Shira Route
The Panoramic Approach
The Shira Route is one of the least used routes on Kilimanjaro but offers some of the most spectacular panoramic views. Starting at a higher elevation, the Shira Route bypasses much of the lower rainforest zone, giving climbers a unique perspective of the mountain from the start. The high-altitude beginning makes it a challenging route for those who are not acclimatized, but the views of the Shira Plateau and Mount Kilimanjaro’s glaciers make it worth the effort.
Day 1: Londorossi Gate to Simba Camp
- Starting Altitude: 3,600m
- Ending Altitude: 3,600m
- Distance: ~4 km
- Hiking Time: 2-3 hours
- Vegetation: Heathland
- Summary:
Start at Londorossi Gate and drive to the Shira Plateau. Trek to Simba Camp for your first night, enjoying views of Kibo Peak and the expansive plateau.
Day 2: Simba Camp to Shira 2 Camp
- Starting Altitude: 3,600m
- Ending Altitude: 3,850m
- Distance: ~7 km
- Hiking Time: 4-5 hours
- Vegetation: Moorland
- Summary:
Hike across the Shira Plateau to Shira 2 Camp, passing volcanic rock formations and enjoying stunning views of Kilimanjaro.
Day 3: Shira 2 Camp to Lava Tower to Barranco Camp
- Starting Altitude: 3,850m
- Ending Altitude: 3,950m
- Distance: ~10 km
- Hiking Time: 6-8 hours
- Vegetation: Moorland to Alpine Desert
- Summary:
Ascend to Lava Tower (4,630m) for acclimatization, then descend to Barranco Camp. This day includes incredible views and helps with altitude adjustment.
Day 4: Barranco Camp to Karanga Camp
- Starting Altitude: 3,950m
- Ending Altitude: 4,035m
- Distance: ~5 km
- Hiking Time: 4-5 hours
- Vegetation: Moorland
- Summary:
Climb the famous Barranco Wall and continue to Karanga Camp. This section is both challenging and rewarding with stunning vistas.
Day 5: Karanga Camp to Barafu Camp
- Starting Altitude: 4,035m
- Ending Altitude: 4,640m
- Distance: ~6 km
- Hiking Time: 4-5 hours
- Vegetation: Alpine Desert
- Summary:
Trek through alpine desert terrain to reach Barafu Camp. Prepare for the summit attempt with an early dinner and rest.
Day 6: Barafu Camp to Uhuru Peak to Mweka Gate
- Starting Altitude: 4,640m
- Summit Altitude: 5,895m
- Ending Altitude: 1,640m
- Distance: ~20 km
- Hiking Time: 10-14 hours
- Vegetation: Arctic to Rainforest
- Summary:
Start your midnight ascent to Uhuru Peak. After summiting, descend via Barafu Camp to Mweka Gate, where you’ll collect your certificate and celebrate your achievement.
Day 1: Londorossi Gate to Simba Camp
- Starting Altitude: 3,600m
- Ending Altitude: 3,600m
- Distance: ~4 km
- Hiking Time: 2-3 hours
- Vegetation: Heathland
- Summary:
Begin at Londorossi Gate and drive to the Shira Plateau. Hike to Simba Camp with spectacular views of the plateau and Kibo Peak.
Day 2: Simba Camp to Shira 2 Camp
- Starting Altitude: 3,600m
- Ending Altitude: 3,850m
- Distance: ~7 km
- Hiking Time: 4-5 hours
- Vegetation: Moorland
- Summary:
Trek across the beautiful Shira Plateau to Shira 2 Camp, surrounded by volcanic formations and expansive views.
Day 3: Shira 2 Camp to Lava Tower to Barranco Camp
- Starting Altitude: 3,850m
- Ending Altitude: 3,950m
- Distance: ~10 km
- Hiking Time: 6-8 hours
- Vegetation: Moorland to Alpine Desert
- Summary:
Ascend to Lava Tower (4,630m) for acclimatization, then descend to Barranco Camp. This acclimatization hike enhances your chances of summit success.
Day 4: Barranco Camp to Karanga Camp
- Starting Altitude: 3,950m
- Ending Altitude: 4,035m
- Distance: ~5 km
- Hiking Time: 4-5 hours
- Vegetation: Moorland
- Summary:
Climb the iconic Barranco Wall, then trek to Karanga Camp with incredible views of glaciers and valleys.
Day 5: Karanga Camp to Barafu Camp
- Starting Altitude: 4,035m
- Ending Altitude: 4,640m
- Distance: ~6 km
- Hiking Time: 4-5 hours
- Vegetation: Alpine Desert
- Summary:
Hike through the alpine desert to Barafu Camp, the base camp for your summit attempt. Rest and prepare for the midnight climb.
Day 6: Barafu Camp to Uhuru Peak to Mweka Camp
- Starting Altitude: 4,640m
- Summit Altitude: 5,895m
- Ending Altitude: 3,080m
- Distance: ~15 km
- Hiking Time: 10-14 hours
- Vegetation: Arctic to Moorland
- Summary:
Start your summit attempt at midnight, reaching Uhuru Peak by sunrise. Celebrate at the summit before descending to Mweka Camp for rest.
Day 7: Mweka Camp to Mweka Gate
- Starting Altitude: 3,080m
- Ending Altitude: 1,640m
- Distance: ~10 km
- Hiking Time: 3-4 hours
- Vegetation: Rainforest
- Summary:
Descend through the lush rainforest to Mweka Gate. Celebrate your achievement and collect your summit certificate.
Shira Inclusive
- Park fees, camping fees, and hut accommodation.
- Professional guide, cook, and porters.
- Three meals per day during the climb.
- Drinking water and tea/coffee.
- Rescue fees and oxygen for emergencies.
- Transfers to and from Kilimanjaro National Park.
- Kilimanjaro certificate (for successful summiteers).
Shira Exclusive
- Flights and visa fees.
- Personal hiking gear (can be rented).
- Travel insurance.
- Tips for guides, cooks, and porters (~$200-$300 per climber).
- Optional extended acclimatization days.
Frequently Asked Questions
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