6 Days Climbing Shira Route

Climbing Mount Kilimanjaro using the Shira Route is quite similar, to the Lemosho route. However, it has a starting point of 3,600 meters. This makes it less suitable for trekkers who have limited or no experience with high-altitude trekking.

On the day your journey begins at Shira Gate. Takes you to Simba Camp. On the day you join the Lemosho Route at Shira Camp 2. It’s worth noting that starting at such an altitude can be challenging as some may experience altitude sickness without time for acclimatization. The Shira Plateau offers variations along the route.

After reaching Shira Camp 2 the route merges with the Machame Route via Lava Tower. Then descends to Barranco Camp through the Southern Circuit. The final ascent to Uhuru Peak is accomplished by passing through Barafu Camp and ascending on Kibo’s slopes. Compared to routes fewer trekkers choose this path meaning that during your two days, on the mountain you’ll encounter less crowding.

DAY 1: DRIVE TO KILIMANJARO NATIONAL PARK SHIRA GATE, HIKE TO SHIRA 2 CAMP

The journey, from Arusha / Moshi to the starting point of the trail usually lasts around 3 hours. We embark on our hike through a rainforest following a meandering path that leads us up a ridge. It’s important to note that at elevations the trail can become quite muddy and slippery so it’s advisable to wear gaiters and use trekking poles, for added stability. We continue hiking for a while until we arrive at Shira Camp, where we will spend the night at Shira 2 Campsite.

DAY 2: HIKE SHIRA 2 CAMP TO LAVA TOWER TO BARRANCO CAMP.

We proceed eastward from the Shira Plateau following a ridge and passing, by the junction that leads to the peak of Kibo. Our direction then changes to the southeast as we head towards the Lava Tower also known as the “Sharks Tooth” (elevation 4650 m/15,250 ft). After reaching the tower we arrive at a junction that leads to the Arrow Glacier. From there we continue our descent towards the Barranco Camp. Although we end our day at the same elevation where we started this day is crucial, for acclimatization and helps our bodies prepare for summit day. We spent overnight at Barranco Camp.

DAY 3: HIKE BARRANCO CAMP TO KARANGA CAMP

After having our morning meal we depart from Barranco. Proceed along a ridge, towards the Barranco Wall. We then reach the Karanga Valley and the intersection where it meets the Mweka Trail. We plan to spend the night at Karanga Camp.

DAY 4: HIKE KARANGA CAMP TO BARAFU CAMP

We proceed onward, to the Barafu Camp having successfully traversed the South Circuit that grants us perspectives of the summit. At this point, we establish our camp take respite savour dinner and make all preparations, for our upcoming summit day. We spend the night at Barafu Camp.

DAY 5: HIKE BARAFU CAMP TO SUMMIT, DOWN TO MWEKA CAMP

In the hours of the morning between midnight and 2 a.m., we proceed towards the summit that lies between the Rebmann and Ratzel glaciers. We head in a direction making our way through rough scree, towards Stella Point, which marks the rim of the crater. This particular stretch of the journey is both mentally and physically demanding. Upon reaching Stella Point we pause to rest and witness an awe-inspiring sunrise that’s likely to be one of the most magnificent sights you’ll ever behold. Those who are hikers may have an opportunity to witness this sunrise from the summit itself.

From Stella Point there might be snow throughout your one-hour ascent to Uhuru Peak – this signifies reaching not only Mount Kilimanjaro’s highest point but also Africa’s highest peak! After relishing our accomplishment at the summit we begin our descent by heading towards Mweka Camp with a stop at Barafu, for lunch. It is advisable to have gaiters and trekking poles as they come in while navigating through gravel on our way down. Finally, we arrive at Mweka Camp where we spend our evening on this mountain before resting overnight.

DAY 6: HIKE MWEKA CAMP TO MWEKA GATE, DRIVE TO MOSHI

After breakfast, we continue the descent down to the Mweka Park Gate to receive your summit certificates. At lower elevations, it can be wet and muddy. Gaiters and trekking poles will help. Shorts and T-shirts will probably be plenty to wear (keep rain gear and warmer clothing handy).

From the gate, continue another hour to Mweka Village. A vehicle will meet you at Mweka village to drive you back to your hotel in Moshi (about 30 minutes). You now drive back to Moshi for a long overdue hot shower, dinner and celebrations!! Overnight in Bristol Cottage.