- 1 Days
Day 1 : Moshi to Shira Plateau
Your Shira Plateau Day Climb begins with an early morning pickup from your hotel in Moshi or Arusha, followed by a drive toward the western side of Mount Kilimanjaro and the Shira access area. After completing the required park entry and registration procedures, you will continue toward the highest point accessible by vehicle under the prevailing park and road conditions, where your professional mountain guide will brief you before beginning the hike. From here, you will walk into the spectacular Shira Plateau, one of Kilimanjaro’s most impressive high-altitude landscapes, surrounded by open moorland, volcanic rocks, giant groundsels and expansive mountain scenery. Your guide will set a comfortable pace and explain the changing vegetation, geology and natural environment as you explore the plateau. Depending on weather and visibility, you may enjoy excellent views toward Kibo, the highest volcanic cone of Kilimanjaro, as well as the surrounding plateau and distant Tanzanian landscapes. You will have time to stop for photographs, rest and enjoy your packed lunch while taking in the peaceful high-altitude surroundings. After completing your selected hiking section, you will return along the trail to the vehicle and begin the drive back toward Moshi or Arusha. Upon arrival, you will be dropped off at your hotel, marking the end of your Shira Plateau Day Climb experience.
Who Is This Hike Suitable For?
The Shira Plateau Day Climb is suitable for active travelers who want to experience the higher reaches of Mount Kilimanjaro but have limited time for a multi-day expedition. Because the hike takes place at considerably higher altitude than the lower Kilimanjaro day-hike options, it is best suited to travelers who are comfortable with strenuous walking and understand that altitude can affect people differently.
This is not a summit climb to Uhuru Peak. The purpose of the experience is to explore the Shira Plateau and enjoy Kilimanjaro’s high-altitude scenery before returning to the starting point on the same day.
What to Bring
Guests should bring comfortable hiking boots, warm layers, a waterproof jacket, hat, sunglasses, sunscreen, personal medication, a small daypack and additional snacks. Weather can change quickly at high altitude, so warm and waterproof clothing is recommended even when conditions in Moshi are warm.
