Kilimanjaro · 5,895 m
Shira Route
From Shira Gate · 7 days
- Challenging
- Acclimatisation 3/5
- Best season: Jun-Oct and Dec-Feb
A western approach that starts high on the Shira plateau, reached by vehicle, so the first day is already above 3,500 m. The route is scenically similar to Lemosho but begins further along and can be prone to afternoon mist. It suits fit trekkers who want the plateau views without the long forest walk-in.
Packing list
12 items the route demands
- Four-season sleeping bag rated to -15C
- Insulated sleeping mat
- Base layer, fleece and insulated jacket
- Waterproof shell jacket and over-trousers
- Thermal leggings for summit night
- Trekking boots plus camp shoes
- Warm hat, balaclava and insulated gloves
- Sun hat, sunglasses and high-SPF sunscreen
- Head torch with spare batteries
- Three litres of water capacity
- Water purification tablets
- Duffel bag, trekking poles and personal first-aid kit
Altitude sickness
Shira's high starting point (3,500 m on the Shira plateau) offers spectacular scenery but jumps your body to altitude on day one — some trekkers feel symptoms immediately. Hydrate, ascend slowly, and report persistent headache, nausea or dizziness to your guides without delay.
Fitness preparation
Solid fitness and ideally prior altitude experience recommended — the plateau start means little time below 3,500 m. Prepare with loaded hill walks and sustained cardio over 6-8 weeks.
Guides & porter welfare (KPAP)
Tipping guide
Plan roughly US$300-400 per climber for the seven-to-eight-day crew. KPAP-aligned guidance: porters US$10-15/day, cook US$10-15/day, head guide US$15-25/day. Tip person by person at the farewell ceremony, in TZS or clean USD.