Kilimanjaro Mountain Bike Tour

Kilimanjaro National Park (KINAPA) has opened the mountain to mountain bikes on its 4WD tracks, and the western side is the finest place to ride. This day tour climbs from Londorosi Gate on the north-western slope, at about 2,250 m (7,382 ft), up the Shira Service Road through the forest and the heather and moorland zone to the Morum picnic site at 3,407 m (11,178 ft), then out onto the Shira Plateau, an ancient collapsed volcano, to Shira 1 Camp (3,610 m (11,844 ft)) and Shira 2 Camp (3,850 m (12,631 ft)) beneath the glaciers of Kibo. The way back is one long descent to the gate.

The ride

• About 50 km (31 mi) there and back, with around 1,600 m (5,249 ft) of climbing on gravel and dirt tracks.
• 6 to 7 hours on the mountain, starting early from Moshi or West Kilimanjaro, with a packed lunch on the plateau.
• Views of Kibo’s summit and, below, the Maasai plains of West Kilimanjaro towards Amboseli.

Who it is for

This is a demanding ride for fit, experienced mountain bikers. Above 3,500 m (11,483 ft) the air holds much less oxygen, so you ride slowly, drink plenty and turn back if you feel unwell; spending a night or two in Arusha or West Kilimanjaro first helps. Always wear a helmet. As everywhere in the park, you stay on the tracks and ride with a licensed guide.

Park fees

Riders pay Kilimanjaro National Park entry fees plus a daily cycling fee set by KINAPA.

To the summit by bike

KINAPA also allows summit expeditions by bike from the Kilema side, following the 4WD track to Horombo and on to Kibo Hut. Bikes are carried on the steep section to Gillman’s Point and ridden from Stella Point to Uhuru Peak (5,895 m (19,341 ft)). It is a serious, multi-day expedition for very experienced riders; ask us and we will plan it with you.