The Shira route is one of the older Kilimanjaro routes, and is nearly identical to the Lemosho route. The only difference between them is that the starting point of Shira is higher. In fact, the Lemosho route is the ‘new-and-improved’ version of the Shira route.
The Shira route is another path that approaches Kilimanjaro from the west, and it is nearly identical to the Lemosho route. In fact, Shira was the original route and Lemosho is the improved variation.
Arrival City: Arusha
Departure City: Arusha
Airport: Kilimanjaro Airport
Welcome to Tanzania! Upon your arrival into Kilimanjaro International Airport (JRO), and after clearing customs and immigration, you will be met by your Tanzania Tribe Safari representative who will transfer you to your Hotel in Arusha. In the evening your guide who will brief you on your upcoming trek and do an equipment check to make sure you have all the necessary mountain gear. The missing gear can be rented on this day.
Elevation (ft): 11,800 ft to 11,800 ft
Distance: 4 km/2 miles
Hiking Time: 1-2 hours
Habitat: Heath
We depart Moshi for Londorossi Gate, which takes about 4 hours; here we will complete entry formalities while guides and porters prepare equipment. We then continue to drive up a steep path to the Shira Gate where we will begin the hike. The trek starts through shrubs and giant heather until we reach Simba Camp.
Elevation (ft): 11,800 ft to 12,500 ft
Distance: 6 km/4 miles
Hiking Time: 2 hours
Habitat: Heath
Today is a fairly easy day to help with acclimatization. We begin by exploring the grassy moorland and volcanic rock formations on the plateau. Then we take a scenic path to the Shira Cathedral, a huge buttress of rock surrounded by steep spires and pinnacles, before settling at Shira 2 Camp.
Elevation (ft): 15,190 ft to 13,044 ft
Distance: 7 km/4 miles
Hiking Time: 4-5 hours
Habitat: Alpine Desert
Elevation (ft): 12,500 ft to 15,190 ft
Distance: 3 km/2 miles
Hiking Time: 2-3 hours
Habitat: Alpine Desert
We continue to the east up a ridge and then head southeast towards the Lava Tower – a 300 ft tall volcanic rock formation. We descend down to Barranco Camp through the strange but beautiful Senecio Forest to an altitude of 13,000 ft. Although you begin and end the day at the same elevation, the time spent at higher altitude is very beneficial for acclimatization.
Elevation (ft): 13,044 ft to 13,106 ft
Distance: 5 km/3 miles
Hiking Time: 4-5 hours
Habitat: Alpine Desert
We begin the day by descending into a ravine to the base of the Great Barranco Wall. Then we climb the non-technical but steep, nearly 900 ft cliff. From the top of the Barranco Wall we cross a series of hills and valleys until we descend sharply into Karanga Valley. One steeper climb up leads us to Karanga Camp. This is a shorter day meant for acclimatization.
Elevation (ft): 13,106 ft to 15,331 ft
Distance: 4 km/2 miles
Hiking Time: 4-5 hours
Habitat: Alpine Desert
We leave Karanga and hit the junction which connects with the Mweka Trail. We continue up to the rocky section to Barafu Hut. At this point, you have completed the Southern Circuit, which offers views of the summit from many different angles. Here we make camp, rest and enjoy an early dinner to prepare for the summit day. The two peaks of Mawenzi and Kibo are viewable from this position.
Elevation (ft): 15,331 ft to 19,341 ft
Distance: 5 km/3 miles
Hiking Time: 7-8 hours
Habitat: Arctic
Elevation (ft): 19,341 ft to 10,065 ft
Distance: 12 km/7 miles
Hiking Time: 4-6 hours
Habitat: Rain Forest
Very early in the morning (around midnight), we begin our push to the summit. This is the most mentally and physically challenging portion of the trek. The wind and cold at this elevation and time of day can be extreme. We ascend in the darkness for several hours while taking frequent, but short, breaks. Near Stella Point (18,900 ft), you will be rewarded with the most magnificent sunrise you are ever likely to see coming over Mawenzi Peak. Finally, we arrive at Uhuru Peak- the highest point on Mount Kilimanjaro and the continent of Africa.
From the summit, we now make our descent continuing straight down to the Mweka Hut camp site, stopping at Barafu for lunch. The trail is very rocky and can be quite hard on the knees; trekking poles are helpful. Mweka Camp is situated in the upper forest and mist or rain can be expected in the late afternoon. Later in the evening, we enjoy our last dinner on the mountain and a well-earned sleep.
After breakfast and rest, we will Transfer you to Kilimanjaro International Airport for those returning home.
Kilimanjaro Altitude Sickness which occur the height.
As a perfectly balanced weather, from January.
Tipping is a compulsory tradition on every
Kilimanjaro Porters and Guides have the major role to make your Kilimanjaro.
The base age limit set by Kilimanjaro National Park for kids trekking.
Mount Kilimanjaro is the highest peak and needs.
Despite being the most accessible mountain peak for the summit, many hikers.
Climbing Mount Kilimanjaro needs the physical fitness and strong willpower.
With our years of mountain experience.
Kilimanjaro Gears plays a vital role in climbing highest.
Summit the majestic Kilimanjaro
Conquering Africa’s biggest mountain, Mt Kilimanjaro.
Common condition caused by the lack of oxygen.
There’s not a definitive answer out there as to what.
Technical backpacks designed specifically with Climbing Kilimanjaro
Wondering about how to access the majestic peak of Kilimanjaro?
Newbie climbers often have a significant question .
Summiting Kilimanjaro is an adventure full of excitement.
Africa’s biggest mountain, Mount Kilimanjaro
As you look at the Kilimanjaro Map unfurled before you
There is a dedicated Kilimanjaro Rescue Team that
Climbing Mount Kilimanjaro can be a thrilling experience.
Climbing Africa’s biggest mountain, Mount Kilimanjaro
Every hiker in this world dreams to reach the top of Kilimanjaro
Climbing Africa’s tallest Mountain, Kilimanjaro
Resting in the Kilimanjaro Tents is a dream come true
Looking to conquer the majestic Mount Kilimanjaro?
Looking to conquer the majestic Mount Kilimanjaro?
There are no obligatory Kilimanjaro Vaccinations
Resting in the Kilimanjaro Tents is a dream come true
Be prepared for a trek through a variety of terrains
Being conscious of Kilimanjaro Weather before your tour up the mountain
Being conscious of Kilimanjaro Weather before your tour up the mountain
Best no complains masai mara 6 days luxury safari package was what i needed after one year. Tanzania Tribe Safari made this happen we are great full me and my family.
Mount kilimanjaro is the best mountain on my experience, machame route was my best route of my choice, with the best view full me and my family.
The team around, were like a family. It was fun and just an adventure. We had the adventure we wanted, and are grateful !
