The Shira Route on Kilimanjaro: A Hidden Gem Worth Discovering
Hiking the Shira Route up Kilimanjaro is one of the best ways to summit the Roof of Africa.
Mount Kilimanjaro, the highest mountain in Africa, is a dream destination for many hikers and trekkers. With its diverse landscapes, cultural experiences, and the sense of accomplishment that comes with reaching the summit, it's no wonder that thousands of people attempt to climb this mountain every year. However, with several routes to choose from, it can be difficult to know which one is the best for you. Let us walk you through the benefits of hiking the Shira Route up Kilimanjaro versus the other routes available.
The Shira Route is one of the lesser-known routes up Kilimanjaro, but it offers many benefits over the more popular routes. One of the biggest advantages of the Shira Route is the lower altitude gain. Unlike the Machame Route or the Marangu Route, the Shira Route starts at a higher elevation, which means that hikers have more time to acclimatize to the altitude. This can make a big difference for those who are prone to altitude sickness. Our local Tanzania guides allocate enough time on our trip for the team to acclimatize in the region before starting off on the summit trek. This provides a much higher summit success rate!
Another benefit of the Shira Route is the scenery. The Shira Route takes hikers through beautiful alpine meadows, forests, and even a desert-like environment. The route also offers stunning views of the western breach and the Shira Plateau, which are not visible from the other routes.
The Shira Route also offers a more remote and wild experience. Unlike the Marangu Route, which is often crowded, the Shira Route is less traveled and offers a more secluded and intimate experience with nature. This makes it a great option for those who want to escape the crowds and enjoy a more authentic hiking experience.
Lastly, the Shira Route is a great option for those who want to support the local community. The route passes through the Shira Conservancy, which is a community-based conservation area that is managed by the local Maasai people. By choosing to hike the Shira Route, hikers are supporting the local community and helping to preserve this unique and fragile environment.
Hiking the Shira Route up Kilimanjaro offers many benefits over the more popular routes. With its lower altitude gain, stunning scenery, remote and wild experience, and the opportunity to support the local community, the Shira Route is a great option for those who want to summit the roof of Africa.