Shira Route: A Scenic but Challenging

If you’re looking for a less crowded, visually stunning, and adventurous way to summit Mount Kilimanjaro, the Shira Route might just be your wild card. Often overshadowed by its more popular sibling, the Lemosho Route, Shira offers a similar experience. Still, with a twist: it starts high, skipping the rainforest zone and jumping straight into the alpine meadows.

While that makes for jaw-dropping views right from the get-go, it also means less acclimatization time in the early days. So, is the Shira Route worth it? Let’s unpack everything you need to know before taking this high-altitude highway to the Roof of Africa.

What is the Shira Route?

The Shira Route begins on the western side of Kilimanjaro and follows much of the same trail as the Lemosho Route after the first day or two. What makes Shira different and more challenging is that the trail starts at a much higher altitude (around 3,500 meters) due to a vehicle transfer directly to the Shira Gate.

Key Shira Route Facts:

• Trail Type: Western approach, merges with Lemosho and Machame

• Distance: ~58 km (36 miles)

• Duration: 7 to 8 days

• Start Altitude: ~3,500 meters (vs. 2,100m for Lemosho)

• Success Rate: ~85% (higher with 8-day itinerary)

Is the Shira Route Difficult?

Yes, and not because of steep inclines or technical sections. The real challenge is that it starts high. Beginning at 3,500 meters means your body doesn’t get a slow warm-up like it would on Lemosho or Machame.

This rapid altitude exposure increases the risk of altitude sickness, especially on shorter itineraries.

Shira Route is ideal for:

• Experienced trekkers with previous high-altitude exposure

• Trekkers in very good physical condition

• Those looking for a scenic but less crowded experience

Pros and Cons of the Shira Route

Pros:

• ✅ Stunning scenery from day one

• ✅ Joins the beautiful Lemosho trail after Day 1

• ✅ Fewer trekkers less traffic overall

• ✅ High success rate (on 8-day option)

Cons:

• ❌ Starts at high elevation riskier acclimatization

• ❌ Skips the rainforest zone entirely

• ❌ Long drive to trailhead (can take up most of the day)

• ❌ More expensive due to logistics and remoteness