Kilimanjaro Trek via shira Route - 6 Days
Tour Overview
Kilimanjaro Climb via Shira Route – 6 Days
The Shira Route is a scenic and quieter trail that begins high up on the western slopes of Mount Kilimanjaro. Once considered a variation of the Lemosho Route, it now stands on its own as a unique path, starting at an elevation of around 3,400 meters. Because of this high starting point, early acclimatization is especially important.
What makes the Shira Route special is its wide-open landscapes, dramatic views, and remote wilderness camps that offer a peaceful trekking experience, away from the busier trails—at least in the beginning. It eventually joins the more popular Lemosho and Machame routes at Shira 2 Camp, continuing along the scenic Southern Circuit toward the summit. For those looking for a bit more solitude, beautiful terrain, and a head start on elevation, Shira is a compelling option.
Safari Highlights
Dramatic landscapes from high-altitude moorland to glaciers.
Remote and quiet route in the early days.
Fewer trekkers and rich scenery, especially on the Shira Plateau.
“Climb high, sleep low” acclimatization strategy.
Summit via Barafu or Kosovo Camp with sunrise at Uhuru Peak.
Descent via Mweka Route
Route: Shira Route
Type: Camping Trek
Duration: 7 Days on the Mountain / 6 Nights Camping
Start Point: Shira Gate (3,400m)
End Point: Mweka Gate (1,640m)
Difficulty: Moderate to Challenging
Max Elevation: Uhuru Peak (5,895m / 19,341 ft)
Acclimatization: Important due to high starting elevation
Best For: Experienced trekkers or well-prepared hikers seeking a remote route with fewer crowds
Price - Based on2 Pax $ $2,700 Per Person
Kilimanjaro Shira Route Trek Itinerary
Day 1: Arrival in Tanzania – Welcome to Kilimanjaro
Upon arrival at Kilimanjaro International Airport (KIA), you’ll be warmly greeted by a representative from Travencia Safaris. After a friendly welcome and short briefing, you’ll be transferred to your hotel in Moshi or Arusha. As you drive through the foothills of Kilimanjaro, keep an eye on the horizon, on clear days, the mountain may reveal itself briefly before retreating behind clouds. This first glimpse of Africa’s tallest peak often stirs a mix of excitement and awe.
- Accommodation: Planet Lodge.
- Meals: Bed & Breakfast.
Day 2: Shira Gate (3,400m) → Shira 1 Camp (3,500m)
Drive from Moshi/Arusha to Shira Gate via Londorossi (registration point). The trek starts directly on the Shira Plateau, offering panoramic views. Due to the high starting altitude, today is a short acclimatization walk to allow the body to adjust. Overnight at Shira 1 Camp, Meals included Lunch & Dinner.
- Distance: ~4 km
- Hiking Time: 1–2 hours
Day 3: Shira 1 Camp → Shira 2 Camp (3,990m) or Moir Hut (4,100m)
This is a gentle day for acclimatization as you cross the Shira Plateau with expansive views and soft trails. You’ll reach Shira 2 Camp by early afternoon. Trekkers wanting additional solitude and better acclimatization may continue to Moir Hut, a quieter, more remote camp at the base of the Lent Hills. Both options allow excellent views and optional short hikes in the afternoon. Overnight at Shira 2 Camp or Moir Hut, Meals included Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner.
- Distance: ~11 km
- Hiking Time: 5–6 hours
Day 4: Shira 2 Camp → Lava Tower (4,600m) → Barranco Camp (3,960m)
Today is an essential acclimatization day. You’ll ascend to Lava Tower (4,600m), a towering volcanic formation in the alpine desert zone, before descending to Barranco Camp. This “climb high, sleep low” approach is critical for acclimatization and greatly improves summit success. Barranco Camp sits beneath the dramatic Barranco Wall, surrounded by giant groundsels and impressive mountain scenery. Overnight at Barranco Camp, Meals included Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner.
- Distance (Optional): ~5–6 km round trip
- Hiking Time: 2–3 hours
Day 5: Barranco Camp → Karanga Camp (4,035m)
Begin the day by scrambling up the iconic Barranco Wall (not technical but steep and exciting). Once at the top, enjoy panoramic views before traversing several valleys and ridges along the Southern Circuit trail. You’ll reach Karanga Camp by lunchtime, making this a shorter day that supports continued acclimatization. Overnight at Karanga Camp, Meals included Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner.
Distance: ~5 km
Hiking Time: 3–4 hours
Day 6: Karanga Camp → Barafu Camp (4,640m) or Kosovo Camp (4,700m)
Today’s trek climbs steadily up to Barafu Camp, the main base camp for the summit attempt. The terrain is rocky and exposed. Trekkers with a permit may continue a bit further to Kosovo Camp, which offers a quieter and slightly higher base with a better summit start. You’ll arrive early to eat, rest, and sleep before the midnight ascent. Overnight at Barafu Camp or Kosovo Camp, Meals included Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner.
