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4.8/5

Based on 420+ reviews

98%Client Satisfaction Rating

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6 Days

Shira Route

Overview
Summary
Itinerary
Includes & Excludes
Plan Your Safari

6 Days Shira Route

The 6-day Shira Route offers a scenic, less crowded ascent of Mount Kilimanjaro. Starting from Shira Gate, trekkers pass through rainforests and high-altitude moorlands, enjoying stunning views of Mount Meru and Kibo. Its gradual ascent ensures proper acclimatization, while panoramic landscapes provide unforgettable scenery.

Tour Summary & Map

Day 1 – Drive to Kilimanjaro National Park (Shira Gate), Hike to Shira 2 Camp

Day 2 – Hike Shira 2 Camp to Lava Tower to Barranco Camp

Day 3 – Hike Barranco Camp to Karanga Camp

Day 4 – Hike Karanga Camp to Barafu Camp

Day 5 – Hike Barafu Camp to Summit, Down to Mweka Camp

Day 6 – Mweka Camp to Mweka Gate

Tour Itinerary

Day 1 - Machame Gate to Machame Camp (11km)

Drive to Kilimanjaro National Park (Shira Gate), Hike to Shira 2 Camp

Elevation: 1,830m/6,000ft to 3,850m/12,600ft

The journey begins with a 3-hour drive from Moshi to the Shira Gate, where the adventure starts. As you hike through the lush montane forest, the trail winds up a ridge, and at lower elevations, it can be muddy and slippery. Trekking poles and gaiters will be useful here. You’ll arrive at Shira 2 Camp in the afternoon, where you’ll spend the night at an elevation of 3,850m, surrounded by incredible views.

Day 2 - Hike Shira 2 Camp to Lava Tower to Barranco Camp

Hike Shira 2 Camp to Lava Tower to Barranco Camp

Elevation: 3,850m/12,600ft to 4,000m/13,000ft

From Shira 2, you’ll continue east, passing the junction that heads toward Kibo Peak. As you ascend, the trail leads you towards Lava Tower (4,650m/15,250ft), known as “Shark’s Tooth.” After exploring the tower, the path descends to Barranco Camp (4,000m). Despite ending the day at a similar altitude, this section is crucial for acclimatization, helping your body prepare for the challenges ahead. The rugged landscapes and stunning views will make this day unforgettable.

Day 3 - Hike Barranco Camp to Karanga Camp

Hike Barranco Camp to Karanga Camp

Elevation: 4,000m/13,000ft to 4,050m/13,250ft

Starts with a steep climb up the famous Barranco Wall, a thrilling yet manageable challenge that leads to the Karanga Valley. From here, you’ll follow the Mweka Trail junction to Karanga Camp, located at 4,050m. The alpine desert habitat provides a stark contrast to earlier lush rainforests, with minimal vegetation but dramatic views of the surrounding landscape. This short yet rewarding day ensures ample time for acclimatization.

Day 4 - Hike Karanga Camp to Barafu Camp

Hike Karanga Camp to Barafu Camp

Elevation: 4,050m/13,250ft to 4,700m/15,350ft

After leaving Karanga Camp, you’ll ascend to Barafu Camp (4,700m), completing the South Circuit, which offers panoramic views of Kilimanjaro’s summit from various angles. At Barafu, you’ll rest, enjoy a nutritious dinner, and mentally prepare for the summit attempt. The camp’s high-altitude location provides a dramatic view of the surrounding glaciers, offering a final glimpse of the mountain before your ascent.

Day 5 - Hike Barafu Camp to Summit, Down to Mweka Camp

Hike Barafu Camp to Summit, Down to Mweka Camp

Elevation: 4,700m/15,350ft to 5,895m/19,340ft, then down to 3,090m/10,150ft

The summit day starts very early (between midnight and 2 am) as you ascend the scree paths between the Rebmann and Ratzel glaciers. After passing through heavy scree, you’ll reach Stella Point (5,685m), where a magnificent sunrise awaits. From there, you’ll hike another hour to Uhuru Peak, the highest point in Africa at 5,895m. After celebrating your achievement, you’ll descend to Barafu for lunch before continuing the journey down to Mweka Camp. The descent offers a final chance to reflect on the summit as you make your way through the alpine desert to your camp.

Day 6 - Mweka Camp to Mweka Gate

Mweka Camp to Mweka Gate

Elevation: 3,090m/10,150ft to 1,640m/5,380ft

On your final day, you’ll descend through Kilimanjaro’s lush rainforests to Mweka Gate, where you’ll receive your summit certificate. At lower elevations, the trail can be wet and muddy, so be prepared for the conditions. After reaching the gate, a short drive will take you to Mweka Village for a celebratory lunch, followed by a vehicle transfer back to Moshi, where you can unwind and enjoy a well-deserved shower.

Includes & Excludes

Include & Exclude

Pick up at the International Airport
Transfer to the hotel Parkview inn or Kilimanjaro wonders hotel
Professional mountain crew
Fair wages for the mountain crew as approved by the Kilimanjaro National Park Authority (KINAPA), Kilimanjaro Association of Tour Operators (KIATO)
Kilimanjaro National Park permits Fees
Camping/hut fees
Modern tents
3 meals daily
First aid kit
Warm and comfortable sleeping pads (2 inches thick)
Portable flush toilets can be provided for free upon the client's request
Group equipment (dining tent, table, chairs, crockery, and cutlery)
Meeting the group at the National Park exit and transfer to the hotel
Accommodation after the climb
International certificates for a successful ascent
Return transfer to Kilimanjaro airport

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"We had a fantastic time with Kingse Safari’s. We went from Arusha, to Ngorongoro and Serengeti. Peter was an awesome guide. Very knowledgeable and a skilled driver."

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"We had a fantastic time with Kingse Safari’s. We went from Arusha, to Ngorongoro and Serengeti. Peter was an awesome guide. Very knowledgeable and a skilled driver."

JON H

Incredible Trip

"Amazing experience from start to finish! The guides were knowledgeable and friendly."

ANNA L

Safari Adventure

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