6 Days Kilimanjaro Climb - Marangu Route
Kilimanjaro Climbing
Experience the adventure of a lifetime on our 7-Day Shira Route up Mount Kilimanjaro. The Shira Route, one of the oldest and most scenic paths on Mount Kilimanjaro, approaches the mountain from the west, closely following the Lemosho Route. This climb offers stunning views and a rewarding challenge for trekkers seeking a unique journey to the top of Africa.
Unlike the Lemosho Route, which starts from Londorossi Gate, the Shira Route begins at a higher altitude, with climbers transported by vehicle directly to Shira Gate near the Shira Ridge. Starting from an elevation of 11,800 feet (3,600 meters), you'll spend your first night at Simba Camp, surrounded by breathtaking landscapes. This higher start provides sweeping views from the start but requires climbers to be confident in their acclimatization.
After joining the Lemosho Route at Shira 2 Camp, the trail follows Kilimanjaro's stunning Southern Circuit, winding past the iconic Lava Tower, traversing the breathtaking Barranco Wall, and heading towards Barafu Camp. The journey is filled with diverse landscapes, from high-altitude desert to ice fields beneath Kilimanjaro’s Southern Glaciers. The final summit ascent offers an incredible sunrise over Africa before descending via the Mweka Route.
The Shira Route offers a challenging but rewarding experience for climbers ready to take on an elevated start and enjoy incredible vistas from the beginning. With Incredible Africa Adventures, you’ll receive exceptional guidance, experienced crew support, and a commitment to safety and sustainability throughout your Kilimanjaro adventure. Join us and conquer Mount Kilimanjaro’s majestic Shira Route with confidence and excitement.
ARRIVAL DAY: WELCOME TO TANZANIA
Upon arrival at Kilimanjaro International Airport, our team will warmly welcome you and transfer you to your hotel in Moshi. You will meet your experienced mountain guide for a full briefing on your upcoming Kilimanjaro trek and an equipment check to ensure you’re well-prepared. Any missing gear can be rented on this day, so you’re all set for the adventure of a lifetime.
DAY 1: LONDOROSSI TO SHIRA 1 CAMP
We depart Moshi for Londorossi Gate, which takes about 4 hours; we will complete entry formalities while guides and porters prepare equipment. After registration, you continue driving into the National Park via the 4x4 access road through the forest till the Morrum Barrier, where you begin your trek. You may encounter some wild animals on your drive today in the forest reserve. Your hike today is relatively gentle and at a slow pace through the heather and moorland zone towards the Shira Plateau until your first campsite.
Elevation: 11,800 ft to 11,800 ft
Distance: 4 km
Hiking Time: 1-2 hours
Habitat: Heath
Meal Plan: Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner.
Accommodation: Shira 1 Camp
DAY 2: SHIRA 1 CAMP TO SHIRA 2 CAMP
Today is a fairly easy day to help with acclimatization. We begin by exploring the grassy moorland and volcanic rock formations on the plateau. Then we take a scenic path to the Shira Cathedral, a huge buttress of rock surrounded by steep spires and pinnacles, before settling at Shira 2 Camp.
Elevation: 11,800 ft to 12,500 ft
Distance: 6 km
Hiking Time: 2 hours
Habitat: Heath
Meal Plan: Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner.
Accommodation: Shira 2 Camp
DAY 3: SHIRA 2 CAMP TO LAVA TOWER THEN BARRANCO CAMP
We continue to the east up a ridge and then head southeast towards the Lava Tower – a 300 ft tall volcanic rock formation. We descend down to Barranco Camp through the strange but beautiful Senecio Forest to an altitude of 13,000 ft. Although you begin and end the day at the same elevation, the time spent at higher altitude is very beneficial for acclimatization.
Elevation: 12,500 ft to 15,190 ft
Distance: 7 km
Hiking Time: 4-5 hours
Habitat: Alpine Desert
Lava Tower to Barranco Camp
Elevation: 15,190 ft to 13,044 ft
Distance: 3 km
Hiking Time: 2-3 hours
Habitat: Alpine Desert
Meal Plan: Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner.
Accommodation: Barranco Camp
DAY 4: BARRANCO CAMP TO KARANGA
We begin the day by descending into a ravine to the base of the Great Barranco Wall. Then we climb the non-technical but steep, nearly 900 ft cliff. From the top of the Barranco Wall we cross a series of hills and valleys until we descend sharply into Karanga Valley. One more steep climb up leads us to Karanga Camp. This is a shorter day meant for acclimatization.
Elevation: 13,044 ft to 13,106 ft
Distance: 5 km
Hiking Time: 4-5 hours
Habitat: Alpine Desert
Meal Plan: Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner.
Accommodation: Karanga Camp
DAY 5: KARANGA CAMP TO BARAFU CAMP
We leave Karanga and hit the junction which connects with the Mweka Trail. We continue up to the rocky section to Barafu Hut. At this point, you have completed the Southern Circuit, which offers views of the summit from many different angles. Here we make camp, rest and enjoy an early dinner to prepare for the summit day. The two peaks of Mawenzi and Kibo are viewable from this position.
Elevation: 13,106 ft to 15,331 ft
Distance: 4 km
Hiking Time: 4-5 hours
Habitat: Alpine Desert
Meal Plan: Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner.
