Kilimanjaro

Shira (Shira Gate) Route

The Shira Route begins high on the mountain, opening immediately onto the vast Shira Plateau. With sweeping horizons, wide skies, and a slower early pace, this route feels expansive and calm—an ideal blend of acclimatization, scenery, and classic Kilimanjaro drama.

Perfect for trekkers who want strong acclimation with a more open, safari-like landscape from day one.

6–7 days Moderate–Challenging High start

Why Choose the Shira Route

Shira is all about space, altitude, and flow. Starting high allows your body to adjust early, while the broad plateau delivers uninterrupted views and a quieter rhythm. This route merges seamlessly with the southern circuit, giving you iconic highlights like Barranco Wall and a strong summit approach—without rushing the mountain.

Highlights

High-altitude start Vast Shira Plateau Excellent acclimatization Barranco Wall experience Scenic southern circuit

Fast Facts

  • Start: Shira Gate
  • Route joins: Lemosho / Machame
  • Camps: Shira • Barranco • Karanga • Barafu
  • Summit: Via Stella Point
  • Best seasons: Jan–Mar, Jun–Oct

Route Details

Higher starting elevation Strong acclimatization profile Open terrain & wide views Comfortable camp spacing Classic southern circuit summit

Sample 7-Day Shira Route Itinerary

Keeps adequate acclimatization while leveraging the high start.

Above the clouds.

Begin your climb at Shira Gate and step straight into open alpine terrain. The trail crosses volcanic plains with endless skies and distant peaks, easing you into altitude while introducing Kilimanjaro’s immense scale. Camp beneath stars that feel impossibly close.

Shira plateauShira 1

Wide horizons.

A gentle trek across the heart of the Shira Plateau. The day feels expansive and unhurried, with panoramic views stretching in every direction. This is Kilimanjaro at its most serene—perfect for settling into rhythm and altitude.

Open vistasShira 2

Altitude wisdom.

Ascend toward Lava Tower for acclimatization, watching the landscape shift to stark alpine beauty. After lunch at elevation, descend into the lush Barranco Valley—where giant senecios and dramatic cliffs surround camp. Your body adapts, your confidence grows.

Lava TowerBarranco

The signature moment.

Scramble up the famous Barranco Wall—hands-on, thrilling, and surprisingly playful. From the top, traverse rolling terrain toward Karanga with constant views of glaciers and valleys. This is one of the most photogenic days on the mountain.

Barranco WallKaranga

Summit energy builds.

A steady climb brings you to Barafu High Camp. The air is thinner, the landscape more lunar, and everything feels intentional. Early dinner, final gear checks, and rest—summit night awaits.

BarafuBarafu

Africa’s highest point.

Depart under a blanket of stars, climbing steadily toward Stella Point as dawn approaches. The final stretch to Uhuru Peak is quiet, powerful, and emotional. After celebrating at the summit, descend to lower altitude for recovery and rest.

Summit nightMweka

Return to green.

Descend through rainforest to Mweka Gate, where certificates, hugs, and proud smiles mark the end of your journey. The mountain releases you gently—muddy boots, full hearts, unforgettable memories.

Exit: Mweka Gate

ForestMweka Gate

Included

All park fees; professional mountain guides, porters, and cook team; all meals on the mountain; purified drinking water; mountain accommodation (huts on Marangu or private tents on all other routes); emergency rescue fees; and round-trip ground transfers between your hotel and the trailhead.

Not Included

International and regional flights, visas, travel insurance, personal hiking or biking gear, tips for the mountain crew, and optional upgrades.

From $1,890 per person

Pricing varies by season and group size.

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