6-Day Shira Route Kilimanjaro Climbing

The 6-day Shira Route is a challenging and scenic Kilimanjaro climbing experience that approaches the mountain from the western side. Starting at a relatively high altitude, this route offers stunning views across the Shira Plateau, dramatic landscapes, and a remote wilderness feel.

Due to the high starting point, this itinerary is best suited for fit trekkers with prior high-altitude experience. The route merges with the Machame Route and descends via Mweka.

Day 1 :

Arrival in Moshi

Arrive at Kilimanjaro International Airport and transfer to your hotel in Moshi. Meet your mountain guide for briefing and equipment check.
Overnight: Hotel in Moshi
Meals: Dinner

Day 2 :

Londorossi Gate – Shira 1 Camp

Altitude: 2,100 m – 3,500 m
Hiking Time: 3–4 hours

Drive to Londorossi Gate for registration, then continue by vehicle to the Shira Plateau. Begin trekking across open moorland with wide panoramic views.
Overnight: Shira 1 Camp
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Day 3 :

Shira 1 Camp – Shira 2 Camp

Altitude: 3,500 m – 3,850 m
Hiking Time: 3–4 hours

A short trek across the Shira Plateau allows time for acclimatization. Enjoy stunning views of Kibo Peak and Mount Meru.
Overnight: Shira 2 Camp
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Day 4 :

Shira 2 – Lava Tower – Barranco Camp

Altitude: 3,850 m – 4,600 m – 3,950 m
Hiking Time: 6–7 hours

Trek to Lava Tower for acclimatization, then descend to Barranco Camp. This “climb high, sleep low” day is crucial for summit success.
Overnight: Barranco Camp
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Day 5 :

Barranco Camp – Barafu Camp

Altitude: 3,950 m – 4,673 m
Hiking Time: 6–7 hours

Climb the Barranco Wall and continue across alpine terrain to Barafu Camp. Rest and prepare for summit night.
Overnight: Barafu Camp
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Day 6 :

Barafu Camp – Uhuru Peak – Mweka Camp

Altitude: 4,673 m – 5,895 m – 3,100 m
Hiking Time: 10–14 hours

Begin the summit ascent shortly after midnight. Reach Stella Point, continue to Uhuru Peak, then descend via the Mweka Route to Mweka Camp.
Overnight: Mweka Camp
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Day 7 :

Mweka Camp – Mweka Gate – Departure

Altitude: 3,100 m – 1,640 m
Hiking Time: 3–4 hours

Descend through rainforest to Mweka Gate. Receive your summit certificates and transfer back to Moshi or Kilimanjaro International Airport.
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch

6-Day Shira Route Kilimanjaro Climbing

Overview

Itinerary

Cost