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Kilimanjaro Shira Route Map, A Map that shows the Shira route to the summit of Kilimanjaro

Shira Route

A Journey Through the Heart of Kilimanjaro’s Wild Side

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Embark on an extraordinary adventure along the Shira Route, Kilimanjaro’s less-traveled gem. Starting in the lush, volcanic Shira Plateau, this trail offers breathtaking landscapes, diverse ecosystems, and a more remote, immersive experience into the mountain’s natural beauty.

Known for its panoramic vistas, unique terrain, and high success rate, the Shira Route is ideal for those seeking a scenic and slightly challenging ascent, with excellent chances of reaching Uhuru Peak.

 

 

Start Location: Londorosi Gate (2,100m / 6,900ft)

Your trek begins deep within Kilimanjaro National Park’s volcanic wilderness, where vast, open plains and colorful wildflowers greet you. The landscape quickly opens up as you ascend into the high-altitude plateau, offering spectacular views from the start.

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Day 1: Londorosi Gate to Shira 1 Camp 

  • Distance: ~8 km / 5 miles 

  • Duration: 4-5 hours 

  • Environment: Rainforest, transition to moorland; panoramic mountain views

 

 

Day 2: Shira 1 to Shira 2 Camp

  • Distance: ~7 km / 4.3 miles 

  • Duration: 4-5 hours 

  • Environment: Alpine moorlands, volcanic formations, and expansive views of the mountain’s north and west faces

 

 

Day 3: Shira 2 to Lava Tower and Moir Hut

  • Distance: ~12 km / 7.5 miles 

  • Duration: 6-7 hours 

  • Environment: Moorlands, volcanic rock formations, and the iconic Lava Tower (4,630m). This day emphasizes acclimatization and stunning scenery.

 

 

Day 4: Moir Hut to Barranco Camp

  • Distance: ~12 km / 7.5 miles 

  • Duration: 6-7 hours 

  • Environment: Alpine desert, rugged terrain, incredible views of the glaciers and mountain peaks.

Today prepares your body for higher ascents, with a gradual rise into the mountain’s alpine zone.

 

 

Day 5: Barranco Camp to Karanga Valley

  • Distance: ~8 km / 5 miles 

  • Duration: 4-5 hours 

  • Environment: Alpine meadows, glacier views, and rocky outcrops, with panoramic vistas of Kilimanjaro’s glaciers.

 

 

Day 6: Karanga Valley to Barafu Camp

  • Distance: ~4 km / 2.5 miles 

  • Duration: 3-4 hours 

  • Environment: Rocky, barren, and stunning high-altitude landscape, the staging ground for your summit bid.

 

 

Night Climb: Barafu to Uhuru Peak & Return

  • Distance: ~4 km / 2.5 miles (one way) 

  • Duration: 6-8 hours round-trip (start late at night) 

  • Environment: Icy, windy, and awe-inspiring, the payoff for your effort as you reach the point where Africa touches the sky.

 

 

Descending: Mweka Camp

  • Distance: ~10 km / 6 miles 

  • Duration: 4-6 hours 

  • Environment: Dense rainforest, lush scenery, and a joyful descent celebrating your achievement.

 

 

Summary of the Shira Trek

  • Duration: 7-8 days (recommended for better acclimatisation) 

  • Total Distance: Approximately 65-75 km / 40-47 miles 

  • Difficulty Grade: 3/5 A moderate challenge with ample scenery and acclimatisation days. 

  • Success Rate: 75-85% with proper preparation 

  • Required Fitness: Moderate to good, previous trekking experience and endurance help.

 

 

Why Climb the Shira Route?

  • Spectacular Scenery: From volcanic formations to glaciers, enjoy some of the best views on Kilimanjaro.

  • Less Crowded: Experience genuine solitude away from busier routes.

  • Excellent for Acclimatization: Longer days and high-altitude sites increase success rates.

  • Rich in Wildlife & Vegetation: Encounter diverse flora, birdlife, and volcanic landscapes unlike any other

 

Why Choose the Shira Route?

  • Stunning Panoramic Views: Experience breathtaking vistas across the mountain’s volcanic plains and glaciers, offering incredible photo opportunities and a sense of awe.

  • Secluded & Peaceful: Ideal for those wanting to escape the crowds and immerse themselves in the mountain’s untouched wilderness.

  • Great Acclimatization: The longer route and high-altitude stops significantly improve your chances of summit success.

  • Rich Geological & Ecological Diversity: From volcanic rock formations to alpine flora, this route is a journey through some of Kilimanjaro’s most fascinating landscapes.

 

 

Is the Shira Route Right for You?

If you’re a passionate explorer, nature enthusiast, or someone eager for an immersive, scenic Kilimanjaro experience, the Shira Route offers an extraordinary adventure. Its balance of challenge and rewarding scenery makes it perfect for trekkers seeking an authentic journey into the mountain’s wild heart.

Prepare for stunning landscapes, high success chances, and nights under the stars, this is Kilimanjaro at its most majestic.

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