Mount Kilimanjaro, Shira Route Day Hike - Miwaleni Travel

Mount Kilimanjaro, Shira Route Day Hike

1 Day
  • Guided
  • Available
  • Provided
  • Available
  • 3,400 meters (approximately 11,155 feet)
  • 10

Trip Overview

Overview

Embark on an invigorating day hike along the scenic Shira Route on the western slopes of Mount Kilimanjaro. This trek offers a fantastic opportunity to experience the mountain's diverse landscapes, from lush montane forests to the unique alpine moorland of the Shira Plateau, all while enjoying panoramic views of the majestic Kibo peak

Trip Highlights

Trip Highlights

  • Scenic Drive: Enjoy a picturesque journey from Moshi (or Arusha) through the Tanzanian countryside to the Londorossi Gate.
  • Diverse Ecosystems: Trek through the tropical montane forest, gradually transitioning to the fascinating alpine moorland of the Shira Plateau.
  • Panoramic Views: Witness breathtaking panoramic views of the iconic Kibo peak of Mount Kilimanjaro.
  • Flora and Fauna: Observe the diverse plant and animal life, with potential sightings of Colobus monkeys and various bird species.
  • Unique Volcanic Landscape: Experience the distinctive volcanic terrain and expansive vistas of the Shira Plateau.
  • Included Essentials: Benefit from included park fees, permits, a professional guide and support staff, meals and refreshments during the hike, and transportation to and from your accommodation.

Trip Itinerary

Day 1 :
Plan

Approximately 6:00 AM: Departure from your accommodation in Moshi (or Arusha). You will begin your drive towards the Londorossi Gate, located on the western side of Mount Kilimanjaro.

Around 8:30 AM: Arrival at the Londorossi Gate (2,100 meters). Here, you will complete the necessary park registration formalities and meet your professional guide and porters who will accompany you on your hike. Your guide will provide a briefing on the day's trek and safety guidelines. Shira Route Trek:

  • Start Point: Londorossi Gate (2,100 meters)
  • End Point: Shira Plateau (3,400 meters)
  • Duration: Approximately 4–5 hours of hiking.
  • You will begin your ascent through the tropical montane forest, characterized by its lush vegetation. As you gain altitude, the landscape will gradually transition to the unique alpine moorland of the Shira Plateau, marked by its volcanic formations and open vistas. Keep an eye out for Colobus monkeys and various bird species along the way. Enjoy the increasingly impressive views of the Kibo peak as you hike.

Around 12:30 PM: Lunch on the Shira Plateau (3,400 meters). You will enjoy a packed lunch amidst the stunning scenery of the plateau, taking in the panoramic views of the surrounding landscape and the towering Kibo peak of Mount Kilimanjaro.

Around 2:00 PM: Descent from the Shira Plateau. You will begin your trek back down towards the Londorossi Gate, retracing your steps through the alpine moorland and the montane forest. The descent is expected to take approximately 2–3 hours.

Around 4:30 PM: Departure from Londorossi Gate. Once you arrive back at the gate, you will board your transportation for the drive back to Moshi (or Arusha).

Around 6:30 PM: Arrival back at your accommodation in Moshi (or Arusha), concluding your Shira Route day hike adventure.

Trip Includes

  • Park fees and permits: Covers the necessary entry and trekking permits for Mount Kilimanjaro National Park.
  • Professional guide and support staff: Includes an experienced and knowledgeable mountain guide and porters to assist during the hike.
  • Meals and refreshments during the hike: Provides a packed lunch and likely water and other non-alcoholic refreshments for the duration of the trek.
  • Transportation from and to your accommodation: Covers the round-trip transfer between your hotel in Moshi (or Arusha) and the Londorossi Gate.

Trip excludes

  • Personal clothing and gear: Items listed under "What to Bring" are typically the responsibility of the individual.
  • Tips for the guide and support staff: Gratuities are usually not included and are at the discretion of the participant.
  • Personal insurance: Travel or medical insurance is generally not included.
  • Souvenirs and personal expenses: Any personal purchases made during the trip.
  • Accommodation before or after the day hike: The cost of your hotel in Moshi or Arusha is separate.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

What is the Shira Route Day Hike?

It's a guided day trek on the western slopes of Mount Kilimanjaro, offering a taste of the mountain's diverse scenery, including montane forest and the Shira Plateau, with fantastic views of Kibo peak.

How long is the hike?

The total hiking duration is approximately 6-8 hours, with about 4-5 hours to reach the Shira Plateau and 2-3 hours to descend back to the Londorossi Gate.

What is the maximum altitude reached on this hike?

The maximum altitude reached is 3,400 meters (approximately 11,155 feet) at the Shira Plateau.

Is this hike suitable for beginners?

While the hike doesn't involve extreme technical difficulty, it does involve several hours of walking at increasing altitudes. A reasonable level of fitness is recommended. It's always a good idea to consult your doctor if you have any health concerns

Will I experience altitude sickness?

At 3,400 meters, some individuals may experience mild symptoms of altitude sickness. The day hike format, with ascent and descent within the same day, helps mitigate the risk compared to multi-day climbs. However, it's important to stay hydrated, pace yourself, and inform your guide if you feel unwell.

What should I wear for the hike?

It's recommended to wear layers of clothing as temperatures can change with altitude and weather conditions. This includes lightweight, moisture-wicking base layers, a warm jacket, waterproof outerwear, and sturdy hiking boots with good ankle support.

What should I bring in my daypack?

Essentials include a reusable water bottle, snacks for energy, sunscreen, lip balm, a hat, sunglasses, and a camera. You may also want to bring personal medications and a small first-aid kit.

Are meals provided?

Yes, a packed lunch and likely water and other non-alcoholic refreshments are included during the hike.

Is transportation included?

Yes, transportation from and to your accommodation in Moshi (or Arusha) to the Londorossi Gate is included.

Do I need a guide?

Yes, a professional and licensed mountain guide is included and required for hiking in Kilimanjaro National Park. They provide valuable information, ensure your safety, and enhance your experience. Support staff (porters) may also accompany the group.

Are park fees and permits included in the price?

Yes, the estimated cost includes park fees and the necessary permits for the day hike.

Are tips for the guide and support staff included?

No, tips (gratuities) for the guide and support staff are generally not included in the price and are at your discretion, based on your satisfaction with their service.

Is travel insurance required?

While not explicitly stated as included, it is highly recommended that you have your own travel and medical insurance that covers hiking at altitude.

Can I customize this day hike?

This itinerary outlines a standard day hike. Any customization requests would need to be discussed with us.

What if the weather is bad?

The hike will generally proceed unless the weather conditions are deemed dangerously unsafe by the park authorities and your guide. Be prepared for potential changes in weather.

Can I see the summit of Kilimanjaro from the Shira Plateau?

Yes, the Shira Plateau offers excellent panoramic views of the Kibo peak, the highest of Kilimanjaro's three volcanic cones.

Are there restrooms available during the hike?

Basic toilet facilities are usually available at the Londorossi Gate. During the trek itself, there are no permanent facilities, so you will need to utilize the natural environment responsibly, following your guide's instructions.

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Mount Kilimanjaro, Shira Route Day Hike
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We are locally owned and based in Tanzania and Kenya.

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