Embark on the Shira Route, a unique high-altitude start on Mount Kilimanjaro. Enjoy breathtaking views of the Shira Plateau and a less crowded beginning. Offered by Africantrust Safari – Your trusted Tanzania experts.
Offered By: Africantrust Safari
The Shira Route is one of the most scenic and unique ways to climb Mount Kilimanjaro. Approaching from the west, this route starts at a significantly higher altitude than others, offering immediate, breathtaking views of the Shira Plateau—a UNESCO World Heritage site known for its dramatic geological formations and open moorlands. Unlike the popular Machame Route, the Shira Route begins with a 4x4 drive to the trail head at magnificent Londorossi Gate, bypassing the lower rainforest zone and placing you directly into the heath and moorland zone. This "drive-in" start makes for a shorter first hiking day but requires careful acclimatization.
As you traverse the plateau, you’ll enjoy relative solitude before joining the Machame Route at the iconic Lavender Tower. From there, the path offers the classic Southern Circuit experience: climbing the Great Barranco Wall, crossing the Karanga Valley, and making the final midnight ascent to Uhuru Peak from Barafu Camp.
Your days on Kilimanjaro are active and varied. Expect 4 to 7 hours of trekking daily, carrying only a light daypack (water, camera, jacket). The terrain shifts from open heath to alpine desert and scree. Highlights include the non-technical scramble up the Barranco Wall (an exhilarating 1-hour climb) and the challenging Summit Night, a 12-15 hour marathon starting at midnight under the stars.
We provide all ground transportation using well-maintained, private vehicles:
We believe comfort is key to a successful summit. Our mountain accommodation and dining are designed to keep you rested and energized.
You will sleep in high-quality, weatherproof expedition tents (e.g., Mountain Hardwear, North Face). We provide:
Our mountain chefs perform miracles at altitude. All meals are fresh, hot, and nutritious:
The Shira Route is perfect for climbers who want to avoid the initial rainforest hike of the Machame route and start high for immediate views. It offers a wilderness feel in the first few days, away from the crowds. If you are confident in your ability to acclimatize to a starting altitude of 3,500m, this route offers the most spectacular opening days on the mountain.
We are a 100% Local Tanzanian Operator based in Moshi. When you book with us, you support the local economy directly.
Climbing Kilimanjaro is a serious physical undertaking. Proper preparation is essential.
Detailed schedule for your climb. Note: This is a sample standard itinerary.
We drive from Moshi to Londorossi Gate for registration, then drive further up to the Morum Barrier. From here, we hike through the heath and moorland to Shira 1 Camp. The views of the Shira Plateau are stunning.
We explore the Shira Plateau for a full day. It is a gentle walk east toward Kibo's glaciered peak, across the plateau which leads to Shira 2 Camp on moorland meadows by a stream.
A crucial acclimatization day. We route onto the ridge and landscape changes to semi-desert. It is a tough climb to the Lava Tower (4,600m) for lunch, then descend to Barranco Camp.
We begin by descending into the ravine to the base of the Great Barranco Wall. Then we climb the non-technical but steep cliff. From the top, we traverse hills and valleys to Karanga Camp.
A long and challenging day. We hike to Barafu Camp (Base Camp) in the morning, rest briefly, and prepare. Around midnight, we begin the summit push to Uhuru Peak (5,895m). After celebrating, we descend all the way down to Mweka Camp.
A gentle descent through the rainforest to Mweka Gate. Here you will receive your summit certificates. Our vehicle will be waiting to drive you back to the hotel in Moshi.
| Group Size | Price Per Person (USD) |
|---|---|
| 1 Person | $2,450 |
| 2 People | $2,250 |
| 3-5 People | $2,150 |
| 6+ People | Request Quote |
What affects the price? The price varies based on group size (larger groups are cheaper per person) and accommodation preferences (luxury upgrades available).
Arrival Airport: Kilimanjaro International Airport (JRO).
Transfer: We provide transfer from JRO to your hotel in Moshi (approx. 45 mins). This is included in your package.
Pick-up: Our driver will meet you at the airport arrivals with a sign bearing your name.
"Explore Africa with confidence and trust"
Africantrust Safari is a premier tour operator located in Moshi, Tanzania. We specialize in creating life-changing experiences on Mount Kilimanjaro and Tanzania Safaris. Our local expertise ensures safety, quality, and unforgettable adventures.
