8-Day Shira Route Kilimanjaro Group Tour 2025–2026

The 8-Day Shira Route Kilimanjaro Climb is one of the most scenic and rewarding trekking experiences on the mountain. Starting at the Shira Plateau (3,500m) on Kilimanjaro’s western side, this route showcases dramatic landscapes, from rolling moorlands and volcanic ridges to the lush Barranco Valley and high alpine deserts. The 8-day itinerary provides the best acclimatization profile, allowing climbers more time to adjust to the altitude and greatly increasing the chances of reaching Uhuru Peak (5,895m).

For the 2025–2026 climbing season, Macpace Tours & Safaris offers group expeditions via the Shira Route, designed for travelers who want affordability, camaraderie, and expert guidance in one package. Trekking in a group gives you the motivation of shared experiences while our professional guides, skilled porters, and dedicated cooks ensure comfort, safety, and a successful summit.

The Shira Route is less crowded than the more popular Machame or Marangu routes, making it a top choice for those seeking a quieter, more immersive climb. With breathtaking scenery and excellent acclimatization days, the 8-Day Shira Route group climb is one of the most reliable and enjoyable ways to stand at the “Roof of Africa” in 2025–2026.

Detailed 8-Day Shira Route Itinerary – Kilimanjaro Climb (2025–2026)

The 8-Day Shira Route is one of the most scenic and well-paced ways to climb Mount Kilimanjaro. Beginning high on the Shira Plateau (3,500m), this itinerary allows for a slower ascent with additional acclimatization time, making it one of the most successful summit options for trekkers.

Day 0: Arrival in Moshi

Arrive at Kilimanjaro International Airport (JRO), where your Macpace Tours & Safaris representative will meet you and transfer you to your hotel in Moshi. After a detailed pre-climb briefing and equipment check, enjoy dinner and rest before your mountain adventure begins.

Day 1: Shira Gate (3,500m) – Shira Camp 1 (3,610m)

Begin your trek at Shira Gate, crossing the vast Shira Plateau with its wide-open views of Kibo Peak. The relatively gentle terrain offers an excellent introduction to the trek. Overnight at Shira Camp 1.

• Hiking time: 4–5 hours

• Distance: ~7 km

Day 2: Shira Camp 1 – Shira Camp 2 (3,850m)

Continue hiking across the plateau with impressive views of Kilimanjaro’s volcanic formations. This short trek is deliberately designed to support acclimatization. Overnight at Shira Camp 2, with beautiful vistas of both Kibo and Mawenzi Peaks.

• Hiking time: 3–4 hours

• Distance: ~6 km

Day 3: Shira Camp 2 – Lava Tower (4,630m) – Moir Hut (4,200m)

Ascend gradually to the Lava Tower (4,630m) for important acclimatization before descending slightly to Moir Hut. This day follows the “climb high, sleep low” strategy, giving your body valuable time to adapt to altitude.

• Hiking time: 6–7 hours

• Distance: ~10 km

Day 4: Moir Hut – Barranco Camp (3,976m)

The trail traverses ridges with sweeping views of the northern plains before descending into the lush Barranco Valley, filled with giant groundsels and unique vegetation. Overnight at the scenic Barranco Camp.

• Hiking time: 5–6 hours

• Distance: ~7 km

Day 5: Barranco Camp – Karanga Camp (3,995m)

Today begins with a climb up the iconic Barranco Wall, a thrilling scramble that rewards trekkers with panoramic views. The trail continues through ups and downs across ridges and valleys to Karanga Camp.

• Hiking time: 4–5 hours

• Distance: ~6 km

Day 6: Karanga Camp – Barafu Camp (4,673m)

Hike steadily to Barafu Camp, your final base before summit night. The camp sits on a ridge beneath the summit cone, offering dramatic views of both Mawenzi and Kibo. Spend the afternoon preparing for the challenging midnight ascent.

• Hiking time: 4–5 hours

• Distance: ~8 km

Day 7: Barafu Camp – Uhuru Peak (5,895m) – Mweka Camp (3,100m)

Your summit attempt begins at midnight, climbing steep switchbacks under the stars. After reaching Stella Point (5,739m), continue to the roof of Africa: Uhuru Peak (5,895m). Celebrate your success with breathtaking sunrise views before descending to Mweka Camp for overnight.

• Hiking time: 10–14 hours

• Distance: ~18 km

Day 8: Mweka Camp – Mweka Gate (1,640m) – Moshi

Descend through the lush rainforest zone, alive with birdlife and monkeys. At Mweka Gate, receive your official Kilimanjaro summit certificates before being transferred back to Moshi for a hot shower, rest, and a celebratory dinner.

• Hiking time: 3–4 hours

• Distance: ~10 km

✨ Highlights of the 8-Day Shira Route:

• Maximum acclimatization time for higher summit success

• Expansive trekking across the Shira Plateau

• Challenging yet rewarding Barranco Wall climb

• Balanced pace ideal for trekkers seeking a safer, less rushed ascent

Inclusions

✔ Professional English-speaking guides, porters & cooks
✔ 2 hotel nights in Moshi (before & after climb)
✔ All meals during the trek (breakfast, lunch, dinner)
✔ Camping equipment (tents, dining tent, tables, chairs)
✔ Kilimanjaro National Park fees & permits
✔ Rescue fees & government taxes
✔ Airport transfers

Exclusions

✘ International flights & visa fees
✘ Travel/medical insurance (mandatory)
✘ Personal trekking gear (boots, sleeping bag, clothing)
✘ Tips for guides, porters & cooks
✘ Additional hotel nights or personal expenses

Why Choose the 8-Day Shira Route with Macpace Tours & Safaris?

The 8-Day Shira Route offers one of the highest summit success rates thanks to its excellent acclimatization profile. It is ideal for climbers who want the best chance of success, breathtaking scenery, and a quieter trail compared to other popular routes.

At Macpace Tours & Safaris, we specialize in affordable, well-organized group tours where safety, comfort, and teamwork come first. Climbing in a group not only reduces costs but also builds lifelong friendships through shared triumphs and challenges.

👉 Don’t wait, secure your spot on the 8-Day Shira Route Group Tour (2025–2026) today and take the first step toward conquering Kilimanjaro with a team of passionate adventurers!