Tour Overview
The Umbwe route has a well-deserved reputation of being the most challenging route on Mount Kilimanjaro. Due to the fast ascent to high altitude, this route does not provide the necessary stages for acclimatization. Although the number of people on this trail is very low, the chances of success are also low. Umbwe is considered to be very difficult, taxing route – one that should only be attempted by strong hikers who are confident in their ability to acclimatize quickly to altitude.
Approaching from the south, the Umbwe route is a short, steep and direct climb. After reaching Barranco Camp, the trail turns east and traverses underneath Kilimanjaro’s Southern Ice Field on a path known as the Southern Circuit before summiting from Barafu. Descent is made via the Mweka route.
Program:
Upon arrival at Kilimanjaro International Airport. you will be met and transferred for overnight accommodation at hotel in Moshi B&B. Your head guide will meet you for your briefing, gear check and arrange for you to hire any equipment you may need.
Itinerary
DAY 1: UMBWE GATE – UMBWE CAVE: 9.6KM/6MI | 6-8HRS | MOORLAND
Elevation: 1651m/5417ft to 2944m/9659ft
Altitude gained: 1293m
Departing from Moshi driving to the Kilimanjaro National Park Gate. We will patiently wait for our permits to be issued while watching the hustle and bustle of operations as many crews prepare for the journey ahead Enjoy the beautiful rainforest scenery and windy trails while your guide tells you about the local flora and fauna and natural wildlife. At these lower elevations the trail can be muddy and quite slippery. We highly recommend gaiters and trekking poles here. The path follows a ridge between two deep valleys up through the dense montane forest. The camp is perched between huge trees and thick undergrowth.
DAY 2: UMBWE CAVE – BARRANCO CAMP: 4.75KM/3MI | 4-6HRS | MOORLAND
Elevation: 2944m/9659ft to 3986m/13,077ft
Altitude gained: 1042m
After a good nights sleep and a hearty breakfast we emerge from the rain forest and continue on a steep ascending path, along the Umbwe ridge as it descends slightly to Barranco camp situated in the valley. Temperatures begin to drop.
DAY 3: BARRANCO CAMP – KARANGA CAMP: 5.2KM/3MI | 3-4HRS | ALPINE DESERT
Elevation: 3986m/13,077ft to 4034m/13,235ft
Altitude gained: 48m
After breakfast, we continue on a steep ridge up the adventurous Barranco Wall to the Karanga Valley and the junction, which connects, with the Mweka Trail. This is one of the most impressive days to see the power, agility, and strength of your crew zip over this wall with what appears such ease. Overnight at Karanga Camp.
DAY 4: KARANGA CAMP – BARAFU CAMP: 3.3KM /2 MI | 3-4HRS | ALPINE DESERT
Elevation: 4034m/13,235ft to 4662m/15,295ft
Altitude gained: 628m
We continue up toward Barafu Camp, and once reached you have now completed the South Circuit, which offers a variety of breathtaking views of the summit from many different angles. An early dinner and rest as we prepare for summit night. Overnight at Barafu Camp.
DAY 5: HIKE BARAFU CAMP TO SUMMIT, DOWN TO MWEKA CAMP
Elevation: 4700m/15,350ft to 5895m/19,340ft
Down to 3090m/10,150ft
Distance: 5km/3mi up / 13km/8mi down
Hiking Time: 5-7 hours up / 5-6 hours down
Habitat: Stone scree and ice-capped summit
Very early in the morning (midnight to 2 am), we continue our way to the summit between the Rebmann and Ratzel glaciers. You head in a northwesterly direction and ascend through heavy scree towards Stella Point on the crater rim. This is the most mentally and physically challenging portion of the trek. At Stella Point you will stop for a short rest and will be rewarded with the most magnificent sunrise you are ever likely to see. Faster hikers may view the sunrise from the summit.
From Stella Point, you may encounter snow all the way on your 1-hour ascent to the summit. Once at Uhuru Peak you have reached the highest point on Mount Kilimanjaro and the continent of Africa!
From the summit we begin our descent by continuing straight down to the Mweka Camp, stopping at Barafu for lunch. You may want gaiters and trekking poles for the loose gravel going down. We arrive at Mweka Camp and enjoy our last evening on the mountain. An overnight at Mweka Camp.
DAY 6: HIKE MWEKA CAMP TO MWEKA GATE, DRIVE TO MOSHI
Elevation: 3090m/10,150ft to 1680m/5500ft
Distance: 10km/6mi
Hiking Time: 3-4 hours
Habitat: Forest
After breakfast we continue the descent down to the Mweka Park Gate to receive your summit certificates. At lower elevations, it can be wet and muddy. Gaiters and trekking poles will help. Shorts and t-shirts will probably be plenty to wear (keep rain gear and warmer clothing handy).
From the gate, continue another hour to Mweka Village. A vehicle will meet you at Mweka village to drive you back to your hotel in Moshi (about 30 minutes).
What's included
Airport Transfers: Convenient transfers to and from Kilimanjaro International Airport and your accommodation in Moshi for a smooth start and finish to your journey.
Pre- and Post-Trek Accommodation: Two nights of comfortable accommodation in Moshi—one night before your trek and one night after, to relax and celebrate your achievement.
Transportation to and from the Kilimanjaro Gate: Reliable transport to and from the Kilimanjaro National Park gate for easy access to your climb.
Park Fees and Permits: All required Kilimanjaro National Park entry fees, camping fees, and rescue fees are fully covered.
Premium Mountain Tents: Durable, four-season mountain tents designed to withstand Kilimanjaro’s changing weather conditions.
Double-Layered Sleeping Mats: High-quality, double-layered sleeping mats to ensure comfort and insulation during the trek.
Professional Team Support: Knowledgeable and friendly mountain guides, an experienced cook, and reliable porters dedicated to making your Kilimanjaro experience unforgettable.
Three Hot Meals Daily: Delicious and nutritious hot meals served three times a day while on the mountain, keeping you fueled and energized.(We are happy to accommodate any dietary restrictions or requests.)
Safe, Treated Drinking Water: Unlimited supply of treated and filtered drinking water throughout your trek to keep you hydrated.
Hot Water for Washing: Refreshing hot water provided daily for washing, so you stay comfortable and clean on the mountain.
Crew Welfare: We prioritize fair treatment and pay for our team, ensuring that our guides, cook, and porters are well-supported.
Safety Equipment: Portable oxygen tanks, oximeters, and an emergency first-aid kit to prioritize your safety and well-being throughout the trek.
What's Not included
Meals and Drinks at Hotel: Lunches, dinners, and beverages at your hotel before and after the climb are not covered.
Travel Insurance: We recommend purchasing comprehensive travel insurance that covers high-altitude trekking.
Flights: International and domestic flights to and from Kilimanjaro International Airport are not included.
Laundry Services: Laundry facilities are available at your hotel but are not included in the package.
Personal Items and Toiletries: Make sure to bring your own personal essentials, including toiletries and other comfort items.
Tips for Guides, Porters, and Cook: While tipping is not mandatory, it’s a valued tradition to show appreciation for your team’s hard work and dedication, and so highly recommended.