7 Days to the Summit: An Overview of Your Trek
The 6-Day Shira Route offers a stunning and more gradual ascent to Mount Kilimanjaro's summit, providing the perfect balance of acclimatization time and the opportunity to reach the top. This route starts on the western side of the mountain, offering breathtaking views of the Shira Plateau and the surrounding landscapes as you journey toward Uhuru Peak at 5,895 meters (19,341 feet). With its scenic beauty and steady climb, it is an excellent choice for trekkers who want a slightly less demanding route compared to others.
Throughout your trek, you will be guided by a professional team of guides, porters, and chefs, ensuring your safety and comfort. Your accommodations will be at comfortable campsites along the route, allowing you to experience the wilderness in its purest form.
- Scenic and Gradual Ascent: The Shira Route is known for its stunning, panoramic views, offering a steady, more gradual climb compared to steeper routes like Machame. It provides ample time for acclimatization, with a focus on allowing trekkers to adjust to the altitude comfortably.
- Camping Experience: Like the Machame Route, the Shira Route requires camping, which adds an adventurous element to the trek. The campsites are set in peaceful, scenic locations, providing a true wilderness experience with basic amenities to ensure comfort during your stay.
- Diverse Ecological Zones: The Shira Route takes you through various ecosystems, from the lush rainforest at the start, to the high-altitude moorlands, and finally the alpine desert as you approach the summit. This variety offers trekkers the chance to explore different landscapes, each with unique flora and fauna.
- Less Crowded: The Shira Route is less popular compared to other routes like Machame or Marangu, meaning you’ll encounter fewer trekkers, allowing for a more peaceful and intimate journey. It’s an ideal option for those seeking a quieter, more serene experience on Mount Kilimanjaro.
Journey
Day 1: Moshi/Arusha to Shira Gate to Shira 1 Camp (Start of Trek)
- Trek Start: Depart from Moshi or Arusha in the morning for a scenic drive to Shira Gate, located on the western side of Kilimanjaro. After registering at the gate, you'll begin your trek through lush rainforest and heathland toward your first camp.
- Distance: 8 km (5 miles)
- Elevation Gain: 800 meters (2,625 feet)
- Overnight: Shira 1 Camp, located at the edge of the Shira Plateau, with amazing views of the surrounding area and Kibo Peak.
Day 2: Shira 1 Camp to Shira 2 Camp
- Trek Start: Continue your ascent across the Shira Plateau, heading toward Shira 2 Camp. This day offers spectacular views of the mountain, and the gradual ascent helps with acclimatization.
- Distance: 6 km (3.7 miles)
- Elevation Gain: 700 meters (2,297 feet)
- Overnight: Shira 2 Camp, offering breathtaking views of Mount Kilimanjaro’s glaciers and the surrounding highland terrain.
Day 3: Shira 2 Camp to Barranco Camp
- Trek Start: Continue trekking across the Shira Plateau, and then descend into the Barranco Valley. This day offers beautiful views of Kibo Peak, the Shira Plateau, and the rugged Barranco Wall that you will ascend in the coming days.
- Distance: 10 km (6.2 miles)
- Elevation Gain: 500 meters (1,640 feet)
- Overnight: Barranco Camp, a picturesque campsite with stunning views of the Barranco Wall and the surrounding valleys.
Day 4: Barranco Camp to Karanga Camp
- Trek Start: Ascend the Barranco Wall, which is one of the more challenging but rewarding parts of the trek. Afterward, continue your journey to Karanga Camp, nestled in a valley surrounded by towering peaks and offering magnificent views.
- Distance: 6 km (3.7 miles)
- Elevation Gain: 700 meters (2,297 feet)
- Overnight: Karanga Camp, which is located at an altitude of around 4,000 meters (13,123 feet), offering excellent views of the mountain and nearby valleys.
Day 5: Karanga Camp to Barafu Camp
- Trek Start: Continue your ascent through alpine desert terrain as you approach Barafu Camp, the final camp before your summit attempt. The path offers incredible views of the summit and the surrounding glaciers.
- Distance: 7 km (4.3 miles)
- Elevation Gain: 1,000 meters (3,281 feet)
- Overnight: Barafu Camp, where you will rest and prepare for your summit attempt early the next morning.
Day 6: Summit Day – Barafu Camp to Uhuru Peak and Descent to Mweka Camp
- Trek Start: Begin your summit attempt around midnight. After a challenging ascent through the night, you will reach the summit of Uhuru Peak at 5,895 meters (19,341 feet) at dawn. After spending time at the summit, descend to Mweka Camp for a well-earned rest.
- Distance: 16 km (9.9 miles)
- Elevation Gain: 1,295 meters (4,249 feet) to the summit, followed by a descent of 2,895 meters (9,500 feet) to Mweka Camp.
- Overnight: Mweka Camp, where you will relax and recover after your incredible achievement.
Day 7: Mweka Camp to Mweka Gate and Return to Moshi
- Distance: 10 km (6.2 miles)
- Elevation Loss: 1,400 meters (4,593 feet)
- End of Trek: After your descent through the rainforest, you’ll reach Mweka Gate, where you’ll receive your summit certificate. From there, you’ll be transferred back to your hotel in Moshi or Arusha for a celebratory rest.
7 Days Shira Price
1 pax | 2-4 pax | 5-9 pax | 10+ pax |
---|---|---|---|
USD 2,375 | USD 2,169 | USD 1,968 | USD 1,785 |
What's Included
- Accommodation: Hut accommodations throughout the trek.
- Meals: All meals during the trek (breakfast, lunch, dinner, and snacks).
- Guides and Support Team: Professional guides, porters, and a chef.
- Park Fees: Includes entry fees to Kilimanjaro National Park.
- Transfers: Airport or hotel pick-up and drop-off.
- Medical Support: Emergency oxygen and medical kit.
- Trekking Equipment: Trekking poles, rain gear, and other necessary equipment.
- Certificate: Summit certificate for successful trekkers.
How to Prepare for Your Kilimanjaro Trek
- Fitness Preparation: It’s important to train for the trek by doing cardiovascular and strength exercises. Long hikes or walks with a weighted backpack can help improve your stamina.
- Altitude Considerations: Acclimatization is crucial, so be sure to follow the pace set by your guides. Hydration and proper rest are key to avoiding altitude sickness.
- Packing: Bring layered clothing suitable for both warm and cold weather. Essential items include a waterproof jacket, sturdy boots, a hat, gloves, and a sleeping bag.
- Mental Preparation: Be mentally prepared for long days of trekking and possible challenges. Stay positive and focus on your goal: reaching the summit!
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