Umbwe Route

Duration:

5 days

Destinations:

Umbwe Camp, Barranco Camp, Karanga Camp, Barafu Camp, Uhuru Peak to Mweka Camp

Trekking Highlights

The Umbwe Route is the most challenging and direct path to the summit of Mount Kilimanjaro, ideal for experienced trekkers seeking a more intense adventure. This route is known for its steep gradients and stunning views, making it a great choice for those who want to conquer the mountain with fewer crowds. The trek offers a quick ascent, taking you through lush rainforests, moorlands, and the rugged terrain near the summit. With limited time for acclimatization, the Umbwe Route is best suited for those who are physically fit and eager for a more demanding and thrilling Kilimanjaro experience.

Day to day description

Day 1: Umbwe Gate to Umbwe Camp

Distance:

11 km (6.8 miles)

Hiking Time:

5-7 hours

Habitat:

Rainforest

Your trek begins with a transfer to the Umbwe Gate for registration, then proceed into the lush rainforest zone. The path is steep from the start, and you’ll immediately feel the intensity of the climb.

The dense forest is alive with tropical flora, and you may catch glimpses of wildlife like monkeys and birds. Arrive at Umbwe Camp by the afternoon, where you’ll rest and prepare for the next day’s challenging ascent.

Distance:

8 km (5 miles)

Hiking Time:

6-8 hours

Habitat:

Moorland

On day two, you will ascend into the moorland zone, where the terrain becomes more open and rugged. The climb is steep and demanding, but as you gain altitude, the views of Kilimanjaro’s summit become increasingly spectacular.

Barranco Camp sits at the base of the imposing Barranco Wall, where you’ll spend the night. The camp offers breathtaking views and an opportunity to acclimatize, preparing you for the ascent to the wall tomorrow.

Distance:

6 km (3.7 miles)

Hiking Time:

4-5 hours

Habitat:

Moorland

Today’s hike begins with the famous ascent of the Barranco Wall, which provides a thrilling challenge with its steep climb and rocky terrain. Once on top, enjoy panoramic views of the surrounding valleys and glaciers. The trail then continues through the moorland zone, with diverse plant life and more stunning vistas. Arrive at Karanga Camp, where you’ll have time to relax and acclimatize, making sure you are ready for the final push to the summit.

Distance:

4 km (2.5 miles)

Hiking Time:

3-4 hours

Habitat:

Alpine Desert

As you climb towards Barafu Camp, the environment becomes more arid and barren, characteristic of the alpine desert zone. The route is short but steep, providing great views of the surrounding landscape, including the towering peaks of Kibo and Mawenzi. Arriving at Barafu Camp in the early afternoon, you’ll rest and prepare for your midnight summit attempt. This camp is the final stop before making your ascent to Uhuru Peak, so it’s crucial to rest and hydrate.

Distance:

22 km (13.7 miles)

Hiking Time:

12-15 hours (6-8 hours to summit, 4-7 hours descent)

Habitat:

Arctic to Moorland

Begin your summit ascent at midnight, hiking in the dark with headlamps through the cold and challenging arctic zone. Reach Gilman’s Point on the crater rim, then continue on to Uhuru Peak (5,895m) to celebrate your triumph as the sun rises.

After taking in the breathtaking views, descend back to Barafu Camp for a brief rest before continuing down to Mweka Camp. The descent through the moorland zone is long but rewarding, where you’ll finally spend the night after an unforgettable adventure.

The price includes

  • All park fees for all national parks
  • All meals and accommodations during the entire tour
  • A high-quality safari land cruiser with pop up roof while on Safari
  • Arrival and departure transfers
  • Local flight (Arusha – Kogatende)
  • Highly experienced safari guide
  • Unlimited mineral water on safari
  • All government taxes

The price Excludes

  • International Flights
  •  Gratuities
  •  Drinks at the lodges
  • Any other things not mentioned above.
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