8 Day Mt Kilimanjaro – Shira Route

Day 2: Shira Camp 1 to Shira Camp 2

This day is designed to aid acclimatization while allowing trekkers to explore the scenic Shira Plateau. The route takes you through grassy moorland and past striking volcanic rock formations, providing an opportunity to take in the unique landscape. Along the way, the trek leads to the summit of Shira Cathedral (3,750 metres), a massive rock buttress surrounded by steep spires and pinnacles, offering dramatic views of the surrounding wilderness. The atmosphere is one of isolation and raw beauty, especially as the afternoon mists begin to roll in, adding an air of mystery. Continuing on, you’ll arrive at Shira Camp 2, located near Shira Hut at 3,840 metres. From here, enjoy breathtaking views of Mount Meru, which appears to float above the clouds, creating an unforgettable sight.

Walking time: 4-5 hours.
Highlights:

• Exploration of the Shira Plateau’s grassy moorland and volcanic rock formations

• Summit of Shira Cathedral with dramatic views of the surrounding wilderness

• Spectacular views of Mount Meru floating above the clouds from Shira Camp 2

• A perfect day for acclimatization and absorbing the stunning landscape

Day 3: Shira Camp 2 to Moir Hut

In the morning, begin by following the main trail up to Lava Tower, a striking volcanic formation at 4,500 metres that offers panoramic views of the surrounding terrain. As you ascend, you’ll be treated to breathtaking views of the Shira Plateau and the surrounding valleys. For those feeling strong and well-acclimatized, there’s the option to climb to the ruined hut at Arrow Glacier (4,800 metres), where you’ll experience a more challenging ascent and stunning vistas of the glaciers and summit. Afterward, continue from Lava Tower toward Moir Hut (4,200 metres), a quieter and more serene campsite nestled at the foot of the Kibo massif. The day’s trek offers spectacular views of the rocky landscape and a sense of isolation, making it a memorable part of the journey.

Walking time: 5-7 hours.
Highlights:

• Lava Tower’s striking volcanic rock formations and panoramic views

• Optional climb to Arrow Glacier with stunning vistas of glaciers and summit

• Peaceful Moir Hut campsite with a sense of isolation and beautiful surroundings

• Diverse landscapes, from volcanic rocks to alpine deserts

Day 4: Moir Camp to Pofu Camp

Today’s trek begins with a climb out of the Moir Valley, followed by a short detour to the summit of Little Lent Hill at 4,375 metres. From here, take in panoramic views of the surrounding landscape, with sweeping vistas of the mountain and valleys. After enjoying the view, descend back to the main trail and continue eastward along the northern circuit. The route passes through a field of rock slabs that make a distinctive clinking sound as they are walked upon, adding a unique auditory element to the hike. The trail then undulates through the high-altitude terrain until you reach Buffalo Camp, located at 4,150 metres. At this campsite, you’ll feel a true sense of space as the expansive Kenyan plains stretch out far below to the north, offering one of the most dramatic and peaceful settings on the trek.

Walking time: 4-7 hours.
Highlights:

• Summit of Little Lent Hill (4,375m) with stunning panoramic views of the landscape

• Unique field of clinking rock slabs that add an interesting auditory experience to the trek

• Undulating terrain offering sweeping vistas of the mountain

• Arrival at Buffalo Camp with expansive views over the Kenyan plains stretching far to the north

• A sense of vastness and tranquility, perfect for acclimatization and reflection

Day 5: Pofu Camp to Third Cave Camp

Starting from Buffalo Camp, today’s trek begins with a climb up to the top of ‘Buffalo Ridge,’ offering stunning views of the surrounding terrain. After reaching the ridge, descend to the other side, passing a small spring and some sparse vegetation before continuing eastwards. As you move further along, the landscape becomes more arid, with fewer signs of plant life. The terrain gradually opens up, revealing the harsh beauty of the high-altitude environment. Eventually, the trail leads to Third Cave Camp, located at 3,900 metres. The camp is nestled in a serene spot, surrounded by the vast, open landscape, providing an excellent place for rest and acclimatization.

