Take on one of Mount Kilimanjaro’s most scenic and rewarding routes — the Shira Route. This 7‑day climb begins on the western side of Kilimanjaro, bypassing the rainforest and entering high on the mountain’s vast Shira Plateau, offering spectacular alpine scenery and a peaceful trekking experience. The route gradually ascends to the summit of Uhuru Peak (5,895 m) via Barafu Camp, before descending to Mweka Gate.

The Shira Route is ideal for fit and adventurous trekkers who want dramatic landscapes, good acclimatization, and an unforgettable summit experience.

Route Highlights

✔ Begin trekking high on the Shira Plateau, skipping the rainforest start
✔ Dramatic views of lava formations, moorlands, and the Southern Ice Fields
✔ High summit success due to gradual acclimatization profile
✔ Remote trail with fewer climbers and peaceful wilderness hiking
✔ Summit Uhuru Peak at sunrise — the highest point in Africa
✔ Descent via the scenic Mweka Route

Package Type	Price Per Person (USD)	Notes
Standard Camping	$2,200	Twin-sharing tents, shared facilities
Luxury Camping / Tented Lodge	$3,000	Private tents, upgraded meals
Private Guide & Porter	+$400	Optional upgrade for private support
Airport Pickup (Arusha/Moshi)	Included	From Kilimanjaro International Airport

DAY 1: ARUSHA/MOSHI – SHIRA GATE – SIMBA CAMP

Begin with a scenic drive from Arusha or Moshi to the Londorossi Park Gate for registration. Continue to Shira Gate (3,600 m), where trekking officially starts. Hike through heath and moorlands to Simba Camp where you spend your first night on the mountain.

ACCOMMODATION: Simba Camp (tents)
MEALS: Lunch, Dinner

DAY 2: SIMBA CAMP – SHIRA 2 CAMP

Trek across the Shira Plateau, passing volcanic rock formations and open moorland. Enjoy panoramic views of the Southern Ice Fields and the lush highland plateau as you make your way to Shira 2 Camp for acclimatization.

ACCOMMODATION: Shira 2 Camp
MEALS: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

DAY 3: SHIRA 2 CAMP – LAVA TOWER – BARRANCO CAMP

Today, ascend toward Lava Tower (4,630 m) — a key acclimatization point. After reaching the tower, descend to Barranco Camp, nestled near the Barranco Wall.

ACCOMMODATION: Barranco Camp
MEALS: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

DAY 4: BARRANCO CAMP – KARANGA CAMP

Climb the iconic Barranco Wall and descend into Karanga Valley. This challenging day rewards climbers with stunning views and helps further acclimatize before the summit push.

ACCOMMODATION: Karanga Camp
MEALS: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

DAY 5: KARANGA CAMP – BARAFU CAMP

Trek through alpine desert landscapes toward Barafu Camp (4,673 m) — your base for the final summit attempt. Guides will brief you on summit strategy and timing before dinner.

ACCOMMODATION: Barafu Camp
MEALS: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

DAY 6: BARAFU CAMP – SUMMIT UHURU PEAK – MWEKA CAMP

Summit Day! Start around midnight and ascend through the night to reach Stella Point (5,685 m) at sunrise, followed by the final push to Uhuru Peak (5,895 m) — the highest point in Africa. After celebrating the achievement, descend to Mweka Camp for rest.

ACCOMMODATION: Mweka Camp
MEALS: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

DAY 7: MWEKA CAMP – MWEKA GATE – MOSHI/ARUSHA

Complete your descent through montane rainforest to Mweka Gate, where you receive your summit certificate. Transfer back to Moshi or Arusha for a well‑earned rest and departure.

MEALS: Breakfast, Lunch

Difficulty & Best Time to Climb

The Shira Route is moderate to challenging due to its high starting altitude and daily elevation gains, requiring good fitness and acclimatization. It’s best climbed during the dry seasons: January–March and June–October for clearer trails and higher summit success.

Why Choose the Shira Route?

• Higher starting elevation means quicker access to Alpine terrain
• Fewer trekkers for a more peaceful wilderness experience
• Dramatic high plateau scenery with expansive views
• Excellent acclimatization profile for summit success
• Merges with the classic Lemosho route for a scenic ascent

Essential Gear Checklist

Clothing:

• Base layers (thermal top & bottom)
• Fleece jacket or warm mid-layer
• Waterproof/windproof jacket and pants
• Trekking pants & shirts (quick-dry recommended)
• Gloves, hat, and buff/scarf
• Warm hat and headlamp for summit night
• Hiking socks (4–5 pairs)

Footwear:

• Broken-in trekking boots
• Camp shoes/sandals for evenings

Gear & Accessories:

• Sleeping bag (rated for −10 °C / 14 °F)
• Daypack (20–30 L)
• Trekking poles
• Water bottles or hydration bladder
• Sunglasses and sunscreen
• Personal first aid kit & toiletries
• Camera/binoculars (optional)

Optional Items:

• Lightweight gaiters for muddy terrain
• Hand warmers for summit
• Travel towel
• Snacks and energy bars

Difficulty & Best Time to Climb

The Shira Route is moderate to challenging. Best climbed during the dry seasons: January–March and June–October for clear trails and higher summit success.