Conquer Kilimanjaro: 7-Day Shira Route with African Yellowstone Safaris

Day 1: Londorossi Gate to Mti Mkubwa Camp

• Elevation (ft): 7,742ft to 9,498ft

• Distance: 6 km

• Hiking Time: 3-4 hours

• Habitat: Rain Forest

Begin your journey at Londorossi Gate, venturing into the captivating rainforest. The trail leads to Mti Mkubwa Camp, offering a gentle introduction to Kilimanjaro’s wonders.

Day 2: Mti Mkubwa Camp to Shira 1 Camp

• Elevation (ft): 9,498ft to 11,500ft

• Distance: 8 km

• Hiking Time: 5-7 hours

• Habitat: Moorland

Ascend further into the moorland, where the landscape transforms before your eyes. Reach Shira 1 Camp, surrounded by the captivating beauty of Kilimanjaro.

Day 3: Shira 1 Camp to Shira 2 Camp

• Elevation (Ft.): 11,500ft to 12,500ft

• Distance: 7 km

• Hiking Time: 4-6 hours

• Habitat: Moorland

Continue your ascent, absorbing the stunning panoramas. Arrive at Shira 2 Camp, where the grandeur of Kilimanjaro’s landscapes unfolds.

Day 4: Shira 2 Camp to Moir Hut

• Elevation (ft.): 12,500ft to 13,800ft

• Distance: 14 km

• Hiking Time: 5-7 hours

• Habitat: Alpine Desert

Experience an exhilarating day of trekking through the alpine desert. Arrive at Moir Hut, surrounded by the rugged beauty of Kilimanjaro.

Day 5: Moir Hut to Buffalo Camp

• Elevation (ft.): 13,800ft to 13,200ft

• Distance: 12 km

• Hiking Time: 5-7 hours

• Habitat: Highland Heath

Continue your journey through the captivating heathland, taking in the striking views. Arrive at Buffalo Camp, where Kilimanjaro’s majesty continues to inspire.

Day 6: Buffalo Camp to Third Cave Camp

• Elevation (ft.): 13,200ft to 11,800ft

• Distance: 15 km

• Hiking Time: 6-8 hours

• Habitat: Moorland

Descend into the moorland, savoring the ever-changing scenery. Reach Third Cave Camp, where the allure of Kilimanjaro surrounds you.

Day 7: Third Cave Camp to School Hut

• Elevation (ft.): 11,800ft to 15,500ft

• Distance: 12 km

• Hiking Time: 6-8 hours

• Habitat: Alpine Desert

Embark on the final ascent to School Hut, a pivotal point before the summit push. Take in the awe-inspiring views, preparing for your ultimate achievement.

Day 8: School Hut to Uhuru Peak to Mweka Camp

• Elevation (ft.): 15,500ft to 19,341ft (and down to 10,065ft)

• Distance: 6 km ascent / 13 km descent

• Hiking Time: 7-9 hours ascent / 5-7 hours descent

• Habitat: Arctic / Rain Forest

Commence the exhilarating final ascent to Uhuru Peak, standing at the roof of Africa. Descend to Mweka Camp, culminating a remarkable Kilimanjaro adventure.

Day 9: Mweka Camp to Mweka Gate

• Elevation (ft): 10,065ft to 5,381ft

• Distance: 10 km

• Hiking Time: 3-4 hours

• Habitat: Rain Forest

Embark on the final leg of your Kilimanjaro journey, descending through the lush rainforest to Mweka Gate. As you traverse this enchanting terrain, reflect on the remarkable achievement of summiting Africa’s highest peak.