The Umbwe Route is known for its challenging yet rewarding path to the summit of Mount Kilimanjaro. This shorter, steeper route requires determination and stamina but offers breathtaking scenery and a quieter, less crowded trail. The Umbwe Route is ideal for experienced trekkers or those seeking a more direct, intense climb. Along the way, you’ll encounter diverse landscapes—from lush rainforests to rugged alpine deserts—all leading up to the stunning Uhuru Peak.
Day 1: Umbwe Gate (1,600m) to Umbwe Camp (2,850m)
After a morning drive to the Umbwe Gate, begin your trek through a dense rainforest. The trail is steep and narrow, with thick foliage and occasional sightings of colobus monkeys and other wildlife. After a challenging ascent, you’ll reach Umbwe Camp, where you’ll rest for the night.
Elevation Gain: 1,250m
Trekking Time: 5-7 hours
Environment: Rainforest
Day 2: Umbwe Camp (2,850m) to Barranco Camp (3,900m)
Continue along the ridge with increasingly steep sections and stunning views over the surrounding landscape. As you ascend, the forest gives way to moorland, and you’ll reach Barranco Camp in the late afternoon, situated below the impressive Barranco Wall.
Elevation Gain: 1,050m
Trekking Time: 4-6 hours
Environment: Moorland
Day 3: Barranco Camp (3,900m) to Karanga Camp (3,995m)
Start the day by tackling the famous Barranco Wall, a steep but manageable climb with beautiful views from the top. After the wall, continue through alpine desert terrain, crossing valleys and ridges on your way to Karanga Camp.
Elevation Gain: 95m
Trekking Time: 4-5 hours
Environment: Alpine Desert
Day 4: Karanga Camp (3,995m) to Barafu Camp (4,673m)
Today’s trek is relatively short and gives you time to acclimatize at higher altitudes. The trail to Barafu Camp ascends over rocky landscapes, and the air grows thinner as you approach. Rest at Barafu Camp, have an early dinner, and prepare for the midnight summit attempt.
Elevation Gain: 678m
Trekking Time: 3-4 hours
Environment: Alpine Desert
Day 5: Barafu Camp (4,673m) to Uhuru Peak (5,895m) to Mweka Camp (3,068m)
Your summit attempt begins at midnight. With headlamps lighting the way, you’ll trek through the icy dark toward Uhuru Peak, reaching the crater rim at Stella Point before the final push to Kilimanjaro’s summit, Uhuru Peak, where you’ll witness a breathtaking sunrise. After celebrating at the peak, begin your descent back down to Mweka Camp.
Elevation Gain: 1,222m (summit), then descent to 3,068m
Trekking Time: 6-8 hours to summit; 4-6 hours descent to Mweka Camp
Environment: Arctic (summit), Alpine Desert, Moorland
Day 6: Mweka Camp (3,068m) to Mweka Gate (1,630m)
On your final day, descend through lush rainforest to Mweka Gate, where you’ll receive a certificate of achievement. From here, transfer back to your hotel to celebrate the successful climb.
Elevation Loss: 1,438m
Trekking Time: 3-4 hours
Environment: Rainforest
Transport to and from Moshi/Arusha to the trail head
Kilimanjaro National Park permits, camping /huts fees, rescue fee and Value Added tax (VAT)
Expert guide, assistant guides, cook and porters
Bottled oxygen for emergency rescue only
Camping tents
S;eeping pads
Mess tents, table, chairs and lanterns
Fresh and nutrition meals on the mountain
Breakfast at the hotel
Your Gateway to Tanzania’s Wilderness At Serengeti Voyage, we bring you closer to the untamed beauty of Tanzania’s breathtaking landscapes and abundant wildlife.