Accommodation: Barafu Camp
DAY 6: BARAFU CAMP TO UHURU PEAK
Very early in the morning (around midnight), we begin our push to the summit. This is the most mentally and physically challenging portion of the trek. The wind and cold at this elevation and time of day can be extreme. We ascend in the darkness for several hours while taking frequent, but short, breaks. Near Stella Point (18,900 ft), you will be rewarded with the most magnificent sunrise you are ever likely to see coming over Mawenzi Peak. Finally, we arrive at Uhuru Peak- the highest point on Mount Kilimanjaro and the continent of Africa.
From the summit, we now make our descent continuing straight down to the Mweka Hut camp site, stopping at Barafu for lunch. The trail is very rocky and can be quite hard on the knees; trekking poles are helpful. Mweka Camp is situated in the upper forest and mist or rain can be expected in the late afternoon. Later in the evening, we enjoy our last dinner on the mountain and a well-earned sleep.
Elevation: 15,331 ft to 19,341 ft
Distance: 5 km
Hiking Time: 7-8 hours
Habitat: Arctic
Uhuru Peak to Mweka Camp
Elevation: 19,341 ft to 10,065 ft
Distance: 12 km
Hiking Time: 4-6 hours
Habitat: Rain Forest
Meal Plan: Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner.
Accommodation: Mweka Camp
DAY 7: MWEKA CAMP TO MWEKA GATE TO MOSHI
On our last day, we continue the descent to Mweka Gate and collect the summit certificates. At lower elevations, it can be wet and muddy. From the gate, we continue another hour to Mweka Village. A vehicle will meet us at Mweka Village to drive us back to the hotel in Moshi.
Elevation: 10,065 ft to 5,380 ft
Distance: 10 km
Hiking Time: 3-4 hours
Habitat: Rain Forest
Meal Plan: Breakfast and Lunch
Accommodation: Your Hotel
DEPARTURE DAY
Spend the day at leisure in Moshi, recovering from your trek. The day is left free to wind down after the trek before your flight back home. Depending on flight schedule, you may explore Moshi town and grab some souvenirs before heading to the airport.
Wildlife Safari tour, Zanzibar trip and other add-ons are available if you wish to continue exploring Tanzania.
$2500 per person when 1 person travels alone
$2100 per person when 2 – 4 persons travel together
$2000 per person when 5 – 7 persons travel together
$1800 per person when 8 – 15 persons travel together
For a tailored estimate, reach out to us directly to discuss your unique itinerary, group size, and desired comfort level. By understanding your specific needs and budget, we can provide a detailed, customized quote that aligns with your Kilimanjaro adventure goals. Let us help you plan the perfect climb with transparent pricing and options suited just for you!
Airport Transfers: Hassle-free transfers to and from Kilimanjaro International Airport and your accommodation in Moshi for a seamless start and finish.
Comfortable Accommodation: Two nights in Moshi—one night before your climb and one night after—designed for rest and relaxation.
Transportation: Reliable transport to and from the Kilimanjaro National Park gate, ensuring timely access to the trail.
All Necessary Fees: Coverage of Kilimanjaro National Park entry fees, camping fees, and rescue fees for your peace of mind.
High-Quality Gear:
>Four-Season Mountain Tents: Durable and weatherproof tents to keep you safe and comfortable in all conditions.
>Double-Layered Sleeping Mats: Extra comfort and insulation for restful nights on the mountain.
Professional Support Team: Knowledgeable and experienced mountain guides, a skilled cook, and hardworking porters to support your journey.
Daily Hot Meals: Nutritious, freshly prepared hot meals served three times daily to keep you energized.(We are happy to accommodate any dietary restrictions or requests.)
Clean Drinking Water: Unlimited supply of treated and filtered water to keep you hydrated throughout your climb.
Hot Water for Washing: Daily provision of hot water for washing, ensuring you stay refreshed during your adventure.
Ethical Treatment of Crew: We prioritize the fair treatment and proper payment of our guides, cooks, and porters, ensuring a motivated and supportive team.
Enhanced Safety Measures:
>Portable oxygen tanks and an oximeter to monitor your health and oxygen levels during the climb.
>A fully equipped emergency first-aid kit for any unexpected situations.
Private Toilet Facilities: Enjoy a portable flush toilet with its own privacy tent for added convenience on the mountain.
Meals and Drinks at Hotel: Lunches, dinners, and beverages at your hotel before and after the climb are not covered.
Travel Insurance: We recommend purchasing comprehensive travel insurance that covers high-altitude trekking.
Flights: International and domestic flights to and from Kilimanjaro International Airport are not included.
Laundry Services: Laundry facilities are available at your hotel but are not included in the package.
Personal Items and Toiletries: Make sure to bring your own personal essentials, including toiletries and other comfort items.
Tips for Guides, Porters, and Cook: While tipping is not mandatory, it’s a valued tradition to show appreciation for your team’s hard work and dedication, and so highly recommended.
Kilimanjaro Climbing
Kilimanjaro Climbing
Kilimanjaro Climbing
Kilimanjaro Climbing
Kilimanjaro Climbing
Kilimanjaro Climbing
Kilimanjaro Climbing
Kilimanjaro Climbing
Kilimanjaro Climbing
Kilimanjaro Climbing