Route Overview
Embark on the ultimate adventure with the 7-day Umbwe Route, an exhilarating and demanding path to the summit of Mount Kilimanjaro. Renowned as one of the most challenging routes, the Umbwe Route offers unparalleled excitement and a true test of your physical and mental endurance. Journey through rugged terrain, witness breathtaking vistas, and experience the thrill of conquering Africa’s highest peak.
- Start - Moshi
- End - Moshi
Route Itinerary
Day 1: Arrival in Moshi
Arrive in Moshi and settle into your accommodation. Take some time to rest and acclimate to the altitude. Meet your experienced guide for a pre-trek briefing, where they will provide essential information about the upcoming adventure. Use this time to gather any last-minute equipment and ensure you are well-prepared.
Day 2: Moshi to Umbwe Camp (2,900m / 9,514ft)
Difficulty Level: Challenging
After an early breakfast, drive to the Umbwe Gate, positioned at an altitude of 1,650 meters. Begin your trek through dense rainforest, enjoying the sights and songs of abundant wildlife. The trail becomes steeper as you enter the Umbwe Ridge, offering glimpses of magnificent vistas. Reach Umbwe Camp, set amidst the verdant surroundings, where you’ll spend the night.
Day 3: Umbwe Camp to Barranco Camp (3,950m / 12,959ft)
Difficulty Level: Challenging
Continue your ascent through the fascinating landscape of the Barranco Wall. This thrilling section requires climbing and scrambling, providing an incredible sense of achievement. As you conquer the wall, be rewarded with breathtaking views of Kilimanjaro’s valleys and ridge formations. Arrive at Barranco Camp, nestled on a scenic ridge, and rest for the night.
Day 4: Barranco Camp to Karanga Camp (3,995m / 13,106ft)
Difficulty Level: Moderate
Today’s trek takes you along the picturesque Umbwe Ridge, providing panoramic vistas of the surrounding landscape. Traverse rocky terrain, experience changes in vegetation, and marvel at the rugged beauty of Kilimanjaro. Arrive at Karanga Camp, perched on a striking ridge, where you’ll rest and acclimatize.
Day 5: Karanga Camp to Barafu Camp (4,673m / 15,331ft)
Difficulty Level: Challenging
Embark on a challenging hike through the alpine desert, characterized by barren landscapes and rocky paths. Traverse the inhospitable terrain as you ascend toward Barafu Camp, located just below Kilimanjaro’s summit. Take in the awe-inspiring views and mentally prepare for the forthcoming summit attempt.
Day 6: Barafu Camp to Uhuru Peak (5,895m / 19,341ft) and descent to Mweka Camp (3,100m / 10,170ft)
Difficulty Level: Extremely challenging
Begin a midnight summit attempt, undertaking a strenuous climb to the peak. As you navigate the steep and icy slopes, embrace the challenge and reach Uhuru Peak, the highest point in Africa. Celebrate this extraordinary accomplishment and savor the panoramic views. Descend to Mweka Camp, located amidst the lush rainforest, where you’ll rest overnight.
Day 7: Mweka Camp to Mweka Gate (1,640m / 5,380ft) and return to Moshi
Difficulty Level: Moderate
After breakfast, commence the final descent through the magnificent rainforest, surrounded by diverse flora and fauna. Descend to Mweka Gate, where you’ll say farewell to your knowledgeable guides. Receive a well-deserved certificate to commemorate your Kilimanjaro triumph. Return to Moshi, bringing this unforgettable adventure to a close.