7 Days Shira Route

Overview

The Shira Route is one of the paths you can take to trek up Mount Kilimanjaro. It’s known for offering a less crowded, scenic approach to the summit compared to other routes.

7 Days 6 Nights

7 Days | SHIRA ROUTE Itinerary

Pickup from the airport to your hotel in Moshi or Arusha.
Briefing on the same day.

Elevation: 7,742 ft (Moshi) to 11,500 ft (Shira Gate) to 11,500 ft (Shira 1 Camp)
Distance: 4 km
Hiking Time: 1-2 hours
Habitat: Moorland
Details: Drive from Moshi to Shira Gate. Begin the trek to Shira 1 Camp, crossing the heather and moorland zone.

Elevation: 11,500 ft to 12,600 ft
Distance: 7 km
Hiking Time: 3-4 hours
Habitat: Moorland
Details: Trek across the Shira Plateau, enjoying panoramic views and reaching Shira 2 Camp.

Elevation: 12,600 ft to 15,190 ft to 13,044 ft
Distance: 10 km
Hiking Time: 7-8 hours
Habitat: Semi-desert
Details: Hike towards Lava Tower for acclimatization, then descend to Barranco Camp. This day involves a significant altitude gain followed by a descent to aid acclimatization.

Elevation: 13,044 ft to 13,106 ft
Distance: 5 km
Hiking Time: 4-5 hours
Habitat: Alpine Desert
Details: Climb the Barranco Wall, then trek across ridges and valleys to Karanga Camp. This shorter day helps with acclimatization and provides a chance to rest.

Elevation: 13,106 ft to 15,239 ft
Distance: 4 km
Hiking Time: 4-5 hours
Habitat: Alpine Desert
Details: Continue the trek towards Barafu Camp, preparing for the summit attempt. The route is relatively short but involves a steady ascent.

Elevation: 15,239 ft to 19,341 ft (summit) to 10,065 ft
Distance: 5 km ascent, 12 km descent
Hiking Time: 6-8 hours ascent, 5-7 hours descent
Habitat: Arctic, then Alpine Desert
Details: Begin the summit attempt around midnight, reach Uhuru Peak at sunrise, then descend to Mweka Camp. This is the most challenging day, both physically and mentally, but reaching the summit is a rewarding experience.

Elevation: 10,065 ft to 5,380 ft
Distance: 10 km
Hiking Time: 3-4 hours
Habitat: Rainforest
Details: Final descent through the rainforest to Mweka Gate. Transfer back to Moshi for rest and celebration.

Booking Form

7 Days Shira Route

Mount Kilimanjaro itinerary|Mount Kilimanjaro accommodation guide with info on Marangu huts, camping routes, and where to stay before and after your trek.

Includes & Excludes

Includes

  • Airport Transfers
  • Transfers to and from park gate
  • Kilimanjaro Parks Fees
  • Rescue fees
  • Camping Fees
  • 18% VAT on the tour charged by the government
  • Mountain crew: Guide, Cook and Porter
  • Full 3 Meal during trek
  • Treated drinking water
  • Camping gears: Sleeping tents, Dinning tents, Cutlery, Chairs, Table
  • and Mattress
  • Professional Guides
  • Crisis management and safety procedures
  • Ox meter (for checking your oxygen level and pulse every day)
  • Warm water for washing on trek
  • Portable oxygen Tank

Excludes

  • Travel Insurance
  • Tanzania visa
  • Tips for team work
  • Personal Expenses
  • Personal Mountain Equipment (We have a complete line of mountain equipment for hire. If you do not have all of your equipment we can arrange for reasonably price rentals)

Trip Highlights

Trip Highlights

  • 56 km (35 miles)
  • 6 Days – 7 Days
  • Moderate to challenging. The altitude and the varying terrain can make it demanding.
  • Permits: You’ll need to arrange permits and park fees through a registered trekking operator.
  • Weather: The weather can be unpredictable, with potential rain and cold temperatures, especially at higher altitudes.
  • Acclimatization: The higher starting point on the Shira Route helps with acclimatization, which is beneficial for your overall trek.
  • Scenery: The Shira Route offers stunning views of the Kilimanjaro landscape and its varied ecosystems, including moorland, alpine desert, and the famous Shira Plateau.
  • Adventurous hikers seeking a more scenic and challenging route.

Our Clients Reviews TripAdvisor