UMBWE ROUTE
ROUTE OVERVIEW
The Umbwe Route, although less popular, is a trail worth exploring. Previously considered challenging, it is steep in the initial two days yet remains manageable for many hikers. Starting from the southern side of Mount Kilimanjaro, it merges with the Lemosho and Machame Routes on the third day near the Barranco Wall. An interesting feature of the Umbwe Route is the limited presence of other trekkers during the first two days. It offers both 6 and 7-day itineraries, with the seven-day option recommended for novice hikers lacking prior acclimatization. This route provides spectacular scenery, showcasing the best views of Kilimanjaro, traversing various climatic zones, and allowing observation of its distinctive flora and fauna.
The summit success rates for the Umbwe Route are as follows:
- Umbwe Route 6 days – Uhuru Peak: 97.1%
SCHEDULE
Day One (1): Umbwe Gate (5,249 ft) to Umbwe Camp (9,514 ft)
- Stretch: 11 km
- Hiking Time: 5-7 hours
- Climatic Habitat: Rain Forest
After arriving at the Umbwe Gate, hikers and the team complete the registration process and set up the hiking gear and equipment.
Day Two (2): Umbwe Camp (9,514 ft) to Barranco Camp (13,044 ft)
- Stretch: 6 km
- Hiking Time: 4-5 hours
- Climatic Habitat: Heath
The trek starts off steep as we climb into the heath zone. The landscape changes quickly to sparse vegetation, rocky outcrops, and giant heathers. The trail ascends a narrow ridge before flattening out as it approaches Barranco Valley, which offers stunning views of Moshi and Kibo Peak. After reaching the campsite, there will be some time to explore the area in greater detail.
Day Three (3): Barranco Camp (13,044 ft) to Karanga Camp (13,106 ft)
- Stretch: 5 km
- Hiking Time: 4-5 hours
- Climatic Habitat: Alpine Desert
The first challenge on this route is climbing and scrambling over the volcanic rock of the 1,200 ft Barranco Wall. Upon reaching the top, we have a well-earned lunch break and enjoy fantastic views of Barafu and Mount Meru. We continue across the ridges and valleys to the Karanga Valley camping ground. This is a short day hike meant for acclimatization.
Day Four (4): Karanga Camp (13,106 ft) to Barafu Camp (15,331 ft)
- Stretch: 4 km
- Hiking Time: 4-5 hours
- Climatic Habitat: Alpine Desert
After breakfast, hikers and the team leave Karanga Camp and reach the junction that connects with the Mweka Trail. From there, they continue up to Barafu Camp.
Day Five (5): Barafu Camp (15,331 ft) to Uhuru Peak (19,341 ft) to Mweka Camp (10,065 ft)
- Stretch: 17 km
- Hiking Time: 11-14 hours
- Climatic Habitat: Arctic
Early in the morning, at midnight, hikers and the team begin their ascent to the summit. We put on many layers of clothing and head in a northwesterly direction. We ascend through heavy scree towards Stella Point on the crater rim. This is the most physically and mentally challenging portion of the Mount Kilimanjaro hike. At Stella Point, we stop for a short rest and are rewarded with a magnificent sunrise. From Stella Point, hikers have just one more hour before reaching the peak. At Uhuru Peak, they have reached the highest point on Mount Kilimanjaro and the roof of Africa. Faster hikers may see the sunrise from the summit. From the summit, hikers descend straight down to Mweka Camp, stopping at Barafu Camp for lunch. Mweka Camp is situated in the upper forest. Later in the evening, hikers enjoy their last dinner on the mountain and a well-earned sleep.
Day Six (6): Mweka Camp (10,065 ft) to Mweka Gate (5,380 ft) to Moshi/Arusha
- Stretch: 10 km
- Hiking Time: 3-4 hours
- Climatic Habitat: Rain Forest
Following breakfast, we continue our descent towards Mweka Park Gate. Hikers will receive their summit certificates at the gate. At lower elevations, the terrain can be wet and muddy. Gaiters and trekking poles will be helpful. Hikers will likely be able to wear shorts and t-shirts but should keep rain gear and warmer clothing close at hand. Our vehicle will be waiting at Mweka Gate to take hikers back to their hotel in Moshi.
THE 7-DAY UMBWE ROUTE
If hikers choose the 7-day route package, they will benefit from an extra night at Barranco Camp, which provides a better acclimatization profile and boosts their summit success rate from 90% to 97%.
FACTS ABOUT THIS ROUTE
- The Umbwe Route is approximately 53 km or 32 miles long, with the longest hike occurring on summit night.
- For beginners, the 7-day itinerary is slightly easier while maintaining a high success rate.
Price Range: $1,949 per person
This package includes:
- All fees and taxes
- 24-hour call service
- Lunch and dinner on Day One; Breakfast, lunch, and dinner from Day Two to Day Six
- Climbing crew (professional guides & tour operator)
- Environmental fees
- Crew wages
Book via WhatsApp or Email
This package does not include:
- Tipping the crew
- Visa
- Flights