The Shira Route is nearly identical to the Lemosho route. In fact, Shira was the original route and Lemosho is the improved variation. Shira is a varied and beautiful route, but it is less favorable than its successor due to the relatively high altitude of Shira’s starting point, which is accessed quickly by a 4-WD vehicle. The trek begins at Morum Barrier Gate at nearly 12,000 ft. (3600 m). It is possible that climbers will experience some altitude related symptoms on the first day while camping that high.
The first day of the trek is simply short to begin the acclimatization process. You spend the next two days hiking across the plateau, which is said to be one of the most stunningly beautiful hikes. The plateau itself is grassland, heath and moor, and is home to especially large senecias (up to 10 meters high). On the plateau, one can often see elands, sometimes buffaloes and other animals (very rare). The Shira Cone, which is an ancient crater, rises about 200 meters above the plateau. Along the southern ridge of the Shira Plateau, there are two dramatic peaks, the Cathedral and the Needle. All of these create fantastic scenery to enjoy on this route.
Despite the risk of altitude sickness on the Shira route, it is popular among hikers because of the breathtaking scenery along the way. On the first day itself or on the second day, the newer Lemosho route joins in with the Shira route, and on the third day, the Shira route goes on to join the Machame Route. From this point onwards, both the trails lead to Lava Tower before going down into the Great Barranco Valley. This is the point where the Umbwe route joins in from the southern section. It provides the same fantastic climb but with a much better safety profile.
