes. The day ends at Shira 1 Camp, where climbers relax and enjoy their first night on the mountain.
Altitude: 2,100 m → 3,500 m
Distance: 8 km
Hiking Time: 4–5 hours
Altitude: 2,100 m → 3,500 m
Distance: 8 km
Hiking Time: 4–5 hours
Today’s trek crosses the scenic Shira Plateau, one of the most remarkable high-altitude plateaus in Africa. The trail gradually climbs through rolling moorland terrain dotted with giant lobelias and senecio plants. As you hike, enjoy breathtaking views of Kibo Peak, the main summit of Kilimanjaro. The steady pace allows your body to adjust to the increasing altitude. After reaching Shira 2 Camp, climbers often take a short acclimatization walk before returning to camp for dinner and overnight.
Altitude: 3,500 m → 3,850 m
Distance: 7 km
Hiking Time: 3–4 hours
Altitude: 3,500 m → 3,850 m
Distance: 7 km
Hiking Time: 3–4 hours
Day 2
Shira 1 Camp to Shira 2 Camp
Day 3
Shira 2 Camp to Barranco Camp via Lava Tower
This is an important acclimatization day following the “climb high, sleep low” principle. The trail climbs steadily toward the striking volcanic formation known as Lava Tower, which stands at over 4,600 meters. After reaching this high point, the route descends gradually into the beautiful Barranco Valley. The valley is greener and more sheltered, creating a dramatic contrast with the alpine desert above. Barranco Camp sits beneath the towering Barranco Wall, one of Kilimanjaro’s most famous landmarks.
Altitude: 3,850 m → 4,630 m → 3,960 m
Distance: 10 km
Hiking Time: 6–7 hours
Altitude: 3,850 m → 4,630 m → 3,960 m
Distance: 10 km
Hiking Time: 6–7 hours
The day begins with the exciting climb up the famous Barranco Wall. Although steep in sections, the climb is non-technical and rewards trekkers with incredible views of glaciers and surrounding valleys. After reaching the top, the trail continues across rocky ridges and alpine terrain before descending into the Karanga Valley. A short climb brings you to Karanga Camp, where you will rest and continue acclimatizing while enjoying spectacular views of the mountain.
Altitude: 3,960 m → 4,035 m
Distance: 5 km
Hiking Time: 4–5 hours
Altitude: 3,960 m → 4,035 m
Distance: 5 km
Hiking Time: 4–5 hours
Day 4
Barranco Camp to Karanga Camp
Day 5
Karanga Camp to Barafu Camp
Today the trail climbs steadily across barren alpine desert landscapes toward Barafu Camp, the base camp for the summit attempt. The route passes along rocky ridges with dramatic views of Kibo Peak. Upon arrival at Barafu Camp, climbers rest and prepare their equipment for the summit attempt. After an early dinner, you will sleep for a few hours before the midnight ascent.
Altitude: 4,035 m → 4,640 m
Distance: 4 km
Hiking Time: 3–4 hours
Altitude: 4,035 m → 4,640 m
Distance: 4 km
Hiking Time: 3–4 hours
Around midnight, climbers begin the final ascent toward the summit of Mount Kilimanjaro. The trail climbs slowly through volcanic scree toward Stella Point, where the sunrise reveals breathtaking views across the African plains. From here, a final push along the crater rim leads to Uhuru Peak, the highest point in Africa. After celebrating at the summit, descend to Mweka Camp for dinner and a well-deserved rest.
Altitude: 4,640 m → 5,895 m → 3,080 m
Distance: 17 km
Hiking Time: 10–14 hours
Altitude: 4,640 m → 5,895 m → 3,080 m
Distance: 17 km
Hiking Time: 10–14 hours
Day 6
Summit Day – Barafu Camp to Uhuru Peak to Mweka Camp
Day 7
Mweka Camp to Mweka Gate
The final day begins with a gentle descent through the lush rainforest of Kilimanjaro National Park. The trail winds through dense vegetation filled with unique plants and birdlife as you gradually descend toward Mweka Gate. Upon arrival, climbers receive their official summit certificates before transferring back to the hotel to celebrate the successful climb.
