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6 Days

Shira Route

Overview
Summary
Itinerary
Includes & Excludes
Plan Your Safari

6 Days Shira Route

The 6-day Shira Route offers a scenic, less crowded ascent of Mount Kilimanjaro. Starting from Shira Gate, trekkers pass through rainforests and high-altitude moorlands, enjoying stunning views of Mount Meru and Kibo. Its gradual ascent ensures proper acclimatization, while panoramic landscapes provide unforgettable scenery.

Tour Summary & Map

Day 1 – Drive to Kilimanjaro National Park (Shira Gate), Hike to Shira 2 Camp

Day 2 – Hike Shira 2 Camp to Lava Tower to Barranco Camp

Day 3 – Hike Barranco Camp to Karanga Camp

Day 4 – Hike Karanga Camp to Barafu Camp

Day 5 – Hike Barafu Camp to Summit, Down to Mweka Camp

Day 6 – Mweka Camp to Mweka Gate

Tour Itinerary

Day 1 - Machame Gate to Machame Camp (11km)

Drive to Kilimanjaro National Park (Shira Gate), Hike to Shira 2 Camp

Elevation: 1,830m/6,000ft to 3,850m/12,600ft

The journey begins with a 3-hour drive from Moshi to the Shira Gate, where the adventure starts. As you hike through the lush montane forest, the trail winds up a ridge, and at lower elevations, it can be muddy and slippery. Trekking poles and gaiters will be useful here. You’ll arrive at Shira 2 Camp in the afternoon, where you’ll spend the night at an elevation of 3,850m, surrounded by incredible views.

Day 2 - Hike Shira 2 Camp to Lava Tower to Barranco Camp

Hike Shira 2 Camp to Lava Tower to Barranco Camp

Elevation: 3,850m/12,600ft to 4,000m/13,000ft

From Shira 2, you’ll continue east, passing the junction that heads toward Kibo Peak. As you ascend, the trail leads you towards Lava Tower (4,650m/15,250ft), known as “Shark’s Tooth.” After exploring the tower, the path descends to Barranco Camp (4,000m). Despite ending the day at a similar altitude, this section is crucial for acclimatization, helping your body prepare for the challenges ahead. The rugged landscapes and stunning views will make this day unforgettable.

Day 3 - Hike Barranco Camp to Karanga Camp

Hike Barranco Camp to Karanga Camp

Elevation: 4,000m/13,000ft to 4,050m/13,250ft

Starts with a steep climb up the famous Barranco Wall, a thrilling yet manageable challenge that leads to the Karanga Valley. From here, you’ll follow the Mweka Trail junction to Karanga Camp, located at 4,050m. The alpine desert habitat provides a stark contrast to earlier lush rainforests, with minimal vegetation but dramatic views of the surrounding landscape. This short yet rewarding day ensures ample time for acclimatization.

Day 4 - Hike Karanga Camp to Barafu Camp

Hike Karanga Camp to Barafu Camp

Elevation: 4,050m/13,250ft to 4,700m/15,350ft

After leaving Karanga Camp, you’ll ascend to Barafu Camp (4,700m), completing the South Circuit, which offers panoramic views of Kilimanjaro’s summit from various angles. At Barafu, you’ll rest, enjoy a nutritious dinner, and mentally prepare for the summit attempt. The camp’s high-altitude location provides a dramatic view of the surrounding glaciers, offering a final glimpse of the mountain before your ascent.

Day 5 - Hike Barafu Camp to Summit, Down to Mweka Camp

Hike Barafu Camp to Summit, Down to Mweka Camp

Elevation: 4,700m/15,350ft to 5,895m/19,340ft, then down to 3,090m/10,150ft

The summit day starts very early (between midnight and 2 am) as you ascend the scree paths between the Rebmann and Ratzel glaciers. After passing through heavy scree, you’ll reach Stella Point (5,685m), where a magnificent sunrise awaits. From there, you’ll hike another hour to Uhuru Peak, the highest point in Africa at 5,895m. After celebrating your achievement, you’ll descend to Barafu for lunch before continuing the journey down to Mweka Camp. The descent offers a final chance to reflect on the summit as you make your way through the alpine desert to your camp.

Day 6 - Mweka Camp to Mweka Gate

Mweka Camp to Mweka Gate

Elevation: 3,090m/10,150ft to 1,640m/5,380ft

On your final day, you’ll descend through Kilimanjaro’s lush rainforests to Mweka Gate, where you’ll receive your summit certificate. At lower elevations, the trail can be wet and muddy, so be prepared for the conditions. After reaching the gate, a short drive will take you to Mweka Village for a celebratory lunch, followed by a vehicle transfer back to Moshi, where you can unwind and enjoy a well-deserved shower.

