Shira Route Mount Kilimanjaro

Safari summary

Your eight-day Mount Kilimanjaro climb via the Shira Route begins with your arrival at Kilimanjaro International Airport, where a Kizza Adventures driver and guide will warmly welcome you. After a thorough briefing on your trek and a check of your equipment, you’ll be transferred to a hotel in Moshi for an overnight stay. This is your chance to relax and prepare for the adventure ahead.

On Day one, you'll set off from Moshi, driving through scenic landscapes to Londorossi Gate for registration. From there, you'll continue to Shira Gate, the starting point of your hike. As you trek through the lush vegetation of shrubs and giant heather, you'll reach Simba Camp, situated at 2,844 meters (9,330 feet), where you'll enjoy dinner and spend the night surrounded by the serene beauty of the mountain.

Day two is designed for acclimatization as you explore the vast Shira Plateau. You’ll hike through the moorland, witnessing the striking volcanic rock formations and the expansive landscape. Highlights include a visit to the Shira Cathedral, an impressive rock buttress. Your day concludes at Shira 2 Camp, where you’ll relax and have dinner as you prepare for the days ahead.

On Day three, you’ll journey to Moir Hut, known for its excellent acclimatization opportunities and stunning views. You'll traverse the historical Fisher Camp, taking in the unique environment and enjoying lunch along the way. The trek continues with exploration and acclimatization before reaching Moir Hut for the night.

Day four; features a trek to Lava Tower, a prominent 300-foot volcanic rock formation. The day’s hike involves a challenging climb up a ridge and a descent through the enchanting Senecio Forest, eventually arriving at Barranco Camp at 3,950 meters (12,960 feet). This day, which begins and ends at the same altitude, is crucial for acclimatization.

Day five involves descending into a ravine and climbing the Great Barranco Wall, a steep cliff that offers breathtaking views of Kilimanjaro’s landscape. The climb, which does not require technical skills, leads you to Karanga Camp, a shorter yet essential day for acclimatization.

On Day six, you’ll leave Karanga Camp and follow the junction connecting to the Mweka Trail. The route takes you through rocky terrain to Barafu Camp at 4,600 meters (15,091 feet). Here, you’ll complete the Southern Circuit and enjoy views of the Mawenzi and Kibo peaks. The camp is the final resting point before your summit attempt, so you’ll have an early dinner and rest up for the next day’s challenge.

Day Seven is the culmination of your journey. You’ll begin your summit attempt around midnight, navigating through the darkness and extreme cold. The climb to Uhuru Peak, the highest point in Africa at 5,895 meters (19,341 feet), is both physically and mentally demanding. Along the way, you’ll witness a spectacular sunrise from Stella Point, adding to the awe of reaching the summit. After taking in the incredible views, you’ll descend to Mweka Camp, where you'll enjoy a hearty meal and a well-earned rest.

On Day eight, you’ll descend to Mweka Gate, where you’ll receive your summit certificates in recognition of your achievement. The trail can be muddy and wet, but upon reaching Mweka Village, a vehicle will be waiting to drive you back to Moshi. Your adventure concludes with a warm farewell to your mountain crew and a return to your hotel, leaving you with lasting memories of your remarkable Kilimanjaro climb via the Shira Route.

About this tour

	Tour type	Set-date, set-itinerary, group
	Main focus	None
	Activity level	Strenuous activity
	Best months	January, May, June, July, August, September, October, November, December
	Countries	Tanzania
	Parks	Kilimanjaro

Fine details

Safari highlights

• Hiking | trekking

What’s included?

• Accommodation
• Airport transfers
• Meals
• Park fees
• Private vehicle and driver

What’s not included?

• Alcoholic beverages
• Internal flights
• Laundry
• Spa treatments
• Visas