Day 1
The Shira route approaches Kilimanjaro through forest and mooreland
from the west, crossing the Shira volcanic caldera. We explore the
rock formations of the plateau. The route traverses beneath the
Northern ice fields of Kibo. We make our final ascent by the Western
Breach, the steepest non-technical route on the mountain and an
exciting approach to the summit. The nine day itinerary gives maximum
possible acclimatisation and there are often stunning views of Kibo
in the sharp morning and early evening light. Shira is a less-used
approach route for this reason you will have the opportunity to
enjoy the unspoilt wilderness of Shira Plateau before the convergence
with other routes in the later stages of the trip.
A long day of walking that begins from Londorosi National Park gate
(2,250 m.) through farmland and plantations. We continue climbing
steadily on a broad track through shrub forest and stands of giant
heather before reaching the rim of Shira Plateau (3,350 m.) The
views across the surrounding plains open out as we climb. This area
is home to a variety of game including buffalo. Our first camp is
in the centre of the plateau at “Shira One” (3,550 m.)
[6-8 hours walking]. Sometimes we reduce the number of hours to
(3-4 hours walking) by driving a little bit higher up when the weather
permits.
Day 2
An easy day to help acclimatisation and to explore the grassy
mooreland and the volcanic rock formations of the plateau. We walk
to the summit of Shira Cathedral (3,750 m.) if our bodies allow
and when it is clear, a huge buttress of rock surrounded by steep
spires and pinnacles. There is a tangible sense of wilderness here
(especially when the afternoon mist comes in!) and the view from
our camp near Shira Hut (3,840 m.) of Mt. Meru floating on the clouds
is simply unforgettable. [4-5 hours walking]
Day 3
We explore beneath the Northern Ice fields, an area almost totally
unvisited by tourists and with an unusual view of Kibo. The excursion
can be either a steady climb to reach the ridge above Moir Hut (4,200
m.) or a more strenuous walk to reach the summit of the Lent Hills
(4,700 m.). For the remainder of the day you are free to rest and
enjoy our peaceful campsite for a second night. [4-8 hours walking]
Day 4
A morning of steady ascent and panoramic views, leaving the Mooreland
plateau behind and proceed to lava ridges beneath the glaciers of
the Western Breach. The terrain changes to scree, with pockets of
vegetation in sheltered hollows. We keep enjoying the morning of
gentle ascent and panoramic views, leaving the moorland plateau
behind to walk on lava ridges beneath the glaciers of the Western
Breach. After lunch near the Lava Tower junction (4,550 m.) we descend
to the bottom of the Great Barranco valley (3,900 m.), sheltered
by towering cliffs and with extensive views of the plains far below.
[5-7 hours walking]
Day 5
A steep climb up the Barranco Wall leads us to an undulating trail
on the south-eastern flank of Kibo, with superb vistas of the Southern
Icefields. We camp at Karanga (4,100 m.), the last water point,
in a steep valley. The afternoone can be spend resting or exploring
the valley to help acclimatisation. [3-4 hours walking]
Day 6
A short but steep climb out of Karanga, and an easy path on compacted
scree with wide views. We then climb steadily to reach the Barafu
campsite (4,650 m.) The remainder of the day is spent resting in
preparation for the final ascent before an early night. [4-5 hours
walking]
Day 7
We will start our ascent at about 8 a.m. in the morning. This day
will take us to the crater floor by the name of “STELLA POINT”.
The path is of unrelenting steepness on loose scree with occasional
easy scrambling over rocks to reach the crater floor (5,750 m.).
From this point we climb down to the Crater Camp just beside Furtongla
Glacier (5,650 m.).
Day 8
Summit day!
We have only 800 feet to go but it won't be easy. Spare a thought
for the hikers on other routes who started their summit attempts
at midnight! It will take about one-and-a-half hours to reach Uhuru
Peak. You will not be alone - others have been arriving since 6am.
Soon you will be able to have a photo opportunity next to the famous
posted sign at the top.
But please be prepared for an aftershock - the way down is a steep,
rigorous route via Stella Point down the mountain to Barafu where
we will stop for lunch. On the way down you may pass other trekkers
who are still on the way up!
Many hikers are unprepared for this 4-hour ordeal down the slippery
slope of scree. Don't be. The sun will beat down and you will start
to curse your 4-layers of summit wear! You will sweat and eat dust
like a rodeo cowboy! At Barafu you can take a good rest before tackling
the rest of the way down. It is time to relax and think about your
experiences of the past week. The way down to Mweka camp is a comfortable
walk but rather dusty.
There are many other climbers on this trail and plenty of stories
and experiences to share. It is noisy all the way to the gate—arrival
at noon! At the gate, we are treated with a final feast of fruits
and drinks, and an opportunity to buy a few souvenirs! Then we sign
the register and gather for the presentation of our climbing certificates
by our guides.
Sadly, it is time to say goodbye to our mountain team. With their
assistance, we achieved something extraordinary! Then transfer back
to the hotel by car.
At the hotel, it is time to shower, get laundry done and take a
nap. Your room at the Lodge is reserved for late checkout - you
can relax before your flight home or new destination if you signed
up for one of our optional excursions. If you fly back home, your
driver will meet you for the transfer to the airport. Overnight
at Mweka camp at(3100 mt) 10,000 feet
Day 9
Breakfast is served at 8:00 followed by a short tipping ceremony
and we depart at 9:00am.
Today is a short but steep downhill walk through the rainforest
to the park gate.. We use our poles to prevent knee or ankle injuries
during the descending time. (downhill )all the way to the gate.
There are many other climbers on this trail and plenty of stories
and experiences to share. It is noisy all the way to the gate—arrival
at noon! At the gate, we are treated with a final feast of fruits
and drinks, and an opportunity to buy a few souvenirs! Then we sign
the register and gather for the presentation of our climbing certificates
by our guides.
Sadly, it is time to say goodbye to our mountain team. With their
assistance, we achieved something extraordinary! Then transfer back
to the hotel by car.
At the hotel, it is time to shower, get laundry done and take a
nap. Your room at the Lodge is reserved for late checkout - you
can relax before your flight home or new destination if you signed
up for one of our optional excursions. If you fly back home, your
driver will meet you for the transfer to the airport.
Note : After heavy snow or other adverse weather conditions, the
Western Breach may be impassable for trekkers. In such cases an
extremely scenic traverse beneath the Southern Icefields via the
Barranco and Karanga valleys brings us to Uhuru Peak by the Barafu
ascent route.
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white and golden sands of East Africa’s beaches are deservedly
world famous. They are soaked in sun all year round, and surrounded
by coral reef and the exotic scenery of the Indian Ocean. A rest
on a Tanzanian beach will leave you refreshed, restored and intrigued.
Walking through the narrow, twisting streets of Zanzibar’s
Stone Town plunges you into the past.
To many people tourism is confined to the wildlife destination, mountain trekking and beach relaxation. Rift Cross goes beyond the limits by taking you to experience the richest and most diverse cultures of people who follow ancient traditions –yet engaging on their own terms, with a globalizing world. Let us take you to visit these peoples, their homes and villages.