Page: 8-Day Shira Route
Overview
The picturesque Shira Route approaches Kili from the west through the high-altitude Shira Plateau. At 8,900 ft, vehicles transport us to a higher start spawning sweeping views early on. We traverse a Mars-like desert over 7-8 days before joining the Machame trail for the peak push.
Day By Day Itinerary
We drive up to 11,500 ft and hike a short way to stunning Shira 1 Camp on the Plateau's edge overlooking epic views on all sides. Acclimatizing is key today before gaining altitude.
A gentle hike along the Plateau gains only 500 ft in elevation today. Guided walks help us adjust while enjoying the alien landscape of giant groundsel plants and unique rock formations.
We traverse the Southwest Traverse path to reach our first real challenge - Lava Tower ascent. Scrambling up the steep volcanic rocks leads to camp at 15,190 ft with sweeping panoramas of the alien terrain.
After descending Lava Tower, we cross valleys and ridges to Barranco Camp, dramatically set in a gorge at 13,000 ft facing the imposing Barranco Wall we'll tackle next.
The Barranco Wall caps off a tough morning of rock scrambling up the 300m tall cliffside. Triumphant views peak atop the rockface! Then we traverse gentler trails to Karanga Camp at 13,500 ft.
The landscape turns steep again en route to Barafu Camp at 15,300 ft. Set near the crater rim and fed by glaciers, frigid temps and thin air make it extremely arduous.
Around midnight we begin the final summit ascent, reaching Uhuru Peak (19,340 ft) in time to watch the sun rise over epic glaciers and clouds. We descend to Mweka Camp for rest.
Our final descent takes us through lush forest until we emerge at Mweka Gate, ready to celebrate our conquest!
End of tour
- Additional accommodation can be arranged for an extra cost.
- You’ll be dropped off at the airport.
Why Adva Travel
Shira’s high start can cause altitude issues, so skilled guides are invaluable. Adva’s extensive training and experience prepares them to monitor health hiccups and pace groups responsibly. Adva supplies top gear, nutritious meals and ethical wages for porters too. By supporting villages through sustainable tourism, booking through this reputable company makes an impact.
