6 Days

5 Nights

Umbwe route

Overview

This 6-day Umbwe Route itinerary is a direct and challenging approach to Kilimanjaro, skipping dedicated acclimatization days, and focusing on the climb itself. It provides a scenic yet demanding trek through diverse ecosystems, including rainforest, moorland, and alpine desert, with a summit ascent on Day 5.

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Full Itinerary

Day 1: Moshi to Umbwe Gate to Umbwe Camp

Elevation: 5,380 ft to 9,350 ft | Distance: 11 km (7 miles)
Hiking Time: 5-6 hours | Habitat: Rainforest 

Depart from Moshi and drive to Umbwe Gate for registration and the start of your trek. Begin your ascent through the lush rainforest with thick vegetation, and possibly spot wildlife like monkeys and birds. The trail is steep in places but manageable, leading to Umbwe Camp. Settle in for the night at Umbwe Camp, which is nestled in the rainforest zone.

Day 2: Umbwe Camp to Barranco Camp

Elevation: 9,350 ft to 13,023 ft | Distance: 8 km (5 miles)
Hiking Time: 6-7 hours | Habitat: Rainforest to Alpine Desert

Continue your hike, ascending steeply out of the rainforest and into more open terrain. The route becomes less forested, and as you move through the moorland zone, the altitude starts to become more noticeable. Reach Barranco Camp, located at the base of the Barranco Wall, where you’ll spend the night. This camp offers incredible views of the surrounding area.

Day 3: Barranco Camp to Karanga Camp

Elevation: 13,023 ft to 13,106 ft | Distance: 5 km (3 miles)
Hiking Time: 4-5 hours | Habitat: Alpine Desert

Begin the day by tackling the famous Barranco Wall, a steep, non-technical climb that provides rewarding views of the valleys and glaciers. After summiting the wall, the trail undulates across ridges and valleys before reaching Karanga Camp. This peaceful camp offers great views and a chance to relax before continuing the climb.

Day 4: Karanga Camp to Barafu Camp

Elevation: 13,106 ft to 15,331 ft | Distance: 4 km (2.5 miles)
Hiking Time: 4-5 hours | Habitat: Alpine Desert

From Karanga Camp, continue the steady ascent towards Barafu Camp, the base camp for your summit attempt. The trail becomes more barren with rocky terrain and minimal vegetation. Upon arrival at Barafu Camp, hydrate, eat an early dinner, and rest in preparation for the summit bid.

Day 5: Barafu Camp to Uhuru Peak to Mweka Camp

Elevation: 15,331 ft to 19,341 ft (Uhuru Peak), then down to 10,065 ft | Distance: 17 km (10.5 miles)
Hiking Time: 12-14 hours | Habitat: Arctic to Rainforest

Start the summit attempt at midnight, ascending steep switchbacks towards Gilman’s Point (18,630 ft). Continue the final push to Uhuru Peak, the highest point in Africa, and celebrate your achievement. Afterward, begin the descent to Barafu Camp for a brief rest before continuing to Mweka Camp to overnight.

Day 6: Horombo Hut to Marangu Gate

Elevation: 12,200 ft to 5,380 ft | Distance: 20 km (12.4 miles)
Hiking Time: 5-6 hours | Habitat: Heath to Rainforest

Descend from Horombo Hut back to Marangu Gate.The trail takes you through the rainforest again, offering beautiful views and wildlife encounters.Upon reaching the gate, you’ll receive your summit certificate and complete the trek.

Included

  • Ground transport for all the above days
  • Full board accommodation
  • All park fees
  • Fuel for the whole safari.

Excluded

  • All other items of a personal nature
  • Tips to your guide
  • Soft drinks other than the mineral water

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