To More Inquiry
Our Destinations
$2,280/
Per PersonEmbark on a thrilling adventure with our 6 day Umbwe route trek to the summit of Mount Kilimanjaro. The Umbwe Route is renowned for being one of the most challenging yet rewarding paths to the summit of Mount Kilimanjaro. Known for its steep and direct ascent, this route is ideal for experienced trekkers seeking an intense and thrilling adventure. Starting from the southern side of the mountain, the Umbwe Route offers a more remote and less crowded experience compared to other routes. The journey begins in the lush rainforest, home to a diverse array of flora and fauna, before transitioning through heath and moorland zones. Trekkers are treated to breathtaking vistas and the exhilarating challenge of climbing the Great Barranco Wall.
This route provides a rapid ascent, which can be demanding, but also rewards climbers with stunning, ever-changing landscapes and a sense of solitude. The dramatic scenery, including the stunning views from the Great Barranco Wall and the high-altitude desert of the Karanga Valley, makes every step worthwhile. The final push to Uhuru Peak, starting at midnight from Barafu Camp, offers a surreal and awe-inspiring experience as trekkers reach the highest point in Africa just in time for sunrise.
Included and Excluded
- Experienced, English-Speaking Guides Certified In First Aid And Mountain Rescue.
- Porters And Support Staff: Friendly And Reliable Porters To Carry Your Gear And Supplies, Ensuring A Comfortable Trek.
- Nutritious And Delicious Meals Prepared By Our Skilled Cooks, Including Breakfast, Lunch, And Dinner.
- Clean, Safe Drinking Water Provided Throughout The Trek.
- Park Fees: All Kilimanjaro National Park Fees, Including Entrance, Hut, And Rescue Fees.
- Oxygen Cylinders And Oxymeters For Emergency Use.
- Comprehensive First Aid Kit For Minor Injuries And Illnesses.
- A Certificate Of Achievement Upon Reaching Uhuru Peak.
- Flights (International And Domestic)
- Meals Not Indicated In The Itinerary
- Alcoholic And Soft Drinks
- Optional Activities
- Tips
- Personal Expenses, Visa Fees, Travel Insurance
Highlights of the Tour
- Known for its steep and direct path, the Umbwe Route is ideal for experienced trekkers seeking a rigorous climb.
- Enjoy a quieter and more secluded trek, away from the crowds found on other routes.
- Traverse through dense rainforest, heath, moorland, and alpine desert, culminating in the arctic conditions near the summit.
- Conquer the impressive Great Barranco Wall, a highlight of the trek offering stunning views and a sense of accomplishment.
- Reach Uhuru Peak, the highest point in Africa, and experience the breathtaking sunrise and panoramic views.
- Benefit from the support and expertise of seasoned guides who ensure a safe and successful ascent.
- Gain insights into the local culture and traditions through interactions with your guides and porters.
Itinerary
Your adventure begins at the Umbwe Gate, where you will trek through the dense rainforest. The trail is steep and narrow, offering an immediate challenge as you ascend to Umbwe Cave Camp.
- Distance: 11 km
- Hiking Time: 5-7 hours
- Habitat: Rainforest
Continue your ascent through the forest, transitioning to heath and moorland zones. The trail becomes less steep as you approach Barranco Camp, situated in a beautiful valley below the Great Barranco Wall.
- Distance: 6 km
- Hiking Time: 4-5 hours
- Habitat: Heath and Moorland
Today’s trek involves climbing the Great Barranco Wall, a challenging yet non-technical ascent. After the wall, traverse through the alpine desert to reach Karanga Camp, which offers stunning views of the Southern Ice Field.
- Distance: 5 km
- Hiking Time: 4-5 hours
- Habitat: Alpine Desert
The trail to Barafu Camp is a steady ascent over rocky and barren terrain. Upon arrival, you will rest and prepare for the midnight summit push. Barafu Camp is situated on a rocky ridge, providing an awe-inspiring vantage point.
- Distance: 4 km
- Hiking Time: 3-4 hours
- Habitat: Alpine Desert
Begin your summit attempt around midnight. The trail to the summit is steep and challenging, passing through scree and icy paths. Reach Stella Point (5,739m) and continue to Uhuru Peak, the highest point in Africa. After celebrating your achievement, descend to Barafu Camp for a short rest and then continue down to Mweka Camp.
- Distance: 17 km
- Hiking Time: 10-14 hours
- Habitat: Arctic to Moorland
On your final day, descend through the lush rainforest to Mweka Gate. Celebrate your successful climb with a certificate of achievement and transfer back to Moshi.
- Distance: 10 km
- Hiking Time: 3-4 hours
- Habitat: Rainforest
Location Map
Frequently Asked & Question
The success rate of the Umbwe Route on Mount Kilimanjaro varies depending on several factors, including the trekker's physical fitness, acclimatization to altitude, and the length of the itinerary. Generally, the Umbwe Route has a lower success rate compared to other routes due to its steep and rapid ascent, which provides less time for acclimatization.Success Rate:
5-Day Umbwe Route: Approximately 60% - 70% success rate.
