8 Days Shira Route Kilimanajro Climb
The Shira Route is a spectacular 8-day scenic trek that approaches Kilimanjaro from the west. You will be transported by a 4×4 vehicle through a lush rainforest to the ridge of the Shira Plateau, where your expedition begins. From there, you will trek across an alpine plateau and traverse the great Southern Ice field before summiting from Barafu Hut. This route is ideal for those with backpacking experience and those seeking a more challenging adventure.
Duration
8 Days
The so called “Coca-cola” route is the most used route since it only requires 7 to 8 days to reach the Uhuru Peak. For these visitors who need to be accompanied with friends and fellow climbers this route is the best for you. Advantage in this route first; few stations, secondly the use of Huts where they sell soft drinks too. This route is most popular during the month of July to September and December to March.
Your day-to-day- breakdown of this trip
Your journey begins with your arrival in the vibrant town of Arusha. Upon reaching Arusha, settle into your chosen Hotel or Lodge, providing you with the comfort and rest you need before your Kilimanjaro adventure. We’ll arrange a convenient time for a pre-climb briefing and a thorough check of your climbing gear. If anything is amiss, fret not – Arusha’s shops are at your disposal for any last-minute equipment you might need.
Complete registration formalities at Londorossi National Park gate and drive to the Shira Plateau (11,000 ft). Climb steadily through shrub forests and giant heather to reach Simba Camp.
Explore the grassy moorland and volcanic rock formations of the plateau. Walk to the summit of Shira Cathedral (12,300 ft) and enjoy views of Mt. Meru from camp near Shira Hut (12,600 ft).
Climb away from the moorland of Shira Plateau to reach the upland desert beneath the Lent Hills. Camp near Moir Hut (13,800 ft) and optionally summit the Lent Hills (15,400 ft) in the afternoon.
Ascend on lava ridges beneath the glaciers of the Western Breach. After lunch at Lava Tower (14,900 ft), take a steep walk on the lower slopes of the Western Breach for acclimatization.
Descend into Barranco Valley (12,800 ft) and climb the Barranco Wall. Cross the flanks of Kibo with views of the Southern Ice fields and camp at Karanga Camp (13,100 ft).
Follow an easy path on compacted scree to reach Barafu Hut (14,800 ft) for lunch. Take a short acclimatization hike to the plateau at the bottom of the southeast valley (15,700 ft). Rest in preparation for the final ascent.
Begin the ascent by torchlight at 1 a.m. to reach the Crater rim by sunrise. Climb over loose volcanic scree to reach Stella Point (5,735 m) in about five or six hours. Optionally continue to Uhuru Peak (5,896 m) along the crater rim. Descend to Barafu and continue to Mweka forest camp
Descend through lush forest to Mweka National Park gate.Enjoy a private departure transfer from Arusha to Kilimanjaro International Airport (JRO).
Inclusive
- All nights safari Lodge accommodation
- Professional, experienced guide
- All Park fees
- Breakfast (lunch and dinner if full board is quoted)
- Safari cruiser, 4×4 open roof with Open windows + Charging system and Radio
Exclusive
- Tanzania Visa: $50 per person on arrival
- Personal Expenses (e.g. laundry, telephone, beverages, etc.
- Single Supplement Request - $100
- Travel Insurance
- Tips and any gratuities