The Shira Route is a lesser-used trail on Mount Kilimanjaro that begins near Shira Ridge. It shares many similarities with the Lemosho Route and is often considered the original path, with Lemosho being a refined variation. Some climbers refer to it as the Lemosho route with a “high altitude drop-off,” reflecting its unique starting elevation and route profile. While the Shira Route is scenic and varied, it is less favored than Lemosho due to its high-altitude starting point. Climbers begin their trek quickly at over 11,800 feet (3,600 meters), which can cause mild altitude-related symptoms on the first day. Despite this, the route offers incredible landscapes and a memorable experience for those prepared for high-altitude trekking. Approaching Kilimanjaro from the west, the journey begins with a long drive from Moshi to Shira Ridge, bypassing the rainforest zone. The trek starts on Shira Ridge and crosses the entire Shira Plateau from west to east, offering a pleasant, relatively flat hike across breathtaking landscapes. The route then continues beneath Kilimanjaro’s Southern Ice Field along the Southern Circuit, before culminating in a summit via Barafu. The descent follows the Mweka Route, providing a smooth and scenic conclusion to the climb.