Distance: ~4–5 km
Hiking Time: 4–5 hours
Day 7: Summit Day! Barafu/Kosovo Camp → Uhuru Peak (5,895m) → Mweka Camp (3,100m)
The final summit push begins around midnight. You’ll ascend steep switchbacks up scree and volcanic rock to Stella Point (5,685m), then continue along the crater rim to Uhuru Peak—Africa’s highest point. After celebrating and capturing summit photos, descend back to Barafu for a rest and hot meal. You’ll then continue downhill to Mweka Camp for a well-earned sleep. Trekking poles are highly recommended. Overnight at Mweka Camp, Meals included Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner.
Distance: ~6 km ascent + 10 km descent
Hiking Time: 12–15 hours.
Day 8: Mweka Camp → Mweka Gate (1,640m) → Transfer to Moshi/Arusha
A gentle descent through lush rainforest marks your final walk on Kilimanjaro. Listen for birdsong and watch for monkeys as you make your way to Mweka Gate. After signing out and receiving your summit certificate, you’ll be transferred back to Moshi or Arusha for a well-deserved shower and celebration.
Distance: ~10 km
Hiking Time: 3–4 hours
- Accommodation: Planet Lodge.
- Meal Plan: Bed & Breakfast.
PRICING INCLUDES
- Airport transfers (to and from Kilimanjaro International Airport)
- Two nights hotel accommodation in Arusha (one night before and one night after the trek, with breakfast included)
- All park entry fees, camping fees, and rescue fees
- Professional, experienced mountain guides (Wilderness First Responder certified)
- Assistant guides, cooks, and porters to support you throughout the trek
- Private portable toilet for group uses on the mountain
- Emergency oxygen cylinder carried on the trek for safety purposes
- Pulse oximeter monitoring (daily health checks)
- Comfortable, high-quality, four-season mountain tents (shared by two climbers)
- Sleeping mattress
- All meals during the trek (breakfast, lunch, dinner), freshly prepared by our mountain chef
- Drinking water (filtered and treated)
- Table and chairs for meals at camp
- Mess tent for dining and shelter
- Summit certificate from Kilimanjaro National Park
- Fair wages for guides, cooks, and porters (following Kilimanjaro Porter Assistance Project guidelines)
- Transfer to and from the Kilimanjaro National Park gate
- Pre-climb briefing with your guide
PRICING EXCLUDES
- International airfare to and from Tanzania.
- Tanzania entry visa fees.
- Travel insurance (mandatory and must cover high-altitude trekking and emergency evacuation).
- Tips for guides, porters, and cooks (recommended guidelines will be provided)
- Personal trekking gear (sleeping bags, trekking poles, etc.).
- Lunch and dinner in Arusha (except breakfast at the hotel).
- Additional hotel nights beyond those included in the itinerary (if required).
- Personal expenses (such as souvenirs, snacks, and laundry).
- Beverages other than those served with meals (soft drinks, alcohol).
- Optional activities or excursions before or after your trek.
- Half-day room use if your departure flight is late and you wish to rest after check-out (available at extra cost).
- Portable power banks or solar chargers for electronic devices.
Inquire This Tour
Acclimatization Advantage – Shira Route Trek
The Shira Route’s 7-day itinerary provides a solid acclimatization profile, crucial due to its high starting elevation of over 3,400 meters.
Climb High, Sleep Low
The route follows the well-established strategy of ascending to higher elevations during the day — like Lava Tower (4,600m) — and descending to sleep at lower camps, aiding in gradual adjustment.
Early Exposure to Altitude
Starting high means your body begins adapting from day one, giving you a head start on acclimatization (though this also means a good fitness base is recommended).
Summit via Barafu or Kosovo Camp
The final ascent begins from Barafu (4,640m) or the quieter Kosovo Camp (4,700m), allowing for a smoother, better-timed push to Uhuru Peak at sunrise.
Stronger Mental & Physical Preparation
With steady elevation gains and rest days built in, trekkers arrive at summit night better conditioned and more confident.
Experience & Support
- Led by expert Travencia Safaris Mountain guides, certified in Wilderness First Response (WFR)
- Supported by a full mountain crew (guides, cooks, porters)
- Emergency protocols in place, including oxygen, oximeters, and park rescue access
- All camping equipment and hot meals included.
- Led by expert Travencia Safaris Mountain guides, certified in Wilderness First Response (WFR)
Frequently Asked Questions – 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.
