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7-Day Umbwe Route

7 Days
Starting from
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per person*

7-Day Umbwe Route

Trip Overview

The Umbwe Route is renowned for its steep and challenging trails, making it one of the most demanding routes to the summit of Mount Kilimanjaro. It is recommended for experienced trekkers or adventurers seeking a more direct and physically intense climb. Despite its difficulty, the Umbwe Route offers some of the most stunning and dramatic views on the mountain, as it cuts through dense forests, towering ridges, and rugged terrain

Trip Itinerary

  • Arrival

    Upon your arrival at Kilimanjaro International Airport, you’ll be warmly welcomed by your trekking team and transferred to your hotel in Arusha or Moshi. This day is reserved for relaxation, recovery from travel, and preparing for your climb. In the evening, your guide will conduct a comprehensive briefing and equipment check, ensuring you are well-prepared for the trek. Overnight at your hotel.

  • Accommodation

    Hotel in Arusha or Moshi

  • Day 1: Umbwe Gate (1,640m/5,380ft) to Umbwe Cave Camp (2,850m/9,350ft)

    After breakfast, you’ll be driven to Umbwe Gate, the starting point of the trek. The journey begins with a steep ascent through dense montane forest. The trail is narrow, and the climb is direct, offering little reprieve. As you ascend, the lush greenery transitions into towering trees and moss-covered paths. After approximately 5-6 hours of trekking, you’ll reach Umbwe Cave Camp, where you’ll spend your first night on the mountain.

  • Day 2: Umbwe Cave Camp to Barranco Camp (3,960m/12,992ft)

    The trek continues with a steep climb along a ridge flanked by deep gorges. The forest gives way to the moorland zone, and you’ll start to enjoy panoramic views of Mount Meru and the surrounding valleys. After about 4-5 hours of trekking, you’ll reach Barranco Camp, nestled in a valley beneath the imposing Barranco Wall. This camp offers one of the most picturesque settings on Kilimanjaro.

  • Day 3: Barranco Camp to Karanga Camp (4,035m/13,238ft)

    The day starts with the ascent of the Barranco Wall, a steep but non-technical climb requiring hands for balance in certain sections. Once at the top, you’ll be rewarded with incredible views of the surrounding landscape. The trail then descends into the Karanga Valley before climbing again to Karanga Camp, which is approximately a 4-5 hour trek. This day is critical for acclimatization as you continue to gain altitude.

  • Day 4: Karanga Camp to Barafu Camp (4,640m/15,223ft)

    From Karanga Camp, the route gradually ascends through an alpine desert to Barafu Camp, the base camp for the summit attempt. The hike takes about 4-5 hours. Upon arrival, you’ll have time to rest, enjoy an early dinner, and prepare your gear for the midnight summit push. Rest is crucial on this day to ensure you are ready for the challenge ahead

  • Day 5: Barafu Camp to Uhuru Peak (5,895m/19,341ft) to Mweka Camp (3,100m/10,170ft)

    Summit day begins around midnight with a challenging ascent to the summit. The trail is steep and covered in loose scree, making the climb physically demanding. After 6-8 hours, you’ll reach Stella Point (5,739m/18,829ft) on the crater rim, and from there, it’s a short but demanding trek to Uhuru Peak, the highest point in Africa. After celebrating your achievement and taking in the breathtaking views, you’ll begin your descent to Mweka Camp, a trek that takes another 4-6 hours.

  • Day 6: Mweka Camp to Mweka Gate (1,640m/5,380ft)

    The final day of the trek is a 3-4 hour descent through the lush rainforest to Mweka Gate. At the gate, you’ll receive your summit certificates and bid farewell to your mountain crew. From here, you’ll be transferred back to your hotel in Moshi or Arusha, where you can relax and celebrate your success.

  • Day 7: Departure Day

    After a restful night, you’ll enjoy breakfast at your hotel. Depending on your travel plans, you can explore the town, purchase souvenirs, or relax before your transfer to Kilimanjaro International Airport for your departure.

  • Accommodation

    Hotel at Arusha or Moshi

  • Departure

    Rest in the hotel and transfer to the airport.

Trip Includes

Trip Does Not Includes

Starting from
N/A

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