Walk across ancient lava flows on Kilimanjaro’s remote Shira Plateau — big skies, big views and a taste of altitude.
The Shira Plateau is a vast volcanic shelf on Kilimanjaro’s western flank, sitting at around 3,500–4,000 m. It is the remnant of an ancient collapsed crater, and today it offers open moorland, unusual giant lobelias and groundsel, and uninterrupted views back toward the snowy Kibo summit.
Because it sits high, this day hike is a superb acclimatisation option for anyone preparing to climb Kilimanjaro — and a spectacular destination in its own right. A licensed guide, park fees, transport and a picnic lunch make it an unforgettable full day on the mountain.
It is also far quieter than the southern trailheads, so you can enjoy the high moorland and lava ridges in near solitude. The long approach and altitude make for a big day out, but a gentle pace, frequent stops and an experienced guide keep it within reach of most reasonably fit walkers.
Spend the day above 3,500 m — an ideal test of how your body handles altitude before a summit attempt.
See Kilimanjaro’s strange high-altitude plants — giant lobelias and groundsel — up close.
On clear days the snowy peak of Kibo fills the horizon — a photographer’s dream.
Walk across black lava ridges and open moorland shaped by prehistoric eruptions.
A private, guided day built around Shira Plateau Hike.
Full day (9–10 hours) door to door: your guide collects you from Moshi, with 6 planned stops along the way and no other group to keep pace with.
The timings below are indicative. They flex with your start time, the season, and how long you want to linger at any stop.
Leave Moshi before dawn for the long drive around to the Londorossi or Shira gate on the western side.
Register at the park gate and begin hiking onto the plateau with your guide.
Cross open moorland and lava ridges, stopping often for photos and to acclimatise gradually.
Enjoy a packed lunch at a scenic spot with views toward Kibo before turning back.
Retrace your steps to the gate, watching the landscape change with the lowering sun.
Drive back to Moshi, arriving in the evening after a big day at altitude.
Times are indicative. Your guide adjusts pick-up, stop lengths and pacing to your group, the season and road or trail conditions.
The day is private. Re-order the stops, add time wherever you like, or trade a visit for something else entirely.
Every experience is private, so the price per person falls as your group grows.
| Group size | 1 PAX Solo rate | 2 PAX | 3 PAX | 4 PAX | 5 PAX | 6 PAX | 7+ PAX Ask us |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Price per person | US$326 | US$210 | US$189 | US$176 | US$168 | US$160 | Ask us |
| Total for the group | US$326 | US$420 | US$567 | US$704 | US$840 | US$960 | Ask us |
Rates are in US dollars and cover the whole private experience — your guide, the vehicle and transfers, and every park, entry or activity fee listed above. Your written quote follows your dates and final plan; groups of seven or more are always priced individually.
The Shira Plateau is reached via the Shira or Londorossi gate on Kilimanjaro’s western side, a longer drive from Moshi than the southern gates. The reward is a quieter, wilder side of the mountain.
The plateau sits at 3,500–4,000 m, so mild altitude effects are possible. Your guide will pace the hike and monitor how you feel. Tell them immediately if you feel unwell.
Yes — it is an excellent acclimatisation day and a chance to test your boots, layers and tolerance before a full expedition.
Around 4–5 hours at a slow, steady pace with frequent stops. Good fitness helps but the pace is gentle.
Tell us your dates and travel style. Our local team in Moshi will slot the Shira Plateau Hike into your itinerary — free, with no obligation.