6-Day Umbwe Route: Approximately 70% - 80% success rate.
The 6-day itinerary provides an additional day for acclimatization, improving the chances of reaching the summit compared to the shorter 5-day option. However, due to the challenging nature of the route, it is recommended for experienced hikers who are well-prepared for the physical and mental demands of the climb. Proper acclimatization, a slow and steady pace, and adequate hydration are crucial for increasing the likelihood of a successful summit on the Umbwe Route.
The Umbwe Route is considered one of the most challenging routes to the summit of Mount Kilimanjaro. Here are the key factors that contribute to its difficulty:Steep and Rapid Ascent
Immediate Elevation Gain: The Umbwe Route begins with a steep climb right from the start, which can be physically demanding. The initial days involve significant elevation gains over short distances.
Less Time for Acclimatization: The rapid ascent means there is less time for the body to acclimate to the altitude, increasing the risk of altitude sickness. This is one of the primary reasons for the lower success rate compared to other routes.
Terrain and Path
Narrow and Steep Trails: The route features narrow paths and steep inclines, making it technically more demanding than other routes. Hikers often need to navigate rocky and uneven terrain.
Barranco Wall: Climbers must scale the Great Barranco Wall, a steep, non-technical rock scramble that requires both physical strength and mental fortitude.
Physical and Mental Demands
Physical Fitness: The Umbwe Route is best suited for experienced hikers who are in excellent physical condition. The continuous steep ascents require strong leg muscles and cardiovascular fitness.
Mental Toughness: The route’s challenges demand mental resilience. The combination of physical exertion, high altitude, and long days of trekking can be mentally taxing.
Weather Conditions
Varied Climates: Climbers must be prepared for a range of weather conditions, from hot and humid in the rainforest to freezing temperatures near the summit. Proper gear and clothing are essential to handle these changes.
Acclimatization
Shorter Itineraries: The Umbwe Route typically offers fewer acclimatization days compared to other routes like the Lemosho or Machame routes. This factor makes it crucial for climbers to be aware of their body's response to altitude and to communicate with guides about any symptoms of altitude sickness.
Summary
The Umbwe Route is one of the hardest routes to Kilimanjaro due to its steep, rapid ascent and challenging terrain. It is best suited for experienced hikers who have previous high-altitude trekking experience and are well-prepared for the physical and mental demands of the climb. Proper acclimatization strategies, fitness preparation, and mental readiness are key to successfully summiting via the Umbwe Route.
The Umbwe Route on Mount Kilimanjaro involves a significant elevation gain, given its steep and direct path. Here’s a breakdown of the elevation gain throughout the typical 6-day Umbwe Route itinerary:Day 1: Umbwe Gate (1,600m) to Umbwe Cave Camp (2,850m)
Starting Elevation: 1,600 meters (5,250 feet)
Ending Elevation: 2,850 meters (9,350 feet)
Elevation Gain: 1,250 meters (4,100 feet)
Day 2: Umbwe Cave Camp (2,850m) to Barranco Camp (3,900m)
Starting Elevation: 2,850 meters (9,350 feet)
Ending Elevation: 3,900 meters (12,800 feet)
Elevation Gain: 1,050 meters (3,450 feet)
Day 3: Barranco Camp (3,900m) to Karanga Camp (4,200m)
Starting Elevation: 3,900 meters (12,800 feet)
Ending Elevation: 4,200 meters (13,780 feet)
Elevation Gain: 300 meters (980 feet)
Day 4: Karanga Camp (4,200m) to Barafu Camp (4,600m)
Starting Elevation: 4,200 meters (13,780 feet)
Ending Elevation: 4,600 meters (15,090 feet)
Elevation Gain: 400 meters (1,310 feet)
Day 5: Barafu Camp (4,600m) to Uhuru Peak (5,895m) to Mweka Camp (3,100m)
Starting Elevation: 4,600 meters (15,090 feet)
Uhuru Peak Elevation: 5,895 meters (19,341 feet)
Elevation Gain to Summit: 1,295 meters (4,251 feet)
Descent to Mweka Camp: -2,795 meters (-9,173 feet)
Day 6: Mweka Camp (3,100m) to Mweka Gate (1,640m)
Starting Elevation: 3,100 meters (10,170 feet)
Ending Elevation: 1,640 meters (5,380 feet)
Descent: -1,460 meters (-4,790 feet)
Total Elevation Gain and Descent:
Total Ascent: Approximately 4,295 meters (14,075 feet)
Total Descent: Approximately 4,255 meters (13,960 feet)
Summary:
The Umbwe Route involves a total elevation gain of about 4,295 meters (14,075 feet) from the start to the summit, with significant elevation gains each day. The descent from the summit to the end of the trek covers approximately 4,255 meters (13,960 feet). The steep and rapid ascent, combined with the considerable elevation changes, make the Umbwe Route one of the most challenging paths to the summit of Mount Kilimanjaro.
Book This Tour
Note: Price is per person based on two travelers. For solo, family, or group rates, please inquire.
Join Our Newsletter
To receive our best deals
