Shira Cave Camp — Hotel in Kilimanjaro

Shira Cave Camp on Mount Kilimanjaro

Nestled at 3,840 meters on the rugged slopes of Mount Kilimanjaro, Shira Cave Camp offers a unique blend of raw wilderness and historical intrigue. As a key stop on the Machame and Lemosho routes, this campsite serves as both a practical acclimatization point and a window into the mountain’s volcanic past. Here’s a detailed reflection on my experience:

Atmosphere & Setting The camp sits on the windswept Shira Plateau, a geological marvel formed by the collapse of an ancient volcano. The views here are breathtaking—panoramic vistas of Kibo Peak loom above, while the plateau’s rocky terrain and heath vegetation (think short shrubs and hardy grasses) create a stark, otherworldly landscape. Despite its name, the "cave" is not a true cavern but a volcanic overhang, once used by early climbers for shelter. Today, it’s a symbolic landmark, adding a touch of adventure lore to the trek.

Personal Experience Waking up at Shira Cave Camp was surreal. After a night of howling winds and rain, the dawn revealed glimpses of Kilimanjaro’s snowy summit peeking through the clouds. The altitude (3,840m) was palpable—mild dizziness and breathlessness reminded me to take it slow. The camp’s simplicity felt authentic, though the lack of water and rustic toilets underscored the need for self-sufficiency.

The trek from Shira Cave to Lava Tower (4,600m) the next day was a test of endurance, but the camp’s role in acclimatization proved invaluable. The stark beauty of the plateau, combined with its historical resonance (imagine early explorers sheltering here!), made it a highlight of the journey.

Challenges -Weather: High winds and sudden rainstorms are common, so waterproof gear is essential. -Altitude: Mild altitude symptoms (headaches, fatigue) affected some in our group, emphasizing the importance of a slow, steady pace.

Shira Cave Camp is not about luxury—it’s about immersion in Kilimanjaro’s untamed environment. For trekkers seeking authenticity and a connection to the mountain’s geological and climbing history, this camp is unforgettable. Just come prepared: pack sturdy gear, embrace the rawness, and let the views of Kibo’s icy crown reward your efforts.

Pro tip: Pair your stay here with a visit to Shira 2 Camp for a fuller perspective of the plateau’s...

This is one of the camps on the Machame route. The camp is quite open and you can see Mt. Merry from it. Just like other camp sites on the trails, Shira camp has good and clean functioning toilets. The only drawback on this camp is that it is prone to very cold winds from the peak of the mountain that make it quite cold and the fluttering of the tents make it quite impossible to catch a good...

Shira Camp One was our destination for the end of day 2 and the only day we had a little bad weather, not that the picture show anything but beautiful views, on the entire trek! The trail slowly gets worse each day, but a reliable pair of hiking boots are your bestfriend on this mountain!

Captain Ahab of...