Day 1 – Londorossi Gate to Shira 1 Camp

Begin your trek at Londorossi Gate (2,100m), completing registration and briefing with your guides. The trail initially passes through lush montane rainforest, alive with blue monkeys, birds, and gentle streams. The trek gradually ascends for 3–4 hours, leaving dense forest and entering open moorland. Along the way, enjoy stunning views of Kibo Peak in the distance. Arrive at Shira 1 Camp (3,500m), set up tents, and enjoy a warm meal prepared by the porters. The afternoon allows time for acclimatisation, rest, and photography, preparing your body for the gradual climb across the expansive Shira Plateau in the days ahead.

Day 2 – Shira 1 to Shira 2 Camp

Today’s hike is gentle and lasts 4–5 hours, traversing the wide, open Shira Plateau. You’ll pass giant lobelias, groundsels, and volcanic rock formations, enjoying expansive views of Kibo and Mawenzi. The plateau provides excellent acclimatisation, helping your body adjust to higher altitudes while offering peaceful hiking away from crowds. Reach Shira 2 Camp (3,850m) by early afternoon, where tents are prepared, and lunch is served. Use the afternoon to rest, explore nearby terrain, or enjoy photography of the plateau’s dramatic landscape. Guides provide information about the next stage toward Lava Tower and the alpine desert, ensuring climbers are prepared and motivated.

Day 3 – Shira 2 Camp to Moir Hut

A moderate 5–6 hour trek today leads to Moir Hut (4,200m). The trail ascends steadily across barren moorland, with occasional streams and unique alpine vegetation. Hikers enjoy panoramic views of the Shira Plateau below, and distant Kibo Peak dominates the horizon. Along the way, guides encourage acclimatisation through short hikes, helping prevent altitude sickness. Lunch is served en route, and the trail offers quiet, peaceful surroundings perfect for reflection. Arrive at Moir Hut, set up tents, and enjoy dinner while watching the sunset over Mawenzi. Evening rest prepares climbers for the challenging trek toward Lava Tower and Buffalo Camp tomorrow.

Day 4 – Moir Hut to Buffalo Camp via Lava Tower

This long day lasts 6–8 hours, ascending toward Lava Tower (4,630m). The trail crosses stark alpine desert with minimal vegetation, exposing trekkers to the high mountain’s raw beauty. Stop at Lava Tower for lunch and acclimatisation before descending to Buffalo Camp (4,100m). The descent helps the body adjust to altitude, improving summit success rates. Along the trail, enjoy breathtaking views of valleys and distant plains. Buffalo Camp provides a serene environment for resting and dinner, with dramatic mountain scenery all around. Guides advise on summit preparation, and climbers are encouraged to hydrate and eat well before the next stage.

Day 5 – Buffalo Camp to Third Cave Camp

Today is a 5–6 hour trek across the northern slopes of Kilimanjaro, providing excellent acclimatisation. The trail moves along rocky ridges and valleys, offering expansive views of Kenya’s plains and nearby peaks. Giant lobelias and senecios dot the landscape, contrasting with the barren, volcanic terrain. Arrive at Third Cave Camp (4,200m), set up tents, and enjoy lunch. The afternoon allows time for a short acclimatisation hike or rest while soaking in the dramatic scenery. Guides provide detailed briefing for the next day’s climb toward School Hut, ensuring climbers are ready for the final push toward Uhuru Peak.

Day 6 – Third Cave Camp to School Hut Camp

This 4–5 hour hike brings you higher toward School Hut Camp (4,750m), your final resting place before summit night. The trail crosses rocky alpine terrain with breathtaking views of Kibo, Mawenzi, and the surrounding highlands. Lunch is served en route, and the pace is steady to conserve energy. Upon arrival, set up tents, rest, hydrate, and have dinner early. Guides brief climbers on the midnight summit attempt, including equipment checks and pacing strategies. Sleep is essential tonight, as the summit climb will begin in darkness, testing endurance, mental strength, and physical stamina.

Day 7 – Summit Day: School Hut to Uhuru Peak, descend to Mweka Camp

Summit night begins around midnight. Trek steadily through darkness toward Gilman’s Point (5,739m) along the crater rim. As dawn breaks, push onward to Uhuru Peak (5,895m) for sunrise and breathtaking 360-degree views. Celebrate the achievement with photos and reflection before descending carefully back to School Hut for rest and breakfast. Continue descending through alpine desert and moorland, eventually reaching Mweka Camp (3,100m) for dinner and final rest. The journey concludes with a transfer to Mweka Gate (1,640m) for your summit certificate. This day marks the completion of a scenic, peaceful, and rewarding Shira Route adventure.