Overview of the Umbwe Route
The route for a challenge
The Umbwe Route is renowned as one of the most challenging and least trafficked paths to the summit of Mount Kilimanjaro. Its reputation stems from the steep and direct ascent through dense rainforest and rugged terrain. While the route offers breathtaking views and a rewarding sense of accomplishment, it is best suited for experienced hikers or climbers with prior high-altitude trekking experience.
Key Highlights:
1. Scenic Beauty
The Umbwe Route begins with a dramatic climb through lush rainforest, with towering trees and a vibrant array of flora and fauna. As the trail ascends, the environment transitions to moorlands and alpine desert, providing stunning vistas of the mountain’s southern glaciers and dramatic ridgelines.
2. Challenging Ascent
This route is considered the shortest and steepest way to Uhuru Peak, demanding a good level of fitness and acclimatization. Due to its rapid ascent, it offers less time for acclimatization compared to other routes, which increases the risk of altitude sickness.
3. Remote and Quiet
Unlike the more popular Machame or Marangu routes, the Umbwe Route is less crowded, offering solitude and an intimate connection with nature. This seclusion makes it ideal for trekkers seeking a quieter and more personal climbing experience.
4. Route Duration
Typically completed in 6–7 days, the route is not recommended for those new to trekking or unfamiliar with high-altitude conditions.
5. Route Challenges
* Steep inclines from the very start.
* Limited acclimatization opportunities due to rapid elevation gain.
* Requires careful planning and professional guidance for safety.
6. Summit Success Rate
The Umbwe Route has lower success rates than other routes due to its rapid ascent. Proper preparation, a slow pace, and adequate hydration are essential for those attempting it.
Route Highlights:
* Barranco Wall: A thrilling scramble that offers panoramic views and a sense of adventure.
* Karanga Valley: A picturesque campsite surrounded by towering cliffs and rolling valleys.
* Southern Icefields: Close-up views of the mountain's dramatic glaciers.
Why choose Umbwe
The Umbwe Route is ideal for seasoned trekkers looking for a physically demanding adventure and a quieter trail. Due to the increased risk of altitude sickness, it is crucial to trek with an experienced guide and adhere to a well-planned itinerary. With its combination of challenge and beauty, the Umbwe Route is a thrilling journey to the roof of Africa, promising unforgettable experiences for those prepared to take it on.
8 Days Umbwe Route Itinerary
Day 1: Arrival in Moshi (890m)
* Arrival: Land at Kilimanjaro International Airport.
* Activities: Transfer to your hotel in Moshi. Meet your guides for a briefing on the trek.
* Overnight: Pink Flamingo.
* Meals: Dinner.
Day 2: Umbwe Gate (1,600m) to Umbwe Cave Camp (2,850m)
* Distance: ~11km
* Hiking Time: 5–6 hours
* Elevation Gain: 1,250m
* Terrain: Dense rainforest with steep, muddy trails.
* Highlights: Stunning views of the lush forest canopy and diverse flora.
* Overnight: Umbwe Cave Camp (tent).
* Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner.
Day 3: Umbwe Cave Camp (2,850m) to Barranco Camp (3,960m)
* Distance: ~6km
* Hiking Time: 4–5 hours
* Elevation Gain: 1,110m
* Terrain: Transition from rainforest to heather and moorland.
* Highlights: First glimpses of Kibo Peak and the imposing Barranco Wall.
* Overnight: Barranco Camp (tent).
* Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner.
Day 4: Acclimatization Day at Barranco Camp (3,960m)
* Activities: Short acclimatization hikes around the Barranco Valley. Rest and prepare for the upcoming ascent.
* Highlights: Learn about the region’s flora and fauna from your guides.
* Overnight: Barranco Camp (tent).
* Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner.
Day 5: Barranco Camp (3,960m) to Karanga Camp (4,035m)
* Distance: ~5km
* Hiking Time: 4–5 hours
* Elevation Gain: 75m
* Terrain: Rocky trails, with a challenging climb over the Barranco Wall.
* Highlights: Conquer the famous Barranco Wall and enjoy views of the Southern Icefields.
* Overnight: Karanga Camp (tent).
* Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner.
Day 6: Karanga Camp (4,035m) to Barafu Camp (4,640m)
* Distance: ~4km
* Hiking Time: 4–5 hours
* Elevation Gain: 605m
* Terrain: Alpine desert with sparse vegetation.
* Highlights: Final preparations for the summit; stunning views of Mawenzi Peak.
* Overnight: Barafu Camp (tent).
* Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner.
Day 7: Barafu Camp (4,640m) to Uhuru Peak (5,895m) and Descend to Mweka Camp (3,110m)
* Summit Ascent:
* Distance: ~5km (ascent), ~13km (descent)
* Hiking Time: 6–8 hours to Uhuru Peak, 4–6 hours to Mweka Camp.
* Terrain: Steep, rocky trail and icy sections.
* Highlights: Sunrise from Uhuru Peak, the highest point in Africa.
* Descent to Mweka Camp:
* Terrain: Loose gravel; steep downhill path.
* Overnight: Mweka Camp (tent).
* Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner.
Day 8: Mweka Camp (3,110m) to Mweka Gate (1,640m)
* Distance: ~10km
* Hiking Time: 3–4 hours
* Terrain: Rainforest.
* Highlights: Certificate of Achievement presentation at the gate.
* Return: Transfer back to Moshi for celebration and rest.
* Overnight: Hotel in Moshi.
* Meals: Breakfast, Lunch.
Price Includes
Transfer from JRO Airport to the hotel.
Return Transfer from accommodation to the airport.
Transfer to the Kilimanjaro gate
All National Park fees (rescue fees)
3 days Accommodation in hotel (one night before and one night after climbing )
All camping facilities
Meals (All meals during hiking)
Safety equipment (medical kit)
Professional mountain guides with WHR certificate
Assistant guide
Porters and Cook
Emergency oxygen
Warm water for washing each day at the mountain
Clean purified drinking water
Shaping after climb
Government tax
Price Excludes:
TIP Porters 10$ a day Cook's 15$ a day Guides 20$
Tanzania visa on arrival (100$ for American citizen and 50 for the others)
Mountain insurance
