Shira Route on Mount Kilimanjaro
Climbing Mount Kilimanjaro via The Shira Route
The Shira Route, similar to the Lemosho Route, does indeed start at a higher elevation of 3,600 meters. This means that trekkers beginning on the Shira Route will quickly be exposed to high altitude conditions, which may present challenges for those who are not acclimatized or have limited experience with high altitude trekking.
Due to the rapid ascent at the beginning of the trek, some trekkers may struggle with altitude-related issues such as altitude sickness or difficulty acclimatizing. It is important for climbers considering the Shira Route to be well-prepared physically, mentally, and equipped with proper gear to handle the high altitude conditions they will encounter.
While the Shira Route offers stunning scenery and a less crowded alternative, trekkers should carefully assess their own experience and comfort level with high altitude trekking before choosing this route. Proper acclimatization, physical fitness, and awareness of altitude-related symptoms are crucial for a successful and enjoyable climb on the Shira Route.
The Shira Route provides a unique and less crowded trekking experience on Mount Kilimanjaro, offering a peaceful and serene start to your climb. However, it does come with challenges due to the high starting point and rapid elevation gain, which can lead to altitude sickness for some trekkers.
Starting at the Shira Gate and trekking to Simba Camp on the first day, you will then join the Lemosho Route at Shira Camp 2 on the second day. The route over the Shira Plateau offers various possible variations, adding to the adventure of your climb.
As you continue on the route and join the Machame Route via Lava Tower, followed by a descent to Barranco Camp via the Southern Circuit, you will have the opportunity to experience diverse landscapes and terrain.
The low number of trekkers on the Shira Route means that you can enjoy more solitude and tranquility during the initial days of your climb, providing a unique and intimate connection with the mountain.
Ascending to Uhuru Peak via Barafu Camp and the southern slopes of Kibo, you will have the chance to challenge yourself and conquer the summit while taking in breathtaking views along the way.
While the Shira Route may pose altitude-related challenges due to its high starting point, proper acclimatization, preparation, and awareness of altitude sickness symptoms are essential for a safe and enjoyable climb. If you are seeking a quieter and less crowded experience on Mount Kilimanjaro, the Shira Route may be the perfect choice for you.
Duration: 6 – 8 days
Difficulty: High
Scenery: Excellent
Traffic: Medium
DAY 1: DRIVE TO KILIMANJARO NATIONAL PARK SHIRA GATE, HIKE TO SHIRA 2 CAMP
Elevation: 1830m/6000ft to 3850m/12,600ft
Distance: 8km/5mi
Hiking Time: 4-5 hours
Habitat: Montane Forest
Embarking on a mesmerizing journey from Moshi to the Shira Gate trailhead, the three-hour drive unveils a scenic tapestry of landscapes. As we trek through the mystical rainforest, the winding trail ascends a lush ridge, offering glimpses of nature’s enchanting allure. Beneath the canopy, where earth meets sky, the path may whisper of mud and slipperiness, urging gaiters and poles as steadfast companions. Pressing on to Shira Camp, a tranquil oasis awaits us, cradled in the embrace of towering peaks. Here, under the starlit canopy, we rest our weary souls, ready to embrace the next chapter of our mountain odyssey.
DAY 2: HIKE SHIRA 2 CAMP TO LAVA TOWER TO BARRANCO CAMP
Elevation: 3850m/12,600ft to 4000m/13,000ft
Distance: 10km/6mi
Walking Time: 5-6 hours
Habitat: Semi-desert
From the Shira Plateau, our journey unfolds to the east along a ridge, where we catch sight of the junction leading towards Kibo’s peak. Our path then gracefully drifts southeastward, escorting us to the imposing Lava Tower – a rugged sentinel known as the “Shark’s Tooth” reaching an elevation of 4650m (15,250ft). Navigating past this formidable landmark, we encounter the second junction offering passage to the Arrow Glacier. Descending gently, we arrive at the idyllic Barranco Camp, where though our altitude remains unchanged, the day’s trek plays a crucial role in acclimatization, harmonizing our beings in harmony with the impending summit challenge. Here, under the starlit canopy, we rest and rejuvenate in preparation for the radiant ascent that beckons forth on the horizon. An evening at rest, at the heart of the Barranco Camp.
DAY 3: HIKE BARRANCO CAMP TO KARANGA CAMP
Elevation: 4000m/13,000ft to 4050m/13,250ft
Distance: 5km/3mi
Hiking Time: 34 hours
Habitat: Alpine Desert
Emerging from the tranquil embrace of Barranco Camp, we embark on a spirited ascent, scaling the sheer walls of the Barranco Wall. With each step, we ascend the rugged ridge, drawing closer to the Karanga Valley and the crossroads where the path converges with the Mweka Trail. Pressing onward, the majestic Karanga Camp extends a welcoming embrace, offering respite and rejuvenation amidst the lofty expanse. Here, under the vast African sky, we find solace and serenity, preparing our spirits for the next chapter of our mountain odyssey. A tranquil night at rest, at the soulful haven of Karanga Camp.
