The Shira Route is one of the older and less-traveled trails on Mount Kilimanjaro, beginning from the western side of the mountain. It starts at a higher altitude compared to other routes, crossing the beautiful Shira Plateau, which offers expansive views and unique scenery. Trekkers experience a blend of rainforest, moorland, and alpine desert before joining the Machame Route near Lava Tower. The 7-day itinerary allows for better acclimatization and increases summit success rates, though the quick initial ascent makes it more suitable for trekkers who are already well-prepared. With fewer crowds and wide-open landscapes, the Shira Route is an excellent choice for those seeking a quieter yet scenic approach to the summit of Africa’s highest peak.
7 DAYS SHIRA ROUTE
Similar to Lemosho but shorter, less busy , starts on Shira Plateau
Day 1: Londorossi Gate (2,250m) to Shira 1 Camp (3,610m)
The trek begins with a drive through farmland and rainforest before starting the hike across the Shira Plateau, offering vast views and unique terrain.
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Elevation: 2,250m to 3,610m
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Distance: 7 km / 4 mi
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Walking Time: 3–4 hours
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Habitat: Moorland
Day 2: Shira 1 Camp (3,610m) to Shira 2 Camp (3,850m)
A gentle walk across the plateau with panoramic views of Kibo and the surrounding valleys, helping with acclimatization.
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Elevation: 3,610m to 3,850m
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Distance: 6 km / 4 mi
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Walking Time: 3–4 hours
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Habitat: Moorland
Day 3: Shira 2 Camp (3,850m) to Lava Tower (4,630m) to Barranco Camp (3,960m)
Climb towards the Lava Tower for acclimatization before descending into the Barranco Valley, surrounded by dramatic scenery.
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Elevation: 3,850m to 4,630m (Lava Tower) down to 3,960m
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Distance: 10 km / 6 mi
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Walking Time: 6–8 hours
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Habitat: Semi-desert
Day 4: Barranco Camp (3,960m) to Karanga Camp (4,035m)
Begin with the exciting scramble up the Barranco Wall, followed by a trek over ridges and valleys to reach Karanga Camp.
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Elevation: 3,960m to 4,035m
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Distance: 5 km / 3 mi
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Walking Time: 4–5 hours
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Habitat: Alpine Desert
Day 5: Karanga Camp (4,035m) to Barafu Camp (4,640m)
A steady climb through alpine desert terrain leads to Barafu Camp, the base for the summit attempt.
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Elevation: 4,035m to 4,640m
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Distance: 4 km / 2 mi
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Walking Time: 4–5 hours
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Habitat: Alpine Desert
Day 6: Barafu Camp (4,640m) to Uhuru Peak (5,895m) to Mweka Camp (3,110m)
A midnight start leads to the summit of Uhuru Peak. After celebrating, descend back to Barafu and then down to Mweka Camp.
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Elevation: 4,640m to 5,895m (Uhuru) down to 3,110m
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Distance: 17 km / 11 mi
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Walking Time: 11–14 hours
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Habitat: Arctic to Moorland
Day 7: Mweka Camp (3,110m) to Mweka Gate (1,640m)
A descent through rainforest brings you to Mweka Gate, where climbers receive their summit certificates.
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Elevation: 3,110m to 1,640m
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Distance: 10 km / 6 mi
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Walking Time: 3–4 hours
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Habitat: Rainforest
End of Trek
At Mikanne Safaris, we believe your trek should be more than just a climb—it should be an unforgettable adventure. From expertly planned routes to experienced guides, every detail is designed for your safety, comfort, and ultimate experience. Trek with confidence, trek with us.
SAFARI PRICE
( Below is for Mid Range Accommodation )
🟢 Low Season (Green / Off-Peak)
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16 March – 31 May
✨ Features: Long rains, many lodges close (especially in the Serengeti & Selous), best prices, lush green landscapes, excellent birding.
| 1 – 2 Persons | 3 – 5 Persons | 6 – 7 Persons |
| $ 3216.85 USD Per Person | $ 3216.85 USD Per Person | $ 3216.85 USD Per Person |
🟡 Mid Season (Shoulder)
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01 June – 30 June
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01 November – 19 December
✨ Features: Short rains (Nov), early migration movement, fewer tourists, good rates.
