6 Days Climbing Kilimanjaro Route Via Umbwe
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6 Days Climbing Kilimanjaro Route Via Umbwe Overview
The Umbwe Route is the steepest, shortest, and most direct trail up Mount Kilimanjaro. Known for its dramatic ascent through dense rainforest and rugged ridges, it’s best suited for experienced climbers seeking a real challenge.
Although physically demanding, the route rewards adventurers with breathtaking views and a true sense of wilderness. The trail joins the Machame Route at Barranco Camp, allowing climbers to experience the southern circuit before summiting via Barafu.
Itinerary at Glance
- Day 1: Arrival in Moshi / Arusha
- Day 2: Moshi – Umbwe Gate (1,800m) – Umbwe Cave Camp (2,850m)
- Day 3: Umbwe Cave – Barranco Camp (3,950m)
- Day 4: Barranco Camp – Karanga Camp (4,035m)
- Day 5: Karanga Camp – Barafu Camp (4,640m)
- Day 6: Barafu Camp – Uhuru Peak (5,895m) – Mweka Camp (3,100m)
- Day 7: Mweka Camp – Mweka Gate (1,640m) – Moshi / Arusha
Itinerary In Details
Day 1: Arrival in Moshi / Arusha
Upon arrival at Kilimanjaro International Airport, you’ll be met by our representative and transferred to your hotel in Moshi/Arusha. You’ll receive a detailed briefing and equipment check in preparation for the climb.
Meals: Dinner (if arrival is early)
Accommodation: Hotel in Moshi / Arusha
Day 2: Moshi – Umbwe Gate (1,800m) – Umbwe Cave Camp (2,850m)
Distance: 10 km | Time: 5–7 hours | Habitat: Montane Forest
After breakfast, drive to Umbwe Gate for registration. The trail begins steeply, ascending through dense rainforest filled with moss-covered trees and tropical vegetation. The path follows a narrow ridge between two deep valleys before reaching Umbwe Cave Camp for dinner and overnight.
Meals: Lunch & Dinner
Accommodation: Umbwe Cave Camp
Day 3: Umbwe Cave – Barranco Camp (3,950m)
Distance: 7 km | Time: 5–6 hours | Habitat: Moorland
Continue your climb through steep and rocky terrain as the forest gives way to moorland. The trail joins the Machame Route near Barranco Valley, where you’ll have spectacular views of the Western Breach and Great Barranco Wall.
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
Accommodation: Barranco Camp
Day 4: Barranco Camp – Karanga Camp (4,035m)
Distance: 6 km | Time: 4–5 hours | Habitat: Alpine Desert
Start the morning by tackling the iconic Barranco Wall, a thrilling climb that requires no technical skills but offers a great sense of adventure. After reaching the top, the trail undulates through ridges and valleys before reaching Karanga Camp for acclimatization and overnight stay.
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
Accommodation: Karanga Camp
Day 5: Karanga Camp – Barafu Camp (4,640m)
Distance: 4 km | Time: 3–4 hours | Habitat: Alpine Desert
Today is a short but steep trek to Barafu Camp, the base for your summit attempt. The landscape becomes more barren, with striking views of Mawenzi and Kibo peaks. Rest early after dinner and prepare for the midnight summit climb.
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
Accommodation: Barafu Camp
Day 6: Barafu Camp – Uhuru Peak (5,895m) – Mweka Camp (3,100m)
Distance: 17 km | Time: 10–13 hours | Habitat: Arctic to Moorland
Rise around midnight and begin the toughest part of the climb. Ascend slowly to Stella Point (5,739m), then continue to Uhuru Peak (5,895m) — the highest point in Africa!
After celebrating your success, descend to Barafu Camp for breakfast, then continue down to Mweka Camp for dinner and overnight rest.
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
Accommodation: Mweka Camp
Day 7: Mweka Camp – Mweka Gate (1,640m) – Moshi / Arusha
Distance: 10 km | Time: 3–4 hours | Habitat: Rainforest
Descend through the lush rainforest to Mweka Gate, where you’ll receive your summit certificates. A vehicle will be waiting to transfer you back to your hotel in Moshi or Arusha for a hot shower and relaxation.
Meals: Breakfast & Lunch
Accommodation: Hotel in Moshi / Arusha
Price Includes
- Professional, English-speaking mountain guides, cooks, and porters
- Kilimanjaro National Park fees and rescue fees
- Full board meals during the climb
- Drinking water
- Camping equipment and tents
- Airport transfers
- Pre- and post-climb accommodation
Price Excludes
- International and domestic flights
- Tanzanian visa
- Personal climbing equipment (sleeping bag, trekking poles, etc.)
- Travel and medical insurance
- Tips for guides, cooks, and porters
- Extra meals and beverages not mentioned
- Personal expenses
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