Altitude: 3,080 m → 1,640 m
Distance: 10 km
Hiking Time: 3–4 hours
Altitude: 3,080 m → 1,640 m
Distance: 10 km
Hiking Time: 3–4 hours
Accommodations:
Park View Inn Moshi a place to enjoy the beauty and adventure of Mount Kilimanjaro, The hotel is in the heart of Moshi, a lively town at the base of the mountain. Whether you are here to climb, safari, or conference, we will make your stay cozy and comfortable.
Aishi Machame Hotel Just 25 minutes. a peaceful getaway surrounded by nature. the hotel features beautiful gardens, a relaxing outdoor swimming pool, and rooms that are newly renovated for comfort.
Kilimanjaro Wonders Hotel is one of the first truly 4-stars boutique hotels in Moshi which provide great ambience and facilities. Located 4km from the Town of Moshi, 45 km away from Kilimanjaro national park, 40km away from the Kilimanjaro International airport.
FAQs
What our Clients Says
Where is Mount Kilimanjaro located?
Mount Kilimanjaro is located in northern Tanzania near the Kenya border. It is the highest mountain in Africa and stands at 5,895 meters (19,341 feet) above sea level.
Do I need climbing experience to climb Kilimanjaro?
Do I need climbing experience to climb Kilimanjaro?aNo technical climbing experience is required. Kilimanjaro is considered a non-technical trek, meaning hikers can reach the summit without ropes or mountaineering equipment. However, good physical fitness and preparation are important.
How long does it take to climb Kilimanjaro?
Most treks take 5 to 9 days, depending on the route chosen. Longer routes allow better acclimatization and increase the chances of successfully reaching the summit.
What is the best time to climb Kilimanjaro?
The best months to climb Mount Kilimanjaro are:
January to March – cooler temperatures and fewer crowds
June to October – dry weather and the most popular trekking season
January to March – cooler temperatures and fewer crowds
June to October – dry weather and the most popular trekking season
How difficult is the Kilimanjaro climb?
Kilimanjaro is challenging mainly due to high altitude, not technical difficulty. Trekkers must hike for several hours each day while gradually adjusting to decreasing oxygen levels.
What is the success rate for reaching the summit?
Success rates depend on the route and number of days spent acclimatizing. Routes lasting 7–8 days have the highest success rates, often reaching 85–90%.
What routes can be used to climb Kilimanjaro?
The most popular routes include:
1. Machame Route
2. Lemosho Route
3. Marangu Route
4. Rongai Route
5. Northern Circuit Route
Each route offers different scenery, duration, and difficulty levels.
1. Machame Route
2. Lemosho Route
3. Marangu Route
4. Rongai Route
5. Northern Circuit Route
Each route offers different scenery, duration, and difficulty levels.
Do I need a guide to climb Kilimanjaro?
Do I need a guide to climb Kilimanjaro?
What should I pack for the climb?
Essential items include:
Warm layered clothing
Waterproof jacket and pants
Hiking boots
Sleeping bag
Headlamp
Sunscreen and sunglasses
Personal medication
Most tour companies provide camping equipment.
Warm layered clothing
Waterproof jacket and pants
Hiking boots
Sleeping bag
Headlamp
Sunscreen and sunglasses
Personal medication
Most tour companies provide camping equipment.
Is altitude sickness a concern?
Yes. Because Kilimanjaro is very high, some trekkers experience altitude sickness. Choosing a longer itinerary, hiking slowly, and staying hydrated help reduce the risk.
Where do climbers sleep during the trek?
Accommodation depends on the route:
Camping tents on most routes
Mountain huts on the Marangu Route
Camping tents on most routes
Mountain huts on the Marangu Route
What happens after reaching the summit?
Trekkers reach Uhuru Peak, take photos at the summit sign, and then descend the same day to a lower camp for rest.
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