8 Days Shira Route – Mount Kilimanjaro

Overview

The Shira Route is a scenic and less-traveled path to the summit of Mount Kilimanjaro. Starting at a higher elevation on the Shira Plateau, it offers wide open views and a gradual approach across diverse landscapes.

This eight-day itinerary allows for proper acclimatization, improving summit success while providing a quieter trekking experience compared to more popular routes.

Itinerary

Day 1: Shira Gate to Simba Camp

Begin your trek at Shira Gate after registration. The trail starts at high altitude and crosses the Shira Plateau with expansive views.

  • Hiking Time: 3–4 hours
  • Distance: ~7 km
  • Altitude: 3,500 m to 3,850 m

Accommodation: Simba Camp
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner


Day 2: Simba Camp to Shira 2 Camp

Continue across the plateau toward Shira 2 Camp with gentle trekking and panoramic scenery.

  • Hiking Time: 3–4 hours
  • Distance: ~7 km
  • Altitude: 3,850 m to 3,900 m

Accommodation: Shira 2 Camp
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner


Day 3: Shira 2 Camp to Lava Tower to Barranco Camp

Ascend to Lava Tower for acclimatization before descending to Barranco Camp.

  • Hiking Time: 6–7 hours
  • Distance: ~10 km
  • Altitude: 3,900 m to 4,630 m to 3,960 m

Accommodation: Barranco Camp
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner


Day 4: Barranco Camp to Karanga Camp

Climb the Barranco Wall and continue to Karanga Camp through valleys and ridges.

  • Hiking Time: 4–5 hours
  • Distance: ~5 km
  • Altitude: 3,960 m to 4,035 m

Accommodation: Karanga Camp
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner


Day 5: Karanga Camp to Barafu Camp

Ascend to Barafu Camp, preparing for the summit attempt.

  • Hiking Time: 4–5 hours
  • Distance: ~4 km
  • Altitude: 4,035 m to 4,640 m

Accommodation: Barafu Camp
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner


Day 6: Barafu Camp to Uhuru Peak to Mweka Camp

Begin your summit attempt at midnight, trekking to Uhuru Peak, the highest point in Africa. After reaching the summit, descend to Mweka Camp.

  • Hiking Time: 10–14 hours
  • Altitude: 4,640 m to 5,895 m to 3,100 m

Accommodation: Mweka Camp
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner


Day 7: Mweka Camp to Mweka Gate

Descend through rainforest to Mweka Gate, where you will receive your summit certificate.

  • Hiking Time: 3–4 hours
  • Distance: ~10 km
  • Altitude: 3,100 m to 1,640 m

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch


Day 8: Departure or Extra Day

Transfer back to Arusha for rest or onward travel. This day can be used for recovery or optional activities.

Meals: Breakfast


Include:

  • Park fees and rescue fees
  • Professional mountain guides, porters, and cook
  • Hut accommodation (Mandara, Horombo, and Kibo)
  • All meals during the trek
  • Drinking water throughout the climb
  • Transfers between hotel and park gate
  • Safety equipment including oxygen cylinder and first aid kit
  • Government taxes and VAT

Exclude

  • International and domestic flights
  • Visa fees
  • Travel insurance (mandatory)
  • Tips for guides, porters, and cook
  • Personal climbing gear and equipment
  • Alcoholic and soft drinks
  • Accommodation before and after the trek (can be arranged)
  • Personal expenses such as laundry, phone calls, and souvenirs

Price per person

Tour Pricing Table
Pax Budget (USD) Mid Range (USD) Luxury (USD)
1 $1,000 $2,000 $3,000
2 $2,000 $3,000 $4,000
3 $3,000 $4,000 $5,000
4 $4,000 $5,000 $6,000
5 $5,000 $6,000 $7,000
6 $6,000 $7,000 $8,000
7 $7,000 $8,000 $9,000
8 $8,000 $9,000 $10,000

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