7-Day Shira Route Kilimanjaro
7-Day Shira Route Kilimanjaro Overview
The 7-Day Shira Route Kilimanjaro is a scenic and less-traveled trail that approaches Mount Kilimanjaro from the west. Beginning near Shira Ridge, this route shares much of its path with the Lemosho Route and offers trekkers a quiet and beautiful approach to Africa’s highest peak. The ascent continues via Barafu Camp and Stella Point, with the descent following the Mweka Route, passing Millennium Camp on the way down.
What sets the Shira Route apart is its high-altitude starting point, which provides climbers with stunning panoramic views from the very beginning. The extended itinerary allows for maximum acclimatization, significantly increasing the chance of a successful summit. Along the way, trekkers enjoy diverse landscapes—from rainforests and moorlands to alpine deserts and glaciers—culminating in breathtaking views from the crater rim.
This 7-Day Shira Route Kilimanjaro is ideal for experienced trekkers seeking a quieter path with excellent acclimatization and unforgettable scenery, especially the glaciers around the crater rim before the final push to Uhuru Peak.
Day by day itinerary
Day 1: Arusha – Londorossi Gate – Shira Gate – Shira Camp 1
Elevation: 2,100m to 2,820m
Distance: 5.5 km
Hiking Time: 5–7 hours
Habitat: Rainforest
Lunch, Dinner
Day 2: Shira Camp 1 to Shira Camp 2
Trek across the scenic Shira Plateau with stunning views of Kilimanjaro’s peak. Hike through moorland and heather vegetation, gradually gaining altitude. Arrive at Shira Camp 2 (3,840m) for dinner and overnight stay, continuing your acclimatization journey.
Elevation: 2,820m to 3,500m
Distance: 5.5 km | Time: 5–6 hrs | Habitat: Rainforest / Low Alpine Zone
Day 3: Shira Camp 2 to Barranco Camp via Lava Tower
Today’s hike climbs to Lava Tower (4,630m), offering a key acclimatization point. After spending time at this high altitude, descend to Barranco Camp (3,950m), allowing your body to adjust. This “climb high, sleep low” strategy greatly boosts summit success. Dinner and overnight at Barranco Camp.
Elevation: 3,500m to 4,200m
Distance: ~8.5 km | Time: 5–7 hrs | Habitat: Low Alpine / High Alpine Zone
Day 4: Barranco Camp to Karanga Camp
Start the day with the exciting climb up the Barranco Wall, involving some light scrambling. After reaching the top, continue through stunning alpine desert terrain. Arrive at Karanga Camp (3,995m) in the afternoon for dinner and overnight rest, preparing for the final ascent stages.
Elevation: 4,200m to 4,600m to 3,900m
Distance: ~12 km | Time: 6–7 hrs | Habitat: High Alpine Zone
Day 5: Karanga Camp to Barafu Camp
Ascend through the dry alpine desert landscape toward Barafu Camp (4,673m), your final base before the summit. The trail is steep but steady. Upon arrival, rest, hydrate, and prepare for the midnight summit push. Dinner and overnight at Barafu Camp.
Elevation: 3,900m to 3,960m
Distance: 7 km | Hiking Time: 4 hours | Habitat: High Alpine Zone
Day 6: Barafu Camp to Uhuru Peak to Mweka Camp
Begin your summit push at midnight, climbing steep switchbacks to Stella Point (5,739m) on the crater rim. Continue to Uhuru Peak (5,895m), the highest point in Africa. After celebrating and taking photos, descend through Barafu to Mweka Camp (3,100m). Enjoy dinner and a well-earned rest.
Elevation: 3,960m to 4,680m
Distance: Approximately 6 km
Hiking Time: 3 hours
Habitat: High Alpine Zone
Day 7: Mweka Camp to Mweka Gate to Arusha
Elevation (M): 4,680m to 5,895m to 3,100m Distance: 4.5 km ascent / 11 km descent
Hiking Time: 6–8 hrs ascent / 5–8 hrs descent
Habitat: Glacial Zone
Cost includes
All transfers
Professional and experienced mountain guide, cook and porters
Rescue fees
Quality mess tents with tables and chairs
Clean purified water
Accommodation before climbing
All entry fees
All meals during your trekking
Large portion of fresh healthy nutritious food
Cost Excludes
Sleeping bags, bring your own sleeping bag but still you can rent it in Arusha at reasonable
Flight ticket
Gratitude’s for Kilimanjaro climbing crews
Personal expenses (e.g. laundry bills, telephone bills, beverages etc.)
Anything not mentioned above