06 DAYS
UMBWE ROUTE – KILIMANJARO
Trekking Duration
06 Days 5 Nights
Group Size
Unlimited
Trip Type
Trekking, Climbing
Route Details
Umbwe Route: A Thrilling Kilimanjaro Ascent
The Umbwe Route is renowned as the most challenging and least traveled path up Mount Kilimanjaro. Known for its steep slopes and rapid altitude gain, this route is ideal for experienced trekkers seeking adventure and solitude. Though physically demanding, it rewards climbers with breathtaking views, untouched wilderness, and a true sense of accomplishment.
Why Choose the Umbwe Route?
- Challenging Adventure: The steep paths test your stamina and determination.
- Seclusion: Few climbers choose this route, offering a serene experience.
- Breathtaking Views: Marvel at the Western Breach and the vast Tanzanian landscape.
Pro Tips for Climbers
- Acclimatization: The rapid ascent requires excellent physical preparation and good acclimatization strategies.
- Packing: Carry essential gear for both warm rainforest and freezing summit conditions.
- Health: Stay hydrated and monitor for altitude sickness symptoms.
The Umbwe Route is an intense yet immensely rewarding journey for those ready to embrace the challenge!
Key Highlights of the Umbwe Route
- Difficulty Level: High – suitable for experienced hikers with good fitness.
- Duration: Typically 6-7 days.
- Trailhead Elevation: 1,600 meters (5,249 feet) at Umbwe Gate.
- Summit Success Rate: Moderate to low due to its rapid ascent.
- Scenery: Dense rainforest, stunning ridges, and dramatic views of the Western Breach.
- Crowd Level: Low – one of the quietest Kilimanjaro routes.
Trekk Schedule On Day by Day
- Hiking Distance: 11 km (6.8 miles)
- Hiking Time: 5-7 hours
- Habitat: Rainforest
The adventure begins at Umbwe Gate with a registration process. The trail ascends steeply through lush rainforest, offering opportunities to spot Colobus monkeys and exotic birds. The day ends at Umbwe Cave Camp.
- Hiking Distance: 6 km (3.7 miles)
- Hiking Time: 4-5 hours
- Habitat: Moorland
Climbers leave the dense forest and move into the moorland zone. The trail follows a ridge that provides stunning views of the valleys below. Upon reaching Barranco Camp, hikers are treated to the iconic sight of the Great Barranco Wall.
- Hiking Distance: 5 km (3.1 miles)
- Hiking Time: 4-5 hours
- Habitat: Alpine Desert
This day involves climbing the Barranco Wall, an exciting scramble with incredible vistas. After crossing several ridges and valleys, climbers arrive at Karanga Camp, a prime spot for acclimatization.
- Hiking Distance: 4 km (2.5 miles)
- Hiking Time: 4-5 hours
- Habitat: Alpine Desert
The trek continues through a barren, rocky landscape to Barafu Camp, the base camp for the summit attempt. After an early dinner, trekkers rest in preparation for the midnight ascent.
- Hiking Distance: 15 km (9.3 miles)
- Hiking Time: 10-14 hours (6-8 hours ascent, 4-6 hours descent)
- Habitat: Arctic to Rainforest
Starting around midnight, climbers ascend through the challenging scree slopes to Stella Point (5,739 m) and continue to Uhuru Peak. After celebrating the achievement at the summit, the descent begins, passing Barafu Camp before reaching Mweka Camp.
- Hiking Distance: 10 km (6.2 miles)
- Hiking Time: 3-4 hours
- Habitat: Rainforest
The final day involves descending through the lush rainforest to Mweka Gate. Successful climbers receive their summit certificates before heading back to Moshi or Arusha.