Day Hike Kilimanjaro Shira Plateau
What Is the Shira Plateau?
The Shira Plateau, located at 3,872 meters, is Mount Kilimanjaro’s oldest peak. Once a separate volcanic summit, it collapsed thousands of years ago, forming a broad plateau. Today, the area offers peaceful scenery, distinctive plant life, and panoramic views. It offers a chance to experience Kilimanjaro on a day hike along the renowned Lemosho Route, without a multi-day climb.
How Kilimanjaro Day Hike Begins
Your day begins with a 7:00 AM hotel pickup, where you will meet your English-speaking guide. You will then drive to Londorossi Gate, the western entrance to Mount Kilimanjaro National Park at 2,100 meters. The journey takes about 2 hours from Moshi or 2 hours and 30 minutes from Arusha, passing through scenic countryside and small villages that offer insight into daily life in Tanzania.
Upon arrival at Londorossi Gate, your guide will manage all formalities and registration with park authorities. You will have a short break before continuing. The drive then proceeds through a lush rainforest within the national park, surrounded by tall trees and dense vegetation. You will continue to Morum Barrier Gate, also known as Morum Picnic Site, located at 3,400 meters.
Wildlife You Might See
As you drive through the rainforest, watch for wildlife such as black-and-white colobus monkeys, blue monkeys, and baboons. You may also see eland, large antelopes, and dik-dik, small and very shy. Buffalo are occasionally visible, though they are more common at higher elevations. Their dung and footprints often appear along the trail as they travel to higher regions to lick salt and minerals from the rocks. It is remarkable that wild animals and humans share these trails.
The Hike Begins at Morum Picnic Site
From Morum Picnic Site, you will begin your walk toward Shira 1 Camp, Lion Gorge, and the foothills of the Shira Pinnacles. The moorland vegetation here consists of low, ground-hugging plants, providing expansive views across the plateau and toward Kilimanjaro’s peaks.
A highlight of this hike is the view of Kibo Peak, Kilimanjaro’s iconic snow-covered summit. From Morum Picnic Site, Kibo appears remarkably close, and you can also see neighboring glaciers. On clear days, you can see the peaks of Mawenzi and Shira, offering an unforgettable panorama.
Picnic Lunch on the Shira Plateau
During the hike, you will stop for a picnic lunch on the Shira Plateau. Your guide will choose a scenic spot where you can enjoy lunch while taking in panoramic views of Kilimanjaro and the surrounding landscape. This peaceful break offers an excellent opportunity to take photos and fully appreciate the experience.
Exploring the Plateau
After lunch, you will enjoy a guided walk across the Shira Plateau. Your guide will highlight notable features and local wildlife, including unique plants and birds. The plateau’s open, gentle terrain offers a comfortable experience for most fitness levels and is suitable for children, as the path is neither steep nor difficult.
Return to the Gate
In the afternoon, you will begin your descent to the gate. The downhill hike is less strenuous, allowing you to enjoy the mountain scenery. You will stop occasionally to rest and take in the views. Your guide will help you maintain a steady pace so you return by 6:00 PM. Upon arrival, your transport will be ready to take you back to your accommodation in Moshi or Arusha. You will arrive in the late afternoon or early evening, with time to reflect on the day’s experiences and the beauty of Kilimanjaro’s western slopes.
How Long Does the Hike Take?
The trek from the gate to the Shira Plateau and back to Londorossi Gate typically takes 5 to 8 hours, including hiking, rest breaks, lunch, and exploration. Actual duration varies based on your pace, weather conditions, and time spent on activities such as photography. Please ensure you return to the gate by 6:00 PM. An early start is recommended.
What to Wear and Bring
Be prepared for rapidly changing weather on Kilimanjaro. Clouds may descend from the summit with little warning. Please bring the following items:
- A small rucksack or backpack to carry your water, warm clothing, and waterproofs.
- Warm clothing, including a fleece or jacket, because it can get cold at 3,400 meters and above.
- Full waterproofs, including a rain jacket and rain pants, in case it rains.
- Sturdy walking boots or closed-toe shoes, such as trainers. The terrain can be soft and muddy in some places, so good footwear is important.
- Plenty of water and your lunchbox (provided).
- A hat, sunscreen, and sunglasses to protect you from the strong mountain sun.
- A camera to capture the incredible views.
How Much Does the Shira Day Hike Cost?
Day trip pricing varies by group size and departure location. All prices are in US dollars and include an English-speaking guide, round-trip transportation from Arusha or Moshi to Londorossi Gate, Kilimanjaro National Park entrance fees, a lunchbox, bottled water, and all program activities.
- From Moshi: Prices range from $195 per person for groups of 5 or more to $482 for a single person.
- From Arusha: Prices range from $213 per person for groups of 8 or more to $460 for a single person.
Moshi is about 83 kilometers from Londorossi Gate, a drive of about 1 hour and 46 minutes. Arusha is about 114 kilometers away, requiring a drive of roughly 2 hours and 30 minutes. If departing from Arusha, please plan to leave early to arrive by the 8:00 AM tour start time.
