Overview

The 6-Day Umbwe Route is the shortest and steepest path to Mount Kilimanjaro’s summit. Known for its rugged terrain and demanding climbs, it offers a thrilling challenge for experienced trekkers seeking an adrenaline-pumping adventure. The Umbwe Route is famous for its stunning scenery, passing through lush rainforests, dramatic ridges, and alpine deserts before reaching Uhuru Peak.

Best Time to Visit: June to October, December to February (dry seasons for clear skies and better trail conditions)

Itinerary Details

Day 1: Arrival in Moshi

• Activities:
  • Arrive in Moshi and check into your hotel.
  • Meet your guide for a detailed briefing, safety orientation, and gear check.

Accommodation: Comfortable hotel in Moshi, such as Kilimanjaro Wonders Hotel or Springlands Hotel.
Meals:

• Dinner: Tanzanian specialties such as nyama choma (grilled meat) or vegetarian options.

Recovery: Rest and prepare for the adventure ahead.

Day 2: Moshi to Umbwe Cave Camp (2,850 m)

• Distance: ~11 km
• Estimated Trekking Time: 5-7 hours
• Elevation Gain: ~1,650 m
• Terrain: Steep rainforest trails.

Highlights:

• Drive to Umbwe Gate for registration and the trek’s start.
• Begin your climb through dense rainforests, encountering towering trees and unique wildlife.
• Navigate steep paths that follow a narrow ridge.

Accommodation: Umbwe Cave Camp (tents).
Meals:

• Breakfast: Hotel-provided.
• Lunch: Packed picnic on the trail.
• Dinner: Hot meal prepared by your trekking chef.

Recovery: Rest amidst the serene rainforest sounds.

Day 3: Umbwe Cave Camp to Barranco Camp (3,960 m)

• Distance: ~6 km
• Estimated Trekking Time: 4-6 hours
• Elevation Gain: ~1,110 m
• Terrain: Steep trails transitioning from rainforest to moorland.

Highlights:

• Trek along narrow ridges with panoramic views of Kibo Peak.
• Pass through heath and moorland zones, with unique plant species like giant lobelias.
• Arrive at Barranco Camp, surrounded by Kilimanjaro’s dramatic southern glaciers.

Accommodation: Barranco Camp (tents).
Meals:

• Breakfast: Hot porridge, eggs, and toast.
• Lunch: Packed meal on the trail.
• Dinner: Warm, energy-rich meal at camp.

Recovery: Acclimatize and enjoy the stunning views of the Barranco Wall.

Day 4: Barranco Camp to Karanga Camp (4,035 m)

• Distance: ~5 km
• Estimated Trekking Time: 4-5 hours
• Elevation Gain: ~75 m
• Terrain: Steep climbs and rolling terrain.

Highlights:

• Tackle the Barranco Wall, a thrilling but manageable climb.
• Traverse ridges and valleys, with incredible views of the southern icefields.

Accommodation: Karanga Camp (tents).
Meals:

• Breakfast: Energy-packed meal to fuel your climb.
• Lunch: Hot meal served en route.
• Dinner: High-carb dinner at camp.

Recovery: Rest and acclimatize for the final ascent stages.

Day 5: Karanga Camp to Barafu Camp (4,640 m)

• Distance: ~4 km
• Estimated Trekking Time: 3-4 hours
• Elevation Gain: ~605 m
• Terrain: Rocky alpine desert.

Highlights:

• Trek to Barafu Camp, your base for the summit attempt.
• Prepare your gear and rest for the midnight climb.

Accommodation: Barafu Camp (tents).
Meals:

• Breakfast: Hot porridge, tea, and bread.
• Lunch: Packed meal on the trail.
• Dinner: High-energy dinner at camp.

Recovery: Early rest in preparation for the summit push.

Day 6: Barafu Camp to Uhuru Peak (5,895 m) and Down to Mweka Camp (3,080 m)

• Distance: ~5 km ascent to Uhuru Peak, ~12 km descent to Mweka Camp.
• Estimated Trekking Time: 6-8 hours ascent, 5-6 hours descent.
• Elevation Gain: ~1,255 m (ascent), ~2,815 m (descent).

Highlights:

• Begin your midnight trek to Uhuru Peak, experiencing the thrill of summiting Africa’s highest point at sunrise.
• Descend to Barafu Camp for a short rest, then continue to Mweka Camp for the night.

Accommodation: Mweka Camp (tents).
Meals:

• Light snacks during the summit climb.
• Breakfast and lunch at Barafu Camp.
• Dinner at Mweka Camp.

Recovery: Celebrate your achievement and sleep deeply.

Day 7: Mweka Camp to Moshi

• Distance: ~10 km
• Estimated Trekking Time: 3-4 hours descent.

Highlights:

• Descend through lush rainforest to Mweka Gate for your certificate ceremony.
• Transfer back to Moshi for a well-deserved celebration.

Accommodation: Comfortable hotel in Moshi.
Meals:

• Breakfast: At Mweka Camp.
• Lunch: Packed lunch en route.
• Dinner: Optional celebration dinner in Moshi.

Tour Highlights

1. Thrilling Challenge: Tackle Kilimanjaro’s steepest and most direct route.
2. Dramatic Views: Stunning ridges, southern glaciers, and Uhuru Peak sunrise.
3. High-Altitude Adventure: Rapid ascents require determination and stamina.
4. Unique Flora and Fauna: Lush rainforests and moorlands with endemic plant species.
5. Summit Success: Experience the ultimate reward of standing atop Africa’s highest peak.

Accommodations

• Tents on the Trail: High-quality, weatherproof tents with sleeping mats provided.
• Hotels in Moshi: Comfortable mid-range or luxury options for pre- and post-trek relaxation.

Meals

• Prepared by experienced trekking chefs to fuel your climb.
• Breakfasts: Porridge, eggs, toast, and coffee/tea.
• Lunches: Packed meals or hot dishes.
• Dinners: Soups, stews, pasta, rice, and other carb-rich options.
• Special dietary requirements can be accommodated upon request.

Who Is This Tour For?

• Experienced trekkers seeking a challenging, steep climb.
• Adventurers with a strong fitness level looking for a rapid ascent.
• Those who prefer a more remote and less crowded route.

Key Features

• Trekking Distance: ~37 km round-trip.
• Inclusions:
  • Park entry fees and permits.
  • Professional guides, porters, and cooks.
  • Tents and meals during the trek.
  • Transfers to and from the trailhead.
• Exclusions:
  • Personal trekking gear (available for rent).
  • Tips for guides, porters, and cooks.
  • Optional oxygen tanks or altitude chambers.

Pricing Estimate

Cost: $2,000–$3,000 USD per person, depending on:

• Group size (discounts for larger groups).
• Accommodation type in Moshi.
• Additional gear rentals or add-ons.