Overview
Looking for an unforgettable adventure that will push you to your limits? Look no further than the Kilimanjaro Trek on the Shira Barafu Route! The Shira Barafu Route is a challenging and rewarding trek that will take you through some of the most breathtaking scenery on the planet. From the lush rainforests and heathlands to the rugged alpine desert and snow-capped peaks, you'll experience it all on this incredible journey. As you ascend Kilimanjaro, you'll be accompanied by experienced guides and porters who will ensure your safety and comfort every step of the way. You'll also have the opportunity to interact with the local Maasai people, learning about their fascinating culture and way of life.
The Shira Barafu Route is a less crowded and more scenic alternative to the popular Machame and Marangu Routes. With its gradual ascent and stunning vistas, it offers a more relaxed and enjoyable trekking experience. Plus, you'll have the chance to summit Kilimanjaro at sunrise, an experience that will stay with you for a lifetime. So what are you waiting for? Book your Kilimanjaro Trek on the Shira Barafu Route today and get ready to experience the adventure of a lifetime!
Itinerary
Shira Barafu Route - 8 days
Duration 8 days
Difficulty Challenging
Day 0
Briefing on the climb
Today you will familiarize yourself with the guides and fellow members of your group. Our adventure specialist will conduct a trip briefing and review your equipment. They will explain every step of the climb and check that you have all the proper gear for climbing the mountain.
Day 1
Forest Camp 9,000ft 3-4 hrs hike
After breakfast we drive to the western side of Mount Kilimanjaro where you sign in at the Londorosi Gate. You get a climbing permit. We will drive to Lemosho trail where you find your climbing crew ready and waiting to start the climb. The Trip Leader will tell exactly what to expect each day, weather-wise, the nature of the trail and the wildlife that you will grow to know so well. Please ask any question about any special features that might interest you. The hike will take approximately 3 to 4 hours before you wind up and camp at the Forest Camp (9,200 feet). As the name suggest the camp located in a dense forest zone of Mount Kilimanjaro.
Day 2
Shira I Camp (11,500ft 6-7 hrs hike)
This morning we leave the camp just after breakfast and ascend to Shira Camp which is located at the heather zone along the Shira Caldera. The hike will take about 2 to 3 hours before we get out of the forest zone. We press ahead into the heather zone, where we stop for lunch. Next we wind up the day by traversing the Shira Ridge and camp in the Shira Caldera with its dramatic views of Kibo peak. The land here looks like savanna grassland with beautiful views of the bushes which grow into the ‘colony’ form to resist the cold weather as well as wind. In a clear sky at the night you can see a dramatic views of stars which occupy the whole sky and fabulous views of the Southern Cross. We have climbed for about 6 to 7 hours today. It is very common to hear some Jackals barking in the night as well as seeing Buffalo, Eland, Serval Cats and other magnificent animals during your hike.
Day 3
Moir Camp 13,800ft 4 hrs hike)
Today we hike for about 4 hours across the Shira Caldera towards the Western side of the Kibo Volcanic Massive. This is a day you will be able to ‘touch the clouds.’ Camping at the Moir Camp is a wonderful opportunity! If the weather permits, you will have a panoramic view towards the Rift Valley and the heart of Africa. Moir Camp is located at the transition zone between the heather and Moorland, the only place you can see the higher altitude plants like the Giant Ground Sells and Lobelia. As you get up this higher, you will find that most of the plants cannot compete with the weather. You will understand why!
Day 4
Barranco Camp 13,200ft 6-8 hrs hike
Today is another acclimatization day. We will hike to elevation of 15,000 feet before descending to our camp. The hiking time is between 6 to 8 hours. We will pass by Lava Tower; you will have the opportunity to climb. This area will be your first introduction to alpine zone where the only plant life is the heartiest of grass and lichens. You ascend through the moorlands to alpine desert zone. You will climb slowly.
Day 5
Barafu Camp (15,100ft 2-3 hrs hike)
We continue hiking through rolling hills as we gradually approach Barafu. The hiking may take between 2 and 3 hours. We are going to climb slowly and slowly and slowly, like snails. Drink plenty of water, tea and small snacks. Keep breathing and keep moving. After an early dinner, we will rest. Dinner and accommodation will be at Barafu Camp at 15,100fts.
Day 6
Crater (18,500ft 6-8 hrs hike)
At 06:00 am you will begin ascent to Crater Camp elevated at 18,500 feet above the sea level. The hike is challenging today. You will climb through a strenuous walk and a bit of rock scrabbling. Though difficult, it is entirely 'doable' and not a technical climb. You get to StellaPoint at 19,000 feet before you descent to Crater Camp for dinner and overnight.
Day 7
Mweka Camp (10,000ft, 5-7 hrs hike)
At 06:00 you will begin ascent to Uhuru Peak. You are going to complete some serious achievements and goals. Hiking for one and half hours from the Crater camp will bring your life into perspective, when you stand on the top of the highest free standing mountain in the world, 19,340 feet above the sea level. The weather will tell you how long you are going to spend on the top of Africa for taking pictures and rolling up your trip. From the summit will take you 2 to 3 hrs hike and have a short stop for lunch around Barafu camp(15'100 feet) and proceed for 3 to 4 hrs and make to Mweka Camp (10,000fts) where you are going to spend your last night on Kilimanjaro and have your victory celebration after the climb!
Day 8
Exit Mweka Gate ( 3-4 hrs hike)
Today is our last hike. It will take between 3 to 4 hours. We will descent to Mweka Gate. The hike is steep in some places and may be slippery if it is a wet day. Please use trekking poles. For those of you who will return home, we shall say Goodbye for those who would like to see more of Tanzania, it will be a pleasure to take you in some of the most amazing national parks or would you like a relaxing time on the spice island of Zanzibar, we could also arrange for that.
