The Shira Plateau is one of the most interesting and scenic on ‘Kili’. The plateau has open grassland, heath, and moorland, with a large concentration of endemic giant senecios and lobelias. There is a magnificent view of the Great Rift Valley and its many mountains, including Mt. Meru and Mt. Longido to the northwest.
Special features of the plateau include the Shira cone which rises 200 meters above the plateau, the Shira ridge on the west rising to 400 meters above the plateau, and the southern ridge with its two dramatic peaks called the ‘Cathedral’ and the ‘Needle’. Serious hiking & climbing enthusiasts will love this route.
We recommend comfortable light clothing for the day and something warmer for the evenings, which can be chilly in the northern highlands. Comfortable walking shoes are a must for those planning on walking in the parks (must be booked in advance). You will further need a hat, sunglasses and sunscreen.
You can find a more detailed list of items to take in our article "What to take on Tanzania safari?"
In short - Tanzania is absolutely safe for tourists. Tourism provides a large part of the country’s foreign income and the local authorities take matters of security very seriously. Moreover, Tanzania is one of the most politically stable countries in the region and Tanzanians are very friendly as a people.
This said, some criminality does exist, just as it does everywhere else. We, therefore, recommend that you exercise common sense and follow the rules below:
Avoid the dangerous parts of any town- these are mentioned in most books and your guide will be happy to point them out.
Do not leave your belongings unattended.
When planning to take photos in towns, it is best to bring along a guide. This is not so much in the interests of safety, but, rather to facilitate communication with the locals, who are – for cultural reasons – not always happy about being photographed and often do not speak English.
After dark it is best to avoid walking. Instead, use taxis for all your travel within town. These are best organized by your tour operator or hotel reception.
We highly recommend that you have your travel insurance regardless of what foreign country you may be visiting. If you are planning a Kilimanjaro climb, make sure that climbing emergencies are covered in your policy at height no less than 6,000 meters. If necessary your Tour Manager will assist with purchasing such insurance.
This day is optional. After being picked up from the airport, shuttle or border you will be transferred to Kili Platinum Homes.
Leave Arusha at 8:00 am for Londrosi gate and complete the necessary arrangements before driving onto Mto. Simba. Supper & overnight at Mto. Simba Camp.
After breakfast trek to Shira Camp. Supper & overnight.
After breakfast trek to Baranco Camp passing Karanga Valley. Supper & overnight.
After breakfast trek to Barafu Camp and at midnight set off for the summit of Africa at 5895m. To watch the sun rise over Africa.
From the summit descend to Rau Camp. Supper & overnight at Kidia Camp.
After breakfast continue down to Kidia Gate where you will be picked up and transferred to Arusha or Moshi.
You will be transferred to the airport shuttle or border (optional).
The Shira Plateau is one of the most interesting and scenic on 'Kili'. The plateau has open grassland, heath, and moorland, with a large concentration of endemic giant senecios and lobelias. There is a magnificent view of the Great Rift Valley and its many mountains, including Mt. Meru and Mt. Longido to the northwest.
Special features of the plateau include the Shira cone which rises 200 meters above the plateau, the Shira ridge on the west rising to 400 meters above the plateau, and the southern ridge with its two dramatic peaks called the 'Cathedral' and the 'Needle'. Serious hiking & climbing enthusiasts will love this route.
