Shira Route
Begin your trek at Shira Plateau, offering breathtaking panoramic views.
Experience The Beauty Of Shira Route
The Shira route approaches Kilimanjaro from the west and then joins the Machame route. Hence everything that has been said about the Machame climb route also applies to the Shira route.
There are several variations to the Shira route. You can climb for six days but most operators also offer a longer version of it. (A really good operator will also time their departure and stagger their camps in a way that avoids the heaviest traffic on the Machame trail.)
That and the added transport cost can make Shira a more expensive option.
The first day on the Shira route is different from other climb routes:
It follows a four-wheel drive route. So you either walk on the road for most of the day (not very attractive) or you opt to drive as far as possible.
The latter not only means you skip the first stage of the climb, the rainforest zone. It also means that you catapult your body to a height of over 3500 m/11500 ft without time for proper acclimatization.
Experience the Spectacular View Of Kilimanjaro!
If you live near sea level and you only flew into Tanzania the day before, this may hurt.
Overall, Shira has excellent success rates if the schedule involves a night at Karanga Valley (making for a short and easy day before the summit day). However, the good success rate is partly due to the operators on this route being higher level than on the more crowded routes.
Like the Machame route, the Shira route is for people who are confident in their ability to hike in difficult terrain and camp out for extended periods. It has less traffic but it is a more expensive option. You should also be confident about the way you will react to the altitude on the first day.
Frequently Asked Questions About Shira
The Lemosho Route starts on the western side of Kilimanjaro, offering a quieter and less crowded experience compared to other popular routes. It takes you through diverse ecosystems, from lush rainforests to alpine deserts, before joining the Machame Route for the final ascent.
The Best Time to Climb Kilimanjaro via the Lemosho Route is during the dry seasons, which are from January to mid-March and from June to October, providing better weather conditions and increased chances of a successful summit.
The Lemosho Route requires a good level of physical fitness. Regular cardio and strength training are essential. Previous hiking experience is beneficial but not mandatory.
The Lemosho Route’s longer itinerary helps with acclimatization, reducing the risk of altitude sickness. However, it’s still important to listen to your body, drink plenty of fluids, and ascend gradually.
While it’s possible to climb the Lemosho Route independently, guided climbs are strongly recommended for safety and support. Guided tours include porters, cooks, and experienced guides.
Compared to other Kilimanjaro Routes, the Lemosho Route is generally less crowded, offering a quieter and more serene trekking experience with fewer fellow climbers encountered along the way.
Our Reviews
Legacy Exchange Outfitters offers more than just a vacation. Eugene and his team work hard to provide their guests with a remarkable experience. However, sightseeing wild animals in their natural habitat is only part of the adventure.
Victoria Mayers – USA