Umbwe Route – Steep & Challenging
Duration: 6 Days / 5 Nights on the mountain
Route Name: Umbwe Route
Climb Type: Guided trekking with camping
Starting Point: Umbwe Gate (Southern Kilimanjaro)
🌟 Route Highlights
Steepest and most direct route to the summit
Ideal for experienced trekkers or climbers with altitude familiarity
Fewer climbers and a quiet, wild trail through steep ridges
Not recommended for beginners due to limited acclimatization time
Stunning views of deep valleys and forested cliffs
🗓️ Itinerary (6-Day Version)
Day 1: Umbwe Gate to Umbwe Cave Camp
Drive from Moshi to Umbwe Gate (1,600m)
Steep climb through rainforest to Umbwe Cave Camp (2,850m)
Approx. 5–6 hours of hiking
Meals: Lunch, Dinner
Day 2: Umbwe Cave to Barranco Camp
Continue the steep ridge hike into moorland
Arrive at Barranco Camp (3,960m) below the Barranco Wall
Stunning views of the southern glaciers
Approx. 6–7 hours of hiking
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Day 3: Barranco to Karanga Camp
Climb the Barranco Wall (non-technical but steep)
Short trek to Karanga Camp (4,035m)
Great for acclimatization
Approx. 4–5 hours of hiking
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Day 4: Karanga to Barafu Camp
Trek through alpine desert to Barafu Camp (4,673m)
Prepare for summit push
Approx. 3–4 hours of hiking
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Day 5: Barafu to Uhuru Peak, then to Mweka Camp
Midnight start for summit attempt
Reach Uhuru Peak (5,895m) at sunrise
Descend to Mweka Camp (3,100m)
Approx. 12–14 hours of hiking
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Day 6: Mweka Camp to Mweka Gate
Final descent through rainforest to Mweka Gate (1,640m)
Transfer to Moshi for a hot shower and rest
Approx. 3–4 hours of hiking
Meals: Breakfast
SAFARI BOOKING
✅ Included in This Climb
Park and rescue fees
Licensed mountain guides, cook, and porters
All meals and purified water on the mountain
Tents, mattresses, dining setup
Pre-climb briefing and transport to/from trailheads
Emergency oxygen and first aid
KPAP-compliant porter support
Summit certificate
❌ Not Included
International flights
Visa and travel insurance
Sleeping bags and gear rental (available on request)
Tips for mountain crew
Accommodation before/after the trek
Personal snacks and drinks