Climbing Kilimanjaro

Shira Route - 7 days | Start - Oct 2025 - Oct 2026

Price $1500

Kilimanjaro via Shira Route - 7 Day

15/25

Benefits of the route

Less Crowded

Far fewer climbers than Machame or Marangu routes, allowing for a tranquil trekking experience.

Scenic Diversity

Enjoy views of Kibo and Mawenzi peaks, northern volcanic landscapes, coniferous forests, and rare flora such as Giant Groundsels.

Higher Summit Success Rate

The gentle northern slopes provide excellent acclimatization, making it ideal for first-time Kilimanjaro climbers.

Secluded Adventure:

Perfect for those seeking a peaceful, immersive, and less commercial trekking experience.

Overview of the shira Route - 7 Days

The Shira Route offers a unique and unforgettable pathway to the summit of Mount Kilimanjaro, Africa’s highest peak at 5,895 meters. Approaching from the west, this route begins high on the Shira Plateau, immersing climbers immediately in dramatic alpine scenery while avoiding the crowded lower forest trails used by Machame or Marangu routes. As a less-traveled, premium trekking experience, Shira delivers breathtaking landscapes, serene campsites, and a true sense of wilderness making it perfect for travelers seeking solitude, adventure, and high-altitude challenges.

BASED IN TANZANIA

Want to plan a memorable Tanzanian adventure?

Full Itinerary

Day
1

Day 1

Arrival in Tanzania

Upon landing at Kilimanjaro International Airport (JRO), you’ll be warmly welcomed by our Kiliclimb Africa Safaris representative, who will escort you to your accommodation in Arusha or Moshi. Your hotel — such as The Maridadi Hotel or a similar comfortable property — offers cozy en-suite rooms, reliable Wi-Fi, a swimming pool, and friendly service, providing the perfect place to rest before the climb.

In the evening, you’ll meet your lead mountain guide for a detailed group briefing and equipment check. This is where you’ll review the itinerary, receive final safety instructions, and ensure everyone in your group is fully prepared for the upcoming expedition.

Check-in begins at 2:00 PM.
Shared airport transfers are included for all group participants. To avoid additional fees, please try to coordinate arrival and departure times with your fellow climbers

Day
2

Day 2

Transfer to Londorossi Gate & Trek to Shira 2 Camp

After breakfast, your guides and porters will pick you up for a scenic 3–4-hour drive to Londorossi Gate (2,250 m), the western entrance of Kilimanjaro National Park. Here, your group will register, complete park formalities, and begin the off-road journey up to the high-altitude trailhead at 3,400 m (11,155 ft).

From this point, the adventure begins! You’ll trek across the stunning Shira Plateau, one of Kilimanjaro’s oldest volcanic formations, surrounded by sweeping views of the mountain’s upper slopes. Today’s hike is moderate and excellent for beginning the acclimatization process.

By the time you arrive at Shira 2 Camp (3,850 m), your porters will have set up camp and prepared a warm dinner.

Tip: Drink plenty of water and inform your guide if you feel any altitude discomfort. Mild headaches or shortness of breath are normal during early acclimatization

Day
3

Day 3

Shira 2 Camp to Lava Tower (4,630 m) & Descent to Barranco Camp (3,960 m)

After breakfast, set out toward Lava Tower, a dramatic volcanic formation and a key acclimatization point. This section includes gradual ascents and descents through alpine terrain, offering incredible panoramic views.

Upon reaching Lava Tower, you’ll pause for lunch and spend time at high altitude to strengthen your body’s adaptation before descending to Barranco Camp.

At Barranco, you’ll be greeted by one of Kilimanjaro’s most famous landmarks — the Barranco Wall, rising steeply from the valley floor. It looks daunting, but tomorrow’s climb will prove it’s far more manageable than it appears!

Day
4

Day 4

Barranco Wall to Karanga Camp (3,995 m)

After an early breakfast, you’ll tackle the Barranco Wall — a fun and scenic scramble that takes about an hour, offering breathtaking views of the Kibo cone and the surrounding glaciers.

The route to Karanga Camp includes a series of rolling ascents and descents across rocky terrain. Your guides will maintain a steady pace suitable for all group members.

Upon arrival, enjoy a hot lunch and later take part in a short acclimatization hike toward Barafu Camp (4,335 m), then return to Karanga for dinner and rest.

Acclimatization walks are vital they increase your summit success rate and help minimize altitude sickness

Day
5

Day 5

Karanga Camp to Barafu Camp (4,673 m)

Today’s trek is shorter but steeper, taking you through alpine desert landscapes to Barafu Camp, the final base before summit night.

When you reach camp, your tents will already be set up and hot tea waiting. Use the remainder of the day to rest, hydrate, and mentally prepare for the summit push.

Your guides will provide a detailed briefing and serve an early dinner before you rest for a few hours. The climb to Uhuru Peak begins shortly after midnight.

Day
6

Day 6

Summit Day: Barafu to Uhuru Peak (5,895 m) and Descent to Millennium Camp

The highlight of your journey begins before dawn. Around midnight, you’ll start your final ascent to Uhuru Peak, Africa’s highest point. Under the starlit sky, your group will move steadily upward, with each pair of climbers accompanied by a dedicated guide for safety and motivation.

As the sun rises above the plains of Tanzania, you’ll reach Uhuru Peak (5,895 m) — an unforgettable moment of triumph and joy. Celebrate briefly, take photos, and soak in the view before beginning the careful descent to Millennium Camp (3,820 m).

At camp, enjoy a well-earned meal and rest after one of the most rewarding days of your life.

Descents can be tough on the knees — take your time, watch your footing, and follow your guide’s advice carefully.

Day
7

Day 7

Millennium Camp to Mweka Gate (1,640 m)

Wake up to birdsong and lush rainforest surroundings — a welcome contrast after the barren summit zones. After breakfast, you’ll make your final descent through the forest trails to Mweka Gate, where your group will sign out and receive your official Kilimanjaro climbing certificates.

After heartfelt farewells and group photos, our driver will transfer you back to your hotel for a hot shower, dinner, and a well-deserved rest.

Day
8

Day 8

Departure

After breakfast, enjoy a relaxed morning at the hotel before your airport transfer.
Hotel check-out is at 11:00 AM. Late check-outs can be arranged for evening flights (additional charges apply).

This marks the end of your Kilimanjaro group adventure but the friendships and memories you’ve made will last a lifetime