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Climbing Kilimanjaro - Umbwe Route

  • 6 Days | 5 Nights
  • Umbwe Gate
  • Umbwe Camp
  • Baranco Camp
  • Karanga Camp
  • Barafu Camp
  • Mweka Camp

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Tour Overview

This trek offers an adventurous ascent up Mount Kilimanjaro via the challenging Umbwe Route, known for its steep and direct approach. Starting from the southern side of the mountain, this route provides a dramatic and less-traveled path to the summit. Upon arrival at Kilimanjaro International Airport, you will be welcomed by our driver and transferred to the Hotel for a comfortable night, including a pre-trek briefing with your guides. 

The trek begins at the Umbwe Gate, where you will traverse through dense forests and ascend through rugged terrain, eventually reaching the high-altitude zones. You will acclimate at various camps, ensuring a safe and steady ascent. After reaching Uhuru Peak, you’ll descend through lush rainforests to the Mweka Gate. Completing the trek, you will return to the Hotel for rest and reflection. For those looking to extend their adventure, options for a safari or a beach vacation in Zanzibar are available.

This overview captures the essence of the Umbwe Route, emphasizing its unique challenges and the stunning natural beauty that awaits trekkers.

Arrival

As you arrive at Kilimanjaro International Airport, our dedicated driver will be eagerly anticipating your arrival, holding a sign with your name for a warm welcome. You’ll enjoy a seamless transfer to the Hotel, where a delicious meal awaits you.

Later, our experienced mountain coordinators and your guide will provide a pre-trekking briefing, offering insights into the wonders that await during your expedition. Take advantage of the relaxing environment at Hotel, which features a swimming pool, beautiful gardens, a bar, and a restaurant, ensuring a comfortable start to your adventure. 

Overnight

Sal salinero hotel or similar

Umbwe Gate to Umbwe Camp
Altitude:

1,800 meters (5,906 feet) – 2,850 meters (9,350 feet)

Hiking distance:

11 km

Hiking time:

6 to 7 hours

After breakfast, you’ll be transferred to the Umbwe Gate to begin your trek. The path through the dense rainforest is steep and demanding, providing a true wilderness experience. As you gradually ascend, you’ll witness the rich vegetation and unique atmosphere of the rainforest, filled with vibrant flora and the sounds of nature.

Upon reaching Umbwe Camp, you can enjoy a hot meal prepared by our chef, giving you the energy needed for the days ahead. This initial section of the trek, while challenging, sets the stage for the adventures to come. Settle in for the night at the camp, nestled in the lush forest, where you can relax and rejuvenate for the next day’s journey. 

Umbwe Camp to Barranco Camp

Altitude:

2,850 meters (9,350 feet) – 3,960 meters (13,000 feet)

Hiking distance:

6 km

Hiking time:

6 to 7 hours

After enjoying breakfast at Machame Camp, you’ll set off towards Shira Camp, covering about 5 kilometers in a journey that typically takes 4 to 5 hours. 

The trail begins with a steep ascent through the scenic moorland zone, where you’ll be treated to breathtaking views as you climb. As you near Shira Camp, you’ll walk along a ridge offering spectacular vistas of the surrounding landscape. Upon arrival, the porters will set up your tents and prepare lunch. You’ll have the afternoon to relax and acclimate to the altitude before dinner, followed by a briefing from your guide on the next day’s trek.

Barranco Camp to Karanga Camp

Altitude:

3,960 m – 4,035 m

Hiking distance:

5 km

Hiking time:

5 hours

Start your day early with a wake-up call and a nourishing breakfast to fuel your trek. The journey may involve ascending the famous Barranco Wall, a steep but rewarding section that offers stunning views once conquered. After navigating the Wall, you’ll descend into the scenic Karanga Valley, renowned for its lush vegetation and breathtaking landscapes.

Upon reaching the Karanga campsite, the porters will set up tents while our chef prepares lunch. After your meal, you’ll embark on an acclimatization hike towards Barafu Camp, ascending 200 meters before returning to camp. In the evening, enjoy a hot meal prepared by the chef. Following dinner, your experienced guide will brief you on the next day’s trek, discussing the route, challenges, and key details. 

