Kilimanjaro Tours

Umbwe Route – 6 Days – The Steep & Wild Ascent

Climb Kilimanjaro via the Umbwe Route in 6 Days

The Umbwe Route is the most direct and challenging path to the summit of Mount Kilimanjaro, designed for experienced trekkers seeking a raw and demanding climb. Known for its steep gradients and rapid elevation gain, this route offers solitude, dramatic ridgelines, and a powerful sense of adventure from the very first day.

Although physically demanding, the Umbwe Route rewards climbers with stunning scenery and a dramatic approach that joins the Machame Route higher on the mountain. Over six days, climbers transition from dense rainforest to high alpine wilderness, culminating in an intense summit push to Uhuru Peak.

Trip Itinerary

Arrival – Kilimanjaro International Airport to Arusha/Moshi

You arrive at Kilimanjaro International Airport and are transferred to your lodge in Moshi or Arusha. After check-in, you meet your mountain guides for a detailed briefing, equipment inspection, and final preparations. The remainder of the day is for rest before the climb begins.
Day 1 – Umbwe Gate to Umbwe Camp

The trek begins at Umbwe Gate, immediately entering thick rainforest. The narrow trail climbs steeply along ridges and valleys, setting the tone for the challenging days ahead. The forest is rich with towering trees and wildlife sounds. You arrive at Umbwe Camp at 2,850 meters (9,350 feet) for dinner and overnight rest.
Day 2 – Umbwe Camp to Barranco Camp

Leaving the forest behind, the route emerges onto open ridges with dramatic views into the Umbwe Valley. The climb remains steep but rewarding as the scenery becomes more rugged and expansive. You arrive at Barranco Camp at 3,960 meters (12,990 feet), where the route merges with the Machame Trail beneath the imposing Barranco Wall.
Day 3 – Barranco Camp to Karanga Camp

The day begins with the iconic ascent of the Barranco Wall, a thrilling scramble that rewards climbers with sweeping views across the southern slopes of Kilimanjaro. The trail then winds through ridges and valleys to Karanga Camp at 4,000 meters (13,120 feet), offering important acclimatization time.
Day 4 – Karanga Camp to Barafu Camp

Trekking across stark alpine desert, the terrain becomes barren and dramatic. The air thins as you ascend to Barafu Camp at 4,670 meters (15,320 feet), the final base before summit night. After an early dinner, you rest in preparation for the midnight ascent.
Day 5 – Summit Day & Descent to Mweka Camp

Shortly after midnight, the summit ascent begins. The climb is steep, cold, and mentally demanding as you move toward Stella Point and onward to Uhuru Peak at 5,895 meters (19,341 feet). Reaching the summit at sunrise is a powerful achievement. After celebrating, you descend to Mweka Camp at 3,100 meters (10,170 feet) for overnight rest.
Day 6 – Mweka Camp to Mweka Gate

The final descent leads through lush rainforest to Mweka Gate. Here, you receive your summit certificates before being transferred back to Moshi or Arusha for an overnight stay and recovery.
Departure Date

Departure takes place the day after the trek following an overnight stay in Moshi or Arusha, with transfer to Kilimanjaro International Airport for onward travel.

Suggested Lodges & Camps

Safari Cost Include

Transfers
All transfers as outlined in the program, including airport transfers and transport to and from Kilimanjaro National Park gates.

Accommodation & Meals
Accommodation in mountain camps and lodges as specified in the program.
All meals during the trek (breakfast, lunch, and dinner).
Bottled water provided throughout the climb.

Guiding & Trekking
Services of certified and experienced English-speaking mountain guides.
Professional porters and full mountain crew support.
All Kilimanjaro National Park fees, including entry, camping, and rescue fees.
Emergency support and onboard first-aid kits.

Safari Cost Excludes

Flights & Transfers
International flights to and from Tanzania.
Transfers not mentioned in the itinerary.

Personal Gear & Supplies
Personal trekking equipment and clothing.
Snacks, beverages, and personal expenses.

Insurance & Tips
Travel and medical insurance (required).
Tips for guides, porters, and mountain staff.

Please Note

By default, our mountain adventures include shared accommodation in twin or double rooms unless otherwise requested and agreed upon. Single room supplements are available upon request. Please refer to your itinerary for specific accommodation details.
Accommodations in Moshi, Arusha, or nearby towns typically include breakfast only, unless otherwise arranged. Check your program for detailed meal plans for each night of your adventure.
Most lodges and mountain huts do not include tea, coffee, soft drinks, or alcoholic beverages in their standard packages, allowing you to order and pay only for what you need directly at the facility.
Tented camps or mountain lodges, the most common type of accommodation during off-the-beaten-path adventures, may operate on solar power. This can result in features such as bucket showers, limited Wi-Fi, or the absence of hair dryers, reflecting efforts to minimize environmental impact. We recommend reviewing your accommodations in advance to ensure they meet your expectations for comfort and convenience.

Umbwe Route – 6 Days – The Steep & Wild Ascent

Climb Kilimanjaro via the Umbwe Route in 6 Days

Trip Itinerary

Arrival – Kilimanjaro International Airport to Arusha/Moshi

Day 1 – Umbwe Gate to Umbwe Camp

Day 2 – Umbwe Camp to Barranco Camp

Day 3 – Barranco Camp to Karanga Camp

Day 4 – Karanga Camp to Barafu Camp

Day 5 – Summit Day & Descent to Mweka Camp

Day 6 – Mweka Camp to Mweka Gate

Departure Date

Suggested Lodges & Camps

Safari Cost Include

Safari Cost Excludes

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