6 Days Kilimanjaro Trekking Umbwe Route
Overview
The Umbwe Route is renowned for its steep and direct ascents, offering an exhilarating challenge for seasoned climbers. Known as one of the most difficult routes on Mount Kilimanjaro, it takes you through rugged trails and spectacular landscapes, making it an ideal option for experienced trekkers who seek both adventure and breathtaking views. Starting on the mountain’s southern side, the trail quickly rises through dense rainforests, exposing trekkers to the beauty of towering trees, rocky ridges, and, ultimately, the dramatic glaciers near the summit.
What sets the Umbwe Route apart is the sense of solitude it offers. Unlike the busier paths of Machame or Marangu, this route attracts fewer climbers, giving you the chance to experience the mountain’s wilderness in a more intimate way. The route’s sense of remoteness allows for a more personal connection with nature, with the peacefulness of the surroundings only adding to its appeal.
During the climb, you’ll camp in customized, all-weather tents, which include upgraded zippers, flysheets, and full-ground pads for added comfort. Private toilet tents and solar-lit dining tents enhance the experience, while a chef prepares hot meals daily, using fresh ingredients to keep you fueled for the challenge. Evenings are made cozier with hot drinks and snacks, offering moments of relaxation after a day of strenuous trekking.
This 6-day journey along the Umbwe Route promises not only a test of endurance but also an unforgettable experience surrounded by some of Tanzania’s most awe-inspiring landscapes.
CLIMBING RATES
* Cost per person in USD
Itinerary
Upon your arrival at Kilimanjaro International Airport, you’ll be greeted by our Blue Monkey Expeditions representative and transferred to your hotel in Moshi. After check-in, our guides will provide a comprehensive orientation on the trek ahead and perform a gear check. If time allows, take a stroll around Moshi, a lively town known for its vibrant market, coffee houses, and bars. Enjoy a restful night and a hearty dinner in preparation for your adventure.
Driving Distance: 45 km (40 minutes)
After breakfast, we drive to the Umbwe Gate, where you’ll complete registration for your trek. The adventure begins as we follow a narrow trail through the lush rainforest and along the Umbwe River. The route is steep and direct, offering stunning views as you ascend. By late afternoon, you’ll reach Umbwe Cave Camp, where you will settle in for your first night on the mountain.
Elevation: 1600m to 2900m
Distance: 11 km
Hiking Time: 6 hours
Habitat: Montane Forest
After an early breakfast, we continue our ascent. As you climb higher, the rainforest gives way to more open terrain, offering stunning vistas of Kilimanjaro’s rugged landscape. By midday, we reach Barranco Camp, set in a scenic valley beneath the imposing Barranco Wall. In the afternoon, watch as the mist rises and falls, revealing the Western Breach.
Elevation: 2940m to 3970m
Distance: 6 km
Hiking Time: 4-5 hours
Habitat: Montane Forest transitioning to Moorland
Today’s journey begins with a challenging but exhilarating scramble up the Great Barranco Wall, offering dramatic views as you ascend. From there, you’ll traverse a series of ridges and valleys, passing beneath the glaciers of Kibo. After crossing the Karanga Valley, we reach Karanga Camp, where you will spend the night.
Elevation: 3950m to 3930m
Distance: 7 km
Hiking Time: 4 hours
Habitat: Alpine Desert
We leave Karanga Camp behind, heading for Barafu Camp, the final camp before the summit push. The trail takes you across a rocky alpine desert, with sweeping views of Mawenzi and Kibo Peaks. After arriving at Barafu Camp in the early afternoon, you’ll rest and prepare for the summit climb, with an early dinner and an early bedtime.
Elevation: 3930m to 4600m
Distance: 6 km
Hiking Time: 3 hours
Habitat: Alpine Desert
Day begins just before midnight with a hot drink and a light snack. You’ll set out on the steep ascent towards Stella Point (5732m), climbing through scree under the stars. From Stella Point, it’s a gradual climb to Uhuru Peak (5895m), the roof of Africa. After celebrating at the summit, you’ll begin your descent, stopping for lunch at Barafu Camp before continuing down to Mweka Camp for your final night on the mountain.
Elevation: 4600m to 5895m (summit) and down to 3100m
Distance: 7 km ascent, 23 km descent
Hiking Time: 6-8 hours ascent, 7-8 hours descent
Habitat: Stone scree and ice-capped summit to Moorland
Following breakfast, we make the final descent to Mweka Gate, where you’ll receive your summit certificates. The trail may be wet and muddy at lower elevations, so gaiters and trekking poles will be useful. At Mweka Gate, a vehicle will be waiting to transport you back to Moshi for a well-deserved rest at the hotel.
Elevation: 3100m to 1800m
Distance: 8 km
Hiking Time: 3-4 hours
Habitat: Montane Forest
After breakfast, our team will transfer you to Kilimanjaro International Airport for your departure flight. If you’d like to extend your adventure, Blue Monkey Expeditions offers thrilling Tanzania safaris and other experiences, which we would be delighted to arrange for you. Take home memories of your incredible journey and the unparalleled achievement of summiting Kilimanjaro.
Included/Exclude
- Park fees
- All activities (unless labeled as optional)
- All accommodations as stated in the itinerary
- A professional driver/guide
- All transportation (unless labeled as optional)
- All Taxes/VAT
- Roundtrip airport transfer
- All Meals (as specified in the day-by-day section)
- International flights (from/to home)
- Additional accommodation before and at the end of the tour
- Tips for porters and mountain crew is recommended
- Personal items (souvenirs, travel insurance, visa fees, etc.)
- The government imposed an increase in taxes and park fees
- Alcohol drinks
