7 Days Umbwe route

The Umbwe Route is one of the challenging and less-traveled paths leading to the summit of Mount Kilimanjaro, Tanzania. This route is known for its steep and direct ascent, offering a more strenuous climb compared to some other routes. It is often chosen by experienced trekkers and those seeking a more secluded and adventurous journey.

The Umbwe Route begins at the Umbwe Gate and quickly ascends through dense and lush rainforests, providing trekkers with a sense of solitude and immersion in nature. As the trail progresses, it moves through heath and moorland, offering panoramic views of the surrounding landscapes. The Barranco Wall is a notable feature along the route, presenting a challenging yet exhilarating climb.

One of the distinguishing characteristics of the Umbwe Route is its shorter duration, typically taking about six days for the round trip. Due to its steep and demanding nature, climbers need to be well-prepared, physically fit, and properly acclimatized to tackle the altitude gain. The route joins the Machame Route at Barranco Camp, allowing trekkers to follow a more familiar path to the summit through Barafu Camp.

While the Umbwe Route offers a more adventurous and less crowded experience, it is essential for climbers to be aware of the physical demands and potential altitude-related challenges associated with this route. 

• Day 1: Umbwe Gate to Umbwe Cave Camp

  • Elevation: 1,640m (5,380ft) to 2,940m (9,646ft)
  • Hiking time: 4-6 hours The journey begins at the Umbwe Gate on the southern side of Kilimanjaro. You’ll hike through dense rainforest, where the trail is steep and can be muddy at times, to reach Umbwe Cave Camp, where you’ll spend the first night.
• Day 2: Umbwe Cave Camp to Barranco Camp

  • Elevation: 2,940m (9,646ft) to 3,950m (12,960ft)
  • Hiking time: 5-7 hours Today’s trek continues through the forest until you reach the moorland zone. The trail is steep and challenging but offers some fantastic views. You’ll then join the Machame Route to continue to Barranco Camp for the night.
• Day 3: Barranco Camp to Karanga Camp

  • Elevation: 3,950m (12,960ft) to 3,995m (13,106ft)
  • Hiking time: 4-5 hours This day involves climbing the Barranco Wall, which is not technically difficult but requires some scrambling. After conquering the wall, you’ll continue to Karanga Camp, where you’ll spend the night.
• Day 4: Karanga Camp to Barafu Camp

  • Elevation: 3,995m (13,106ft) to 4,680m (15,350ft)
  • Hiking time: 3-4 hours The trek on this day is relatively short, allowing for some rest at Barafu Camp before the summit attemp
• Day 5: Barafu Camp to Uhuru Peak and then to Mweka Camp (Summit Day)

  • Elevation: 4,680m (15,350ft) to 5,895m (19,341ft) (Uhuru Peak) and descend to 3,100m (10,170ft) at Mweka Camp
  • Hiking time: 7-8 hours to reach Uhuru Peak, 4-6 hours descent to Mweka Camp This is the summit day, and it involves a very early start. You’ll ascend in the darkness and reach the summit, Uhuru Peak, before sunrise. After celebrating your achievement at the summit, you’ll descend back to Barafu Camp for a short rest before continuing down to Mweka Camp for the night.
• Day 6: Mweka Camp to Mweka Gate

  • Elevation: 3,100m (10,170ft) to 1,640m (5,380ft)
  • Hiking time: 3-4 hours The final day involves descending through the rainforest from Mweka Camp to Mweka Gate. Here, you’ll receive your well-deserved certificate for conquering Kilimanjaro before being transferred back to your accommodation.
• Day 7: Departure
  After breakfast, you’ll check out from your accommodation and depart for your next destination or onward journey.

Included

• Transfers from Kilimanjaro Airport (Tanzania) / hotel / Kilimanjaro Airport
• 4×4 vehicle with a capacity for 5 people, especially prepared for Safari
• English-speaking driver/guide
• National park entry fees
• Full board throughout the safari (excluding drinks), bed and breakfast in the city of Arusha
• Bottled mineral water during the safari
• Private Safari

Excluded

• International flight
• National and international airport taxes
• Tanzania visa
• Kenya visa (in case of flying to Nairobi)
• Drinks (of any kind)
• When visiting the Masai village, the price must be negotiated on-site (optional activity)
• Tips and personal extras
• Travel insurance, transportation expenses in case of emergency, personal medical kit
• In general, any service not specified as included