6 Days Kilimanjaro Umbwe Route

Tour Details

The Umbwe route is a short, steep and direct route. It is considered to be very difficult and is the most challenging way up Mount Kilimanjaro. Due to the quick ascent, Umbwe does not provide the necessary stages for altitude acclimatization. Although the traffic on this route is very low, the chances of success are also low. The route is offered at a minimum of six days, though seven days is recommended when attempting this route. The Umbwe route should only be attempted by those who are very strong hikers and are confident in their ability to acclimatize. However, overall, the Umbwe route is not recommended and we discourage its usage for our clients.

Route Map

Tour Plan

We’ve meticulously crafted each day to ensure you enjoy the ultimate experience. From delving into historical landmarks to savoring delectable local flavors, every moment is filled with adventure and thrill. Come along with us as we embark on a journey through some of the most captivating Africa destinations .

Day 1: Arrive in Tanzania

You will be picked up at the Kilimanjaro International Airport and transferred to your arranged hotel in Moshi town, you will meet your guide who will brief you on your upcoming trek and do an equipment check to make sure you have all the necessary mountain gear. Gear which is missing can be rented on this day.

Hotel: Bed & Breakfast

Day 2: Umbwe Gate (1,800m/5,905ft) to Cave Bivouac Camp (2,850m/9,350ft)

At 8am leave Moshi for Umbwe Gate where you will meet our porters, guides, and cooks who will spend the next six days trekking with you to Uhuru Peak, the roof of Africa. After arriving, wait at the gate while we register your climb and the porters and guides make final preparations. Your first day’s destination is Cave Bivouac Camp, approximately 6 hours from the gate. The trail is steep and can be slippery in some places.Hike through the moss-covered trees of Kilimanjaro’s cloud forest. The forest will thin later in the hike and heathers, tall grasses and wildflowers will come into view. Porters and cooks will walk ahead to set up the camp in time for your arrival.

Elevation Gain:1,050 meters, 3,445 feet
Hiking time: 4 to 6 hours
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner Included

Day 3: Cave Bivouac (2,850m/9,350ft) to Barranco Camp (3,950m/12,960ft)

The first section of the trail continues following the ridge. After leaving the forest, continue through open moorlands until reaching Barranco Camp. Barranco is generally regarded as the most scenic campsite on the Umbwe Trail as it’s surrounded by giant senecios and lobelias. As Barranco is in a valley, the sun rises later than at the other camps.

Total Elevation Gain: 1,100 meters, 3,610 feet
Hiking time: 5 to 7 hours
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner Included

Day 4: Barranco Camp (3,950m/12,960ft) to Karanga Valley (4,200m/13,780ft)

Leave Barranco Camp after breakfast for Karanga Valley. The day begins with a 1.5 hour scramble up the Barranco Wall. This is the hardest part of the day and in some places you may have to use your hands to aid your climb. After reaching the top, hike through fairly level terrain before making a short but steep descent into the green Karanga River Valley.

Elevation Gain: 250 meters, 820 feet
Distance: 7 Kilometers
Hiking time: 3 to 5 hours
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner Included

Day 5: Karanga Valley (4,200m/13,780ft) to Barafu Camp (4,600m/15,100ft)

After breakfast, begin the hike to Barafu Camp. On the way to Barafu, view several of Kibo’s glaciers as well as the junction that connects the descent route, Mweka, with the Machame trail. During day four, hike by the Heim, Kersten and Decken Glaciers. Although the trail to Barafu passes through alpine desert with little vegetation, Barafu Camp offers stunning views of Kibo and Mawenzi peaks. Try to sleep after finishing dinner as you will wake before midnight for your summit hike.

Elevation Gain: 400 meters, 1,320 feet
Hiking time: 3 to 5 hours
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner Included

Day 6: Barafu Camp (4,600m/15,100ft) to Uhuru Peak (5,895m/19,340ft) to Mweka Camp (3,100m/10,170ft)

Around midnight, begin the final ascent to Uhuru Peak. Hike by the light of your headlamp for the next six hours. The ascent to the crater rim is the most challenging part of the entire trek. The trail is very steep until you reach the crater rim at Stella Point.

The hike from Stella Point to Uhuru Peak is a gradual climb and, as far as hikes go, not very difficult. The altitude, however, makes the hike long and tiring. The crater rim hike takes approximately one hour. Upon reaching Uhuru, take photos of your guide and group at the peak before beginning the descent to Mweka Camp. On the way down from Uhuru, enjoy views of the mountain, crater, clouds and glaciers.