Karanga Camp to Barafu Camp

Altitude:

4,035 m – 4,640 m

Hiking distance:

5 km

Hiking time:

5 hours

Start your day with an early wake-up call and a hearty breakfast to fuel your trek toward Barafu Camp. The trail features varied terrain, including rocky sections and gradual slopes, offering breathtaking views of Kilimanjaro’s high-altitude landscapes. As you ascend, focus on acclimatization to avoid altitude-related issues.

Upon reaching Barafu Camp, our porters will handle camp setup while the chef prepares lunch. After eating, take the opportunity to rest until dinner. In the evening, your guide will brief you on the upcoming summit attempt, covering the route, challenges, safety measures, and preparations. Be sure to rest well, as the summit ascent begins late in the evening. 

Barafu Camp to Uhuru Peak and Mweka Camp

Altitude:

4,640 m – 5, 895 m – 3,090 m

Hiking distance:

17 km

Hiking & descending time:

15+ hours

You’ll rise around 11:30 PM and start the ascent after having some tea and biscuits. Heading northwest, you’ll climb through scree towards Stella Point on the crater rim. The trek to Stella Point (5,685 m) takes about 6 hours and is often the most mentally and physically challenging part of the climb.

After a brief rest at Stella Point, you’ll be rewarded with a magnificent sunrise, weather permitting. From there, it’s a 2-hour ascent to Uhuru Peak, the highest point on Mount Kilimanjaro. Your time at the summit will depend on the weather, so don’t linger too long due to the cold and fatigue.

The descent to Barafu Camp takes about 3 hours for a short rest before continuing to Mweka Camp, where you’ll enjoy dinner and overnight accommodations. This day is both challenging and rewarding, offering stunning views and a sense of accomplishment at reaching the summit. 

Mweka Camp to Moshi

Altitude:

3,090 m – 1,650 m

Hiking distance:

10 km

Descending time:

4-5 hours

After breakfast at Mweka Camp, you’ll begin your descent to Mweka Gate, where you’ll complete the final leg of your trek. Upon reaching the gate, you’ll be driven back to your Hotel, where a hot lunch and a refreshing shower await you.

At the end of the trip, tipping the team is encouraged and appreciated; special envelopes for this purpose are available at the hotel. If you wish to extend your adventure with a safari, you can meet with our safari coordinator at the hotel. After some rest, the coordinator will provide a briefing on the various safari options available. We highly recommend booking a safari with us to experience Tanzania’s stunning wildlife and natural beauty, making your journey truly unforgettable. 

Overnight

Sal salinero hotel or similar

Departure Day | Kilimanjaro International Airport

After breakfast, you’ll be transferred back to Kilimanjaro International Airport for your departure. If you’re looking to extend your adventure, consider adding a day trip to your itinerary to explore nearby attractions or immerse yourself in the local culture. For more details, visit our Day Trip page.

Alternatively, you might want to continue your journey with a visit to the stunning island of Zanzibar. Whether you seek relaxation on pristine beaches or wish to delve into the island’s rich culture, Zanzibar offers something for everyone. Explore our Zanzibar page to discover the perfect package for your next excursion.

If you’re interested in adding a safari experience, please visit our Safari page for more information on our exciting safari options. 

Climbing Kilimanjaro - Umbwe Route (6 days hike) | Price per Person

1 Pax

$ 1902

2 Pax

$ 1712

3 Pax

$ 1712

4 Pax

$ 1712

5 Pax

$ 1712

6 Pax

$ 1683

Included

Two nights accommodation at the hotel (before and after the climb)

-First night includes breakfast
-Last night includes dinner and breakfast

Qualified guides and mountain crew
Kilimanjaro National park fees
Hut/camping fees and tents
Tents, foam sleeping pads, cooking equipment, and eating utensils (cutlery/crockery)
Rescue fees (required by the National Park)
Pulse oximeters
First aid kit
Salaries for guides, porters, cook, and waiter
Airport transfers (to and from Kilimanjaro International Airport - JRO)
All meals on the mountain (breakfast, lunch, and dinner)
Accommodation and entry fees for guides, porters, waiter, and cook on the mountain

Excluded

Single room supplement at Hotel
Tips for guides, porters, cook, and waiter
Personal mountain equipment (e.g., sleeping bags)

- Some equipment is available for rent; see our rental price list

Personal expenses and items of personal nature
Emergency oxygen
Additional nights beyond the two standard hotel nights included
Extra activities (e.g., waterfall tour, cultural village visit)
Visa fees and travel insurance
Flight tickets

BOOK THIS TOUR

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