7-Day Shira Climb

Tour Overview

The Shira Route is unique because it utilizes a vehicle to transport you through the forest zone, dropping you off at the Morum Barrier at over 3,400m.

From here, you walk across the Shira Plateau—one of the most beautiful high-altitude expanses on earth.

This route is best for confident trekkers who are comfortable starting at altitude and want to maximize their time in the mountain’s upper volcanic zones.

The 7-Day Shira Route is a specialized itinerary designed for those who want to skip the lower forest and begin their adventure directly on the high-altitude plateau.

By starting at a higher elevation via the Morum Barrier, you are immediately immersed in the stunning moorland landscapes.

This route shares the same spectacular “Southern Circuit” as Lemosho and Machame, offering world-class scenery and a high success rate.

Quick Facts

FeatureDetails
Total DistanceApproximately 57 km / 35 miles
Max Elevation5,895m (Uhuru Peak)
AccommodationHigh-quality mountain tents
DifficultyHigh (Starts at high altitude)
Starting PointLondorossi Gate / Morum Barrier

Is the 7-Day Shira Climb Right for You?

Direct Access

Perfect if you prefer to skip the lower forest and get straight to the volcanic landscapes.

Because this route starts high, it is best suited for trekkers who have spent time at altitude recently or are confident in their body’s ability to adjust quickly.

You’ll cross the entire Shira Plateau, offering some of the best sunset photography opportunities on the mountain.

Detailed Itinerary

Day 0: Arrival – Moshi Town

Arrive in Tanzania and meet your Uisso Adventures team. Transfer from Kilimanjaro International Airport to your hotel in Moshi for rest, briefing, and final gear check.

Accommodation: Hotel in Moshi
Meals: Dinner (depending on arrival time)

After completing park formalities at Londorossi Gate, we drive to the Morum Barrier to begin our trek in the open moorland. This short, gentle hike allows you to find your rhythm as you settle into the high-altitude environment of the Shira Plateau.

  • Elevation: 3400m to 3500m (Approx)

  • Distance: 4 km

  • Hiking Time: 2 hours

  • Meals: Lunch & Dinner

  • Accommodation: Shira 1 Camp

We spend the day traversing the ancient volcanic floor of the plateau, heading toward the base of the mountain’s main peaks. The easy pace today provides excellent acclimatization while offering panoramic views of Kibo and the surrounding volcanic cones.

  • Elevation: 3500m to 3840m

  • Distance: 7 km

  • Hiking Time: 3–4 hours

  • Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner

  • Accommodation: Shira 2 Camp

This is a pivotal day where we follow the “climb high, sleep low” strategy by ascending to the dramatic, rocky Lava Tower. We then descend into the beautiful, sheltered Barranco Camp, which helps your body adapt to the thinner air ahead.

  • Elevation: 3840m to 4630m then down to 3976m

  • Distance: 10 km

  • Hiking Time: 6–8 hours

  • Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner

  • Accommodation: Barranco Camp

We begin with an exhilarating scramble up the famous Barranco Wall, a non-technical climb that rewards us with breathtaking views of the glaciers. The trail then rolls across a series of hills and valleys before reaching our camp at Karanga.

  • Elevation: 3976m to 3995m

  • Distance: 5 km

  • Hiking Time: 4–5 hours

  • Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner

  • Accommodation: Karanga Camp

We make a steady ascent through the stark alpine desert to reach the Barafu “Base Camp.” The afternoon is dedicated to an early dinner and resting as we prepare for the intense midnight summit attempt.

  • Elevation: 3995m to 4673m

  • Distance: 4 km

  • Hiking Time: 3–4 hours

  • Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner

  • Accommodation: Barafu Camp

Starting around midnight, we climb through the arctic zone to reach Stella Point by sunrise. After a final push to Uhuru Peak, the Roof of Africa, we begin our long descent to Mweka Camp for a well-earned sleep.

  • Elevation: 4673m to 5895m then down to 3068m

  • Distance: 17 km

  • Hiking Time: 12–14 hours

  • Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner

  • Accommodation: Mweka Camp

We enjoy a relaxed descent through the lush rainforest canopy to the park gate. After receiving your summit certificates and saying goodbye to your mountain crew, we drive back to Moshi for a hot shower and celebration.

  • Elevation: 3068m to 1640m

  • Distance: 10 km

  • Hiking Time: 3–4 hours

  • Meals: Breakfast & Celebration Lunch

  • Accommodation: Hotel in Moshi

What's Included

  • Professional, certified mountain guides

  • Park fees & rescue fees

  • Camping accommodation on the mountain

  • Hotel accommodation before & after the trek

  • All meals on the mountain

  • Airport transfers

  • Porters and crew support

  • Drinking water on the mountain

  • Summit certificate

What's Not Included

  • International flights

  • Tanzania visa

  • Travel insurance

  • Personal trekking gear

  • Tips for guides and porters

  • Personal expenses (laundry, drinks, etc.)

Ready To Stand On Top Of Africa?

Fill the form below and we will get back to you within 24 hours.