
Day Hike - Londorossi Gate To Shira Plateau
Kilimanjaro NP
Safari Overview
This one day hike to Shira Plateau is the perfect way to experience a small part of Mount Kilimanjaro. If you don’t have the desire, the time or the confidence to summit the mountain then this one day hike will be the best option for you.
Safari Itinerary
Embark on an exhilarating one-day adventure to the Shira Plateau on Mount Kilimanjaro, perfect for those seeking a taste of Africa’s highest peak without a multi-day commitment. Your journey begins early in the morning with a scenic drive from Arusha (about 2 hours 45 minutes) or Moshi (about 2 hours) to the Londorossi Gate, the entrance to Kilimanjaro National Park. The drive itself offers glimpses of diverse landscapes and local life, setting the stage for your adventure.
Upon arrival at Londorossi Gate (2,100 meters), you’ll complete the necessary paperwork before continuing to the Shira Gate at 2,385 meters. The hike begins here, leading you through lush rainforests inhabited by colobus monkeys and exotic birds. The ascent to the Shira Plateau, which takes approximately 3-4 hours, is gentle, allowing you to acclimate and enjoy the stunning views.
Traversing the expansive Shira Plateau, shaped by ancient volcanic activity, you’ll reach an elevation of 3,500 meters. This plateau offers panoramic views of Kilimanjaro’s snow-capped summit and surrounding vistas. Your knowledgeable guide will share insights about the region’s flora, fauna, and geological history.
A highlight of the hike is reaching Shira Cathedral, a dramatic volcanic cone on the plateau’s edge. Here, you’ll enjoy a well-deserved picnic lunch while soaking in the majestic scenery. The clear skies often provide breathtaking views of the Kilimanjaro summit, making for excellent photo opportunities.
After lunch, explore more of the plateau, perhaps spotting unique plant species or simply enjoying the serene environment. The return trek to Shira Gate takes approximately 2-3 hours and offers different but equally stunning views. As you descend, the changing light transforms the landscape, providing a memorable end to your hike.
This day hike to the Shira Plateau is ideal for experiencing the beauty and majesty of Kilimanjaro in a single day, offering natural beauty, cultural insights, and the thrill of exploring one of the world’s most iconic mountains.
Included:
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Professional / certified guide
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Park fees
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Picnic lunch
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All Taxes/VAT
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Bottled water
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Roundtrip airport transfer
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Binoculars
Excluded:
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International flights (from/to home)
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Additional accommodation before and at the end of the tour
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Tips (tipping guideline US$10.00 pp per day)
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Personal items (souvenirs, travel insurance, visa fees, etc.)
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Government imposed increase of taxes and/or park fees
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Alcohol drinks
Payment Terms
Deposit Payment
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Deposit is 20% of the total booking amount.
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Deposit can be paid either via a bank transfer or an online card payment.
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A 5% fee is applicable on all card payments (payment gateway charges), this is non-refundable.
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We offer bank accounts in 10 different currencies for bank transfer.
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Once you make the advance payment you will receive a booking confirmation.
Balance Payment
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Balance can be paid via bank transfer, online card payment, or with cash.
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Bank payment can be done 15 days prior to the tour date (recommended 30 days prior).
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Card Payment can be done 1 day prior to the tour date (recommended 7 days prior).
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A 5% fee is applicable on all card payments (payment gateway charge), this is non-refundable.
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Cash can be paid on arrival (USD printed in or after the year 2009).






