What You Need to Know: The Shira Plateau day hike drives from Moshi or Arusha to Londorossi Gate on Kilimanjaro's western side, then up a 4x4 track to the edge of the Shira Plateau at about 11,200–11,800 ft (3,400–3,600 m). From there you walk with a licensed guide across the moorland, among giant groundsels and with views of Kibo, for about 3–4 hours. It costs US$245 per person, with the 4x4, guide, park fees and a packed lunch included. It is a long day, with an early start, and the altitude is higher than on any other day hike.
What Is the Shira Plateau?
The plateau is what remains of Shira, the oldest of Kilimanjaro's three volcanic cones, which collapsed long ago into a wide, flat caldera. Today it is open heath and moorland, dotted with giant groundsels and lobelias, with rock formations such as the Shira Cathedral on its rim. The Lemosho and Shira climbing routes cross it, but a day visitor sees the same landscape without committing to a climb.
The Walk on the Plateau
Your guide chooses the walk to suit the group and the weather. Most guests walk for about 3–4 hours on a clear trail across the moorland, gaining a little height, towards the Shira Cathedral area or the Shira 2 camp, then return to the vehicle. On clear mornings Kibo's ice fields fill the view to the east, and Mount Meru rises to the west. The walking is not steep, but the thin air makes it harder than it looks.
How the Shira Plateau Day Runs
It is the longest of our day hikes because of the drive:
| Time | What happens |
|---|---|
| Early morning | Pickup in Moshi or Arusha, usually around 6:00, and the drive west around the mountain |
| Mid-morning | Registration at Londorossi Gate, then the 4x4 track up through the forest to the plateau |
| Late morning | Walk on the plateau with your guide |
| Lunch | Packed lunch with a view of Kibo |
| Afternoon | Walk back to the vehicle and drive down |
| Evening | Back at your hotel |
Altitude on the Shira Plateau Day Hike
You start walking at about 11,200–11,800 ft (3,400–3,600 m), higher than the summit of most mountains in the Alps, after arriving from low ground the same morning. Mild headaches and breathlessness are common; walk slowly, drink plenty and tell your guide how you feel, and the guide turns back if anyone feels unwell. It is not suitable for people with heart or lung conditions, pregnant women or young children. For a lower day on the mountain, choose our Kilimanjaro day hike through the rainforest at Marangu.
Shira Plateau Hike or Kilimanjaro Rainforest Day Hike?
Both are day hikes inside Kilimanjaro National Park, at the same price, but they are very different days:
| Shira Plateau | Marangu rainforest | |
|---|---|---|
| Landscape | Open moorland, giant groundsels, views of Kibo | Rainforest with monkeys, to Mandara Hut |
| Highest point | About 11,800–12,500 ft (3,600–3,800 m) | About 8,900 ft (2,720 m) |
| Drive from Moshi | Long: 3–4 hours each way | About 1 hour each way |
| Walking | 3–4 hours, gentle but at altitude | 5–7 hours, steady climb |
| Price | US$245 | US$245 |
How Much Does the Shira Plateau Day Hike Cost?
US$245 per person, from Moshi or Arusha. Included:
- Private 4x4 vehicle with driver, from your hotel and back
- A licensed Kilimanjaro guide
- Kilimanjaro National Park fees and registration
- Packed lunch and bottled water
Not included: tips. The park fees are set by the government; see Kilimanjaro park fees.
A Taste of the Mountain Before You Climb
The plateau is a good preview for anyone deciding whether to climb Kilimanjaro, and a useful day of altitude for climbers before a climb on another mountain. If it leaves you wanting more, the 7-day Lemosho Route crosses the same plateau on its way to the summit; see all our Kilimanjaro climbing packages.
What to Bring for the Shira Plateau
It can be sunny and cold at the same time on the plateau, and the weather changes quickly:
- Warm layers: a fleece and a windproof jacket
- Hiking boots or sturdy shoes
- Hat, sunglasses and high-factor sunscreen
- A rain jacket
- Snacks and a camera
When Is the Best Time for the Shira Plateau Hike?
The dry months, from late June to October and from January to early March, give the clearest views and the easiest track. In the long rains (April and May) the forest track can be muddy and clouds often hide Kibo; we tell you honestly if a date isn't worth it.
Common Questions About the Shira Plateau Day Hike
Short answers to the questions our guests ask us most often:
How high is the Shira Plateau?
The walk starts at about 11,200–11,800 ft (3,400–3,600 m) and can reach about 12,500 ft (3,800 m).
Is the Shira Plateau hike hard?
The walking is gentle, but you are at high altitude after a morning drive from low ground, so it feels harder than it looks.
Do I need to be acclimatized?
No, but walk slowly and drink plenty. Your guide turns back if anyone feels unwell.
Can I see Kibo from the Shira Plateau?
Yes, on clear days, especially in the morning.
How long is the drive?
About 3–4 hours each way from Moshi or Arusha, so pickup is early, usually around 6:00.
Should You Book the Shira Plateau Day Hike?
Book it if you want to stand high on Kilimanjaro, among giant groundsels and in full view of the summit glaciers, without a week-long climb, and you don't mind a long day in the vehicle. For a shorter day, choose the rainforest Kilimanjaro day hike.
How to Book the Shira Plateau Day Hike
Send us your date, where you are staying and the number of travelers (with children's ages) through the form, on WhatsApp +255 678 992 599 or by email to jaynevytours@gmail.com. We reply with a written quotation. Our team in Moshi confirms the pickup time the evening before.