Climbing Mount Kilimanjaro is an inspiring challenge, guiding you from lush forests to alpine deserts and a snowy summit. With the right preparation, steady acclimatization, and expert support, trekkers can conquer Africa’s highest peak with confidence and pride.
7 Days Shira Route
Explore with us
About This Tour
The Shira Route offers a stunning and less crowded approach to climbing Mount Kilimanjaro, beginning high on Shira Ridge with sweeping views of Tanzania’s volcanic landscapes. Its elevated starting point requires confident acclimatization, but rewards trekkers with a breathtaking journey across the wide Shira Plateau and the dramatic Southern Ice Field. The trail reveals shifting ecosystems, ancient lava formations and unforgettable high-altitude beauty before the final ascent from Barafu. Descent through Mweka showcases rich forests, leaving climbers with a powerful sense of achievement and connection to Kilimanjaro.
Trip Info
Arrival City
Arusha ,Tanzania
Departure City
Arusha,Tanzania
Duration
3 Days
Language
English, French, Swahili
Trip Highlights
Scenic Start on Shira Ridge
Experience high-altitude views from Shira Ridge, offering dramatic volcanic landscapes and sweeping plains of Tanzania.
Crossing the Shira Plateau
Enjoy a wide, open plateau with gentle trails, panoramic horizons, and incredible photographic opportunities across ancient terrain.
Southern Ice Field Views
Witness Kilimanjaro’s Southern Ice Field up close, capturing shimmering glaciers and breathtaking high-altitude scenery.
Diverse Ecological Zones Trail
Walk through shifting landscapes, from alpine heath to rocky highlands, showcasing Tanzania’s rich mountain ecosystems.
Barafu Summit Approach Path
Climb toward Uhuru Peak via Barafu, experiencing powerful terrain changes and stunning summit-facing ridges.
Forest Descent via Mweka
Descend through lush tropical forest on Mweka Route, surrounded by vibrant vegetation and refreshing mountain air.
Itinerary Details
Arrival Day : Kilimanjaro Airport - African Tulip Hotel, Arusha
Your Kilimanjaro adventure begins the moment you touch down at Kilimanjaro International Airport, where our warm, welcoming guide greets you. Enjoy a comfortable transfer to the African Tulip Hotel, one of Arusha’s finest boutique stays, offering a serene start to your journey. Later, you’ll meet your head guide for a full trek briefing and gear check to ensure you’re fully prepared. Spend the rest of the day relaxing, exploring Arusha (optional town tour), and soaking in Tanzania’s calm atmosphere before tomorrow’s climb.
Day 1 : Londorossi Gate - Shira 1 Camp
Your day begins with a scenic drive to Londorossi Gate for registration and park formalities. After permits are cleared, you’ll continue by vehicle to Shira Gate, where your trek officially starts. The trail offers a gentle warm-up walk across high-altitude heath, featuring giant heathers, volcanic soil, and vast open views. This short introduction helps your body ease into the climb while giving you a glimpse of the dramatic landscapes ahead. You’ll reach Shira 1 Camp by early afternoon to relax and acclimatize.
- Trekking Duration: 1–2 hours
- Total Distance: Approximately 4–5 km
- Overnight Camp: Shira 1 Camp – 3,610m elevation
- Meal Plan: Full Board (breakfast, lunch, and dinner included)
- Habitat: Moorland
Day 2 : Shira 1 Camp - Shira 2 Camp
Today you’ll trek deeper into the Shira Plateau, one of Kilimanjaro’s most breathtaking high-altitude regions. The route gently ascends across wide-open plains, offering sweeping views of the Shira Caldera and glaciers shimmering on Kibo’s summit. The environment becomes quieter and more remote as you approach Shira 2 Camp, often with sightings of unique high-altitude plant species. The open sky here creates some of the mountain’s most spectacular sunsets, followed by crystal-clear night skies perfect for stargazing.
- Trekking Duration: 2 hours
- Total Distance: Approximately 6–7 km
- Overnight Camp: Shira 2 Camp – 3,850m elevation
- Meal Plan: Full Board (breakfast, lunch, and dinner included)
- Habitat: Moorland
Day 3 : Shira 2 Camp - Lava Tower - Barranco Camp
This important acclimatization day takes you into the challenging but rewarding alpine desert zone. The trail climbs steadily to Lava Tower (4,600m), a towering volcanic formation standing boldly above the barren landscape. Spending time at this altitude helps prepare your body for the summit ahead. After exploring Lava Tower, you’ll descend into the beautiful Barranco Valley, surrounded by dramatic cliffs, sweeping views of Mount Meru, and the shining Heim Glacier. You’ll settle into Barranco Camp for the night, one of the most scenic sites on the mountain.
- Trekking Duration: 6–8 hours
- Total Distance: Approximately 10 km
- Overnight Camp: Barranco Camp – 3,900m elevation
- Meal Plan: Full Board (breakfast, lunch, and dinner included)
- Habitat: Heath
Day 4 : Barranco Camp - Karanga Camp
Your morning begins with the famous Barranco Wall, a thrilling scramble that rewards you with some of the mountain’s best panoramic views. As you elevate along natural rock terraces, enjoy stunning sights of the Southern Glaciers and rugged alpine desert. The trail then gently undulates across valleys and ridges before reaching Karanga Camp. This short yet crucial day strengthens acclimatization and gives you ample time to rest and prepare physically and mentally for the final summit push.