Includes & Excludes

Include & Exclude

Pick up at the International Airport
Transfer to the hotel Parkview inn or Kilimanjaro wonders hotel
Professional mountain crew
Fair wages for the mountain crew as approved by the Kilimanjaro National Park Authority (KINAPA), Kilimanjaro Association of Tour Operators (KIATO)
Kilimanjaro National Park permits Fees
Camping/hut fees
Modern tents
3 meals daily
First aid kit
Warm and comfortable sleeping pads (2 inches thick)
Portable flush toilets can be provided for free upon the client's request
Group equipment (dining tent, table, chairs, crockery, and cutlery)
Meeting the group at the National Park exit and transfer to the hotel
Accommodation after the climb
International certificates for a successful ascent
Return transfer to Kilimanjaro airport

6 Days Shira Route

Mid Range

Luxury

Top Luxury

Plan Your Safari

Discover Africa's Best Mountain Packages

Mount Kilimanjaro offers several scenic routes to its summit, each varying in difficulty and duration. Popular paths include Marangu, Machame, Lemosho, Rongai, and Northern Circuit. These routes showcase diverse landscapes—from rainforest to alpine desert—culminating at Uhuru Peak, Africa’s highest point.

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6 Days Shira Route FAQs

How do I choose a Kilimanjaro tour operator?

Choosing the right Kilimanjaro Tour Operator is one of the most important decisions you’ll make when hiking Africa’s highest peak.

It is often advised to look for a registered and experienced operator that has good reviews, professional mountain guides, and follows proper safety practices.

A good company should also take care of its crew, provide fair wages, reasonable porter loads, and appropriate meals. Don’t just go with the cheapest option.

A reliable operator provides superior support, high-quality equipment, and a safer experience on the mountain.

How much does it cost to climb Kilimanjaro?

The cost of Climbing Kilimanjaro usually ranges between $2,000 and $5,000. This depends on the route, the number of days, whether the climb is group or private, and the services included.

Remember, cheaper companies may cut corners on staff welfare or safety equipment.

A reasonable price usually includes park fees, experienced guides, meals, tents, porters, and airport transfers.

Therefore, always ask for a detailed cost breakdown before booking.

When is the best time to climb Kilimanjaro?

The best time to climb Kilimanjaro is during the dry seasons. January to mid-March and June to October offer the most stable weather and clearer views.

These months are ideal for achieving summit success and enjoying comfort. The long rains (late March to May) and short rains (November) make the trails slippery and reduce visibility.

While climbing during the rainy seasons is possible, it’s not ideal unless you’re prepared for wet, muddy, and more difficult conditions.

Which is the best route for climbing Kilimanjaro?

The Lemosho and Northern Circuit routes are known for beautiful scenery and good acclimatization.

Machame is the most popular, offering a dramatic and varied landscape.

Rongai is less crowded and drier, great for those seeking quiet trails.

Marangu is the only route with hut accommodations, but it offers less time for acclimatization.

Hence, your choice should depend on your fitness, time, and comfort level with altitude.

How many days should I spend on the mountain?

Climbing Kilimanjaro should not be rushed. The longer you spend on the mountain, the better your chances of acclimatizing properly and reaching the summit safely.

Most climbers choose a seven or 8-day route. These extra days allow your body to adjust gradually to the altitude and reduce the risk of altitude sickness.

Kilimanjaro Climbing Routes shorter than 6 days often lead to lower summit success and more health issues.

What kind of weather should I expect?

The weather on Kilimanjaro changes dramatically with altitude. You’ll experience five different climate zones, from tropical rainforest at the base to arctic conditions at the summit.

Days are warmer on the lower slopes (around 20–27°C / 68–80°F), while nights are much colder at higher altitudes.

Near the summit, temperatures can drop as low as -20°C (-4°F), especially before sunrise. Be ready for sun, wind, rain, and freezing temperatures—all in one climb.

What gear do I need to bring?

The essential items that are a must-have when climbing Kilimanjaro include: waterproof hiking boots, thermal base layers, an insulated jacket, waterproof pants and jacket, gloves, a hat, a warm sleeping bag, a headlamp, and a daypack.

The support team carries your large duffel bag (up to 15 kg), while you have only a small daypack with essentials like water, snacks, and a jacket. We always provide a complete Kilimanjaro Packing List.

How should I train and prepare for the climb?

You don’t need to be an athlete, but you must be physically prepared by doing some intensive training for Kilimanjaro. The best way to train is by doing long-distance hikes with elevation gain while carrying a backpack.

Build your endurance 2–3 months before the trip with regular walking, stair climbing, strength training, and cardio.

Aim for 4–6-hour hikes at a steady pace. Most of all, get used to walking uphill and downhill for several days in a row.

Is it safe to climb Kilimanjaro?

Kilimanjaro is considered a non-technical mountain, but the high altitude can be risky. Good operators take safety seriously. Trained guides monitor your health every day using pulse oximeters and ask questions to check for signs of altitude sickness. Oxygen cylinders, first-aid kits, and emergency evacuation plans are standard. If you climb with an experienced team and follow their advice, the climb is safe and well-managed.

Why are some Kilimanjaro climbs much cheaper than others?

If the price looks too good to be true, it probably is. Budget operators often cut costs by paying porters unfair wages, overloading staff, using worn-out gear, or skipping proper meals and safety checks. These practices are not just unethical; they also affect your overall experience. Reputable companies charge more because they take care of their team, use better equipment, and focus on your safety and success.

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