7-Day Mount Kilimanjaro Climb - Shira Route

• You'll be collected from the airport.
• Accommodation before the tour starts can be arranged for an extra cost.

Arusha to Londorossi Gate to Shira 1 Camp

The journey begins with registration at Londorossi Gate followed by a drive to the Shira trailhead. The trek starts through dense rainforest, where humidity is high and vegetation is thick. As the altitude increases, the forest gradually gives way to heath and moorland zones. The trail is gentle, allowing the body to begin acclimatizing slowly. Wildlife such as colobus monkeys and birds may be spotted along the way. By afternoon, hikers reach Shira 1 Camp on the expansive Shira Plateau with wide views of Kibo peak. Dinner is served at camp, followed by rest under cold mountain conditions.

Main Destination:

Mount Kilimanjaro

Accommodation:

Budget camping

• on Mt Kilimanjaro

Meals & Drinks:

• Lunch & dinner (Breakfast not included)
• Drinking water (Other drinks not included)

Shira 1 Camp to Shira 2 Camp

Today’s trek continues across the Shira Plateau with gradual ascent through heath and moorland terrain. The landscape becomes more open with volcanic rock formations and sweeping views of Kilimanjaro’s snow-capped summit. The pace remains steady to support acclimatization. Temperature drops as altitude increases, and hikers are encouraged to hydrate frequently. Occasional breaks are taken to enjoy scenery and recover energy. By afternoon, arrival at Shira 2 Camp offers dramatic sunset views over the plateau. Dinner is prepared at camp, and trekkers rest in preparation for higher altitude ascent the next day.

Main Destination:

Mount Kilimanjaro

Accommodation:

Budget camping

• on Mt Kilimanjaro

+2 Photos

Meals & Drinks:

• All meals included
• Drinking water (Other drinks not included)

Shira 2 Camp to Lava Tower to Barranco Camp

The route ascends into alpine desert terrain with rocky paths and thinner air. Hikers climb steadily to Lava Tower, a key acclimatization point at high altitude where lunch and rest are taken. After spending time at elevation, the trail descends into Barranco Valley, following the “climb high, sleep low” principle for better adaptation. Vegetation becomes sparse, and temperatures drop significantly. Barranco Camp lies beneath the impressive Great Barranco Wall. Evening includes briefing for next day’s climb. Dinner is served, and hikers rest while preparing for more challenging terrain ahead.

Main Destination:

Mount Kilimanjaro

Accommodation:

Budget camping

• on Mt Kilimanjaro

+3 Photos

Meals & Drinks:

• All meals included
• Drinking water (Other drinks not included)

Barranco Camp to Karanga Camp via Barranco Wall

The day begins with the ascent of the famous Barranco Wall, a steep but non-technical climb requiring scrambling. Once at the top, trekkers are rewarded with breathtaking views of glaciers, valleys, and surrounding peaks. The trail then continues across ridges and valleys toward Karanga Camp. Terrain is rocky and exposed, with cold winds increasing at higher elevation. Karanga Camp serves as an important acclimatization stop before the final push. After arrival, hikers rest, hydrate, and enjoy dinner while preparing mentally and physically for summit preparation at higher altitude.

Main Destination:

Mount Kilimanjaro

Accommodation:

Budget camping

• on Mt Kilimanjaro

+2 Photos

Meals & Drinks:

• All meals included
• Drinking water (Other drinks not included)

Karanga Camp to Barafu Camp

Today’s hike continues into high alpine desert with increasingly harsh conditions. Vegetation disappears, leaving only volcanic rock and dry terrain. The ascent is steady but physically demanding due to reduced oxygen levels. Barafu Camp is reached in the afternoon, located on a ridge with views of both Mawenzi and Kibo peaks. This is the final base before the summit attempt. Hikers rest, eat early dinner, and prepare gear for midnight departure. Proper hydration and rest are crucial as excitement builds for summit night, the most challenging part of the expedition.

Main Destination:

Mount Kilimanjaro

Accommodation:

Budget camping

• on Mt Kilimanjaro

+5 Photos

+4 Photos

Meals & Drinks:

• All meals included
• Drinking water (Other drinks not included)

Barafu Camp to Uhuru Peak to Mweka Camp

Summit attempt begins around midnight under freezing temperatures and strong winds. Climbers ascend slowly to Stella Point, then continue to Uhuru Peak, the highest point in Africa. Reaching the summit is a moment of achievement with stunning sunrise views over glaciers and the crater. After brief celebration, descent begins back to Barafu for rest before continuing down to Mweka Camp. The long descent passes through moorland and rainforest zones. Fatigue is high, but success motivates hikers. Overnight at Mweka Camp concludes the summit experience.

Main Destination:

Mount Kilimanjaro

Accommodation:

Budget camping

• on Mt Kilimanjaro

+2 Photos

Meals & Drinks:

• All meals included
• Drinking water (Other drinks not included)

Mweka Camp to Mweka Gate to Arusha

The final descent leads through lush rainforest with warmer air and increasing oxygen levels. The trail is easier, allowing hikers to reflect on their achievement. At Mweka Gate, climbers receive summit certificates as recognition of completing the expedition. Farewell celebrations take place before transfer back to hotel. The journey concludes with memories of diverse landscapes, challenging ascents, and the rewarding experience of reaching Africa’s highest peak. Rest and recovery are recommended after the demanding trek.

Main Destination:

Mount Kilimanjaro

Accommodation:

No accommodation (End of tour)

Meals & Drinks:

• Breakfast & lunch (Dinner not included)
• Drinking water (Other drinks not included)

• Additional accommodation can be arranged for an extra cost.
• You'll be dropped off at the airport.