Shira Plateau vs. Marangu Route Day Hike
The Shira Plateau and Marangu Route day hikes are the two most popular one-day Kilimanjaro options. The Shira Plateau hike stands out for its access to the mountain’s less-crowded western side and its exceptional views of the Kibo, Mawenzi, and Shira peaks. This route is ideal for those seeking a Kilimanjaro experience without committing to a full climb.
Book Your Kilimanjaro Day Hike
The Shira Plateau day hike offers a comprehensive Mount Kilimanjaro experience in one day. The itinerary includes a drive through rainforest, opportunities to observe monkeys and other wildlife, a hike across scenic moorland, a picnic lunch with panoramic views, and a visit to the base of Kibo Peak.
This hike accommodates most fitness levels, including families with children, and costs between $213 and $482, depending on group size and starting point. For a memorable day on Africa’s highest mountain, we recommend starting early, wearing sturdy footwear, and bringing warm clothing. BOOK NOW
Day Hike Kilimanjaro Shira Plateau Photos
Prices for the Kilimanjaro Day Hike to Shira Plateau (per person)
Price Per Person (USD)
All prices include park fees, guide, porters, meals on the mountain, and 2 nights at Samora River Lodge.
| Group Size (Pax) | Price Per Person | Accommodation Type |
|---|---|---|
| 1 Solo Climber | $482 | No Accomodation |
| 2 Climbers | $299 | No Accomodation |
| 3 Climbers | $245 | No Accomodation |
| 4+ Climbers | $213 | No Accomodation |
💡 Tip: Larger groups pay less per person — invite friends and save.
⚠️ Tip: Mount Kilimanjaro Parkfees Are Subject to Change by July 2027.
What's Included & What's Not
A clear breakdown of everything covered in your Kilimanjaro trek package — and what you'll need to arrange separately.
| Price Includes | Price Excludes |
|---|---|
| Airport transfers — pick-up on arrival day, drop-off after the climb | International and local airfare |
| Pick up from your in Arusha | Local transportation before and after the climb |
| Transfers from the hotel to Londorosi Gate and from Londorosi Gate to the hotel | Personal expenses — laundry, beverages, etc. |
| Clean purified drinking water | Extra services not listed on this package |
| Proffesional Licensed Climbing Guide | Tips for the mountain crew (see our Kilimanjaro tipping guide) |
| Forest Fees | Private toilet and hot shower tent |
| Lunch boxes | Yellow fever vaccinations, COVID-19 test |
| All meals while on the mountain | Passport and visa |
| Kilimanjaro entrance fees / conservation fees | Travelers insurance (recommended: covers up to 6,000 m) |
| Kilimanjaro camping fees | Helicopter evacuation cost in high altitude (Kilimanjaro SAR) |
| Rescue fees and all taxes | Optional tours not mentioned in this itinerary |
| Salaries for porters, and guides | Tanzania Mandatory Inbound Travel Insurance — $44 per person |
| Walking sticks | |
| Oxygen saturation meter | |
| First aid kit | |
| Taxes and verified payment receipt |
Booking Process
If you’re satisfied enough with the information, you can book this tour directly, remember to confirm your booking with a deposit of 40% of the total cost per person. This is needed to secure accommodation and other services which belong to third parties.
At that point, we will issue you with an invoice that includes a balance due date. We must receive the full payment not less than thirty (30) days before the departure date.
In the case of holidays booked within less than thirty (30) days of the departure date, we must receive the full cost within seven (7) working days of our sending written confirmation and invoice.
In the case of non-payment of the balance by the due date, we reserve the right to cancel your booking and retain your deposit, as well as any other cancellation charges.
Before you do any payment don’t hesitate to discuss with your tour planner the best option. Your satisfaction is our happiness.
HOW TO MAKE PAYMENTS
Blessing Safaris Limited is a licensed Tour Operator in Tanzania, duly incorporated under the Companies Act of 2002, bearing registration number 141173960. The company’s Tax Identification Number (TIN) is 141-173-960.
Blessing Safaris Limited is recognized by the Tanzania Tourism Licensing Board (TTLB), also known as TALA, with Safari TALA No. 034220 and Mountain Climbing/Trekking TALA No. 036308.
To verify this information, please visit the official Ministry of Natural Resources and Tourism (MNRT) search and verify for “ Blessing Safaris ” and “ Blessing Safaris Limited”
If you need additional assurance or verification of our legal status, you may contact our bank (NMB Bank) to confirm our business credentials.
Upon booking, you will receive an invoice detailing the amount due and our bank account information. After payment, you will receive a paid invoice as proof of payment.
Terms and conditions
Click Here to View Terms & Conditions or download a pdf file
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the Shira Plateau day hike, and how long does it take?
How much does the Day Hike Kilimanjaro to Shira Plateau cost?
Is the Shira Plateau day hike suitable for beginners and children?
What wildlife and scenery can I see on the Shira Plateau day hike?
What should I wear and bring for the Shira Plateau day hike?
Customer Reviews
Kilimanjaro Climbing Tips
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