Shira route 6 days

A Scenic & Less Crowded Kilimanjaro Approach

The Shira Route (6 Days) is a scenic and less crowded approach to Mount Kilimanjaro, starting from the western side of the mountain near the Shira Plateau. It is known for its beautiful high-altitude landscapes and wide open views from the very beginning of the trek.

Unlike other routes, the Shira Route starts at a higher elevation, crossing the ancient Shira Plateau one of Kilimanjaro’s oldest volcanic formations before joining the main summit path through Lava Tower and Barranco Valley.

Trekkers enjoy dramatic scenery, including moorlands, alpine deserts, and glacier views near the summit. However, because the route begins at high altitude, good fitness and acclimatization are important.

With Karibu Adventure, the Shira Route offers a unique, remote, and scenic Kilimanjaro experience with professional guiding and full mountain support.

Day 0: Arrival in Moshi

Elevation: ~890–900 m

Upon arrival at Kilimanjaro International Airport, you will be warmly welcomed by the Karibu Adventure team and transferred to your hotel in Moshi.

At the hotel, you will meet your guides for a full briefing and gear check to ensure you are fully prepared for the climb. If time allows, enjoy a short walk in Moshi town to experience local life and culture.

Overnight: Hotel in Moshi (Bed & Breakfast)

Day 1: Londorossi Gate – Shira One Camp

Elevation: 1,830 m → 3,500 m
Distance: ~5 km (trek section)
Hiking Time: ~3 hours
Habitat: Moorland / Heath

Drive through the rainforest zone to Londorossi Gate, then continue by vehicle to the Shira trailhead.

Begin trekking across open moorland and ridges with your first views of Kilimanjaro’s peaks before arriving at Shira One Camp.

Overnight: Shira One Camp

Day 2: Shira One Camp – Shira 2 Camp (via Shira Cathedral)

Elevation: 3,500 m → 3,800 m
Distance: 7 km
Hiking Time: 4–5 hours
Habitat: Moorland / Rocky terrain

Trek across the vast Shira Plateau, one of the oldest volcanic landscapes on Mount Kilimanjaro.

Optional ascent to Shira Cathedral offers panoramic views of Mount Meru and Kibo Peak before continuing to Shira 2 Camp.

Overnight: Shira 2 Camp

Mount Kilimanjaro Shira Plateau view during Lemosho Route hike to Shira Two camp — Scenic hike on the Lemosho Route approaching Shira Two camp on Mount Kilimanjaro

Day 3: Shira 2 Camp – Lava Tower – Barranco Camp

Elevation: 3,800 m → 4,600 m → 3,950 m
Distance: 11 km
Hiking Time: 7–8 hours
Habitat: Moorland / Alpine Desert

This is a key acclimatization day. Trek to Lava Tower at high altitude before descending to Barranco Camp.

This “climb high, sleep low” approach improves summit success chances significantly.

Overnight: Barranco Camp

Day 4: Barranco Camp – Barafu Camp

Elevation: 3,950 m → 4,700 m
Distance: 9 km
Hiking Time: 6–8 hours
Habitat: Alpine Desert

Climb the famous Barranco Wall and continue through Karanga Valley toward Barafu Camp, the base for your summit attempt.

Arrive in the afternoon, rest, and prepare for the midnight summit push.

Overnight: Barafu Camp

Day 5: Barafu Camp – Uhuru Peak – Mweka Camp

Elevation: 4,700 m → 5,895 m → 3,100 m
Distance: ~15 km
Hiking Time: 10–12 hours
Habitat: Arctic / Alpine Desert

Start your summit climb at midnight under the stars.

Reach Uhuru Peak, the highest point in Africa (5,895 m), then descend back to Barafu and continue to Mweka Camp for overnight rest.

Overnight: Mweka Camp

Day 6: Mweka Camp – Mweka Gate – Moshi

Elevation: 3,100 m → 1,700 m
Distance: ~7 km descent
Hiking Time: 3–4 hours
Habitat: Rainforest

Descend through lush rainforest to Mweka Gate, where you will receive your summit certificate.

Transfer back to Moshi for rest, celebration, and relaxation.

Day 7: Departure / Safari / Excursion

After breakfast, your journey continues based on your travel plans:

✈️ Airport Transfer: Drop-off at Kilimanjaro International Airport
🐘 Safari Extension: Explore world-famous parks like:
- Serengeti National Park
- Ngorongoro Crater
- Tarangire National Park
🌍 Custom Activities: Tailored experiences based on your interests

This flexible day ensures your adventure ends smoothly and memorably.

🌟 Why Choose Shira Route?

Scenic Shira Plateau views
Quiet and less crowded trail
Excellent acclimatization profile
Unique volcanic landscapes
Ideal for experienced trekkers

🎒 What’s Included in Your Climb

With Karibu Adventure, everything is carefully arranged so you can focus on reaching the summit with confidence, comfort, and peace of mind.

✔️Top-quality 4-season mountain tents (twin sharing) for maximum safety and comfort
✔️ Spacious dining tent with tables & chairs for relaxing meals on the mountain
✔️ All park fees covered – no hidden costs (camping, conservation & rescue fees included)
✔️ Emergency oxygen cylinder for added safety at high altitude
✔️ Unlimited purified drinking water throughout your trek
✔️ Comfortable sleeping mattress for better rest and recovery
✔️ Fresh, hot meals prepared daily (breakfast, lunch & dinner)
✔️ Hot water for washing to keep you refreshed every day
✔️ Comprehensive first aid kit carried by your guides
✔️ Professional, experienced mountain crew (guides, porters & cooks)
✔️ Twice-daily health monitoring (pulse oximeter & stethoscope checks)
✔️ Airport transfers included (pickup & drop-off for a smooth arrival)
✔️ Pre-climb briefing & full gear check to ensure you are fully prepared
✔️ All transfers to and from the mountain
✔️ 2 nights hotel accommodation in Moshi (Bed & Breakfast)
✔️ Secure luggage storage during your climb
✔️ Official Kilimanjaro summit certificate
✔️ All taxes included (VAT 18%)