Umbwe Route Mount Kilimanjaro Itinerary
The Umbwe Route is Kilimanjaro’s most direct and challenging trail, reserved for experienced and confident climbers. This 6-day trek begins with a steep ascent through dense rainforests before joining the southern circuit at Barranco Camp. While demanding, the route rewards trekkers with unparalleled solitude and stunning views of Kilimanjaro’s glaciers and rugged peaks. If you’re an adventurous climber seeking a quieter, more intense journey, the Umbwe Route offers an unforgettable challenge.
Highlights
- Steepest and Most Direct Ascent
- Rapid Altitude Gain, Fewer Crowds
- Dramatic Views Through Umbwe Valley
- Remote Trail for Experienced Trekkers
- Connects to Machame Near Barranco
Umbwe Route Mount Kilimanjaro Itinerary
The Umbwe Route is Kilimanjaro’s most direct and challenging trail, reserved for experienced and confident climbers. This 6-day trek begins with a steep ascent through dense rainforests before joining the southern circuit at Barranco Camp. While demanding, the route rewards trekkers with unparalleled solitude and stunning views of Kilimanjaro’s glaciers and rugged peaks. If you’re an adventurous climber seeking a quieter, more intense journey, the Umbwe Route offers an unforgettable challenge.
Arrive in Moshi and settle into your accommodation. Use this day to check your gear, attend a pre-climb briefing, and get to know your guides. Rest and hydrate well—your climb begins tomorrow.
Elevation: 1,640m (5,380 ft) to 2,850m (9,350 ft)
Elevation Gain: 1,210m (3,970 ft)
Distance: 11 km (6.8 miles)
Hiking Time: 5–7 hours
The Umbwe Route begins with a steep ascent through dense rainforest, winding along a narrow ridge with dramatic views of deep valleys on either side. The trail is challenging from the start, with exposed tree roots and rocky sections requiring careful footing. By the time you reach Umbwe Camp, you’ll feel a sense of accomplishment and be surrounded by towering trees and lush vegetation.
Tip: This route is known for its intensity—pace yourself and stay focused on each step.
Elevation: 2,850m (9,350 ft) to 3,960m (13,000 ft)
Elevation Gain: 1,110m (3,650 ft)
Distance: 6 km (3.7 miles)
Hiking Time: 4–6 hours
The trail leaves the forest behind and enters the moorland zone, where you’ll encounter open views of Kilimanjaro’s glaciers and rocky terrain. The ascent continues along ridges with dramatic vistas before descending into the Barranco Valley, where the imposing Barranco Wall looms in the distance.
Highlight: Watch the landscape transform from thick forest to stark moorland – it’s like stepping into another world.
Elevation: 3,960m (13,000 ft) to 4,035m (13,240 ft)
Elevation Gain: 75m (240 ft)
Distance: 5 km (3 miles)
Hiking Time: 4–5 hours
Begin your day with a climb up the Barranco Wall, an exhilarating scramble that rewards you with breathtaking views of Kibo Peak and the surrounding valleys. The trail then undulates through high-altitude terrain, passing scattered boulders and sparse vegetation before reaching Karanga Camp.
Tip: Conquer the Barranco Wall with a steady pace—take breaks to admire the stunning views along the way.
Elevation: 4,035m (13,240 ft) to 4,640m (15,220 ft)
Elevation Gain: 605m (1,980 ft)
Distance: 4 km (2.5 miles)
Hiking Time: 4–5 hours
A steady ascent across a rocky landscape brings you to Barafu Camp, where you’ll prepare for the final push to the summit. The camp’s windswept location offers a direct view of the summit trail, inspiring a mix of excitement and determination for the challenge ahead.
Highlight: Barafu Camp is your launching point for the summit – rest well and stay hydrated to maximize your chances of success.
Elevation: 4,640m (15,220 ft) to 5,895m (19,341 ft) to 3,080m (10,105 ft)
Elevation Gain: 1,255m (4,121 ft)
Elevation Loss: 2,815m (9,236 ft)
Distance: 17 km (10.5 miles)
Hiking Time: 12–16 hours
Your summit attempt begins before midnight, navigating steep switchbacks under the stars. Reach Stella Point (5,739m/18,830 ft) at dawn, then push onward to Uhuru Peak, Africa’s highest point. After celebrating your achievement, descend to Barafu Camp for a brief rest before continuing to Mweka Camp for the night.
Tip: Break the climb into small goals and keep moving—reaching the summit is as much mental as it is physical.
Elevation: 3,080m (10,105 ft) to 1,640m (5,380 ft)
Elevation Loss: 1,440m (4,725 ft)
Distance: 10 km (6.2 miles)
Hiking Time: 3–4 hours
The final descent through the rainforest is a chance to reflect on your journey as you soak in the vibrant sounds and sights of the jungle. At Mweka Gate, you’ll collect your summit certificate and bid farewell to your team before heading back to Moshi.
Highlight: Celebrate your achievement and take one last look at the mountain you’ve just conquered.
Inclusions/Exclusions
Cost Includes
- Transfer from hotel to mountain
- Meals on the hike
- Salaries for professional guides and porters
- All park fees and taxes
Cost Excludes
- International flights, Airport taxes, Visa fee
- Travel insurance
- Lunch, dinner and beverages in the hotel
- Snacks and energy bars, Items of a personal nature
- Tips for the climbing crew
- Personal gear rentals and purchases
- Single supplement
- Portable toilet and shower
FAQs for Umbwe Route
The dry seasons (January to mid-March and June to October) are the best times, providing stable weather for this steep and challenging route.
The route spans approximately 32 miles (51 km) over 5–6 days, with daily hikes ranging from 5 to 8 hours, and summit day lasting 10–14 hours.
Its steep and direct path offers dramatic views, challenging terrain, and a more adventurous experience for experienced climbers.
No, this route is best for seasoned trekkers with high fitness levels and prior hiking experience due to its rapid altitude gain.
It’s one of the least crowded routes, offering a more solitary experience for trekkers seeking quiet trails.
The dramatic ridge climbs, stunning views of the southern glaciers, and the thrill of the Barranco Wall are standout features.
Rainforest sections may feature colobus monkeys, birds, and lush vegetation, but wildlife sightings decrease as you ascend.
Its steep and direct approach offers a faster, more adventurous climb for experienced trekkers seeking a challenge.
Its steep and direct approach offers a faster, more adventurous climb for experienced trekkers seeking a challenge
Map
Write a Review