The Shira route approaches Kilimanjaro through forest and moorland from the west, crossing the caldera of Shira volcano and exploring the rock formations of the plateau, before traversing beneath the Southern ice fields of Kibo. We make our final ascent by the Barafu route.
Arrival from the Airport and transferred to the Hotel for Briefing and Overnight.
Drive to lemosho gate for the Short day of walking that begins from Lemosho National Park gate (1980m.) through the forest, and continue climbing steadily on a broad track through the montane rain forest to get to mti mkubwa camp site .overnight at mti mkubwa 2600m (3hrs)
A long day to help acclimatization and to explore the grassy moorland and the volcanic rock formations of the plateau. We walk to the huge buttress of rock surrounded by steep spires and pinnacles. There is a tangible sense of wilderness here (especially when the afternoon mists come in) and the views of Mt. Meru floating on the clouds are simply unforgettable overnight at shira one camp 3450m (6 hours walking)
– 1 Guide to Every 2 Climbers
– 1 Cook to every 5 climbers
– 4 Porters to every 1 climber
– Duffel Bag
– Sleeping bag
– Trekking poles
– Gaiters
A: What to Wear on Day 1 (From Park Gate to First Camp)
Day 1 is usually warm to mild — you’ll start in a rainforest zone (around 1,800 m) with temperatures
15–22°C, but it can get cooler higher up.
Clothing:
• Base Layer Top – Moisture-wicking T-shirt (avoid cotton; use synthetic or merino wool).
• Light Hiking Pants – Quick-dry and breathable.
• Light Fleece Jacket – For when it gets cooler.
• Sun Hat or Cap – For UV protection.
• Underwear & Hiking Socks – Breathable, preferably merino wool.
• Trail Shoes or Lightweight Hiking Boots – Waterproof, broken-in, with good grip.
Accessories:
• Sunglasses (for sun & dust protection)
• Lightweight gloves (optional, in case of chill)
• Gaiters (optional, but useful if the trail is muddy)
B: Day Pack (Max 8 kg)
You carry this yourself. It contains everything you need during the hike — not what you’ll only use at camp.
1) Water – 2–3 liters in bottles or hydration bladder.
2) Snacks – Energy bars, nuts, dried fruit.
3) Rain Gear – Lightweight waterproof jacket & rain pants.
4) Light Warm Layer – Small fleece or windbreaker.
5) Hat & Buff/Neck Gaiter – For sun, wind, or dust.
6) Sunscreen & Lip Balm – SPF 30+ minimum.
7) Sunglasses – If not wearing already.
8) Personal Items – Toilet paper (small roll), wet wipes, hand sanitizer.
9) Small First Aid Kit – Plasters, blister pads, personal meds.
10) Camera or Phone – Fully charged, in waterproof pouch.
11) Trekking Poles – If collapsible, attach to side when not in use.
C: Rucksack/Duffel (Max 12 kg)
Porters carry this — you access it only at camp. Pack it in a waterproof liner or dry bags.
1) Warm Jacket – Down or synthetic, with hood.
2) Base Layers – Thermal tops x 2 & bottoms x 2
3) Hiking Pants – two pairs
4) Fleece Jacket
5) Warm Hat & Gloves – For evenings/mornings.
6) Extra Socks & Underwear – Keep dry pairs for camp. x 5 pairs
7) Sleeping Bag – Rated to -10°C or lower
8) Sleeping Bag Liner – Optional, adds warmth & keeps bag clean.
9) Camp Shoes or Sandals – To rest your feet.
10) Headlamp – With spare batteries.
11) Toiletries – Toothbrush, toothpaste, biodegradable soap.
12) Towel – Small quick-dry towel.
13) Balaclava
14) Wool hat
15) Small Pillow
16) Hand warmers
17) Sleeveless Down Jacket
18) Mittens Gloves
19) Power bank (for charging phone)
20) Book, journal, or small cards for downtime
21) Extra snacks for in between and the final ascent to the summit.
