SHIRA ROUTE
This route starts an altitude of 11600ft (3500m) and should only be attempted by trekkers who are already acclimatised or know from previous experience that they can tolerate altitude. From the trailhead the trail heads east across the centre of the Shira Plateau, where it is often likely to spot big game, such as elephant and buffalo. The route then joins up with the Machame Route at Shira Camp and approaches the summit via Stella Point descending via Mweka Camp.

Tour ref STT - 004 8 days & 7 nights (6 days on trek)

Day 1
Arrive at Mountain Inn in time for an early evening pre-climb briefing on the trek, dinner and overnight.

DAY 2
Drive to the Kilimanjaro National Park Gate at Londorossi for the first section of the climb through the lush forest to reach Forest Campsite close to the gate at 9000ft/2750m taking 4 to 5 hours. Overnight Forest Camp

DAY 3
Continue through the forest on to the Shira Plateau to reach Shira Campsite at 12,500ft/3800m for overnight camp taking 5 to 6 hours. Overnight Shira Camp

DAY 4
Heading eastwards, continue ascending through the dry landscape before reaching Barranco Campsite at 13,000ft/3900m for overnight camp taking 5- 7 hours. Overnight Barranco Camp

DAY 5
The path climbs steeply out of the Barranco Valley, crosses the Karanga Valley, then turns north to reach Barafu Campsite at 15,500ft/4600m for overnight camp. Overnight Barafu Camp.

DAY 6
A long day and an early start to reach the crater rim at Stella Point in time for sunrise. Continue on to Uhuru Peak 19,340ft/5896m the highest point in Africa. Descend to Mweka Campsite at 10,000ft/3000m for overnight camp taking 6 to 8 hours ascent 5 to 7 hours descent. Overnight Mweka Camp

DAY 7
Descend through the forest to the park gate at Mweka wildlife college, taking 3 to 4 hours to be met and transfered back to mountain inn fo dinner and overnight stay.

DAY 8
Breakfast at Mountain Inn. End of tour.

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