7 Day Shira, Lemosho or Rongai Route

Day 1: Londorossi Gate – Shira Plateau – Shira 1 Camp (3,505 m)

After registration at Londorossi Gate, ascend by 4×4 vehicle through rolling farmland and mist-covered forest until the trail opens dramatically onto the Shira Plateau, an ancient volcanic caldera. Your hike begins here, already at high altitude, walking across open moorland sprinkled with wildflowers and volcanic boulders.

As you approach Shira 1 Camp, the vastness of the plateau becomes clear: Kibo rises sharply above you, while distant ridgelines fade into blue haze. Late afternoon acclimatization walk is optional. Overnight at Shira 1.

Day 2: Shira 1 – Shira 2 Camp (3,850 m)

Today is a gradual traverse across one of Kilimanjaro’s most dramatic high-altitude landscapes. Trails wind between heather, rocky outcrops, and shallow valleys carved by ancient lava flows.

You gain only moderate altitude today, which helps the body adapt. Panoramic views of Kibo dominate the horizon, and the expanse of the Shira Plateau opens behind you. Arrive at Shira 2 Camp where temperatures are cooler and stargazing is exceptional due to thin, clean air.

Day 3: Shira 2 – Lava Tower (4,600 m) – Barranco Camp (3,960 m)

The trail climbs steadily upward toward Lava Tower, a dramatic volcanic formation standing like a weathered fortress. Reaching 4,600 m today provides essential high-altitude exposure — expect cooler winds, thinner air, and slower movement.

Lunch near the tower, followed by a long descent into the Barranco Valley, where giant senecios and lobelias create an otherworldly atmosphere. The valley feels sheltered and green after the stark alpine desert. Overnight at Barranco.

Day 4: Barranco – Karanga Camp (4,035 m)

Begin with the iconic Barranco Wall, a steep but non-technical scramble that rewards you with sweeping views across the southern face of Kilimanjaro. Once atop the wall, the trail undulates across ridges and small valleys carved by ancient glaciers.

Today is moderate in distance but crucial for acclimatization. Karanga Camp sits on a windswept ridge overlooking rolling valleys — a beautiful place to watch the mountain shift colors at sunset.

Day 5: Karanga – Barafu Camp (4,680 m)

A steady ascent through a rugged alpine landscape brings you to Barafu, the high base camp for your summit attempt. The terrain is gravel-like, barren, and exposed, with dramatic cliff edges overlooking the southeastern plains.

Afternoon is dedicated to rest and final preparation. Your guides brief you on summit-night pacing, hydration, clothing layers, and mental strategies for success. Early dinner and early sleep.

Day 6: Barafu – Uhuru Peak (5,895 m) – Mweka Camp (3,080 m)

Summit day begins before midnight under a sky heavy with stars. The trail rises sharply through switchbacks on loose volcanic scree.

As you approach Stella Point, the horizon lightens — dawn washes over the glaciers, painting them gold. The final push along the crater rim to Uhuru Peak is slow but emotionally powerful.

After celebrating at the summit, descend to Barafu for rest, then continue down to the warmer, oxygen-rich forest zone at Mweka Camp.

Day 7: Mweka Camp – Mweka Gate – Arusha

A final descent through lush rainforest brings you to Mweka Gate. Receive your summit certificate and transfer back to Arusha for rest and celebration.