9 Days | 8 Nights
Shira Route
Safari Overview
This 7-day trekking adventure follows the scenic Marangu Route, also known as the “Coca-Cola Route,”The journey takes you through diverse landscapes, from lush rainforests to the alpine desert, before reaching the iconic Uhuru Peak at 5,895m (19,341 ft).
Along the way, enjoy breathtaking views of Mawenzi and Kibo peaks, acclimatization hikes, and a rewarding summit experience. The descent provides a chance to reflect on the incredible achievement before returning to Arusha for a well-deserved celebration.
Safari Destinations
Londorossi Gate, Mti Mkubwa Camp, Shira Camp 1, Shira Camp 2, Moir Hut, Barranco Camp, Barafu Camp, and Mweka Gate
Number of Day
9 Days | 8 Nights
Detailed Itinerary
+255 780 500 558
Safari Expert
Day by Day
Day 1: Londorossi Gate to Mti Mkubwa Camp
Elevation: 7,742 ft to 9,498 ft
Hiking Time: 3-4 hours
Distance: 6 km / 4 miles
Habitat: Rainforest
Your adventure begins with a scenic 4-hour drive from Moshi to Londorossi Gate, where you will complete the required entry formalities. From there, a short drive leads to the Lemosho trailhead, the official starting point of your trek.
The journey kicks off with a hike through an untouched rainforest, home to towering trees and diverse wildlife. The trail gradually winds its way to Mti Mkubwa (Big Tree) Camp, where you will settle in for your first night on the mountain.
Day 2: Mti Mkubwa Camp to Shira 1 Camp
Elevation: 9,498 ft to 11,500 ft
Hiking Time: 5-6 hours
Distance: 8 km / 5 miles
Habitat: Heath
Leaving the rainforest behind, the route ascends into an open savannah filled with tall grasses, heather, and volcanic rock formations draped in lichen. The landscape changes dramatically as you climb over rolling hills, cross several streams, and ascend the stunning Shira Ridge.
The day concludes with a descent onto the Shira Plateau, where you will catch your first breathtaking view of Kibo’s towering peak from Shira 1 Camp.
Day 3: Shira 1 Camp to Moir Hut
Elevation: 11,500 ft to 13,800 ft
Hiking Time: 5-7 hours
Distance: 11 km / 7 miles
Habitat: Heath
A full day of trekking across the Shira Plateau provides an excellent opportunity for acclimatization. The gentle ascent continues across moorland meadows towards Shira 2 Camp before diverging onto a less-traveled path leading to Moir Hut, nestled at the base of Lent Hills.
Adventurous hikers can explore additional trails in the area, taking in panoramic views from the plateau—one of the highest in the world.
Day 4: Moir Hut to Lava Tower to Barranco Camp
Moir Hut to Lava Tower
Elevation: 13,800 ft to 15,190 ft
Hiking Time: 4-5 hours
Distance: 7 km / 4 miles
Habitat: Alpine Desert
Lava Tower to Barranco Camp
Elevation: 15,190 ft to 13,044 ft
Hiking Time: 2-3 hours
Distance: 3 km / 2 miles
Habitat: Alpine Desert
The trek begins with a steady climb up a ridge, transitioning into a barren alpine desert. You’ll reach Lava Tower, a towering 300 ft volcanic rock formation, where you’ll take a well-earned break.
Afterward, the descent takes you through the surreal Senecio Forest, filled with giant groundsels, before arriving at Barranco Camp. Despite ending at a similar altitude to where you started, this high-altitude exposure is crucial for acclimatization.
Day 5: Barranco Camp to Karanga Camp
Elevation: 13,044 ft to 13,106 ft
Hiking Time: 4-5 hours
Distance: 5 km / 3 miles
Habitat: Alpine Desert
The day starts with a challenging yet rewarding climb up the towering Barranco Wall, a non-technical but steep ascent of nearly 900 ft.
From the top, the trail winds through a sequence of rolling hills and valleys before a sharp descent into the Karanga Valley. A final uphill stretch leads to Karanga Camp, where you’ll rest and continue adjusting to the altitude.
Day 6: Karanga Camp to Barafu Camp
Elevation: 13,106 ft to 15,331 ft
Hiking Time: 4-5 hours
Distance: 4 km / 2 miles
Habitat: Alpine Desert
From Karanga, the route merges with the Mweka Trail before heading upwards towards Barafu Camp. This rocky, exposed terrain signals that you are now in the final stretch before the summit attempt.
Upon reaching Barafu, you’ll take time to rest, hydrate, and prepare for the grueling push to the top. From this vantage point, both Kibo and Mawenzi Peaks can be seen in the distance.
Day 7: Barafu Camp to Uhuru Peak to Barafu Camp
Barafu Camp to Uhuru Peak
Elevation: 15,331 ft to 19,341 ft
Hiking Time: 6-8 hours
Distance: 5 km / 3 miles
Habitat: Arctic
Uhuru Peak to Barafu Camp
Elevation: 19,341 ft to 15,331 ft
Hiking Time: 2-3 hours
Distance: 5 km / 3 miles
Habitat: Alpine Desert
The summit push begins in the early morning hours under a starlit sky. With each slow step, you will make your way toward Stella Point (18,900 ft), where the first golden rays of sunrise illuminate the horizon.
A final push takes you to Uhuru Peak—the highest point in Africa. Take a moment to soak in the achievement before descending back to Barafu Camp for some much-needed rest and celebration.
Day 8: Barafu Camp to Mweka Camp
Elevation: 15,331 ft to 10,065 ft
Hiking Time: 2-3 hours
Distance: 7 km / 4 miles
Habitat: Rainforest
With the summit conquered, the descent begins. The path leads directly downward through rocky terrain into the lush rainforest.
The dramatic change in environment is a welcome contrast as you make your way to Mweka Camp, your final stop before exiting the mountain.
Day 9: Mweka Camp to Mweka Gate
Elevation: 10,065 ft to 5,380 ft
Hiking Time: 3-4 hours
Distance: 10 km / 6 miles
Habitat: Rainforest
The last stretch of the journey takes you further down into the thick rainforest, where damp conditions can make the trail slippery.
Upon reaching Mweka Gate, you will receive your well-deserved summit certificate before being transferred back to Moshi for a hot shower and a well-earned rest.
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Inclusion
- Airport transfers
- Accommodation in Hotel or Lodge
- All meals during the trek (breakfast, lunch, dinner)
- Transport logistics
- Experienced mountain guides, assistant guides, and porters
- Park fees and camping fees
- Bottled water
- Camping equipment (tents, sleeping bags, sleeping mats)
- Emergency oxygen and first aid kit
Exclusion
- International flights
- Visa fees (if applicable)
- Travel insurance
- Alcoholic and non-alcoholic beverages
- Tips
- Personal trekking gear and equipment
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