7 Days Shira Route
Itinerary Summary
The Shira Route is a scenic trail that begins at a higher altitude than most routes, starting with a drive to the Shira Plateau. It merges with the Lemosho Route after the first day and continues along the southern circuit, offering panoramic views, diverse ecosystems, and a strong acclimatization profile. Though less commonly used than Lemosho, the Shira Route is a rewarding choice for well-prepared trekkers.
Full Itinerary Overview
The 7-day Shira Route is a scenic and less-traveled path on Mount Kilimanjaro, offering a unique approach that starts high on the Shira Plateau at 3,400 meters. It follows the same southern circuit as the Lemosho Route from day two onward, passing through varied landscapes including heath, alpine desert, and glacier-covered slopes. The route’s early high-altitude start allows for excellent views from the very beginning, but it requires trekkers to be well-acclimatized or physically prepared. With steady elevation gain, an effective acclimatization profile, and opportunities to “climb high, sleep low,” the Shira Route offers a rewarding and picturesque trek to Uhuru Peak (5,895m), the highest point in Africa.
DAY 1 : Shira Gate (3,400m) to Shira 1 Camp (3,505m)
After a drive through the forest to Shira Gate, your hike begins on the Shira Plateau, bypassing the rainforest. The trail leads across high-altitude moorland to Shira 1 Camp. You’ll hike about 4 km in 1–2 hours, allowing time to settle in and enjoy the wide-open views.
Overnight: Shira 1 Camp | Meals: Lunch, Dinner
DAY 2 : Shira 1 Camp to Shira 2 Camp (3,840m)
Today’s hike is a gentle and gradual ascent across the open plains of the Shira Plateau. You’ll cover approximately 7 km in 3–4 hours, offering excellent views of Mount Meru and unique volcanic rock formations along the way.
Overnight: Shira 2 Camp | Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
DAY 3 : Shira 2 Camp to Lava Tower (4,630m) to Barranco Camp (3,960m)
This is a key acclimatization day following the “climb high, sleep low” principle. You’ll ascend to the Lava Tower at 4,630 meters before descending to Barranco Camp. The 10 km trek takes around 6–7 hours and helps prepare your body for the higher altitudes ahead.
Overnight: Barranco Camp | Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
DAY 4 : Barranco Camp to Karanga Camp (4,035m)
Begin with a climb up the impressive Barranco Wall, followed by a series of ridges and valleys that eventually lead to Karanga Camp. The hike spans 5 km and takes about 4–5 hours, offering great views of the southern ice fields.
Overnight: Karanga Camp | Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
DAY 5 : Karanga Camp to Barafu Camp (4,640m)
This is a shorter but important day as you ascend to Barafu Camp, the base for your summit attempt. The 4 km hike takes roughly 3–4 hours across rocky and exposed terrain. You’ll arrive early to rest and prepare for the midnight ascent.
Overnight: Barafu Camp | Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
DAY 6 : Barafu Camp – Uhuru Peak (5,895m) – Mweka Camp (3,100m)
At around midnight, you begin your summit push to Uhuru Peak. After reaching the summit at sunrise, you’ll descend back to Barafu for a short rest, then continue on to Mweka Camp. This long and challenging day covers 17 km in 11–15 hours.
Overnight: Mweka Camp | Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
DAY 7 : Mweka Camp to Mweka Gate (1,640m) – Return to Moshi/Arusha
The final leg of your journey takes you through the rainforest to Mweka Gate, where you’ll receive your summit certificate. The 10 km descent takes around 3–4 hours. You’ll then be transferred back to your hotel for rest and celebration.
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch
Take the high and panoramic trail to Africa’s tallest summit with the 7-day Shira Route. Beginning on the Shira Plateau, this route offers early altitude, fewer crowds, and expansive views across the mountain’s western slopes. With a gradual ascent, diverse landscapes, and solid acclimatization through the southern circuit, Shira is ideal for confident trekkers seeking a scenic, rewarding, and well-supported journey to Uhuru Peak (5,895m).
INCLUDED
- Full board (breakfast, lunch & dinner) accommodation.
- All game drives viewing in a custom built 4×4 Safari Land Cruiser
- All park and entrance fees
- Transportation with 4×4 vehicles with viewing roofs
- Professional English-speaking driver/guide or other language as specified during the safari.
- Bottled water in safari vehicles
- Current Government taxes and levies
- 24-Hour support during the safari
NOT INCLUDED
- Internal or International flights
- Transfers to and from the airport
- Balloon excursion (US$600 pp)
- Entry visa to Tanzania.
- Travel and health insurance
- Gratuities to your guide, hotel staff, and porters
- Meals, drinks, and excursions not described in the itinerary
- Any other items of a personal nature, laundry, telephone and postage
- Item of personal Nature
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