At Barafu Camp, eat breakfast and take a short break. You still have another three to five hours to go before reaching Mweka Camp.

Elevation Gain: 1,295 meters, 4,240 feet
Elevation Loss: 2,795 meters, 9,170 feet
Hiking time: 6 hours to the rim, 1 hour to Uhuru, 3 to 4 hours back to Barafu, 4 hours to Mweka
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner Included

Day 7: Mweka Camp (3,100m/10,170ft) to Mweka Gate (1,500m/4,920ft)

After breakfast, finish the trek with a hike through the forest to Mweka Gate. The trail may be slippery following rain. Our vehicles will meet you at the lower station of Mweka Gate to take you back to Moshi.

Elevation Loss: 1,600 meters, 5,250 feet
Hiking time: 4 hours
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner Included

Day 8: Depart Tanzania

The day is left free to wind down after the trek before your flight home. Depending on flight times you could go and explore Moshi town and grab some gift shops before heading to the airport.
*Safari, Zanzibar and other add-ons are available if you wish to continue exploring Tanzania
Meals: Breakfast Included

Price Includes & Excludes

2 night’s accommodation in Moshi or Arusha is included
Private transport to & from Kilimanjaro International Airport to your Accommodations in Moshi.
Park entry fees
Hut fees
Transportation to & from the Kilimanjaro gate
Team Kilimanjaro Rescue fees
18% VAT on tour fees & services
Friendly and professional mountain guides, cook and porters
3 hot meals daily while on the mountain
Enough treated & filtered drinking water throughout the trek
Hot water for washing
Fair wages for the mountain crew as approved by the Kilimanjaro National Park Authority (KINAPA), Kilimanjaro Association of Tour Operators (KIATO)

Airfare Tips for porters, Guide, Cook and Assistant Guide
Flights
Visas
Tips to the mountain staff
Meals other than breakfast while in Arusha or Moshi
Additional nights beyond the two standard hotel nights included
Hotel upgrade costs if you decide to request an alternative hotel to the standard
Items considered to be non-essential, such as alcohol, beverages, cigarettes, snacks, etc

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Here are the commonly asked questions by our visitors. If there’s something crucial that we haven’t covered, please Contact Us. Our team is available to assist you at any time.

What is Kilimanjaro?

Kilimanjaro is the tallest mountain in Africa and the highest free-standing mountain in the world. It’s actually a dormant volcano and comprises three cones: Kibo, Mawenzi, and Shira.

How tall is Kilimanjaro?

Kilimanjaro stands at approximately 19,341 feet (5,895 meters) above sea level.

How long does it take to climb Kilimanjaro?

The duration of the climb varies based on the route chosen. Typically, it takes around 5 to 9 days to complete the ascent and descent, depending on the route and the climber’s pace.

What routes are available to climb Kilimanjaro?

There are several routes, including Marangu, Machame, Lemosho, Rongai, and more. Each route has its own characteristics, varying in difficulty, scenery, and success rates.

What are the accommodation options during the climb?

Accommodations vary depending on the route. Typically, climbers stay in tents at designated campsites or huts along the trails. Some routes offer more basic camping experiences, while others have better amenities.

How should I prepare for climbing Kilimanjaro?

Physical fitness is essential. Cardiovascular exercises, strength training, and hiking with a loaded backpack are recommended. Altitude acclimatization is crucial, so consider spending a few days at high altitudes before the climb.

What about altitude sickness?

Altitude sickness is a real concern when climbing Kilimanjaro. Acclimatization days are built into most routes to help climbers adjust gradually to the altitude. It’s essential to listen to your guides, stay hydrated, and descend if symptoms worsen.

What gear do I need for the climb?

Essential gear includes proper hiking boots, clothing suitable for varied weather conditions, a sleeping bag, trekking poles, a daypack, and other personal items. It’s crucial to have proper gear for both warmth and protection against the elements.

Do I need a guide or porter to climb Kilimanjaro?

Yes, it’s required to climb Kilimanjaro with a licensed guide and it’s highly recommended to hire porters for carrying equipment. Guides are familiar with the routes, provide safety, and understand altitude-related issues.

What is the best time to climb Kilimanjaro?

The best times are during the dry seasons: January to March and June to October. These periods offer clearer skies and more stable weather conditions, making the climb safer and more enjoyable.

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Kilimanjaro Fair Deal is a local company owned by local people located at Arusha Tanzania, the land of blessed tourism attractions. We are committed to organizing the best adventure in East Africa,

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