Kilimanjaro via the Shira route: volcanic landscapes

We depart from Moshi towards the Londorossi Gate, a journey of approximately four hours. There, we will complete entry formalities while the guides and porters prepare the equipment. We then continue along a steep path to the Shira Gate, where we will begin our trek. The trek starts through bushes and giant heather to the Simba Camp.

Altitude: 3,597 m to 3,810 m

Hike duration: 2 hours

Distance: 6 km | 4 miles

Habitat: Heather

Today is a relatively easy day to aid acclimatization. We begin by exploring the grassy moors and volcanic rock formations on the plateau. Then, we follow a scenic trail to Shira Cathedral, a massive rock buttress surrounded by steep spires and pinnacles, before settling into Shira Camp 2.

We continue our ascent along a ridge to the east, before turning southeast towards Lava Tower, an impressive volcanic formation nearly 90 meters high. After this gradual climb, we begin our descent to Barranco Camp, crossing through the striking forest of giant groundsels, typical of this arid alpine region. Even though the starting and ending altitudes are similar, this day plays a key role in acclimatization thanks to the time spent at high altitude.

Total duration: approximately 6 to 8 hours of walking.

Altitude: from 3,810m to 4,630m (Lava Tower), then descent to 3,960m (Barranco camp).

Altitude: 3,975 m to 3,995 m

Hike duration: 4 to 5 hours

Distance: 5 km | 3 miles

Habitat: Alpine desert

We begin the day by descending a ravine to the base of the Grande Paroi Barranco. From there, we ascend the steep but not technical cliff, approximately 270 meters high. From the top of the Barranco Wall, we traverse a series of hills and valleys before descending sharply into the Karanga Valley. A final steep climb leads us to Karanga Camp. This is a shorter day, designed to aid acclimatization.

Altitude: 3,995 m to 4,670 m

Hike duration: 4 to 5 hours

Distance: 4 km | 2 miles

Habitat: Alpine desert

We leave Karanga and reach the junction that joins the Mweka trail. We continue to the rocky section leading to the Barafu shelter. At this point, you have completed the Southern Circuit, which offers views of the summit from many different angles. Here, we set up camp, rest, and have an early dinner to prepare for summit day. Both Mawenzi and Kibo peaks are visible from this location.

Very early in the morning (around midnight), we begin our ascent to the summit. This is the most mentally and physically demanding part of the trek. The wind and cold at this altitude and time of day can be extreme. We progress in darkness for several hours, taking frequent but short breaks. Near Stella Point (5,760 m), you will be rewarded with the most magnificent sunrise you are likely to see, rising behind Mawenzi Peak. Finally, we reach Uhuru Summit – the highest point on Mount Kilimanjaro and the African continent.

From the summit, we now begin our descent, continuing directly to Mweka Camp, stopping for lunch at Barafu. The trail is very rocky and can be hard on the knees; trekking poles are helpful. Mweka Camp is located in the upper forest, and mist or rain is possible in the late afternoon. Later that evening, we enjoy our last dinner on the mountain before a well-deserved sleep.

On our last day, we continue the descent to the Mweka Gate and collect our summit certificates. At lower altitudes, there may be dampness and mud. A vehicle will be waiting for us in Mweka village to take us back to the hotel in Moshi.

After breakfast, you will be transferred to Kilimanjaro International Airport for your return flight. Depending on your flight schedule, you may have some free time in Moshi before departure. Your Tanzanian adventure comes to an end, leaving you with unforgettable memories.