Conquer the Roof of Africa: 6-Day Umbwe Route Adventure
Umbwe Trail, Tanzania
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Duration
2 Days
Tour Type
Climbing & Trekking
Group Size
20 persons
Location
Kilimanjaro
Overview
Mount Kilimanjaro – The Steep & Spectacular Challenge
The Umbwe Route is the most direct and one of the most demanding paths to the summit of Mount Kilimanjaro. Known for its dramatic ridgelines, rapid altitude gain, and breathtaking scenery, this route is best suited for experienced trekkers seeking a true challenge.
Unlike the more gradual routes, Umbwe ascends steeply through dense rainforest before joining the Southern Circuit, offering wild beauty and fewer crowds. Though tough, it rewards climbers with unforgettable landscapes and a strong sense of achievement.
Why Choose the Umbwe Route?
✔ Most direct and adventurous route
✔ Fewer crowds
✔ Dramatic ridge and forest scenery
✔ Ideal for experienced trekkers
✔ True physical and mental challenge
Included/Excluded
Porterage
Rescue fee
Park fees
All activities
All accommodation (Unless listed as upgrade)
Camping equipment
A professional driver/guide
All transportation (Unless labeled as optional)
All Taxes/VAT
Roundtrip airport transfer
Meals (As specified in the day-by-day section)
Drinking water
International flights to and from Tanzania
Personal items (Souvenirs, travel insurance, visa fees, etc.)
Tips
Additional accomodations (before and at the end of Tour)
Government imposed increase of taxes and/or park fees
Sleeping bag
Bath towels
Itinerary
✈️ Arrival – Kilimanjaro International Airport / Moshi/Arusha
✈️ Arrival – Kilimanjaro International Airport / Moshi/Arusha
Upon arrival at Kilimanjaro International Airport, you will be warmly welcomed and transferred to your hotel in Moshi/Arusha
Accommodation before the trek can be arranged at an additional cost. A full pre-climb briefing and equipment check will prepare you for the adventure ahead.
No Accomodation,
No Meals
DAY 1: Moshi/Arusha – Umbwe Gate – Umbwe Cave Camp
DAY 1: Moshi/Arusha – Umbwe Gate – Umbwe Cave Camp
Umbwe Gate
After breakfast in Moshi/Arusha, drive to Umbwe Gate (1,600m) for registration. The trail immediately climbs steeply through thick rainforest along a narrow ridge.
Arrive at Umbwe Cave Camp (2,850m) for dinner and overnight.
Hiking Time: 5–7 hours
Habitat: Rainforest
Accomodation: Budget camping
Meals & Drinks: All meals included
Drinking water (Other drinks not included)
DAY 2: Umbwe Cave Camp – Barranco Camp
DAY 2: Umbwe Cave Camp – Barranco Camp
The trail continues steeply, leaving the forest behind and entering moorland. As you gain altitude, vegetation thins and dramatic views open up.
You join the Machame Route at Barranco Camp (3,950m), located beneath the towering Barranco Wall.
Hiking Time: 4–5 hours
Habitat: Moorland
Accomodation: Budget camping
Meals & Drinks: All meals included
Drinking water (Other drinks not included)
DAY 3: Barranco Camp – Karanga Camp
DAY 3: Barranco Camp – Karanga Camp
Begin the day by climbing the iconic Barranco Wall — a thrilling scramble with spectacular views. Continue along the Southern Circuit toward Karanga Camp (4,035m).
Hiking Time: 4–5 hours
Habitat: Alpine desert
Accomodation: Budget camping
Meals & Drinks: All meals included
Drinking water (Other drinks not included)
DAY 4: Karanga Camp – Barafu Camp
DAY 4: Karanga Camp – Barafu Camp
A steady climb across rocky alpine terrain leads to Barafu Camp (4,673m), your summit base camp. Rest early and prepare for the midnight ascent.
Hiking Time: 3–4 hours
Habitat: Alpine desert
Accomodation: Budget camping
Meals & Drinks: All meals included
Drinking water (Other drinks not included)
DAY 5: Barafu Camp – Uhuru Peak – Mweka Camp
DAY 5: Barafu Camp – Uhuru Peak – Mweka Camp
Shortly after midnight, begin your summit attempt. Ascend to Stella Point and continue to Uhuru Peak (5,895m) — Africa’s highest point.
After celebrating at the summit and witnessing an unforgettable sunrise, descend to Mweka Camp (3,100m) for overnight rest.
Hiking Time: 10–14 hours
Habitat: Arctic zone → Rainforest
Accomodation: Budget camping
Meals & Drinks: All meals included
Drinking water (Other drinks not included)
DAY 6: Mweka Camp – Mweka Gate
DAY 6: Mweka Camp – Mweka Gate
Mweka Gate
Descend through lush rainforest to Mweka Gate (1,640m). Receive your summit certificate before transfer back to Moshi for celebration and well-earned rest.
Hiking Time: 3–4 hours
Habitat: Rainforest
No accommodation (End of tour)
Meals & Drinks: All meals included
Drinking water (Other drinks not included)
End of tour
Additional accommodation can be arranged for an extra cost.
You'll be dropped off at the airport.
Travel Styles
Nature & Adventure
FAQs
Is the Umbwe Route difficult?
Yes. The Umbwe Route is considered the steepest and most challenging route on Mount Kilimanjaro. It gains altitude quickly, making it best suited for experienced trekkers with strong fitness levels.
Who should choose the Umbwe Route?
This route is ideal for:
✔ Experienced hikers
✔ Climbers comfortable with rapid altitude gain
✔ Adventurous travelers seeking fewer crowds
✔ Those wanting a direct and scenic approach
It is not recommended for beginners or those without prior multi-day trekking experience.
What is the summit success rate?
Because of its fast ascent profile, the 6-day Umbwe Route typically has a lower success rate compared to longer routes like Lemosho. Proper preparation and good acclimatization response are key.
How does Umbwe compare to other routes?
More challenging than Machame and Lemosho
Less crowded in early stages
Steeper and more direct
Joins the Southern Circuit near Barranco Camp
How long are the daily hikes?
Average hiking times:
4–7 hours on regular trekking days
10–14 hours on summit day
Summit day is the most physically demanding.
What are the accommodation arrangements?
Temperatures vary by altitude:
Rainforest zone: Mild and humid
High camps: Below freezing at night
Summit night: Can drop below -15°C
Proper cold-weather gear is essential.
Is altitude sickness a concern?
Yes. Because Umbwe gains altitude quickly, acclimatization is more challenging. Guides monitor climbers daily and carry safety equipment including emergency oxygen.
Symptoms may include headache, nausea, or fatigue.
What fitness level is required?
You should be:
Cardiovascularly fit
Comfortable hiking uphill for long hours
Mentally prepared for steep terrain
Training with regular hikes and endurance workouts is highly recommended.
When is the best time to climb?
Best seasons:
January to March
June to October
These months offer more stable weather and clearer summit conditions.
Tour Location
Umbwe Trail, Tanzania
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