Umbwe Route – 5 to 6 Days Hike
Safari - Overview
The Umbwe Route is the steepest and most demanding path up Mount Kilimanjaro, designed for experienced trekkers seeking an adventurous and less crowded trail. It is known for its dramatic ridgelines, rapid altitude gain, and stunning views. While this route provides breathtaking scenery, the lack of acclimatization time makes it one of the most difficult treks. For a better chance of success, a 6-day itinerary allows for an extra day at Barranco Camp before reaching the summit.
Highlights:
✅ The most direct and challenging Kilimanjaro route
✅ Less crowded, offering a raw and authentic wilderness experience
✅ Spectacular views of valleys, glaciers, and rugged landscapes
✅ Join the Machame Route at Barranco Camp for a scenic summit approach
Day-by-Day Itinerary
- Drive from Arusha/Moshi to Umbwe Gate (1,800m/5,905ft).
- Begin the steep trek through lush rainforest and narrow ridges.
- Reach Umbwe Camp (2,850m/9,350ft) after 5-6 hours of hiking.
- A tough but rewarding trek leads to alpine desert terrain.
- Arrive at Barranco Camp (3,900m/12,800ft) with stunning views of the Great Barranco Wall.
- Hiking time: 4-5 hours.
(For the 6-day trek, an extra night is spent at Barranco Camp for acclimatization.)
- Climb the Great Barranco Wall, a thrilling yet non-technical ascent.
- Continue through valleys and rocky landscapes to Karanga Camp (3,995m/13,106ft).
- Hiking time: 4-5 hours.
- A gradual climb to Barafu Camp (4,673m/15,331ft), the base before the summit push.
- Early dinner and rest before the midnight ascent.
- Hiking time: 3-4 hours.
- Midnight summit attempt via Stella Point (5,756m/18,885ft).
- Reach Uhuru Peak (5,895m/19,341ft), the highest point in Africa!
- Descend to Mweka Camp (3,100m/10,170ft) for rest.
- Hiking time: 10-14 hours (ascent & descent).
(The 5-day trek descends directly to Mweka Gate after summiting.)
- A 3-4 hour trek through the rainforest to Mweka Gate (1,640m/5,380ft).
- Receive your Kilimanjaro summit certificate and transfer back to Arusha/Moshi.
Price Includes and Excludes
Price Includes
- Professional English-speaking mountain guides, porters & cook
- All park fees, camping fees, and rescue fees
- Meals & drinking water during the trek
- Tents & camping equipment
- Transfers from Arusha/Moshi to the trailhead & back
- Kilimanjaro summit certificate
Price Excludes
- Flights and Visa fees
- Alcoholic beverages and soft drinks.
- Tips for guides & porters
- Personal expenses and Travel insurance.
- Optional activities and extra days
- Personal trekking gear (can be rented)
Why Choose this Tour?
Conquer Kilimanjaro through the steep and scenic Umbwe Route. A challenging trek for experienced climbers, reaching Uhuru Peak in 5 or 6 days via a less crowded and adventurous trail.
Expert Guides & Safety First
Our team prioritizes your safety with experienced guides and well-planned routes.
Perfect for Adventurous Trekkers
For those seeking a thrilling and direct climb, Umbwe Route is unparalleled.
Authentic Wilderness Experience
With fewer crowds, you’ll enjoy an untouched and rugged climb up Kilimanjaro.