Umbwe Route
6 Days
KILIMANJARO ROUTE
The 6-Day Umbwe Route Kilimanjaro Trek is a challenging and direct ascent to the “Roof of Africa.” This route is renowned for its steep and demanding terrain, making it suitable for experienced trekkers. The trek starts at the Umbwe Gate and quickly climbs through lush rainforests. It then transitions into the moorland zone, followed by the alpine desert. The rapid ascent requires excellent acclimatization. The route provides solitude and stunning scenery, including dramatic views of the Western Breach. Summit Day takes you to Uhuru Peak, Africa’s highest point, before descending to Mweka Camp. Umbwe Route Kilimanjaro Trek is a demanding trek, recommended for seasoned adventurers. Book now for our Umbwe Route Kilimanjaro Trek.
Conquer Mount Kilimanjaro, Africa’s highest peak (5,895m) via the steep and direct Umbwe Route.
Experience one of the least crowded and most adventurous paths on Kilimanjaro.
Trek through diverse landscapes: rainforest, heath, moorland, alpine desert, and the arctic summit zone.
Challenge yourself with the Barranco Wall climb, offering thrilling views of the valleys below.
Enjoy breathtaking sunrise from the summit of Uhuru Peak.
Private and small-group camping experience with professional mountain crew.
Certificate of achievement upon successful completion.
Professional, experienced mountain guides and crew
All park fees, camping fees, and rescue fees
Government taxes and levies
Full board meals (breakfast, lunch, dinner) during the trek
Clean drinking water throughout the climb
Camping equipment (tents, sleeping mats, tables, and chairs)
Porter support for carrying equipment and luggage
Airport pickup and drop-off (if arranged in package)
Certificate of achievement after the climb
International and domestic flights
Tanzanian entry visa fees
Travel insurance (mandatory for trekkers)
Sleeping bags and personal trekking gear (available for rent)
Tips for guides, porters, and cook
Personal expenses (drinks, snacks, laundry, souvenirs)
Additional accommodation before or after the trek (unless included in package)
After registration at Umbwe Gate, begin trekking through dense rainforest filled with colobus monkeys, tropical birds, and thick undergrowth. The trail is steep and direct, climbing continuously along a narrow ridge until reaching Umbwe Cave Camp in the late afternoon.
Distance: 10 km | 5–7 hours
Habitat: Rainforest
Overnight at Umbwe Cave Camp (tents).
Leave the rainforest behind and ascend into moorland and heath zones, with views opening toward towering cliffs and valleys. The trail becomes rocky and more exposed as you approach Barranco Camp, set beneath the imposing Barranco Wall.
Distance: 7 km | 6–7 hours
Habitat: Heath and Moorland
Overnight at Barranco Camp (tents).
Start the day by climbing the famous Barranco Wall, an adventurous but non-technical scramble offering breathtaking views. Continue across ridges and valleys before a short but steep climb into Karanga Camp.
Distance: 5 km | 4–5 hours
Habitat: Alpine Desert
Overnight at Karanga Camp (tents).
Hike steadily uphill across barren alpine desert landscapes with sparse vegetation. The trail is shorter but challenging due to the altitude. Barafu Camp, perched on a rocky ridge, offers spectacular views of Mawenzi and the summit of Kibo.
Distance: 4 km | 4–5 hours
Habitat: Alpine Desert
Overnight at Barafu Camp (tents).
Begin the final summit push just after midnight. Trek in darkness over steep scree slopes to Stella Point (5,739m) on the crater rim, then continue to Uhuru Peak, the highest point in Africa. After celebrating, descend back to Barafu Camp for rest before continuing down to Mweka Camp.
Distance: 16 km | 10–14 hours
Habitat: Arctic summit zone, then alpine desert and moorland
Overnight at Mweka Camp (tents).
Descend through lush rainforest on a well-maintained trail, enjoying the fresh air and spotting more wildlife along the way. Arrive at Mweka Gate for check-out and certificate presentation before transfer back to Moshi/Arusha.
Distance: 10 km | 3–4 hours
Habitat: Rainforest
End of Trek.
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