Umbwe Route Trekking

6 Days

Challenging

Per Adult

1,815

Conquer Kilimanjaro’s Most Scenic and Challenging Path

The Umbwe Route is one of the most scenic and challenging paths to the summit of Mount Kilimanjaro. Known for its steep climbs and stunning views, it’s perfect for experienced hikers who want a less crowded and adventurous trek. This route takes you through lush rainforests, alpine deserts, and rocky terrains, offering a true wilderness experience.

Key Highlights:

Trek through lush rainforests, moorlands, and alpine deserts.
Conquer the famous Barranco Wall, a thrilling and rewarding climb.
Enjoy breathtaking views of Kilimanjaro’s glaciers and surrounding landscapes.
Experience a less crowded route with a sense of solitude and tranquility.
Camp under the stars and connect with nature.

Itinerary in detail

Join us for an unforgettable trip to the summit of Mount Kilimanjaro with our itinerary. Each day helps you adjust to the altitude, enjoy beautiful views, and have a rewarding hike. Here’s what to expect on your adventure:

1. Moshi → Umbwe Gate → Umbwe Cave

Elevation: 1,800m/5,905ft to 3,000m/9,840ft
Distance: 11 km | Hiking Time: 6–7 hours
Activity:
- After breakfast, drive to Umbwe Gate (about 1.5 hours).
- Register at the gate and meet your crew.
- Begin the trek through dense rainforest, following a steep and narrow trail.
- Enjoy the peaceful atmosphere and listen to the sounds of birds and monkeys.
- Arrive at Umbwe Cave Camp, where your tents will be set up.
Terrain: Dense rainforest with tall trees, cool air, and muddy trails.
Highlights:
- Spot wildlife like blue monkeys and colorful birds.
- Experience the tranquility of the rainforest.

Camp at Umbwe Cave

Full Board

2. Umbwe Cave → Barranco Camp

Elevation: 3,000m/9,840ft to 3,950m/12,960ft
Distance: 6 km | Hiking Time: 5–6 hours
Activity:
- After breakfast, start the trek through the rainforest, which gradually thins out into moorland.
- Follow a steep and rocky trail with stunning views of the valleys below.
- Arrive at Barranco Camp, located in a scenic valley with views of the Barranco Wall.
- Rest and enjoy the breathtaking scenery.
Terrain: Rocky trails with sparse vegetation and panoramic views.
Highlights:
- Enjoy the dramatic landscapes and prepare for the Barranco Wall climb the next day.
- Take in the views of Kibo Peak and the surrounding valleys.

Barranco Camp

Full Board

3. Barranco Camp → Karanga Camp

Elevation: 3,950m/12,960ft to 4,000m/13,120ft
Distance: 4.25 km | Hiking Time: 3–4 hours
Activity:
- After breakfast, tackle the famous Barranco Wall, a thrilling but manageable climb.
- Use your hands and feet to navigate the rocky sections, with your guide providing support.
- After conquering the wall, enjoy a short descent into a valley, followed by a gradual climb to Karanga Camp.
- Arrive at Karanga Camp, where you’ll have lunch and rest.
- In the afternoon, take a short acclimatization walk around the camp.
Terrain: Steep, rocky trails with some scrambling sections.
Highlights:
- Conquer the Barranco Wall, one of the most exciting parts of the trek.
- Enjoy stunning views of the summit and surrounding landscapes.

Karanga Camp

Full Board

4. Karanga Camp → Barafu Camp

Elevation: 4,000m/13,120ft to 4,600m/15,090ft
Distance: 4.86 km | Hiking Time: 3–4 hours
Activity:
- After breakfast, begin the trek to Barafu Camp, the base camp for the summit push.
- Follow a rocky trail through the alpine desert, with views of Kibo Peak ahead.
- Arrive at Barafu Camp, where you’ll have lunch and rest.
- In the afternoon, your guide will brief you on the summit night climb.
- Go to bed early to prepare for the midnight start.
Terrain: Rocky, barren trails with little vegetation.
Highlights:
- Prepare for the summit push and enjoy the dramatic alpine desert scenery.
- Take in the views of Mawenzi Peak and the surrounding landscape.

Barafu Camp

Full Board

5. Summit Day – Barafu Camp → Uhuru Peak → Mweka Camp

Elevation: 4,600m/15,090ft to 5,895m/19,340ft (Uhuru Peak), then down to 3,100m/10,170ft (Mweka Camp)
Distance: 6 km (ascent), 11.5 km (descent) | Hiking Time: 6–7 hours (ascent), 5–6 hours (descent)
Activity:
- Wake up at midnight, have a light snack, and begin the summit push.
- Trek slowly in the dark, following a steep and rocky trail.
- Reach Stella Point (5,750m) at sunrise, then continue to Uhuru Peak, the highest point in Africa.
- Celebrate your achievement, take photos, and enjoy the breathtaking views.
- Descend to Barafu Camp for a short rest, then continue to Mweka Camp.
Terrain: Steep, rocky trails with scree and snow near the summit.
Highlights:
- Witness the sunrise from the Roof of Africa.
- Celebrate reaching the summit and take in the incredible views.

Mweka Camp

Full Board

6. Mweka Camp → Mweka Gate → Moshi

Elevation: 3,100m/10,170ft to 1,700m/5,580ft
Distance: 9.1 km | Hiking Time: 2–3 hours
Activity:
- After breakfast, begin the descent through the rainforest to Mweka Gate.
- Enjoy the lush greenery and listen to the sounds of birds and monkeys.
- Arrive at Mweka Gate, where you’ll receive your summit certificate.
- Meet your vehicle and drive back to Moshi.
- Celebrate your achievement with a hot shower and rest at the hotel.
Terrain: Rainforest with muddy trails.
Highlights:
- Reflect on your incredible journey as you descend through the rainforest.
- Celebrate your success with your team.

Breakfast

The adventure ends here!

What's Included

Porterage (carrying your gear).
Climbing gear (tents, sleeping mats, etc.).
Rescue fee and park fees.
All accommodation during the trek.
All meals as specified in the itinerary.
Professional guide and support team.
All transportation, including airport transfers.

What's Excluded

International flights.
Tips for guides and porters.
Additional accommodation before and after the tour.
Personal items (e.g., souvenirs, travel insurance, visa fees).
Government-imposed increases in taxes and/or park fees.

Best Time to Trek

January–March: Clear skies and warm weather.
June–October: Cooler temperatures and less rain.

Why Choose This Route?

The Umbwe Route offers experienced hikers a challenging, less crowded trek with steep climbs and stunning scenery, creating an unforgettable adventure and a strong connection with nature.