The Shira Route is a little-used trail that begins near Shira Ridge. It is nearly identical to the Lemosho route. In fact, Shira was the original route and Lemosho is the improved variation. Although Shira is a varied and beautiful route, it is less favourable than its successor due to the relatively high altitude of Shira’s starting point, which is accessed quickly by vehicle. Climbers may experience some altitude-related symptoms on the first day while camping at 11,800 feet. The route approaches Mount Kilimanjaro from the west, beginning with a long drive from Moshi to Shira Ridge. The vehicle bypasses the rainforest zone and the hiking trail begins on Shira Ridge.