DAY 4: HIKE KARANGA CAMP TO BARAFU CAMP
Elevation: 4050m/13,250ft to 4700m/15,350ft
Distance: 4km/2mi
Hiking Time: 3-4 hours
Habitat: Alpine Desert
Our ascent continues as we journey towards the Barafu Camp, marking the culmination of the South Circuit trail. Enveloped by panoramic vistas, this elevated vantage point unveils the majestic summit from varied perspectives, painting a symphony of awe-inspiring angles. Arriving at Barafu Camp, we settle in, embracing the tranquil surroundings as we replenish our spirits, savor a nourishing dinner, and ready ourselves for the impending summit assault. Amidst the serene ambiance of the camp, with the stars as our canopy, we rest our weary bodies, preparing to embark on the final leg of our grand adventure. A peaceful night’s rest beckons at Barafu Camp, as we gather our strength and courage for the impending summit bid.
DAY 5: HIKE BARAFU CAMP TO SUMMIT, DOWN TO MWEKA CAMP
Elevation: 4700m/15,350ft to 5895m/19,340ft
Down to 3090m/10,150ft
Distance: 5km/3mi up / 13km/8mi down
Hiking Time: 5-7 hours up / 5-6 hours down
Habitat: Stone scree and ice-capped summit
Amidst the hushed darkness of the early morning, from midnight to 2 am, we embark on the final leg of our quest towards the summit. Guided by the shimmering Rebmann and Ratzel glaciers, we press on in a determined northwesterly trajectory, navigating through treacherous scree towards the eminent Stella Point on the crater rim. This segment of the journey stands as the ultimate test of both mind and body, demanding unwavering resolve and fortitude. Upon reaching Stella Point, a fleeting respite awaits, offering a moment of solace before the grand unveiling of the most spectacular sunrise conceivable. Here, amid the ethereal beauty of dawn, slower-paced trekkers revel in the awe-inspiring sight unfolding before them, while swifter hikers may find themselves greeted by the glorious sunrise atop the summit itself, a beacon of triumph amidst the lofty heights.
From the ethereal vantage point of Stella Point, the ethereal landscape transforms into a pristine blanket of snow, accompanying you on the final hour of your ascent towards the illustrious Uhuru Peak. As you stand upon this hallowed ground, you have conquered the apex of Mount Kilimanjaro and the entirety of the African continent, a feat of indomitable spirit and unwavering determination.
From the summit, your descent commences, guiding you steadily towards the Mweka Camp. En route, a brief interlude at Barafu offers a moment of reprieve, where a well-deserved lunch bestows sustenance for the journey ahead. Traversing the terrain, the loose gravel demands nimbleness, suggesting the use of gaiters and trekking poles to navigate the descent with ease.
Arriving at the serene Mweka Camp, a curtain falls on this grand odyssey as you bask in the evening’s embrace. Moments of reflection mingle with camaraderie as you relish your final night on the mountain, a testament to the resilience and fortitude that brought you to this juncture. As darkness settles over the camp and the mountain whispers its farewell, you find solace in the echoes of your journey, etched in the annals of your being.
DAY 6: HIKE MWEKA CAMP TO MWEKA GATE, DRIVE TO MOSHI
Elevation: 3090m/10,150ft to 1680m/5500ft
Distance: 10km/6mi
Hiking Time: 3-4 hours
Habitat: Forest
Following a hearty breakfast, the descent from the heights of Mweka Camp unfurls, guiding you towards the Mweka Park Gate, where your hard-earned summit certificates await, commemorating your triumph on Kilimanjaro’s legendary slopes. As you navigate the lower elevations, the terrain transitions into a tapestry of dampness and mud, requiring the support of gaiters and trekking poles. Opting for shorts and t-shirts proves comfortable, although it’s wise to keep rain gear and extra layers within reach for unpredictable weather.
Traversing onwards for another hour towards Mweka Village from the gate, the culmination of your journey draws near. At Mweka Village, a welcome vehicle awaits to ferry you back to the heart of Moshi, a serene oasis promising rejuvenation and respite. The rhythmic hum of the road carries you towards the Bristol Cottage, where a well-deserved hot shower, sumptuous dinner, and jubilant celebrations await, casting a reverent aura over the triumphant conclusion of your Kilimanjaro expedition. As you sink into the embrace of restful slumber, the memories of your ascent and descent linger, etched in the fabric of your being, forever a part of your remarkable journey.