Shira Route
Route Overview
Shira Route – Mount Kilimanjaro
The Shira Route is a less-traveled and scenic path up Mount Kilimanjaro, offering a remote and unique approach to Africa’s highest peak. Starting from the western side of the mountain, the route crosses the expansive Shira Plateau and merges with the Machame Route after the second day, combining solitude with stunning panoramic views.
Unlike routes that start lower, the Shira Route begins at a higher elevation (around 3,600 meters), making it best suited for trekkers who are already acclimatized or comfortable with altitude. Because of this, the acclimatization profile is steeper in the early stages, but the route still follows the “climb high, sleep low” principle once it joins Machame, helping to improve summit success rates over time.
The Shira Route requires full camping throughout the trek, with porters carrying equipment and camp staff preparing meals. Trekkers are supported throughout the journey, making it a comfortable yet adventurous experience. The route typically takes 7 to 8 days, with longer itineraries offering better adaptation to the altitude.
One of the highlights of the Shira Route is the Shira Plateau—a vast, high-altitude volcanic landscape offering dramatic views and a sense of isolation not found on busier trails. The route also includes iconic features such as the Lava Tower and the Barranco Wall, shared with the Machame Route, providing both challenge and reward.
The Shira Route approaches the summit from the southwest and descends via the Mweka Route, creating a scenic loop with constantly changing landscapes—from moorland and alpine desert to glaciers and ice fields near the summit.
Why Choose the Shira Route?
Offers a remote and less crowded start to the climb
Crosses the scenic Shira Plateau early in the trek
Joins the Machame Route later for the best summit approach
Follows the “climb high, sleep low” strategy for better acclimatization
Requires full camping support – no huts
Ideal for trekkers with some high-altitude experience
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) – Kilimanjaro Shira Route Trek
Is the Shira Route a good option for experienced or first-time trekkers?
The Shira Route is best suited for experienced trekkers or those who are already acclimatized to high altitudes. It starts at a much higher elevation (around 3,400 meters), which means there’s less time for the body to adjust in the early stages. While it offers stunning scenery and fewer crowds, it’s not ideal for first-time high-altitude hikers unless they are well-prepared and physically fit.
How is the Shira Route different from Lemosho?
Shira and Lemosho are very similar in route layout — both begin on the western side of Kilimanjaro and merge at Shira 2 Camp before continuing along the Southern Circuit. The key difference is the starting point:
- Lemosho starts lower, offering a more gradual acclimatization process.
- Shira starts higher, which shortens the approach but increases the risk of altitude-related issues early on.
Shira is essentially an older, higher-altitude variation of the Lemosho Route.
Do I need to camp on the Shira Route?
Yes. Like most Kilimanjaro routes (except Marangu), the Shira Route is a full camping trek. You’ll sleep in tents provided and set up by your support crew each night.
All meals are served in a communal mess tent, and your guides and porters handle logistics, so you can focus on the climb.
How long is the Shira Route trek?
The Shira Route is usually done over 7 days, though some operators offer it as a 6-day trek. The 7-day itinerary is highly recommended to allow for proper acclimatization, especially since the route starts at high elevation. The full trek covers approximately 65–70 km (40–45 miles) round trip, depending on the exact camp locations used.
What is the acclimatization strategy for the Shira Route?
Because the trail begins above 3,400m, acclimatization is critical. The 7-day version of the route includes a gradual elevation gain and a key acclimatization day, where you’ll climb high and sleep low — typically ascending to Lava Tower (4,600m) and descending to Barranco Camp (3,960m).
This built-in approach helps your body adapt before summit day and greatly improves success rates.
What are the toilet and bathroom conditions like?
On the Shira Route, facilities are basic but functional. Campsites have shared toilet huts, which are usually squat-style latrines. Some tour operators provide private portable toilets for added comfort. Bring your own toilet paper, wet wipes, and hand sanitizer, as these aren’t provided on the mountain.
Can I rent gear locally for the Shira Route?
Yes, you can rent most of your essential trekking gear in Travencia Safaris Office. Travencia offer items such as:
- Waterproof jackets and pants
- Sleeping bags
- Trekking poles
- Gloves, gaiters, and headlamps
- Duffel bags and daypacks
This is a convenient way to avoid carrying bulky equipment on international flights. Coordinate gear rental with your tour company before arrival.
When is the best time to hike the Shira Route?
The best months to climb via the Shira Route are during Kilimanjaro’s dry seasons:
- January to mid-March (warmer, with clear mornings)
- June to October (cooler, more stable weather and most popular)
Avoid the long rains (April–May) and short rains (November), when trails can be muddy, slippery, and visibility is poor.
What is the summit success rate on the Shira Route?
The 7-day Shira Route has a moderate to high success rate — typically around 80–85%, depending on your fitness, pace, and how well you acclimate. Success rates drop on shorter itineraries. Due to the high-altitude starting point, proper preparation, hydration, and going “pole pole” (slowly, slowly) are key.
Do I need prior trekking experience to do this route?
Because of the elevated starting point, the Shira Route is generally not recommended for absolute beginners. However, if you’re in good physical shape and have done high-altitude hikes before, it can be an incredibly scenic and rewarding route. First-timers may want to consider Lemosho or Machame, which offer a more gradual altitude profile.
