How to Reach:

These features are accessible via the Machame, Shira, or Lemosho routes. Trekkers often visit Shira Cathedral and Needle during acclimatization days, typically from camps like New Shira Camp (3,830m).

Significance and History:

Each offers unique geological and scenic value, with Shira Cathedral notable for its shape and wildlife, and Shira Needle for its challenging hikes. The Shira Plateau also hosted Kilimanjaro’s first wedding at Shira Camp 2 in September 2014, adding cultural depth.

Shira Cathedral: A Geological Wonder

Location and Description:
Shira Cathedral is located on the southern rim of the Shira caldera, near East Shira Hill, at an altitude of 3,895 meters (12,779 feet). It is characterized by a massive pyramid-shaped rock mass with high-pointed sides, resembling a cathedral. This feature is often described as a “short ridge-summit” elevated on the southern edge of the caldera, formed by solidified lava eruptions. Its unique shape and towering presence make it a standout feature on the plateau.

Significance:
The Shira Cathedral is not only a visual spectacle but also a habitat for the crowned eagle, a rare and majestic bird of prey. From its summit, trekkers can enjoy panoramic views of the surrounding terrain, including the Shira Needle to the west and the Kikafu Barranco, a wild and deserted valley to the south. Its location near East Shira Hill, on a steep path, makes it a popular destination for short hikes during acclimatization days, offering a chance to explore the plateau’s rugged landscape.

How to Reach:
Shira Cathedral can be accessed via the Machame, Shira, or Lemosho routes. Trekkers often visit it during an acclimatization day at New Shira Camp (3,830 meters), from where a three-hour walk leads to the Cathedral. The hike across the Shira Plateau to reach it offers a chance to traverse the plateau’s diverse terrain, including grassy moorlands and volcanic rocky sections, and enjoy stunning views of Kilimanjaro’s Southern Icefields.

Shira Ridge: The Western Edge

Location and Description:
Shira Ridge is located near the Shira Gate, at an altitude of approximately 3,600 meters (11,811 feet), in the forest zone of Mount Kilimanjaro. It forms part of the western edge of the mountain and is heavily eroded, with its highest point being Johnsell Point at 3,962 meters (13,000 feet). The ridge is essentially the western and southern rims of the original Shira crater, with the northern and eastern sides covered by later volcanic material from Kibo, the mountain’s highest peak.

Significance:
Shira Ridge marks the starting point of the Shira Route and offers trekkers their first glimpse of Kilimanjaro’s grandeur. It is significant for its geological history, representing the remnants of an ancient volcanic crater that once rivaled Kibo in size before collapsing. The ridge provides beautiful views of the mountain and the surrounding plains, making it a memorable starting point for the trek. It is also a point of interest for its ecological diversity, with trekkers passing through the forest zone and encountering various flora and fauna.

How to Reach:
The Shira Route begins near Shira Ridge, making it easily accessible to trekkers on this path. Additionally, it can be seen from various points on the Shira Plateau, including during treks on the Machame or Lemosho routes. The ridge is often part of the initial drive to the trailhead, with trekkers starting their hike at Shira Gate and crossing the ridge to reach higher camps.

Shira Needle: A Scrambling Adventure

Location and Description:
Shira Needle is a solitary rock formation located on the Shira Plateau, west of Shira Cathedral. While its exact altitude is not commonly specified, it is situated within the plateau’s elevation range of 3,500 to 3,962 meters (11,480 to 13,000 feet), likely around 3,800-4,000 meters based on its context. It is known for its scrambling routes, which lead to some of the best viewpoints on the mountain, offering trekkers a challenging yet rewarding hike.

Significance:
The Shira Needle is a favorite among trekkers for its isolation and unique shape, providing unparalleled views of the Shira Plateau, Shira Cathedral, and the broader Kilimanjaro massif. Its scrambling routes add an element of adventure, making it a popular choice for those seeking a more technical hike. It is visible from the edge of the Shira Plateau/Caldera, making it a standout feature for photography and exploration.

How to Reach:
Like Shira Cathedral, the Shira Needle can be accessed via the Machame, Shira, or Lemosho routes. Trekkers often explore it during acclimatization days or as part of their journey across the Shira Plateau. It is typically reached by deviating from the main trail, with scrambling required to reach its summit, offering a chance to engage with the plateau’s rugged terrain.

Notable Events: The First Wedding on Kilimanjaro

In September 2014, the first-ever wedding on Mount Kilimanjaro took place at Shira Camp 2, located on the Shira Plateau. The couple, who used the Machame Route to reach the site, chose this location for its unique beauty and serene atmosphere. This event marked a historic moment for Kilimanjaro, showcasing its appeal as a destination for both adventure and romance. Shira Camp 2, at approximately 3,850 meters, provided a picturesque backdrop for the ceremony, with views of the plateau and surrounding peaks.

The Shira Plateau Route: A Scenic but Challenging Path

Overview:

The Shira Plateau Route, also known as the Shira Route, is one of the less traveled paths to Kilimanjaro’s summit. It begins at Shira Gate, at an altitude of approximately 3,600 meters (11,811 feet), and crosses the entire Shira Plateau from west to east. The route is known for its scenic beauty, with trekkers encountering grassy moorlands, volcanic rocky sections, and stunning views of the Southern Icefields. It joins the Lemosho Route on day two and then the Machame trail via Lava Tower, descending to Barranco Camp, before ascending to Uhuru Peak via Barafu Camp.

Advantages and Disadvantages:

• Advantages: The route offers a diverse and beautiful trek with varied terrain, providing excellent opportunities to explore the Shira Plateau’s unique features, including Shira Cathedral, Shira Needle, and Shira Ridge. It is less crowded than more popular routes like Machame, offering a quieter experience.

• Disadvantages: Starting at a high altitude can lead to altitude-related symptoms early in the trek, such as headaches or nausea, due to insufficient acclimatization. Additionally, trekkers miss out on hiking through the rainforest zone, as the route begins above this ecological band, which can be a disadvantage for those seeking a more gradual ascent.

Itinerary (7-8 Days):

A typical itinerary includes:

• Day 1: Drive to Shira Gate (3,600 m) and trek to Simba Camp (3,500 m).

• Day 2: Trek to Shira Camp 1 (3,850 m).

• Day 3: Trek to Shira Camp 2 (3,850 m) or Moir Huts (4,140 m) for acclimatization, often exploring Shira Cathedral or Needle.

• Day 4: Trek to Barranco Camp (3,985 m) via Lava Tower.

• Day 5: Trek to Karanga Camp (4,040 m).

• Day 6: Trek to Barafu Camp (4,680 m).

• Day 7: Summit attempt to Uhuru Peak (5,895 m) and descent to Mweka Camp.

• Day 8: Trek to Mweka Gate (1,640 m).

Comparison with Other Routes:

The Shira Route is often compared to the Lemosho Route, which is essentially an extended version of Shira starting at a lower altitude in the rainforest (around 2,100 m). While both routes are scenic, the Lemosho Route is preferred by many due to its gradual ascent and better acclimatization opportunities, reducing the risk of altitude sickness. However, the Shira Route remains a favorite for experienced trekkers who appreciate its high-altitude start and unique plateau crossing, offering a direct experience of the Shira Plateau’s features.

Table: Comparison of Key Features on Shira Plateau

Below is a detailed comparison of Shira Cathedral, Shira Ridge, and Shira Needle, highlighting their locations, altitudes, and significance.