Tanzania · Trekking

6-Day Kilimanjaro Climb via Shira Route to Uhuru Peak

6 Days Round trip from 2C8X+C96 Challenging pace

The journey

Trip highlights

01 Cross vast moorlands and admire volcanic rock formations on the open plains
02 Explore the impressive Shira Cathedral and its surrounding spires
03 Ascend to Lava Tower to aid altitude adaptation before descending to camp
04 Climb the iconic Barranco Wall and navigate dramatic ridgelines
05 Reach Uhuru Peak, the highest point in Africa at 5,895 meters
06 Witness a spectacular sunrise over Mawenzi from Stella Point
07 Descend through varied landscapes, from alpine desert to lush rainforest

Embark on a 6-day Kilimanjaro adventure via the Shira Route, a scenic and less-traveled path that begins high on the Shira Plateau. Enjoy a gradual acclimatization journey as you cross expansive moorlands, explore volcanic rock formations, and visit landmarks like Shira Cathedral and Lava Tower. Tackle the dramatic Barranco Wall, traverse alpine deserts, and reach Uhuru Peak at 5,895 meters - the highest point in Africa. Descend through varied mountain landscapes for a breathtaking journey filled with panoramic views and unforgettable summit moments.

Reach Stella Point and witness a breathtaking sunrise over Mawenzi Peak.

From the itinerary

At a glance

What this trip includes

Duration 6 Days

Tour type Shared

Activity level Challenging

Accommodation Included · Standard

Transport Included

Wheelchair access Not applicable

Cities Moshi, Mount Kilimanjaro

Languages English, French, German, Italian

Day by day

The itinerary

Day 01

Shira Gate Trek to Simba Camp

Depart from Moshi and drive approximately four hours to Londorossi Gate.
Complete park entry formalities while the crew prepares equipment.
Continue driving up a steep track to reach Shira Gate.
Begin the trek through high-altitude shrubs and giant heather.
Arrive at Simba Camp for an overnight stay in the moorland zone.

Day 02

Across the Shira Plateau to Shira 2 Camp

Start the day with an easy walk across the Shira Plateau to aid acclimatization.
Explore open grassy moorlands and admire volcanic rock formations.
Take a detour to visit the majestic Shira Cathedral, a dramatic rock buttress.
Continue to Shira 2 Camp and rest for the night under open skies.

Day 03

Lava Tower Acclimatization and Descent to Barranco

Ascend gradually toward the Lava Tower at 4,630 meters, a 300-foot volcanic rock formation.
Spend time at higher altitude to enhance acclimatization.
Begin the descent through the unique Senecio Forest to reach Barranco Camp at 3,960 meters.
Settle in for the evening surrounded by towering cliffs and alpine flora.

Day 04

Barranco Wall Crossing to Karanga Camp

Descend into a ravine and approach the base of the Great Barranco Wall.
Climb the steep, non-technical 900-foot cliff face using switchbacks.
Traverse a series of valleys and ridges with changing elevation.
Descend into Karanga Valley, then make a final steep ascent to Karanga Camp.
Use this short day to rest and continue acclimatizing.

Day 05

Southern Circuit Ascent to Barafu Camp

Depart Karanga and follow the path that connects with the Mweka Trail.
Continue through increasingly rocky terrain to reach Barafu Camp.
Complete the Southern Circuit, gaining stunning views of Kibo and Mawenzi.
Set up camp, eat an early dinner, and rest in preparation for summit night.

Day 06

Uhuru Peak Summit and Descent to Mweka Camp

Wake around midnight and begin the summit push under a star-filled sky.
Climb steadily through icy winds and scree slopes with short, frequent breaks.
Reach Stella Point and witness a breathtaking sunrise over Mawenzi Peak.
Continue along the crater rim to Uhuru Peak, the highest point in Africa at 5,895 meters.
Celebrate the achievement and begin the descent to Barafu Camp for a short rest.
Resume the descent to Mweka Camp through rocky and forested terrain.
Arrive at camp for a final dinner and a well-earned sleep on the mountain.

Where this trip takes you

Shira Plateau, Shira Cathedral, Lava Tower, Uhuru Peak

The route

Where you'll travel

Tour route map — Round trip from 2C8X+C96 2 cities · 6 Days

The fine print

Trip details

What's Included

National park permits
Camping/hut fees
Rescue service
All meals while on the mountain
Guides and porters' wages
Round-trip airport transfers between Arusha and JRO
Round-trip transfers between Arusha and mountain gates
Hotel stays in Arusha for pre- and post-trek (2 nights in total) on a bed and breakfast basis
Sleeping mats (2-inch foam)
Private portable toilet
Wash basins with hot water each morning and evening
Treated drinking water (3 liters or more each day)