| 1 – 2 Persons | 3 – 5 Persons | 6 – 7 Persons |
| $ 3216.85 USD Per Person | $ 3216.85 USD Per Person | $ 3216.85 USD Per Person |
đź”´ High Season (Peak)
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01 January – 15 March
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01 July – 31 October
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20 December – 31 December
✨ Features: Best weather, wildebeest calving (Jan–Mar, Ndutu), river crossings (Jul–Oct, Serengeti North), Christmas/New Year demand.
| 1 – 2 Persons | 3 – 5 Persons | 6 – 7 Persons |
| $ 3216.85 USD Per Person | $ 3216.85 USD Per Person | $ 3216.85 USD Per Person |
RELATED TREKKS
MARANGU ROUTE
At Mikanne Safari we provide transparent pricing for every season — Low season, Mid, season and Peak season so you can plan with confidence. Whether you prefer Mid-Range comfort, Luxury indulgence, or High-End exclusivity we have the perfect option for you.
Our team of safari experts will tailor every detail of your journey to match your style, budget and expectations ensuring you enjoy the best value and an unforgettable experience. With us, your dream safari is not just possible it’s perfectly planned.
Low Season (Green / Off-Peak) 16 March – 31 May
✨ Features: Long rains, many lodges close (especially in the Serengeti & Selous), best prices, lush green landscapes, excellent birding.
| Accommodation Options | 1 – 2 Persons | 3 – 5 Persons | 6 – 7 Persons |
| Mid Range | $ 3216.85 USD Per Person | $ 3216.85 USD Per Person | $ 3216.85 USD Per Person |
| Luxury | $ 3216.85 USD Per Person | $ 3216.85 USD Per Person | $ 3216.85 USD Per Person |
| High End | $ 3216.85 USD Per Person | $ 3216.85 USD Per Person | $ 3216.85 USD Per Person |
*Please note, these prices exclude international flights
Mid Season (Shoulder) 01 June – 30 June & 01 November – 19 December
✨ Features: Short rains (Nov), early migration movement, fewer tourists, good rates.
| Accommodation Options | 1 – 2 Persons | 3 – 5 Persons | 6 – 7 Persons |
| Mid Range | $ 3216.85 USD Per Person | $ 3216.85 USD Per Person | $ 3216.85 USD Per Person |
| Luxury | $ 3216.85 USD Per Person | $ 3216.85 USD Per Person | $ 3216.85 USD Per Person |
| High End | $ 3216.85 USD Per Person | $ 3216.85 USD Per Person | $ 3216.85 USD Per Person |
*Please note, these prices exclude international flights
High Season (Peak) 01 January – 15 March & 01 July – 31 October & 20 December – 31 December
✨ Features: Best weather, wildebeest calving (Jan–Mar, Ndutu), river crossings (Jul–Oct, Serengeti North), Christmas/New Year demand.
| Accommodation Options | 1 – 2 Persons | 3 – 5 Persons | 6 – 7 Persons |
| Mid Range | $ 3216.85 USD Per Person | $ 3216.85 USD Per Person | $ 3216.85 USD Per Person |
| Luxury | $ 3216.85 USD Per Person | $ 3216.85 USD Per Person | $ 3216.85 USD Per Person |
| High End | $ 3216.85 USD Per Person | $ 3216.85 USD Per Person | $ 3216.85 USD Per Person |
*Please note, these prices exclude international flights
Thank you for choosing Mikanne Safaris! Please fill in the details below to help us tailor your safari experience. Once we receive your request, our team will get back to you with the best options, prices, and availability. Your dream safari starts here!
âś…INCLUSIONS
âś… Professional guides and porters
âś… Accommodation on the mountain
âś… All meals during the trek
âś… Park and camping fees
âś… Rescue and emergency coverage
âś… Water on the trek
âś… First aid and oxygen
âś… Trekking itinerary planning
âś… National park taxes
âś… Summit certificate
❌ EXCLUSIONS
Flights to/from Kilimanjaro
❌ Airport transfers
❌ Personal trekking gear
❌ Travel insurance
❌ Tips for guides and porters
❌ Drinks and snacks outside meals
❌ Visa fees
❌ Optional excursions
❌ Personal medical costs
❌ Laundry or personal expenses
