Highlights
- Experience Mount Kilimanjaro in one unforgettable day without summiting
- Hike to the Oldest peak of Mount Kilimanjaro - Cathedral point
- Enjoy panoramic views of Kilimanjaro’s peaks and open alpine scenery
- Hike with professional mountain guides throughout the day
- Spot colobus monkeys, tropical birds and unique vegetation along the trails
Description
Karibu! Join us for a day trek across the ancient Shira Plateau, one of Mount Kilimanjaro’s most spectacular high-altitude landscapes. This trek is for travelers who want to experience Africa’s highest peak without spending days on the mountain, this private excursion takes you far above the tree line to Cathedral Point at 12,700 feet (3,870 meters) above sea level.
Your journey begins early in the morning with private pickup from your hotel in Arusha or Moshi or directly upon arrival at Kilimanjaro International Airport (JRO). We head toward the western side of the mountain, driving through local villages and lush countryside to enter Kilimanjaro National Park via the Londorossi Gate.
Once we cross into the moorland zone, the landscape opens into the high-altitude Shira Caldera—a ancient volcanic crater created millions of years ago. Walking along open alpine trails, your local mountain guide will share rich insights into the mountain's unique geology, endemic flora like giant lobelias and senecios, and local Chagga culture.
The highlight of the trek is reaching Cathedral Point, a dramatic rock formation on the edge of the plateau. From here, you will enjoy panoramic views of Kibo Peak's glaciers and the vast Tanzanian plains below. We pause at the ridge to enjoy a picnic lunch surrounded by pure alpine silence.
After taking in the views and capturing photos, we begin our steady descent pole pole (slowly and comfortably) back to the trailhead, returning you smoothly to your hotel by evening.
Detailed Itinerary Breakdown
Morning Pickup & Scenic Drive: Early pickup from your Arusha or Moshi hotel (or airport) in a private air-conditioned vehicle at 06:00 AM
National Park Gate Registration: Drive through the western forest to Londorossi Gate for registration before continuing up to the Morum Barrier trailhead (approx. 11,500 ft / 3,500 m).
Guided Hike to Cathedral Point: Trek across the alpine desert terrain toward Cathedral Point (12,700 ft / 3,870 m), pacing comfortably with your professional local guide.
Scenic Mountain Lunch: Pause at Cathedral Point to enjoy a delicious packed lunch with views of Kibo Peak and the Shira Rim.
Descent & Return: Trek back down to the vehicle and enjoy a relaxing drive back to your hotel in Arusha or Moshi.
Includes
Professional mountain guide
Private transport from Moshi or Arusha
Forest Reserve Fees
Hotel pickup & drop-off
Packed lunch
Bottled drinking water
Basic first aid support
All hiking assistance and registration support
Excludes
National Park fees (To be paid directly by guests at the gate, by card - 82.6$ per person)
Personal hiking gear
Travel insurance
Tips & gratuities
Important Information
- Kilimanjaro National Park park fees are not included and must be paid directly at the park gate
Guests must bring their passport for park registration
Warm clothing and proper hiking shoes are highly recommended
Weather on Mount Kilimanjaro can change quickly during the day
The Shira Route starts at higher altitude and may feel more challenging for some travelers
Clear views of Mount Kilimanjaro depend on weather conditions
A moderate level of fitness is recommended for both hiking options
Please inform us in advance if you prefer regular, vegetarian, or gluten-free lunch options.
Easy cancellation
Cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund
