Umbwe Route

Arrival in Moshi

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.

Umbwe Gate to Umbwe Camp

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.

Umbwe Camp to Barranco Camp

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.

Barranco Camp to Karanga Camp

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.

Karanga Camp to Barafu Camp

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.

Summit Day - Barafu Camp to Uhuru Peak to Mweka Camp

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.

Mweka Camp to Mweka Gate

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.