Walking time: 5-7 hours.
Highlights:

• Climb to the top of ‘Buffalo Ridge’ with panoramic views of the surrounding landscapes

• Scenic descent from the ridge, passing a small spring and sparse vegetation

• Transition from lush vegetation to more arid, high-altitude terrain

• Arrival at Third Cave Camp (3,900m), a peaceful and open campsite ideal for acclimatization

• A day of solitude and awe-inspiring wilderness, perfect for appreciating the mountain’s raw beauty

Day 6: Third Cave Camp to School Hut Campsite

Today’s trek begins with a steady ascent as you make your way towards The Saddle, a unique and barren lunar landscape nestled between the towering peaks of Kibo and Mawenzi. As you traverse this surreal terrain, you’ll be surrounded by the vast, rocky expanse, providing a truly otherworldly experience. Continuing upwards, you’ll reach School Hut Campsite (4,700 metres) in the early afternoon. This campsite is located just below the towering Kibo, offering excellent views and a sense of calm before the summit push. After arriving at camp, spend the rest of the afternoon resting and preparing for the final ascent to the summit the following day.

Walking time: 4-5 hours.
Highlights:

• Steady ascent to The Saddle, a barren, lunar landscape between Kibo and Mawenzi

• Surreal, rocky terrain with expansive views of both Kibo and Mawenzi

• Arrival at School Hut Campsite (4,700m), nestled in a prime location for summit preparation

• A restful afternoon to prepare physically and mentally for the challenging summit day ahead.

Day 7: School Hut Camp to Uhuru Peak (5,896m) to Millennium Camp

The final and most challenging day begins with an early start, around midnight, as you begin the ascent to Uhuru Peak. The trail takes you through steep volcanic scree, where the climb is demanding but well-graded with zig-zag switchbacks to help manage the pace. After approximately 5-6 hours of steady climbing, you’ll reach Gilmans Point (5,685m), located on the Crater Rim. Take a short break to catch your breath and enjoy the stunning sunrise over Mawenzi Peak. From here, continue along the Crater Rim to Uhuru Peak (5,896m), the highest point in Africa. The route takes you past spectacular glaciers and ice cliffs, adding to the dramatic beauty of the summit area. After reaching the summit, you’ll retrace your steps back to Stella Point and then descend through Barafu Camp (4,600m), before continuing down to Millennium Camp (3,800m). The descent is long, but the satisfaction of having reached the summit is unmatched. After a full day of trekking, enjoy a well-deserved rest at Millennium Camp, surrounded by the tranquility of the mountain.

Walking time: 12-16 hours.
Highlights:

• Midnight ascent through volcanic scree with well-graded switchbacks

• Stunning sunrise over Mawenzi Peak at Gilmans Point

• Panoramic views and close encounters with glaciers and ice cliffs on the way to Uhuru Peak

• Reaching the highest point in Africa, Uhuru Peak (5,896m)

• A rewarding descent through Barafu Camp and down to Millennium Camp

• The sense of achievement and celebration after completing the summit journey.

Day 8: Millennium Camp to Mweka Gate to Kilimanjaro International Airport

The final day of the trek begins with a sustained descent along a well-constructed path that takes you through lush tropical forest, alive with the sounds of birdsong and surrounded by vibrant undergrowth and a variety of botanical wonders. As you make your way down, the scenery gradually changes from alpine meadows to rich, green rainforest. The trail leads to the Mweka Gate (1,650m), where you’ll sign out from the national park. From there, continue your descent for another 15 minutes through scenic coffee and banana farms, eventually reaching Mweka Village. Here, a vehicle will be waiting to transfer you either to your hotel or to Kilimanjaro International Airport for your onward flight. After an extraordinary journey, you’ll leave with unforgettable memories of Africa’s highest peak.

Walking time: 4-6 hours.
Highlights:

• Beautiful descent through tropical forest with birdlife and diverse plant species

• Sign-out at Mweka Gate, marking the end of your trekking adventure

• Walk through picturesque coffee and banana farms on the final stretch

• A smooth transfer to your hotel or Kilimanjaro International Airport for your departure

• A sense of accomplishment and the peaceful final moments after a challenging and rewarding journey.