The Shira Route is one of the two routes that approach the Summit from the West, and as such, it’s usually slightly longer than the Marangu or Machame Routes. When you embark on the Shira route, you’ll spend the first day crossing the Plateau. There are several different ways of doing this, some taking more time than others. Depending on the route you choose, you have the option to stop and see sights like the Shira Cathedral (an impressive peak formed from lava), as well as camp away from the main trail.
Once you get a certain way along the Shira trail, it merges with Machame, so you’ll end up scaling the Summit the same way. The Shira Route approaches Mount Kilimanjaro from the west, beginning with a long drive from Moshi to Shira Ridge. The vehicle bypasses the rainforest zone, and the hiking trail begins on Shira Ridge. The Shira route traverses the entire Shira Plateau from west to east, offering a pleasant, relatively flat hike. Then the route traverses underneath Kilimanjaro's Southern Ice Field on a path known as the Southern Circuit before summiting from Barafu. Descent is made via the Mweka route.
The Shira Route map highlights its unique approach, starting high on the western slopes. It displays the wide plateau crossing, campsites, and volcanic landscapes. This guide helps visualize the trail’s expansive vistas, dramatic ridges, and the transition toward summit zones.
We believe that every climber’s journey on Kilimanjaro is unique. That’s why at BestDay Safaris, we offer six distinct routes. Every path has its own tale, scenery, and speed. These six different climbing routes allow every tourist to select one that perfectly suits their goals and personality.
For us, travelling in Tanzania doesn’t mean moving from one location to another. It's really about planning trips that are more about making memories and building trust. Therefore, we have put all our knowledge to craft tours that show you the best of Tanzania and its people.
We are born here and consider these parks as our backyards. We have extensive knowledge of the trails, the best times, and off-the-beaten paths that most visitors miss.
From the initial hello to the last goodbye, we treat every tourist like family. We listen, make changes, and go the additional mile to make your vacation enjoyable.
Our guests speak for us. There are hundreds of good reviews from happy customers who believe what we do and tell us that every trip with us is one to remember.
As no two travellers are same, why should the safari itineraries be? We pay attention to what you want and make plans to fit your travel style and pace .
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It's exciting to climb Kilimanjaro, but it's even more fun when you're ready. There are plans, training tips, packing lists, safety tips, and more here for you to find all the trip guides you need. Before your trip, click on each of the guides below to learn more.
This part covers the most common questions people have concerning climbing routes on Kilimanjaro. Our FAQs give you clear information on everything from the length and complexity of the routes to how to acclimatize and what the view is like. This will help you pick the best way for your trip and reach the top with confidence.
The Shira Route has a moderate difficulty to climb Kilimanjaro. The only disadvantage that the route faces is that it starts at a high altitude. This can cause immediate problems to the climbers as they can't acclimatize immediately to the high elevation of 11,500 feet.
The Shira Route is 56 km (35 miles) long and can be completed in 6 to 7 days with our Kilimanjaro Climbing Packages.
As per official statistics, the success rate is 55% for the 6-day Shira Route and 75% for the 7-Day Shira Route.
The Shira Route is one of the most beautiful routes on Mount Kilimanjaro. The trekkers gain the experience of hiking across the Shira Plateau. It is one of the most extensive high-altitude plateaus in the world. While climbing the Shira Route, you’ll catch the attention of Shira Cathedral.
The Best time to climb Kilimanjaro is from July to September. You’re less likely to encounter rain during this period, and the weather is likely more stable. Since Kilimanjaro is close to the equator, it is possible to climb the mountain at any time of the year. Avoid April and May, as it is more likely to rain during this time.
Guests Remember UsWhen someone says a trip changed them, we listen. Many guests have written about moments that stayed long after they left, wildlife, culture, and friendships. Their voices give you a glimpse of the Tanzania we’re proud to show.
I can’t thank best day safari enough for the incredible journey they planned for us.Climbing Kilimanjaro was a dream come true & the guides and the support team made us feel safe.
Bestday Safaris designed this fantastic safari to meet our needs. There were eight of us, two families of friends, split between two jeeps with the fantastic guides Tuma and Emanuel.
These were days we will never forget. The organization by Bestdays Safari was flawless in every way.Yuna is a truly special person – she fulfilled every single request of mine.
Whether you are ready for Tanzania Safari Dream or Kilimanjaro Adventure or Beach Relaxation for a few days or a few weeks long, our experts will create an itinerary from scratch, fully tailored to your wishes. Want to visit a beautiful destination or start an adventure to reach the top, or relax in a paradise, we will make it happen.
