Shira Plateau landscape

The Shira Route Legacy

The Shira Route, one of Kilimanjaro's most scenic paths, crosses the vast Shira Plateau, a collapsed volcanic caldera. Historically used by local communities for grazing, it offers a unique high-altitude experience with sweeping views of the mountain and plains.

Did you know?

The Shira Plateau is one of the largest high-altitude plateaus in the world, formed over 500,000 years ago. It's a UNESCO World Heritage Site, recognized for its unique geological and ecological significance.

Shira Plateau Experience

Explore the high alpine plateau with stunning views and varied terrain.

Shira Plateau

Reach the Shira Plateau and enjoy panoramic views, picnic lunch and high-alpine landscapes.

Shira Plateau landscape

Cathedral Point

Optional hike to Cathedral Point for 360° views of Kilimanjaro and surrounding plains.

Cathedral Point view

Lunch on the Plateau

Packed picnic lunch served on the plateau with mountain views.

Lunch on Shira Plateau

Detailed Itinerary

07:30 AM - Hotel Pickup

Morning collection from your Moshi hotel. Enjoy a scenic 3-hour drive to Londorosi Gate on Kilimanjaro's western side.

10:30 AM - Registration at Londorosi Gate

Complete park formalities at Londorosi Gate. Final gear check before the hike.

11:00 AM - Arrive at Morrum Barrier

Drive 30-40 minutes from Londorosi Gate to Morrum Barrier (3,400m).

01:00 PM - Reach Shira Plateau (3,600m)

Hike 4 km (1.5-2 hours) to the Shira Plateau. Enjoy lunch with stunning views of Kilimanjaro's alpine landscape.

Optional: Hike to Cathedral Point (3,972m)

For an extra challenge, hike 4 km (2-3 hours) to Cathedral Point for breathtaking 360° vistas of Kilimanjaro and the plains.

03:00 PM - Begin Descent

Descend 1.5-2 hours from the Shira Plateau to Morrum Barrier, enjoying different perspectives of the landscape.

06:00 PM - Return to Moshi

Drive back to Moshi from Morrum Barrier, arriving at your hotel by evening.

Pricing Options

From $200 to $300 per person

Solo Hiker

$300

  • Private guide
  • Personalized pace
POPULAR

Small Group

$250/person

  • 2-5 hikers
  • Great for friends/family

Large Group

$200/person

  • 6+ hikers
  • Best value
Book Your Hike Now

Select your group size during booking

All Options Include

  • Professional mountain guide
  • National park fees
  • Round-trip transfers
  • Meals & drinking water

Shira Route FAQs

Answers to common questions about this day hike

How difficult is the hike?

The Shira Route day hike is rated moderate to challenging:

  • 8-10 hours total hiking time
  • 200m elevation gain to Shira Plateau (optional 572m to Cathedral Point)
  • High-altitude terrain with some rocky sections

Tip: Fit hikers comfortable with longer walks can manage this hike

What's the weather like?

The Shira Plateau has cooler temperatures and variable conditions:

Temperatures

5-20°C (41-68°F)

Rainfall

Moderate, especially in wet seasons

Waterproof gear recommended year-round

What wildlife might we see?

The Shira Plateau's alpine zone has limited but unique wildlife:

  • Small mammals like rock hyraxes
  • Raptors such as eagles and buzzards
  • Rare sightings of antelope species

Photography Tip:

Bring a zoom lens for distant wildlife shots

How should I prepare?

Recommended preparation:

Footwear

Sturdy hiking boots

Clothing

Layered, windproof

No technical gear required - we provide all necessary equipment

What to Bring

Clothing

  • Sturdy hiking boots with ankle support
  • Layered clothing (temperatures vary widely)
  • Windproof and waterproof jacket
  • Warm hat and gloves (plateau can be chilly)

Equipment

  • Daypack (25-35L recommended)
  • 2-3 liters of water capacity
  • High SPF sunscreen and lip balm
  • Camera with extra batteries