Geographical feature

Shira Plateau

Expansive and ancient volcanic plateau on Mount Kilimanjaro.

Tanzania

Location

Dry season

Best Time to Visit

3,900 m

Altitude

Geographical feature

Shira Plateau

Expansive and ancient volcanic plateau on Mount Kilimanjaro.

Tanzania

Location

Dry season

Best Time to Visit

3,900 m

Altitude

About Shira Plateau

The Shira Plateau is one of the most striking features of Mount Kilimanjaro, located in Tanzania, the highest mountain in Africa. Formed by the collapse of the Shira volcano, one of Kilimanjaro's three volcanic cones, the plateau offers trekkers a unique high-altitude hiking experience across one of the oldest parts of the mountain. Situated at an ...

When to go

Excellent

Good

Fair

Jan

Feb

Mar

Apr

May

Jun

Jul

Aug

Sep

Oct

Nov

Dec

Seasons

June - October

Best time to go

Offers the best conditions for hiking and enjoying expansive views across the plateau.

June - October

December - February

High Season

Dry and clear, ideal for trekking with excellent visibility.

March - May

Low Season

The wet season, with rain and clouds potentially obscuring views but enhancing the plateau's beauty.

November - February

Shoulder Season

Short rains bring milder weather and fewer trekkers, offering a more solitary experience.

What to do

Featured Experiences

Camping on Mount Kilimanjaro

Mount Kilimanjaro, standing tall at 5,895 meters (19,341 feet), is not just Africa's highest peak but a symbol of adventure, challenge, and natural beauty that draws thousands of climbers from around ...

Where to stay

Hotels & Lodges

Springlands Hotel

4.2

Hotel

Value

View all hotels & lodges

Related destinations

Mount Kilimanjaro

Tanzania

What to know

Safety & Vaccinations

Trekking to the Shira Plateau is considered safe with experienced guides. Vaccinations for Hepatitis A, Typhoid, Yellow Fever, and malaria prophylaxis are recommended for travelers to Tanzania, along with measures to prevent altitude sickness.

For more information regarding vaccinations and health notices, view the CDC’s page :

CDC Travelers' Health

CDC Travel health notices and vaccination recommendations

Getting There

The plateau is part of the Kilimanjaro trekking experience, with access typically involving a multi-day hike from Kilimanjaro's base.

Getting Around

Exploration of the Shira Plateau is primarily on foot, allowing trekkers to fully immerse in the natural beauty and serenity of the high-altitude environment.

Visas

Visitors to Tanzania, including those embarking on a climb to Kilimanjaro, require a visa, obtainable on arrival or through the online eVisa system.