Is the Shira Route crowded?
Not at all. In fact, one of the biggest draws of the Shira Route is its quiet, uncrowded start. Since fewer trekkers choose this high-altitude entry point, the first few days feel very remote and wild. The trail merges with the Machame and Lemosho routes later, but by then you’ll be deep into the experience.
Packing List for Kilimanjaro – Shira Route (Camping Trek)
NOTE: On the Shira Route, you’ll be camping at high altitudes with colder nighttime temperatures, so warm, durable gear is essential. You’ll sleep in tents provided by Travencia Safaris, but you’ll need your own sleeping bag and insulated mat unless otherwise arranged.
👕 Clothing (Layered System)
Base Layers (Moisture-Wicking)
- 2–3 short-sleeve technical t-shirts (synthetic or merino wool)
- 2 long-sleeve thermal tops
- 2 thermal leggings (base layer bottoms)
- 4 pairs of quick-dry underwear
- 3–4 pairs of trekking socks (wool or synthetic)
Insulation Layers
- 1 fleece or merino wool pullover
- 1 lightweight insulated jacket (down or synthetic)
- 1 heavyweight fleece or hoodie
- 1 pair of warm trekking or fleece pants
Outer Shell (Wind & Waterproof)
- 1 waterproof, breathable jacket (Gore-Tex or equivalent)
- 1 pair of full-zip waterproof pants
Trekking Pants & Casual Layers
- 2 pairs of hiking trousers (durable and quick-drying)
- 1 pair of shorts (optional for hot lower slopes)
- 1 lightweight outfit for sleeping or evenings (e.g., leggings and sweatshirt)
🧤🧢 Head, Hand & Footwear Gear
Headwear
- Insulated beanie (summit essential)
- Wide-brimmed hat or cap (sun protection)
- Neck gaiter or buff (wind/dust barrier)
- UV-blocking sunglasses (category 3 or 4)
Handwear
- Lightweight liner gloves
- Warm insulated gloves or mittens (for summit night)
Footwear
- Waterproof hiking boots (well-broken in, good grip)
- Camp shoes or sandals
- Optional: gaiters (useful in wet/muddy sections or scree)
🎒 Backpacks & Bags
- Daypack (25–35L) with padded straps and rain cover
- Duffel bag (60–80L max, soft-sided, carried by porters) – 15 kg limit
- Dry bags or compression sacks (to organize and waterproof gear)
- Plastic liners or trash bags (extra waterproofing)
🛌 Sleeping Gear
- 4-season sleeping bag (rated to at least -10°C / 14°F)
- Sleeping bag liner (adds warmth and hygiene)
- Compact pillow or inflatable pillow (optional)
- Foam sleeping mat – usually provided by your operator
- 2 x 1L water bottles (wide-mouthed for freezing temps)
- OR 1 hydration bladder (2–3L) – not ideal on summit night due to freezing
- Electrolyte tablets or hydration mixes
- High-calorie snacks (trail mix, bars, energy chews)
- Optional: personal tea/coffee sachets or comfort drinks
🧴🧻 Toiletries & Hygiene
- Toothbrush and small toothpaste
- Biodegradable soap or body wipes
- Wet wipes (daily sponge baths)
- Hand sanitizer (essential!)
- Toilet paper in ziplock bag
- Quick-dry towel
- Lip balm with SPF
- Sunscreen (SPF 30 minimum)
- Menstrual supplies (if applicable)
- Pee bottle/funnel (especially for cold nights)
💊 Health & First Aid
- Any personal prescription medications
- Diamox (if prescribed for altitude)
- Ibuprofen or paracetamol (for headaches and soreness)
- Anti-diarrhea meds (e.g., Imodium)
- Rehydration salts
- Blister care kit (e.g., moleskin, Compeed)
- Personal mini first-aid kit
- Throat lozenges (for cold/dry air)
- Nail clippers and tweezers
- Insect repellent (especially for lower zones)
🔦 Accessories & Electronics
- Headlamp (required for summit) + spare batteries
- Power bank (no charging points on the route)
- Camera or smartphone (in airplane mode)
- Charging cables
- Travel plug adapter (Tanzania uses UK-style Type G)
- Lightweight book, e-reader, or journal
- Trekking poles (essential for Umbwe’s steep terrain)
📄 Documents & Essentials
- Valid passport and copy
- Yellow fever certificate (if applicable)
- Tanzania visa (or e-visa printed out)
- Travel insurance (must cover >4,500m trekking and evacuation)
- Emergency contact info
🎒 Optional Comforts
- Binoculars (for wildlife viewing in lower forest)
- Snacks for sharing with crew (a nice touch)
- Camp slippers
- Earplugs and sleep mask (noisy camps)
- Playing cards, travel games
- Notebook or sketch pad
- Trash bags (for personal waste or waterproofing)
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What’s Provided by Travencia Safaris?
- Four-season tents & sleeping mats.
- All meals and boiled/filtered water.
- Licensed guides, cooks, and porters.
- Group first-aid kit, emergency oxygen, oximeter checks.
- Transport to/from Lemosho Gate and Mweka Exit.
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