- Kilimanjaro
- 6 Days
- Trekking: Experienced Climbers
6 Days Kilimanjaro Climb – Umbwe Route
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Description
The Umbwe Route is the most challenging yet rewarding route to Uhuru Peak. With steep ascents and rapid elevation gain, it is ideal for experienced trekkers seeking an adventurous climb. Below is the detailed 6-day itinerary, including daily distances, elevation changes, and the landscapes trekkers will experience.
Include /Exclude
- Hotel accommodation before and after your climb
- Airport transfers
- Transfers to and from the mountai
- National Park entry, camping, climbing and rescue fees
- A fully supported climb (average ratio of support staff to climbers is 4:1)
- All meals and drinking water on the mountain
- A clean and private portable toilet
- High quality dining tent and sleeping tents with comfortable foam mattress
- Access to emergency oxygen and first aid kit
- A certificate documenting your summit ascent
- International flights and visas
- Tips for your guide and crew
- Travel insurance (you must be insured for trekking up to 6000m)
- Your personal trekking gear
- Personal Snacks
- Meals and drinks not on the mountain
- Tips for the mountain crew
Trek Itinerary
Day 0: Arrival and Pre-Trek Orientation
Upon arriving at Kilimanjaro International Airport or Arusha Airport, our dedicated team will be there to welcome you and transfer you to your hotel in Moshi or Arusha (if you have opted for airport transfers). We highly recommend arriving at least one day before your trek to allow time for rest and final preparations.
In the evening, you’ll attend a pre-trek briefing at your hotel, where our expert guides will review your gear, discuss the climb itinerary, and arrange any necessary equipment rentals to ensure you’re fully prepared for your Kilimanjaro adventure.
Day 1: Umbwe Gate (1,800m) to Umbwe Cave(2,940m)
Distance: 11 km (6.8 miles)
Hiking Time: 5-7 hours
Elevation Gain: 1,140m
Habitat: Rainforest
The trek begins at Umbwe Gate, where climbers register before entering the dense rainforest. The trail is steep and rugged, winding through thick jungle vegetation with giant ferns and towering trees. Expect to see black-and-white colobus monkeys and a variety of bird species. The humidity is high, and the path can be muddy. After a demanding ascent, you arrive at Umbwe Camp, nestled among moss-covered trees.
Day 2: Umbwe Cave (2,940m) to Barranco Camp (3,900m)
Distance: 6 km (3.7 miles)
Hiking Time: 4-6 hours
Elevation Gain: 960m
Habitat: Moorland & Rocky Ridges
The trail continues steeply along a narrow ridge, emerging from the rainforest into the heather and moorland zone. The terrain becomes rockier, offering breathtaking views of Kibo Peak and the surrounding valleys. As you ascend, you’ll notice the change in vegetation, with giant lobelias and senecios appearing. By afternoon, you reach Barranco Camp, where you’ll be greeted by the sight of the Barranco Wall, a famous rock face that awaits you the next day.
Day 3: Barranco Camp (3,900m) to Karanga Camp (4,035m)
Distance: 5 km (3.1 miles)
Hiking Time: 4-5 hours
Elevation Gain: 135m
Habitat: Alpine Desert
The day begins with the exhilarating climb of the Barranco Wall—a challenging but non-technical scramble that rewards you with stunning panoramic views. After reaching the top, the trail gently descends into the Karanga Valley, known for its unique high-altitude desert landscape. Karanga Camp is set in a dry, rocky area with sweeping views of the plains below.
Day 4 to Barafu Camp 4673m:
Distance: 4 km (2.5 miles)
Hiking Time: 4-5 hours
Elevation Gain: 605m
Habitat: Alpine Desert
Leaving Karanga, the trail ascends steadily through barren landscapes with little vegetation, marking the high alpine desert zone. The air becomes thinner, and trekkers begin to feel the effects of altitude. After reaching Barafu Camp, final preparations are made for the summit attempt. You’ll rest in the afternoon before an early night to prepare for the midnight ascent to Uhuru Peak.
Day 5: Barafu Camp (4,640m) to Uhuru Peak (5,895m) – Summit Day!
Distance: 17 km (10.6 miles) (Ascent & Descent)
Hiking Time: 10-14 hours
Elevation Gain: 1,255m
Elevation Loss: 2,795m
Habitat: Arctic Zone
Around midnight, you begin the final ascent to Uhuru Peak, the highest point in Africa. The trail is steep, passing through switchbacks up to Stella Point (5,756m). The climb is tough due to the high altitude and freezing temperatures, but the reward is reaching Uhuru Peak (5,895m) at sunrise, offering breathtaking 360-degree views of glaciers, craters, and the vast Tanzanian landscape. After taking photos, you descend back to Mweka Camp (3,100m), passing through Barafu Camp for a short rest.
Day 6: Mweka Camp (3,100m) to Mweka Gate (1,640m)
Distance: 10 km (6.2 miles)
Hiking Time: 3-5 hours
Elevation Loss: 1,460m
Habitat: Rainforest
The final day is a gradual descent through lush rainforest, where you’ll see a variety of birds and possibly monkeys. Upon reaching Mweka Gate, you’ll receive your summit certificate and celebrate your achievement before returning to Arusha or Moshi for a well-earned rest.
FAQ Umbwe Route
Is the Umbwe Route suitable for beginners?
No, the Umbwe Route is among the most challenging Kilimanjaro routes due to its steep ascent and limited acclimatization time. It is best for experienced hikers with prior high-altitude trekking experience.
How difficult is the Umbwe Route?
This is one of the toughest routes due to its rapid elevation gain, making altitude sickness a significant risk. Trekkers should be physically fit and prepared for steep climbs
How many days does it take to climb Kilimanjaro via the Umbwe Route?
The standard duration is 6 days, but some itineraries extend to 7 days for better acclimatization.
What is the success rate for summiting via the Umbwe Route?
Due to the quick ascent, the success rate is lower than routes like Lemosho or Machame. Those who take an extra acclimatization day have a higher chance of reaching Uhuru Peak.
What are the highlights of the Umbwe Route?
Stunning ridge trails with dramatic views
Fewer crowds compared to other routes
A direct and fast approach to the summit
Is the Umbwe Route dangerous?
The route is safe with proper guidance, but the rapid ascent increases the risk of altitude sickness. Proper acclimatization, hydration, and pacing are essential.
