SHIRA ROUTE KILIMANJARO
The Shira Route on Mount Kilimanjaro is one of several routes adventurers can take to the top of Africa's highest peak. This route stands out for its unique features and beautiful landscape. Starting at the base of the mountain, hikers on the Shira Trail are greeted by diverse ecosystems. The journey begins in lush rainforests, which gradually turn into moorland full of interesting plants and wildlife.
Travelers along this scenic route will have stunning views of the surrounding mountains and valleys. The Shira Route is known for its scenic beauty as it offers a variety of landscapes, from grassy plains to rocky outcrops. The trail is less crowded compared to other trails, providing a more peaceful experience and allowing hikers to connect deeply with nature.
This trip usually takes about seven to eight days, giving climbers plenty of time to acclimatize to the altitude. Thanks to the higher starting point of the Shira Route, hikers are already above the tree line, meaning they can enjoy expansive views right from the start of their adventure. The trek can be physically demanding, but the breathtaking views and sense of accomplishment make it a rewarding experience.
Overall, the Shira Route is an excellent choice for those who want to explore Mount Kilimanjaro in a more peaceful environment while enjoying the stunning natural beauty that the mountain has to offer.
Itinerary
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1
Arrive and transfer to hotel
Day 1 marks the beginning of this incredible journey as you arrive at your destination. Upon arrival, you will be greeted and assisted with your transfer to the hotel where you will stay for the night. This will be a time to rest and prepare for the adventure ahead.
2Moshi to Simba Camp (3500m)
On Day 2, you will begin your trek by traveling from Moshi to Simba Camp, which stands at an elevation of 3,500 meters. This first leg of the journey allows you to acclimatize to the altitude while enjoying the stunning scenery along the way.
3Simba Camp (3500m) to Shira Camp (3840m)
Day 3 takes you from Simba Camp to Shira Camp, where you will reach an altitude of 3,840 meters. This segment of the hike offers breathtaking views and the opportunity to experience the unique flora and fauna of the region.
4Shira (3840m)-Lava Tower (4630m)-Barranco camp (3950m)
As you proceed to Day 4, the adventure continues as you trek from Shira Camp to Lava Tower, reaching an impressive height of 4,630 meters. After this ascent, you will descend to Barranco Camp, located at 3,950 meters. This day includes a challenging climb that tests your endurance, but the rewarding views make it worthwhile.
5Barranco Camp (3860m) to Barafu Camp (4550m)
On Day 5, you will leave Barranco Camp, ascending to Barafu Camp at an altitude of 4,550 meters. This stage prepares you for the final ascent, providing crucial acclimatization before the summit attempt.
6SUMMIT ATTEMPT
Day 6 is the most significant day of the journey, as it is dedicated to the summit attempt. You will rise early to begin the challenging ascent, striving to reach the peak and experience the breathtaking views from the top.
7Mweka camp (3100m)- Mweka Gate (1980m)
On Day 7, following the summit success, you will descend to Mweka Camp, which is situated at 3,100 meters. After a night of rest, you will continue your journey down to Mweka Gate, located at an altitude of 1,980 meters, completing the trek and reflecting on your accomplishments.
8Final Departure
Finally, Day 8 marks your final departure. After a fulfilling adventure, you will prepare to leave, carrying with you unforgettable memories and experiences from this remarkable journey.
Services
Cost Includes
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- Park Fees: This usually covers Kilimanjaro National Park entry fees, camping or hut fees, and rescue fees.
- Mountain Crew: Salaries and support for experienced, English-speaking guides, assistant guides, cooks, and porters. The number of crew members often depends on the group size.
- Meals: Three meals a day (breakfast, lunch, and dinner) are typically provided while on the mountain, prepared by the cook.
- Accommodation on the Mountain: This includes the use of camping equipment such as tents and sleeping mats. Some operators might offer upgrades for sleeping bags and more comfortable pads for an extra fee.
- Transportation: Transfers to and from Kilimanjaro International Airport (JRO) to your hotel in Moshi or Arusha, and transportation from your hotel to the Lemosho route starting point (Londorossi Gate) and back after the trek.
- Safety Equipment: Reputable operators often provide safety equipment such as oxygen cylinders, pulse oximeters for monitoring altitude sickness, and comprehensive first-aid kits. Some may also include portable toilets.
- Camping Equipment: Group camping gear like dining tents with tables and chairs, cooking equipment, and eating utensils are usually included.
- Hotel Accommodation: Many packages include accommodation in a hotel in Moshi or Arusha for the night before the climb and the night after the descent, often on a bed and breakfast basis.
- Government Taxes: This may include Value Added Tax (VAT) as charged by the Tanzanian government.
Cost Excludes
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- International and Domestic Flights: The cost of your flights to and from Tanzania is usually not included.
- Tanzanian Visa: You will likely need to obtain a tourist visa to enter Tanzania, and the cost of this is typically not included in the trekking package. The fee can vary depending on your nationality.
- Travel Insurance: It is highly recommended and often mandatory to have comprehensive travel insurance that covers medical expenses, emergency evacuation (including helicopter rescue, if possible), trip cancellation, and other potential risks associated with high-altitude trekking.
- Tips for the Mountain Crew: Tipping guides, assistant guides, cooks, and porters is a customary and expected part of the Kilimanjaro climbing experience. The amount is usually recommended per day per crew member and is not included in the upfront cost.
- Personal Gear: You will need to bring your own personal trekking gear, including clothing layers, waterproof jacket and pants, hiking boots, a sleeping bag (some operators offer rental), trekking poles, a headlamp, and other personal items.
- Meals and Drinks Not Specified: Meals at the hotel before and after the climb (other than breakfast if included) and any drinks other than water provided on the mountain (such as bottled water, soft drinks, or alcoholic beverages) are usually at your own expense.
- Personal Expenses: Items of a personal nature, souvenirs, snacks you want to bring, and any optional activities are not included.
- Equipment Rental: If you need to rent any trekking equipment like a sleeping bag, trekking poles, or waterproof gear, this will likely be an additional cost.
- Health Requirements: Costs related to vaccinations, anti-malaria medication, or other health precautions are your responsibility.
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