Kilimanjaro National Park Shira Gate - Hike to Shira
The drive from Moshi to the trail-head takes about 3 hours. We will hike through the rain forest on a winding trail up a ridge. At lower elevations, the trail can be muddy and slippery. Gaiters and trekking poles are a good idea here. We will continue a short distance until we reach the Shira Camp.
- Main Destination:
- Mount Kilimanjaro
- Accommodation:
- Budget camping
- Meals & Drinks:
Hike Shira 2 Camp - Lava Tower - Barranco Camp
Starting at the Shira Plateau, you will keep east up a ridge towards the Peak of Kibo and the first junction, then head southeast towards the Lava Tower, called Sharks Tooth (elevation range between 4650m/15,250ft). Shortly after the tower you will come to the second junction, which goes to the Arrow Glacier, continuing down to the Barranco Camp. Although you end the day around the same elevation as when you began, this day is very important for acclimatization that will help your body prepare for summit day.
- Main Destination:
- Mount Kilimanjaro
- Accommodation:
- Budget camping
- Meals & Drinks:
Hike Barranco Camp - Karanga Camp
Following breakfast, you will leave Barranco and continue on a steep ridge up the Barranco Wall to Karanga Valley. Here you will come to the crossroads that connect with the Mweka Trail. On the way, you will have a chance to see the wildlife and natural beauty of Mount Kilimanjaro.
- Main Destination:
- Mount Kilimanjaro
- Accommodation:
- Budget camping
- Meals & Drinks:
Hike Karanga Camp - Barafu Camp
After breakfast, pack up and head to Barafu Camp, where you will have accomplished the South Circuit! This area offers some of the most spectacular views of the summit from many different angles. Here you will make camp, rest, enjoy dinner and prepare for your summit day.
- Main Destination:
- Mount Kilimanjaro
- Accommodation:
- Budget camping
- Meals & Drinks:
Hike Barafu Camp - Summit - Mweka Camp
Arise before dawn and make your way towards the summit, between Rebmann and Ratzel Glaciers. Begin this trek in a northwesterly direction, climbing through deep scree towards Stella Point on the crater edge. This is the most mentally and physically challenging portion of the trek. At Stella Point, stop for a short rest and have a chance to see the most magnificent sunrise you will ever witness. Hikers further along the way may view the sunrise from the summit. Starting at Stella point, you may come across snow as you make your way up the last hour of the trek to the summit. Arriving at the summit, you will have reached one of the highest points on Mount Kilimanjaro and the continent of Africa. From the summit, begin your descent by continuing straight down to the Mweka Camp, stopping at Barafu for lunch. You may want to have gaiters and trekking poles for the loose gravel on your way down. Arrive at Mweka Camp and enjoy your last evening on the mountain.
- Main Destination:
- Mount Kilimanjaro
- Accommodation:
- Budget camping
- Meals & Drinks:
Hike Mweka Camp to Mweka Gate - Moshi
After breakfast, continue your descent down to the Mweka Park Gate where you will receive your summit certificate. At lower elevations, gaiters and trekking poles may help with the wet and muddy conditions. From the gate you continue another hour to Mweka Village. Here a vehicle will meet you and drive you back to your hotel where your safari will end.
- Main Destination:
- Mount Kilimanjaro
- Accommodation:
- No accommodation (End of tour)
- Meals & Drinks: