Overview 7 Days Best of Shira Route
7 Days Best of The Shira Route
is one of the most scenic and rewarding paths to the summit of Mount Kilimanjaro, offering breathtaking landscapes, a gradual ascent for better acclimatization, and fewer crowds compared to other popular routes. This 7-day adventure is ideal for climbers looking to join a group and experience the best of Kilimanjaro while keeping costs lower.
Unlike the Lemosho Route, which starts at a lower altitude, the Shira Route begins at Shira Gate (3,500m), making it better suited for trekkers who have prior high-altitude experience. The route traverses the stunning Shira Plateau, a vast expanse of open moorland with incredible views of Mount Meru, lush valleys, and volcanic formations. As the trek progresses, climbers pass through diverse ecological zones, from the heather and moorland to the alpine desert, before reaching the icy summit of Uhuru Peak (5,895m).
One of the main advantages of the Shira Route is its excellent acclimatization profile. The trek follows the “climb high, sleep low” principle, which improves altitude adaptation and increases summit success rates. The route also merges with the Lemosho and Machame Routes, allowing climbers to experience iconic features like Lava Tower, Barranco Wall, and Stella Point.
Climbing Kilimanjaro as part of a joining group offers an affordable and social trekking experience. You’ll share the journey with fellow adventurers from around the world, making the climb both memorable and motivational. Group treks include experienced guides, porters, and chefs who ensure safety and comfort throughout the expedition.
If you’re looking for a challenging yet rewarding route with stunning landscapes, high success rates, and a great group experience, the 7 Days Best of Shira Route is the perfect choice for your Kilimanjaro adventure.
Duration 6 Days/5 Nights
7 Days/6 Nights,
8 Days/7 Nights
Sample Itinerary(7 Days/6 Nights)
Day 1: Shira Gate to Simba Camp
- Londorossi Gate/Shira trail head - River Camp (~3050 m/~10000 ft) Walking distance: 7 km/4.4 miles Walking time: 4 hours Altitude gain: ~950 m/~3100 ft
Day 2: Simba Camp to Shira 2 Camp
- River Camp - Shira Huts (3850 m/12630 ft) via Shira Cathedral Walking distance: 12 km/7.5 miles Walking time: 6-8 hours Altitude gain: 800 m/2630 ft
Day 3:Shira 2 Camp to Lava Tower to Barranco Camp
- Shira Huts - via Lava Tower (4640 m/15220 ft) - Barranco Huts (3985 m/13070 ft) Walking distance: 9 km/5.6 miles Walking time: 6-8 hours Altitude gain: 135 m/440 ft (790 m/2590 ft to Lava Tower)
Day 4:Barranco Camp to Karanga Camp
- Barranco Huts - Karanga Camp (4040 m/13255 ft) Walking distance: 5.5 km/3.5 miles Walking time: 4-5 hours Altitude gain: 55 m/185 ft
Day 5: Karanga Camp to Barafu Camp
- Karanga Camp - Barafu Huts (4680 m/15360 ft) Walking distance: 3.5 km/ 2.2 miles Walking time: 4-5 hours Altitude gain: 640 m/2105 ft
Day 6: Barafu Camp to Uhuru Peak to Mweka Camp
- Summit attempt via Stella Point (5752 m/18871 ft) to Uhuru Peak (5895 m/19340 ft) and descent to Millenium Camp (3820 m/12530 ft) (or to Mweka Hut) Walking distance: 5 km/3 miles ascent + 10 km/6.2 miles descent Walking time: 5-6 hrs + 1-2 hours up, 5-6 hours down (the overall walking time may vary from 10 - 16 hours) Altitude gain: 1072 m/ 3511 ft (Stella Point) or 1215 m/3980 ft (Uhuru Peak) Descent: 2075 m/6810 ft
Day 7: Mweka Camp to Mweka Gate
- Millenium Camp - Shira Gate Walking distance: 20 km/12.5 miles Walking time: 5 hours Descent: 1990 m/6530 ft
