Umbwe Route
The Steep Direct Ascent
The Umbwe Route is the most direct and steepest route on Kilimanjaro, making it a challenging option for experienced climbers. The rapid ascent can increase the risk of altitude sickness, so this route is not recommended for beginners or those unfamiliar with high-altitude trekking. However, for those seeking a fast, tough climb with fewer crowds, the Umbwe Route offers an intense, rewarding experience.
Day 1: Umbwe Gate to Umbwe Camp
- Starting Altitude: 1,800m
- Ending Altitude: 2,850m
- Distance: ~11 km
- Hiking Time: 5-7 hours
- Vegetation: Rainforest
- Summary:
The trek begins at the Umbwe Gate and climbs steeply into the rainforest. The trail is demanding, with a steady ascent, and you’ll pass through dense jungle. Arrive at Umbwe Camp for an overnight stay.
Day 2: Umbwe Camp to Barranco Camp
- Starting Altitude: 2,850m
- Ending Altitude: 3,950m
- Distance: ~6 km
- Hiking Time: 6-8 hours
- Vegetation: Moorland
- Summary:
Today’s trek is a steep ascent through moorland, gaining altitude rapidly. The path becomes rugged, and you’ll pass volcanic rocks. Barranco Camp sits at the base of the Barranco Wall, which you will climb on Day 3.
Day 3: Barranco Camp to Karanga Camp
- Starting Altitude: 3,950m
- Ending Altitude: 4,035m
- Distance: ~5 km
- Hiking Time: 4-5 hours
- Vegetation: Moorland to Alpine Desert
- Summary:
Start your day by ascending the Barranco Wall, a challenging but rewarding part of the trek. Once you’ve conquered the wall, continue along a relatively easier path to Karanga Camp, located in the alpine desert zone.
Day 4: Karanga Camp to Barafu Camp
- Starting Altitude: 4,035m
- Ending Altitude: 4,640m
- Distance: ~7 km
- Hiking Time: 4-5 hours
- Vegetation: Alpine Desert
- Summary:
Trek from Karanga Camp to Barafu Camp, passing through alpine desert terrain. Barafu is the camp where you’ll rest and prepare for the summit push. After arriving, enjoy an early dinner and get some rest for the challenging night ahead.
Day 5: Barafu Camp to Uhuru Peak to Mweka Camp
- Starting Altitude: 4,640m
- Summit Altitude: 5,895m (Uhuru Peak)
- Ending Altitude: 3,080m
- Distance: ~15 km (Round Trip)
- Hiking Time: 10-14 hours
- Vegetation: Arctic to Moorland
- Summary:
Summit day begins around midnight with a steep climb through the arctic zone. You will ascend to Gilman’s Point and continue to Uhuru Peak, the highest point in Africa. After celebrating at the summit, descend back to Barafu Camp, then continue to Mweka Camp for the night.
Day 6: Mweka Camp to Mweka Gate
- Starting Altitude: 3,080m
- Ending Altitude: 1,640m
- Distance: ~10 km
- Hiking Time: 3-4 hours
- Vegetation: Rainforest
- Summary:
On the final day, descend from Mweka Camp through the lush rainforest to Mweka Gate. Once at the gate, you’ll receive your summit certificate and celebrate your achievement.
Day 1: Umbwe Gate to Umbwe Camp
- Starting Altitude: 1,800m
- Ending Altitude: 2,850m
- Distance: ~11 km
- Hiking Time: 5-7 hours
- Vegetation: Rainforest
- Summary:
Arrive at Umbwe Gate and begin your trek into the rainforest. The path is steep, and the dense jungle offers a rich habitat for wildlife. After a challenging first day, reach Umbwe Camp and settle in for the night.
Day 2: Umbwe Camp to Barranco Camp
- Starting Altitude: 2,850m
- Ending Altitude: 3,950m
- Distance: ~6 km
- Hiking Time: 6-8 hours
- Vegetation: Moorland
- Summary:
Today’s hike takes you through moorland and rocky terrain. The steep ascent continues, with some challenging sections, and you’ll arrive at Barranco Camp, located at the base of the famous Barranco Wall, which you’ll tackle on Day 3.
Day 3: Barranco Camp to Karanga Camp
- Starting Altitude: 3,950m
- Ending Altitude: 4,035m
- Distance: ~5 km
- Hiking Time: 4-5 hours
- Vegetation: Moorland to Alpine Desert
- Summary:
Begin your day by ascending the Barranco Wall, a challenging but rewarding climb. Once at the top, the rest of the hike to Karanga Camp is relatively easier. Karanga Camp offers stunning views and is in the alpine desert zone.
Day 4: Karanga Camp to Barafu Camp
- Starting Altitude: 4,035m
- Ending Altitude: 4,640m
- Distance: ~7 km
- Hiking Time: 4-5 hours
- Vegetation: Alpine Desert
- Summary:
Ascend from Karanga Camp to Barafu Camp, passing through the alpine desert zone. The path is more barren but offers magnificent views of the surrounding peaks. Barafu Camp is where you will rest and prepare for the summit push.
Day 5: Barafu Camp to Uhuru Peak to Mweka Camp
- Starting Altitude: 4,640m
- Summit Altitude: 5,895m (Uhuru Peak)
- Ending Altitude: 3,080m
- Distance: ~15 km (Round Trip)
- Hiking Time: 10-14 hours
- Vegetation: Arctic to Moorland
- Summary:
Summit day begins around midnight. Ascend through the cold, arctic environment to reach Gilman’s Point, and then continue to Uhuru Peak, the highest point in Africa. After reaching the summit and celebrating, descend back to Barafu Camp for a brief rest before continuing down to Mweka Camp for the night.
Day 6: Mweka Camp to Mweka Gate
- Starting Altitude: 3,080m
- Ending Altitude: 1,640m
- Distance: ~10 km
- Hiking Time: 3-4 hours
- Vegetation: Rainforest
- Summary:
On the final day, descend from Mweka Camp through the rainforest, following a less strenuous trail. The descent is gradual, and you’ll enjoy scenic views along the way. Once at Mweka Gate, you’ll receive your summit certificate and celebrate your success.
Day 7: Rest Day in Moshi or Arusha
After completing your trek, take a day to rest and recover. You may choose to relax in Moshi or Arusha, visit local attractions, or explore the area before your departure.
Umbwe Inclusive
- Park fees, camping fees, and hut accommodation.
- Professional guide, cook, and porters.
- Three meals per day during the climb.
- Drinking water and tea/coffee.
- Rescue fees and oxygen for emergencies.
- Transfers to and from Kilimanjaro National Park.
- Kilimanjaro certificate (for successful summiteers).
Umbwe Exclusive
- Flights and visa fees.
- Personal hiking gear (can be rented).
- Travel insurance.
- Tips for guides, cooks, and porters (~$200-$300 per climber).
- Optional extended acclimatization days.
Frequently Asked Questions
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