The Shira Route is one of Kilimanjaro’s most scenic and less-traveled trails, beginning at a higher elevation on the western side of the mountain. Starting on the Shira Plateau at 3,500m, trekkers immediately experience sweeping views across vast moorlands and open skies. The route joins the Lemosho trail from Shira 2 Camp and continues through the iconic Barranco Valley and the dramatic alpine desert. With more time for acclimatization and fewer crowds, the Shira Route offers a challenging yet rewarding trek to Uhuru Peak (5,895m), the highest point in Africa.
Unique start on the high-altitude Shira Plateau with breathtaking views
Quieter and less crowded compared to other Kilimanjaro routes
Excellent acclimatization profile for increased summit success
Dramatic landscapes including the Barranco Wall and Lava Tower
Sunrise summit at Uhuru Peak (5,895m), Africa’s highest point
Professional English-speaking guides, cooks, and porters
All park, camping, and rescue fees
Meals (breakfast, lunch, dinner) and drinking water during the trek
Camping equipment (tents, tables, chairs, cooking gear)
Transfers to and from Kilimanjaro park gates
Oxygen cylinder and first aid kit for safety
Summit certificate upon completion
International & domestic flights
Tanzanian visa fees
Travel insurance (required)
Personal trekking gear (sleeping bag, boots, clothing, poles)
Tips for guides, porters, and cooks
Accommodation before and after the trek (unless included in package)
Personal snacks, soft drinks, or alcoholic beverages
Optional expenses such as laundry, souvenirs, or phone use
Drive from Moshi/Arusha to Londorossi Gate for registration, then continue by vehicle to Morum Barrier Gate on the Shira Plateau. Begin hiking across moorland with wide views of Kilimanjaro’s glaciers, reaching Shira 1 Camp.
Distance: 4 km | 1–2 hours
Habitat: Moorland
Overnight at Shira 1 Camp (tents).
Â
A gentle trek across the Shira Plateau, passing unique plants and enjoying vast panoramas. This day aids acclimatization and provides spectacular views of Kibo Peak.
Distance: 7 km | 3–4 hours
Habitat: Moorland
Overnight at Shira 2 Camp (tents).
Â
Ascend gradually to Lava Tower for acclimatization, where you pause for lunch. Then descend into the Barranco Valley, surrounded by giant groundsels and dramatic cliffs.
Distance: 10 km | 6–8 hours
Habitat: Semi-desert / Alpine desert
Overnight at Barranco Camp (tents).
Â
Climb the steep Barranco Wall, an exhilarating scramble with breathtaking views, before crossing ridges and valleys to reach Karanga Camp.
Distance: 5 km | 4–5 hours
Habitat: Alpine desert
Overnight at Karanga Camp (tents).
Â
A short but steep trek to Barafu Camp, the base for your summit attempt. From here, admire Mawenzi Peak and prepare for your midnight climb.
Distance: 4 km | 4–5 hours
Habitat: Alpine desert
Overnight at Barafu Camp (tents).
Â
Begin your summit push at midnight, climbing steadily in the dark toward Stella Point. From there, trek to Uhuru Peak, the roof of Africa, just in time for sunrise. After celebrations, descend to Barafu, rest briefly, and continue down to Mweka Camp.
Distance: 16 km | 10–14 hours
Habitat: Arctic / Alpine desert / Moorland
Overnight at Mweka Camp (tents).
Â
Descend through lush rainforest alive with bird calls and rich vegetation. At the gate, receive your summit certificate before returning to Moshi/Arusha.
Distance: 10 km | 3–4 hours
Habitat: Rainforest
Overnight: Hotel in Moshi/Arusha (not on the mountain).
* Join the newsletter to receive our best monthly deals
Please fill in all fields – an email will be sent with complete journey details.