Kilimanjaro Shira Route

6Days Kilimanjaro Shira Climbing Route

$1885-2750 USD

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Safari summary

Embark on an unforgettable journey to the Roof of Africa with Moonlight Tours Expedition’s 6-Day Kilimanjaro Shira Route. This unique trail offers a scenic and less-traveled path to the summit, blending breathtaking landscapes with the thrill of high-altitude trekking.
Why Choose the Shira Route?
The Shira Route begins near Shira Ridge, offering an experience similar to the Lemosho Route but with its own distinct charm. As the original trail before Lemosho was developed, Shira provides an adventurous and beautiful ascent across the majestic Shira Plateau.
Highlights of the Shira Route:
• Starting Point: A scenic drive from Moshi to Shira Ridge takes you directly to the trailhead, bypassing the rainforest zone.
• Stunning Landscapes: Enjoy panoramic views as you traverse the Shira Plateau, a vast, open expanse with incredible vistas of Kilimanjaro’s summit.
• Southern Ice Field: Follow the Southern Circuit beneath Kilimanjaro’s stunning glaciers, an awe-inspiring experience unique to this route.
• Summit from Barafu Camp: Conquer the peak via the Barafu route and bask in the triumph of reaching Uhuru Peak.
• Descent through Mweka Route: A scenic and efficient descent path to complete your adventure.
Challenges & Considerations
The Shira Route begins at a higher altitude (11,800 feet), which may lead to some altitude-related symptoms on the first day. However, the route is relatively flat across the Shira Plateau, offering a comfortable acclimatization process as you progress.
Who Should Choose This Route?
The Shira Route is ideal for experienced trekkers seeking a scenic, quieter trail with a rich history. It combines the thrill of adventure with the opportunity to witness Kilimanjaro’s diverse landscapes.
Join Moonlight Tours Expedition for this 6-day adventure and create memories that will last a lifetime. Let us guide you to the top of Africa with safety, expertise, and a touch of magic.
Would you like to see a detailed itinerary or explore other climbing routes?

About this tour

	Tour type	Custom, tailor-made, private
	Main focus	Hiking \| trekking
	Activity level	Strenuous activity
	Best months	All months
	Countries	Tanzania
	Parks	Kilimanjaro

Fine details

Safari highlights

Bird watching—with professional guide
Photography safari—with professional guide
Hiking | trekking

What’s included?

Accommodation
All drinks
Meals
Park fees
Private vehicle and driver

What’s not included?

Alcoholic beverages
Hot air balloons
International flights
Laundry
Premium alcoholic beverages
Private vehicle and driver
Spa treatments
Tips and gratuities
Visas

Itinerary

Hike to Shira 2 Camp

Kilimanjaro

The drive from Arusha to the trailhead takes about 3 hours. We hike through the rain forest on a winding trail up a ridge At lower elevations the trail can be muddy and slippery. Gaiters and trekking poles are a good idea here. We continue a short distance until we reach the Shira Camp.

Shira 2 Camp

Lava Tower to Barranco Camp

Kilimanjaro

From the Shira Plateau we continue to the east up a ridge, passing the junction towards the peak of Kibo. As we continue, our direction changes to the South East towards the Lava Tower, called the “Shark’s Tooth”. Shortly after the tower we come to the second junction which goes to the Arrow Glacier.Although you end the day around the same elevation as when you began, this day is very important for acclimatization and will help your body prepare for summit day.

Barranco Camp

Karanga Camp

Kilimanjaro

After breakfast, we leave Barranco and continue on a steep ridge up the Barranco Wall to the Karanga Valley and the junction which connects with the Mweka Trail.

Karanga Camp

Barafu Camp

Kilimanjaro

We continue up to the Barafu Camp. You have completed the South Circuit, which offers views of the summit from many different angles. Here we make camp, rest, enjoy dinner, and prepare for the summit day.

Barafu Camp

Hike Barafu Camp to Summit

Kilimanjaro

Very early in the morning continue our way to the summit between the Rebmann and Ratzel glaciers. You head in a northwesterly direction and ascend through heavy scree towards Stella Point on the crater rim.Faster hikers may view the sunrise from the summit.Once at Uhuru Peak you have reached the highest point on Mount Kilimanjaro and the continent of Africa! From the summit we begin our descent by continuing straight down to the Mweka Camp, stopping at Barafu for lunch.

Mweka Camp

Arusha

Kilimanjaro

At lower elevations, it can be wet and muddy. Gaiters and trekking poles will help. Shorts and t-shirts will probably be plenty to wear (keep rain gear and warmer clothing handy). From the gate, After breakfast we continue the descent down to the Mweka Park Gate to receive your summit continue another hour to Mweka Village. A vehicle will meet you at Mweka gate to drive you back to your hotel in Arusha.

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