Shira Plateau Day Hike Itinerary

Kick-start your day with a hearty breakfast, preparing you for the awe-inspiring adventure ahead to Kilimanjaro National Park, where the iconic Mount Kilimanjaro awaits.

The scenic drive to the park, will unfold over approximately 3 hours from Arusha and 2 hours from Moshi. This journey offers a perfect opportunity to immerse yourself in the breathtaking natural beauty of the surrounding landscapes, setting the stage for the remarkable experience that lies ahead.

Your adventure commences at Londorosi Gate, situated at an altitude of 2100 meters. Following formalities, registrations, and a brief toilet break, the adventure unfolds with a drive through a lush rainforest to the Morum Barrier Gate, situated at an altitude of 3400 meters. It is from this point that your hike commences. The initial stretch, characterized by a gentle incline, may not feel overly challenging, particularly after covering approximately 7 kilometers, though the perception of difficulty may vary based on individual fitness levels.

The drive trail winds through lush forests, gradually ascending over 1000 meters (about 3281 feet) through the enchanting tropical montane forest. This rich ecosystem of Kilimanjaro’s majestic montane forest is inhabited by a diverse array of birdlife and wildlife, adding a touch of wildlife charm to the experience, along with a variety of captivating bird species, ask your drive to stop so that you take a picture of your favorite animal or bird when you see one.

The western side of Mount Kilimanjaro distinguishes itself by its lower levels of trekker traffic compared to other regions, creating a tranquil and undisturbed environment for those seeking a more secluded adventure. This makes it an optimal choice for individuals desiring a serene trekking experience. Additionally, the western regions of Kilimanjaro National Park share boundaries with Kenya’s renowned Amboseli National Park, celebrated for its rich population of big game. The close proximity to Amboseli means that the western side of Mount Kilimanjaro is occasionally graced by the presence of elephants. These majestic creatures migrate from Amboseli in search of food and water, adding a unique wildlife dimension to the trekking experience on this side of the mountain.

The focal point of this day hike is Cathedral Point on the Shira Plateau which is the oldest peak on mountain Kilimanjaro, offering a highly rewarding but challenging experience. Spanning a distance of 20 kilometers round trip and situated at an altitude of 3,872 meters, reaching Cathedral Point demands effort and endurance. The trek to this elevated destination promises breathtaking views and a sense of accomplishment, making it a memorable highlight of the Shira Plateau adventure.

As your journey unfolds through the untouched wilderness during this day hike, the allure of the surrounding scenery intensifies, revealing breathtaking vistas at every step.

Reaching an elevation of over 3,800 meters, the Shira Plateau opens up to reveal panoramic views of the surrounding landscapes and the distant peaks of Mount Kilimanjaro. Standing on this elevated plateau, you’ll be spellbound by the majestic expanse of the mountain and the vastness of the African wilderness stretching out in all directions. The Shira Plateau offers a moment of awe-inspiring contemplation, inviting trekkers to immerse themselves in the sheer opulence of the natural surroundings.

At the conclusion of the day’s trek, participants are conveniently driven back to their accommodations. This thoughtful arrangement ensures that you can fully maximize your time on the mountain without the concern of transportation logistics, allowing you to reflect on the day’s adventure and rest in comfort at your lodging.

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