The Umbwe Route stands as one of the shortest pathways to ascend Mt. Kilimanjaro. Originating from the Southern Glaciers and the Western Breach, it represents the most formidable and demanding trail on the mountain. This route appeals to adventurers seeking an authentic climbing challenge. Although it’s a less-traveled and challenging path, the rewards are immensely gratifying. For those who crave a true test on Kilimanjaro’s slopes, away from the crowds of more frequented trails, the Umbwe Route is the ideal choice. However, given its steep ascent and direct nature, it’s best suited for individuals with significant altitude experience.

DAY 1: UMBWE ROUTE KILIMANJARO PARK GATE TO UMBWE CAVE CAMP

• Altitude: 1600m/5450ft to 2900m/9350ft
• Walking/Hiking Distance: 11km
• Walking/Hiking Time: 5-6 hours
• Habitat: Montane Forest
• Meals: Lunch, Dinner
• Accommodation: Umbwe Cave Camp

Commence your journey with a drive from Arusha to the Umbwe Gate (approximately 30 minutes). Begin the climb through the rainforest, with a packed lunch en route. The narrow path meanders through the rainforest alongside the Umbwe River. The day concludes at Umbwe Cave Camp.

DAY 2: UMBWE CAVE CAMP TO BARRANCO CAMP

• Altitude: 2900m/5450ft to 3900m/9350ft
• Walking/Hiking Distance: 6 km
• Walking/Hiking Time: 5-6 hours
• Habitat: Montane Forest
• Meals: Lunch, Dinner
• Accommodation: Barranco Camp

Following breakfast, depart from camp to leave the forested area. Observe the dramatic Western Breach wall as it intermittently appears through rolling afternoon mists on the ascent to the Great Barranco.

DAY 3: BARRANCO CAMP TO KARANGA CAMP

• Altitude: 3900m/13,000ft to 4000m/13,250ft
• Walking/Hiking Distance: 5km
• Walking/Hiking Time: 3-4 hours
• Habitat: Alpine Desert
• Meals: Lunch, Dinner
• Accommodation: Karanga Camp

Post breakfast, conquer the Barranco Wall’s steep ridge, transitioning to the Karanga Valley and the junction connecting to the Mweka Trail.

DAY 4: KARANGA CAMP TO BARAFU

• Altitude: 4000m/13,250ft to 4600m/15,350ft
• Walking/Hiking Distance: 4km
• Walking/Hiking Time: 3-4 hours
• Habitat: Alpine Desert
• Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
• Accommodation: Barafu Camp

Enjoy breakfast and ascend to Barafu Camp. With the South Circuit completed, revel in varied summit views. Prepare for the upcoming summit day with rest and dinner at camp.

DAY 5: BARAFU CAMP TO SUMMIT, DOWN TO MWEKA CAMP

• Altitude: 4600m/15,350ft to 5895m/19,340ft, then down to 3090m/10,150ft
• Walking/Hiking Distance: 5km up / 13km down
• Walking/Hiking Time: 6-8 hours up / 5-7 hours down
• Environment: Alpine Desert
• Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
• Accommodation: Mweka Camp

Embark on the summit journey around midnight, ascending to Stella Point on the crater rim for a stunning sunrise. Continue upward to Uhuru Peak, the summit of Kilimanjaro. Descend to Mweka Camp for the final evening on the mountain.

DAY 6: MWEKA CAMP TO MWEKA GATE AND DRIVE TO ARUSHA

• Altitude: 3090m/10,150ft to 1680m/5500ft
• Walking/Hiking Distance: 10km
• Walking/Hiking Time: 3-4 hours
• Environment: Rain Forest
• Meals: Breakfast

Descend to Mweka Park Gate for summit certificates. Expect wet and muddy conditions at lower elevations. A vehicle awaits at Mweka village to transport you to your Arusha hotel (approximately 2 hours).

Our pricing is based on per-person sharing, unless specified otherwise. Kindly consider the provided rates as indicative and subject to change:

All rates are contingent upon availability and are susceptible to alterations without prior notification. Additional charges for single accommodations may be applicable. Feel free to request a personalized quote or engage with our Tanzania Safari Experts to obtain the latest and most accurate rates.

THE PRICE FOR THIS ITINERARY INCLUDES:

• Accommodations as per itinerary
• Meals as per itinerary (Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner)
• Tours and entrance fees as per itinerary
• Transportation and transfers as per itinerary
• National Park gate fees
• Transport between Arusha and trailhead
• Camping fees
• Certified, experienced guides, cooks, and porters
• Salaries for all crew members
• Rescue fees as required
• Tents, foam sleeping pads, cooking equipment, utensils
• Oximeters
• Emergency Oxygen (2L canister)

THE PRICE FOR THIS ITINERARY EXCLUDES:

• International and domestic flights
• Meals not listed
• Beverages and alcohol
• Tips for guides, drivers, hotel staff
• Single room supplement
• Personal expenses (visas, airport taxes, Internet, etc.)
• Tips for guides, porters, cooks
• Sleeping bags and personal gear