Umbwe Route
6 Days umbwe route
Tour Overview: Umbwe Route
The Umbwe Route is the steepest and most direct path on Mount Kilimanjaro, known for its challenging terrain and fewer trekkers, offering a sense of solitude amidst stunning natural beauty. It’s best suited for experienced climbers who acclimatize well to altitude, as it features a rapid ascent.
Starting from the south, the trek moves eastward at Barranco Camp and then beneath the Southern Icefield to summit via Barafu. The descent is made via the Mweka Route. Unique accommodations include the Umbwe Cave Camp, with opportunities to explore additional caves. For a more adventurous option, there’s a possibility to summit via the Western Breach, available through premium packages.
People in Group | Standard Package |
1-2 | 2200$ |
3-5 | 1950$ |
6-8 | 1850$ |
9+ | 1800$ |
Day 1: Starting at the Umbwe Gate, climbers embark on a 10.3 km trek to Umbwe Cave Camp, gaining elevation from 1,614 m to 2,850 m. The journey begins with a drive to the gate, where the trail winds through lush rainforests, showcasing thick undergrowth and towering trees. The path gradually narrows and steepens, providing spectacular views of deep gorges and, if lucky, a glimpse of Kilimanjaro above.
Day 2: The next leg leads from Umbwe Cave Camp to Barranco Camp, covering 6.3 km and ascending to 3,985 m. As you leave the camp, the forest begins to thin, revealing rockier terrain. The path follows a narrow ridge, offering magnificent views of Kilimanjaro as you descend slightly into Barranco Valley, where the camp awaits beneath the impressive Great Barranco Wall.
Day 3: From Barranco Camp, the trek continues to Karanga Camp, a distance of 6 km with an elevation gain to 4,040 m. The day begins with a challenging ascent up the Great Barranco Wall, which, while daunting, is often easier than it looks. The route then descends into the Karanga Valley, where the last water stop is located before joining the Mweka route.
Day 4: The journey then takes you from Karanga Camp to Barafu Camp, a 3.4 km ascent to 4,681 m. After breakfast, you’ll ascend steeply toward Barafu Camp, known as “ice” in Swahili. This exposed and rocky area presents a stark contrast to previous habitats, setting the stage for the final push to the summit.
Day 5:The summit push starts from Barafu Camp, reaching Uhuru Peak at 5,895 m before descending to Mweka Camp at 3,090 m. The ascent covers 4.5 km, while the descent spans 10.8 km. Starting around midnight, you’ll navigate through heavy scree toward Stella Point. This leg is both mentally and physically demanding, but the reward is an awe-inspiring sunrise. After celebrating at Uhuru Peak, you’ll descend to Mweka Camp, where the terrain shifts back into lush forest.
Day 6: The final hike back to the Mweka Gate covers 8.5 km, dropping from 3,090 m to 1,641 m. The scenic descent through the rainforest offers a moment to reflect on the journey. Here, climbers celebrate their achievements with summit certificates before heading to Mweka village for a well-deserved hot lunch and a return to Moshi.
This route promises an unforgettable journey filled with challenging climbs, stunning vistas, and the exhilaration of reaching Africa’s highest peak.
Distance Breakdown for the Umbwe Route (6 Days)
Day 1: Umbwe Gate (1,614 m) to Umbwe Cave Camp (2,850 m)
– Distance: 10.3 km
– Elevation Gain: 1,236 m
Day 2:Umbwe Cave Camp (2,850 m) to Barranco Camp (3,985 m)
– Distance: 6.3 km
– Elevation Gain: 1,135 m
Day 3: Barranco Camp (3,985 m) to Karanga Camp (4,040 m)
– Distance: 6 km
– Elevation Gain: 55 m
Day 4: Karanga Camp (4,040 m) to Barafu Camp (4,681 m)
– Distance: 3.4 km
– Elevation Gain: 641 m
Day 5: Barafu Camp (4,681 m) to Uhuru Peak (5,895 m)
– Distance: 4.5 km (ascent)
– Elevation Gain: 1,214 m
– Uhuru Peak (5,895 m) to Mweka Camp (3,090 m)
– Distance: 10.8 km (descent)
– Elevation Loss: 2,805 m
Day 6: Mweka Camp (3,090 m) to Mweka Gate (1,641 m)
– Distance: 8.5 km
– Elevation Loss: 1,449 m
Total Distance and Elevation Summary
– Total Distance: 49.1 km
– Total Elevation Gain: 3,853 m
– Total Elevation Loss:4,254 m
This breakdown provides a clear view of the distances and elevation changes encountered along the Umbwe Route.
Price Include
- Park, camping & rescue fees
- All activities (unless labeled as optional)
- All accommodation as stated in the itinerary
- Mountain tent & mattress
- Professional English speaking guide(s), porters & chef
- All Taxes/VAT
- Water; tea and coffee with meals
- All Meals (as specified in the day-by-day section)
- Transport from/to park gate & airport transfer
Price Exclude
- International flights (from/to home)
- Additional accommodation before and at the end of the tour
- Tips (tipping guideline US$20.00 pp per day)
- Personal items (souvenirs, travel insurance, visa fees, etc.)
- Government imposed increase of taxes and/or park fees
- Alcohol drinks