Mount Kilimanjaro

Looking for a taste of Mount Kilimanjaro without committing to the full summit? Our Shira Route day hike offers the perfect introduction to Africa’s highest peak. Starting from the Shira Plateau on Kilimanjaro’s western side, this one-day hike provides spectacular views, unique landscapes, and an exhilarating adventure above the clouds — all in a single unforgettable day.

Day Trip Itinerary: Arusha/Moshi – Shira Gate – Shira Plateau Hike – Arusha/Moshi Your journey begins with an early morning departure from Arusha or Moshi, heading toward Kilimanjaro National Park. Enjoy scenic views of rural Tanzania as you approach the Shira Gate (3,500 meters/11,500 feet), the starting point of your hike.

After park registration and a quick briefing, begin your guided hike across the Shira Plateau, one of Kilimanjaro’s most stunning and lesser-traveled regions. The trail winds through open moorland, dotted with giant lobelias, heathers, and unique high-altitude flora. With clear skies, you’ll have breathtaking views of Kibo Peak and the rugged Shira Cathedral formation.

This relatively easy to moderate hike allows you to acclimate and enjoy the highland terrain without the physical demands of a summit attempt. Along the way, you may spot local wildlife such as elands or klipspringers and colorful alpine birds. Pause for a picnic lunch on the plateau, surrounded by serene landscapes and panoramic mountain views. After a few hours of exploration and photography, begin your descent back to Shira Gate. Your driver will be waiting to return you to Arusha or Moshi in the late afternoon.