Kilimanjaro Shira route starts at Londorossi Gate. From the trailhead, the trail heads East across the center of 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. Overnight are in camping tents.
What to bring
A) Waterproof hiking boots,
B) Rain suit, sleeping bags,
C) Flashlights,
D) Sunglasses balaclava,
E) Hand gloves,
F) Night shoes
G) Large plastic bags -essential for wetness in case of rain
More Information
The Shira route is one of the older Kilimanjaro routes, and is nearly identical to the Lemosho route. The only difference between them is that the starting point of Shira is higher. In fact, the Lemosho route is the ‘new-and-improved’ version of the Shira route.
The Shira route approaches the summit of Kilimanjaro from the west. It starts relatively high above sea level and is therefore a less frequented route as it offers a poorer acclimatisation profile. The route requires you to camp.
The Shira Route is a difficult route that begins in the west, at Shira Gate. What is unque about Shira is that the first section of the trail is not hiked, but rather driven. Therefore, climbers using Shira will miss out on hiking up one of Kilimanjaro’s ecological zones, the rain forest.
Overview
Kilimanjaro Shira route starts at Londorossi Gate. From the trailhead, the trail heads East across the center of 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. Overnight are in camping tents.
Remarks
When arranging for your international air tickets, note that it is usually cheaper to disembark at Nairobi in Kenya. You then take a shuttle bus to Arusha at a cost of US$ 30.
This shuttle bus leaves at 0800 and 1400 hrs daily from either Nairobi or Arusha. The drive takes 5 hours. If you wish to make use of this option, please indicate so.
