Lemosho Route Day Trip: Hike to Shira Plateau on Mount Kilimanjaro
Difficulty
moderate
Duration
6–8 hours (including transport)
Fitness Level
Moderate fitness required: regular hikers with good cardio will be comfortable, but expect short steep sections at altitude.
Overview
In a single long day from Arusha you cross rainforest, meet colobus monkeys, and stand on the wind-cut Shira Plateau with Kibo’s icefields looming above. The Lemosho Route Day Trip condenses Kilimanjaro’s variety into a hike that’s scenic, practical, and guided for safety.
Lemosho Route Day Trip: Hike to Shira Plateau on Mount Kilimanjaro
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The day begins before dawn in Arusha, when a minivan slides through quiet streets toward the western flank of Kilimanjaro. As the road climbs, clouds peel away from the peak and rainforest walls close in — trees lean like old guides, and colobus monkeys skitter through the canopy as if testing the day. Within an hour you’re at the trailhead; a Suricata Safaris guide checks gear and briefs the group, then leads the slow, measured climb into the forest.
Adventure Photos
Adventure Tips
Acute altitude awareness
The hike reaches ~3,500 m; ascend at a measured pace, hydrate constantly, and tell your guide immediately if you feel nausea, severe headache, or dizziness.
Wear sturdy, closed-toe shoes
Expect muddy forest trails and loose volcanic rock on the plateau—trail runners or mid-weight hiking boots with good tread are best.
Bring at least 2–3 liters of water
There are no reliable water points above the forest; carry a hydration bladder or bottles and use electrolyte tablets if you sweat heavily.
Start early and protect from sun
Departures are pre-dawn; daytime at high elevation is bright—use sunscreen, sunglasses, and a brimmed hat even if it’s cool.
Local Insights
Wildlife
- Black-and-white colobus monkey
- Rock hyrax and assorted highland birds
History
Shira is the oldest of Kilimanjaro’s cones and today exists as an eroded plateau; local Chagga communities and early European explorers used these passes long before modern routes were formalized.
Conservation
Kilimanjaro National Park manages trails and limits group sizes to minimize erosion and habitat disturbance; visitors are encouraged to follow Leave No Trace principles and support local operators who employ community guides.
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Adventure Hotspots in Arusha
Frequently Asked Questions
Recommended Gear
Sturdy hiking shoes or boots
Protects ankles on rooty forest trails and provides traction on loose volcanic rock.
Layered clothing + windproof jacket
Temperatures change rapidly between rainforest and plateau—layers and windproof shells keep you comfortable.
Hydration system (2–3 L)
High elevation and exertion increase fluid needs; a bladder makes sipping easier on steep sections.
Sun protection (hat, sunglasses, sunscreen)
Solar radiation intensifies with altitude—protect skin and eyes even on cool days.