Umbwe Route Climb Kilimanjaro along the Umbwe Route
The legendary Umbwe route offers the shortest and most direct route for climbing Kilimanjaro, a daring and exhilarating path, and a true test of courage, determination, and adventure. The route embraces solitude, offering a sense of seclusion and tranquility away from the crowds. Your starting point is located on the southern side of the mountain.
Accommodation is in tents throughout the trip.
DAY 1: From Umbwe Gate to Umbwe Cave Camp
The trail initially takes you through a lush and dense rainforest. You will be surrounded by tall trees, moss-covered rocks, and a variety of plant and animal life. As you continue hiking, the trail gradually ascends through the rainforest. The terrain becomes steeper, and you may encounter some rocky sections along the way. After a few hours of hiking, you will pass through a section known as 'Mysterious Valley', a picturesque area with dense vegetation, creating a serene and secluded atmosphere. Lunch will be served upon arrival at Umbwe Cave Camp.
DAY 2: From Umbwe Cave Camp to Barranco Camp
The trail from Umbwe Cave Camp initially involves a steep uphill section as you continue your ascent. As you gain elevation, the vegetation changes from the forested areas to more open landscapes characterized by heath and moorland. You will notice a transition from dense vegetation to sparse shrubs and grasses. Along the way, you may enjoy panoramic views of the surrounding landscapes, including a distant view of the Lava Tower formation. The trail descends into the scenic Barranco Valley. Lunch will be served upon arrival at Barranco Camp.
DAY 3: From Barranco Camp to Karanga Camp
The trek will begin with the ascent of the daunting Barranco Wall, a steep 257-meter / 843-foot obstacle that requires navigating rocky scrambles and steep sections. Your efforts will, however, be met with stunning views of the mountain's cliffs and vast surroundings as you ascend. After conquering the wall, you will descend into the lush Karanga Valley, where you will be surrounded by vibrant greenery and natural beauty. Following a brief pause, you will ascend once more, gradually climbing towards the campsite through rocky and alpine desert terrain. Your trek culminates af Karanga Camp, where a well-deserved lunch will be served.
DAY 4: From Karanga Camp to Barafu Camp
Leaving the Karanga Valley in your wake, the trail continues its upward journey. The environment grows increasingly rugged and barren as you climb higher. This stretch of the hike leads you through an alpine desert landscape featuring rocky terrain, scree slopes, and sparse greenery. The scenery treats you to majestic views of the neighboring mountains and glaciers. At Barafu Camp, a satisfying lunch awaits, followed by a summit briefing from your guide to outline the strategy for the final push before you retire for night.
DAY 5: From Barafu Camp to to Uhuru Peak - and from Uhuru Peak to Mweka Camp
You will embark on your trek in the shroud of darkness, commencing the arduous climb towards the iconic Uhuru Peak at midnight. The path is steep, leading you through scree slopes, potential snow patches, and rough terrain. After 6-7 hours of ascent, with the first light of dawn breaking the darkness, you will reach Stella Point at an elevation of 5756 meters / 18880 feet, offering a spectacular view. This significant moment marks the edge of the crater rim. Continuing along the rim, you push towards Uhuru Peak, where the path becomes less steep, yet the high altitude and low temperatures continue to pose challenges.
Upon reaching Uhuru Peak, the summit of Mount Kilimanjaro, after covering the distance through the Umbwe route, relish the panoramic views, snap memorable photos, and cherish your accomplishment. Subsequently, as you celebrate, prepare for the descent back to Barafu Camp, retracing the steps form the ascent.
After a short break at Barafu Camp to rest, refuel, and hydrate, you will begin your descent towards either Millennium Camp or Mweka Camp. The path will lead you through varying vegetation zones, starting from the alpine desert and transitioning gradually into the rainforest as you descend. At the campsite, you will spend your final night on the mountain, commemorating your successful summit of Kilimanjaro via the Umbwe route.
DAY 6: From Millennium Camp or Mweka Camp to Mweka Gate
On the concluding day of the trek, you will embark on the final descent towards Mweka Gate, traversing trough the captivating rainforest.
Explore Mount Meru, and the other routes for climbing Kilimanjaro, Machame, Lemosho, Rongai, Marangu, and Northern Circuit, as well - or take a look at the overview of which mountain route to choose.
OVERVIEW UMBWE ROUTE
The Umbwe Route can be completed in 6 or 7 days. If you choose to do the climb in 7 days, you will stay an extra night at Barranco Camp to acclimatize. You will do this by hiking to Lava Tower and back to Barranco Camp.
SUMMIT SUCCES RATE: 85
ACCLIMATIZATION: GOOD
DIFFICULTY: Very challenging
On the morning of day 1, you will check out of the hotel and be picked up by us. We will of course take care of storing your belongings while you are on the mountain. Together, we drive to the Umbwe Gate, which takes about 1-2 hours from Moshi. After registering at the gate, you are ready to start climbing Kilimanjaro along the Umbwe route.
DAY 1:
From Umbwe Gate at 1800 m / 5906 ft to Umbwe Cave Camp at 2850 m / 9350 ft - 11 km. Hiking duration: 5-6 hours
DAY 2:
From Umbwe Cave Camp to Barranco Camp at 3900 m / 12795 ft - 6 km. Hiking duration: 3-4 hours
DAY 3:
From Barranco Camp to Karanga Camp at 3995 m / 13107 ft - 6 km. Hiking duration: 4 hours
DAY 4:
From Karanga Camp to Barafu Camp at 4673 m / 15331 ft - 4 km. Hiking duration: 3-4 hours
DAY 5 - 'SUMMIT NIGHT':
From Barafu Camp to Uhuru Peak at 5895 m / 19341 ft - and to Mweka Camp at 3100 m / 10171 ft - 23 km. Hiking duration: 16-17 hours
DAY 6:
From Mweka Camp to Mweka Gate at 1640 m / 5381 ft - 10 km. Hiking duration: 2-3 hours
Km in total 60
Upon arrival at the gate, you will be rewarded with your certificate, issued by Kilimanjaro National Park, stating your successful climb of Mount Kilimanjaro along the Umbwe route.
Lunch will be served in a village between Mweka Gate where the Umbwe route ends and Moshi. Back in our office, you will get back your belongings before we take you to your hotel or the airport.
The Umbwe Route is for you who
seek a challening and adventurous trek
have the ability to handle steep and rocky terrain
are looking for a truly idyllic and peaceful clibm up the mountain
What is the Best Time of Year to Trek the Umbwe Route?
The best time to trek the Umbwe route is during the dry seasons, typically from June to October, and from December to February.
What Kind of Training or Preparation is Recommended for the Umbwe Route?
Training that includes cardio, strength, and endurance exercises is highly recommended to prepare for the Umbwe route, known for its steep and challenging terrain.
More information
Do you want to climb Kilimanjaro along the Umbwe Route? Go to our FAQ section for information about booking, prices, briefings, equipment chekcs, safety, acclimatization and much more.
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