Start — Arusha to Londorossi Gate
Leave early from Arusha at 6:00 AM to make the most of the day. Expect roughly ~3 hours by car from Arusha to reach Londorossi Gate (entrance to Kilimanjaro National Park).
Drive: ~3 hours
Pickup: 6:00 AM
A one-day guided hike from Arusha to Shira Plateau with an optional extension to Cathedral Point.
Leave early from Arusha at 6:00 AM to make the most of the day. Expect roughly ~3 hours by car from Arusha to reach Londorossi Gate (entrance to Kilimanjaro National Park).
On arrival at Londorossi Gate you will complete park entry paperwork and briefings. From the gate it’s a 30–45 minute drive to Moram Barrier where the hike begins.
The hike from Moram Barrier to Shira Plateau is about 4 km and takes roughly 2–3 hours. Expect to climb from around 11,100 ft (Moram Barrier) to 11,400 ft (Shira Plateau).
For those wanting more challenge and spectacular views, you can extend the hike to Cathedral Point. It’s about 4 km each way and adds approximately 2–3 hours to the day. Cathedral Point reaches around 12,470 ft.
If you choose this extension, make sure you are prepared for additional altitude exposure and have enough water, snacks, and warm layers. Your guide will advise whether conditions are suitable.
Return from Shira Plateau to Moram Barrier takes roughly 1–2 hours. Then a short ~30 minute drive back to Londorossi Gate to collect the vehicle. From Londorossi Gate you’ll drive back to Arusha, reflecting on your Kilimanjaro adventure.