Shira 2 Camp
Elevation: 3,850 meters above sea level
Shira 2 Camp is a significant waypoint for climbers ascending Mount Kilimanjaro via the Lemosho Route, positioned at an elevation of approximately 3,850 meters (12,631 feet) on the expansive Shira Plateau. This camp, located in the moorland zone on the northwestern face of the mountain, is characterized by high winds, low temperatures, short bushes, scattered rocks, and moderate rainfall, creating a challenging yet scenic environment for trekkers.
Location and Altitude
Shira 2 Camp is situated on the Shira Plateau, at an approximate altitude of 3,850 meters above sea level. This location is part of the northwestern face of Mount Kilimanjaro, in the moorland zone, known for its high winds and low temperatures.. It is the third camp encountered on both the Lemosho and Shira routes, serving as a critical ascent point. The Shira Plateau itself is one of Kilimanjaro’s less popular peaks compared to Kibo and Mawenzi, offering a quieter trekking experience.
Facilities and Amenities
Shira 2 Camp lacks permanent accommodation structures, necessitating that climbers bring their own tents for pitching. The facilities include a mix of toilet types: traditional pit latrines housed in small wooden shacks and more recent solar-powered toilets with roofs designed to let in sunlight, improving hygiene. Additionally, a rangers hut made of green metal is present, providing a base for park staff. Personal accounts from climbers, such as those on the 8-day Lemosho Route, note that porters efficiently set up tents and chefs prepare diverse meals, including pizza, kebab skewers, chips for lunch, and vegetable peanut curry for dinner, enhancing the camping experience.
What It’s Like on the Lemosho Route
The camp’s integration into the Lemosho Route varies by itinerary length. For the 8-day Lemosho Route, climbers reach Shira 2 Camp on Day 3, following a gentle hike from Shira 1 Camp, covering 8 km in 4-5 hours, with an elevation gain from 3,500 meters to 3,850 meters. This day is noted for its moorland meadows by a stream, offering various hikes for acclimatization. The next day, climbers proceed to Barranco Camp via the Lava Tower, known as the “Shark’s Tooth” at 4,650 meters, covering another 8 km in 5-6 hours, crucial for altitude adjustment despite ending at a similar elevation.
For the 7-day Lemosho Route, Shira 2 Camp is reached on Day 2, involving a more strenuous hike from Mti Mkubwa Camp at 2,650 meters, covering 16 km in 7-8 hours, with a significant elevation gain to 3,850 meters. This route bypasses Shira 1 Camp, making it a direct and challenging ascent into the moorland zone. On Day 3, climbers continue to Barranco Camp via Lava Tower, following a similar path to the 8-day itinerary, emphasizing acclimatization.
Table: Itinerary Details for Shira 2 Camp on Lemosho Route
Itinerary | Day Reached | Previous Camp | Elevation Gain | Distance | Hiking Time | Habitat |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
8-day Lemosho | Day 3 | Shira 1 Camp | 350m (11,500ft to 12,600ft) | 8km/5mi | 4-5 hours | Moorland |
7-day Lemosho | Day 2 | Mti Mkubwa Camp | 1200m (8700ft to 12,600ft) | 16km/10mi | 7-8 hours | Moorland |
This table summarizes the varying approaches to Shira 2 Camp, highlighting the differences in effort and acclimatization strategy between the two itineraries.
Scenery and Views
Shira 2 Camp is renowned for its panoramic views, offering climbers a spectacular vista of Kibo peak, especially on clear mornings when the summit is visible without clouds. The camp also provides views across the Shira Plateau towards Shira Cathedral and, in the opposite direction, the glacier ice on Kibo against the evening sky. Personal accounts highlight the changing weather, with mornings often frosty and clear, turning cloudy in the afternoons, and nights offering opportunities to see the Milky Way due to low light pollution and minimal wind. A blog post from a climber noted a great view of Mt Kilimanjaro from the camp, with images showing tents and the mountain backdrop, reinforcing its scenic appeal.
Acclimatization and Activities
The camp’s location makes it an excellent spot for acclimatization, with optional hikes available on the plateau. Climbers can detour to Shira Peak or Cathedral Point at 3,875 meters for additional altitude exposure, aiding in preparing for higher altitudes. This is particularly emphasized in the 8-day itinerary, where Day 3 is described as an excellent acclimatization day, with various hikes across the plateau enhancing the body’s adjustment to the thin air.
Weather and Environmental Conditions
The moorland zone at Shira 2 Camp experiences high winds and low temperatures, with mornings often frosty, as noted in climber diaries. Moderate rainfall is typical, and the exposure to elements is more pronounced due to the vast open plateau. Climbers are advised to have gear to protect against sun, rain, cold, and changing weather, with hydration (4-5 liters of water per day) essential for acclimatization.
Comparison with Other Routes
For climbers using the Machame Route, Shira 2 Camp is a possible stop, with Machame Hut Campsite as the previous camping area. However, the focus on the Lemosho Route highlights its role as a less crowded, scenic path, joining the Machame Route near Lava Tower, offering diverse landscapes and high summit success rates.