- Trekking Duration: 3–4 hours
- Total Distance: Approximately 6 km
- Overnight Camp: Karanga Camp – 3,995m elevation
- Meal Plan: Full Board (breakfast, lunch, and dinner provided)
- Habitat: Alpine Desert
Day 5 : Karanga Camp - Barafu Camp
Your journey continues upward toward Barafu, the base camp for your summit attempt. The route passes through a stark and dramatic landscape of volcanic rock and towering peaks. Once at Barafu Camp, take time to hydrate, rest, and enjoy a hot meal while absorbing breathtaking views of Mawenzi Peak. As night approaches, you’ll prepare for the final ascent, knowing that tomorrow you’ll stand on Africa’s highest point. Early rest is essential for the long summit night ahead.
- Trekking Duration: 4 hours
- Total Distance: Approximately 4–5 km
- Overnight Camp: Barafu Camp – 4,673m elevation
- Meal Plan: Full Board (breakfast, lunch, and dinner provided)
- Habitat: Alpine Desert
Day 6 : Barafu Camp - Uhuru Peak - Mweka Camp
The most inspiring day of your journey begins at midnight, climbing steadily under a sky full of stars. You’ll reach Stella Point at sunrise, greeted by golden light over the glaciers, a moment of pure emotion and triumph. Continue along the crater rim to Uhuru Peak (5,895m), the Roof of Africa. Celebrate your achievement before descending to Barafu for lunch and rest. By afternoon, you’ll continue down to Mweka Camp for your final night on the mountain, a well-earned moment of pride and reflection.
- Trekking Duration: 11–13 hours
- Total Distance: Approximately 14 km
- Overnight Camp: Mweka Camp – 3,950m elevation
- Meal Plan: Full Board (breakfast, lunch, and dinner included)
- Habitat:Montane Forest
Day 7 : Mweka Camp - Mweka Gate - Arusha
Your last morning on Kilimanjaro takes you through the lush, peaceful rainforest filled with birdsong, moss-covered trees, and vibrant vegetation. The descent can be muddy and slippery, so trekking poles are helpful. At Mweka Gate, you’ll receive your well-deserved summit certificate, an unforgettable moment of pride. After lunch at the gate, you’ll return to Arusha for a restful evening at the Hotel. Enjoy a warm shower, soft bed, and a relaxing final night.
- Trekking Duration: 3–4 hours
- Total Distance: Approximately 12 km
- Overnight Camp: Hotel
- Meal Plan: Breakfast & Lunch (final mountain meals before exit)
- Habitat: Montane Rainforest
Departure Day : Arusha - Kilimanjaro Airport
After a hearty breakfast, you’ll be transferred to Kilimanjaro International Airport or Arusha Airport for your departure. Carry the memories of your summit, the landscapes you crossed, and the spirit of Tanzania in your heart as you journey onward.
Included & Excluded
- The package includes handling luggage
- Emergency assistance charge
- Entrance fees for visitors
- A wide range of activities (except those noted as extra)
- All lodging (unless specified as an enhancement)
- An experienced driver/guide
- Transportation to all listed locations (except those designated as extras)
- All applicable taxes
- A two-way airport shuttle
- Meals as outlined in the daily itinerary
- Bottled water is provided throughout the trip
- Exclusions for this package do not cover expenses for climbing equipment
- Flights to and from international destinations
- Extra lodging before and after the tour
- Suggested tips at a rate of US$10.00 per person per day
- Personal purchases like souvenirs
- Travel insurance
- Visa costs
- As well as any rises in taxes or park fees mandated by the government
Tour Map
Tour Gallery
Most Popular Package
Something Amazing
Waiting For you
- All Year Round
- 3 Days
A shorter trek via the Marangu Route, perfect for those seeking a quicker Kilimanjaro summit experience.
On Request
- All Year Round
- 6 Days
Trek through diverse landscapes on the Machame Route, reaching Kilimanjaro’s summit in six challenging days.
On Request
- All Year Round
- 7 Days
The Rongai Route offers a 7-day climb with fewer crowds and breathtaking vistas of Kilimanjaro.
On Request
- All Year Round
- 7 Days
Enjoy a scenic 7-day trek on the Machame Route, with optimal acclimatization and stunning views.
On Request
Ready For Your Adventure?
Ready to explore Tanzania’s wild beauty? Let us design your perfect safari adventure with our expert guides, personalized itineraries, and unforgettable experiences. Book your journey now!
Next Adventure Destination
Popular Kilimanjaro
Travel Guide
Plan your next adventure with our Tanzania travel guide, exploring safaris, Mount Kilimanjaro, Zanzibar beaches, and rich cultural experiences
Kilimanjaro travel journal
Discover the true heart of Kili
Climbing Mount Kilimanjaro becomes easier with a trusted travel guide that explains routes, weather, altitude, and daily expectations. It helps you choose between Machame, Lemosho, and Marangu while preparing you for a safe, steady ascent.
A Kilimanjaro travel guide outlines essential gear, fitness tips, and acclimatization advice to help you adapt to changing conditions. It ensures every trekker understands safety, pacing, hydration, and teamwork needed for a successful summit.
Clients Feedback About Us
See Those Lovely
Words From Clients
Explore why our clients love us—read their heartfelt reviews and see the unforgettable experiences they had!
Costin Mandrila
"Amazing Safari experience! Knowledgeable guides, stunning landscapes, and abundant wildlife made our trip unforgettable and magical."
Jasmine
"Exceptional service, comfortable accommodations, and thrilling game drives. Truly a once-in-a-lifetime African adventure experience."
Felix
"Triumph Safaris exceeded our expectations with professionalism, friendly staff, and breathtaking encounters with Africa’s wildlife daily."