6 Days Kilimanjaro Climb Umbwe Route
- Umbwe Route
Trekking Overview
The Umbwe Route is one of the steepest and most challenging routes on Mount Kilimanjaro. It is recommended for experienced trekkers looking for a shorter, more direct, and adventurous climb. Starting on the less-trodden southern side, you’ll trek through lush rainforest, alpine desert, and high moorlands, offering breathtaking scenery and fewer crowds. The route allows for excellent acclimatization despite the steep ascent, and climbers are rewarded with spectacular views of glaciers, crater rims, and Africa’s highest summit — Uhuru Peak.
The following itinerary provides a detailed day-by-day guide to your Kilimanjaro climb, including distances, trekking times, altitude gains, and what to expect at each camp.
Day 1: Arrival in Tanzania – Moshi Town
Welcome to Tanzania! Upon arrival at Kilimanjaro International Airport or Arusha Airport, our friendly driver will meet you and transfer you to your hotel in Moshi town. You will meet your trekking guide, who will provide a detailed briefing about the trek, including safety tips, route overview, and a gear check to ensure everything is in order. Any essential equipment may be rented today. This day is designed to help you acclimatize and prepare mentally for your adventure.
- Meals: Not included
- Accommodation: Hotel in Moshi
Day 2: Moshi – Umbwe Gate (1,800m) to Cave Bivouac Camp (2,850m)
At 8:00 AM, depart Moshi for Umbwe Gate, where you’ll meet your porters, guides, and cooks. After registration, your trek begins through moss-covered trees in Kilimanjaro’s cloud forest. The trail is steep in sections and may be slippery in places, gradually opening to heathers, grasses, and wildflowers. Porters will set up camp in time for your arrival at Cave Bivouac.
- Elevation Gain: 1,050 meters / 3,445 feet
- Hiking Time: 4–6 hours
- Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner Included
Day 3: Cave Bivouac Camp (2,850m) to Barranco Camp (3,950m)
Leave the forest behind and trek through open moorlands, gradually ascending to Barranco Camp. Known for its stunning scenery, Barranco is surrounded by giant senecios and lobelias. The valley location means sunrise comes later, offering a peaceful morning in a spectacular setting.
- Elevation Gain: 1,100 meters / 3,610 feet
- Hiking Time: 5–7 hours
- Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner Included
Day 4: Barranco Camp (3,950m) to Karanga Valley (4,200m)
Today begins with a challenging 1.5-hour scramble up the Barranco Wall — a highlight of the Umbwe Route. Some sections require hands-on climbing. After the ascent, you’ll traverse fairly level terrain before descending steeply into the green Karanga River Valley. This day balances challenge with breathtaking views of Kilimanjaro’s glaciers and surrounding peaks.
- Elevation Gain: 250 meters / 820 feet
- Distance: 7 km
- Hiking Time: 3–5 hours
- Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner Included
Day 5: Karanga Valley (4,200m) to Barafu Camp (4,600m)
After breakfast, trek across alpine desert to Barafu Camp, passing the Heim, Kersten, and Decken Glaciers. The route provides clear views of Kibo and Mawenzi peaks and marks the junction with the Machame descent route. Barafu is a high-altitude campsite, preparing you for the midnight summit attempt.
- Elevation Gain: 400 meters / 1,320 feet
- Hiking Time: 3–5 hours
- Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner Included
Day 6: Barafu Camp (4,600m) to Uhuru Peak (5,895m) & down to Mweka Camp (3,100m)
A midnight start takes you up the steep scree slopes to Stella Point and onward to Uhuru Peak. The climb is physically demanding due to altitude but offers unmatched sunrise views and a sense of achievement at Africa’s highest point. After taking in the summit views, descend back to Barafu for breakfast, then continue down to Mweka Camp through forests and alpine desert.
- Elevation Gain: 1,295 meters / 4,240 feet
- Elevation Loss: 2,795 meters / 9,170 feet
- Hiking Time: 6 hours to the rim, 1 hour to Uhuru, 3–4 hours back to Barafu, 4 hours to Mweka
- Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner Included
Day 7: Mweka Camp (3,100m) to Mweka Gate (1,500m)
The final day of trekking takes you down through rainforest to Mweka Gate. Complete park formalities and receive your official Kilimanjaro climbing certificate. From here, you will be transferred back to your hotel in Moshi for a well-deserved shower and rest.
- Elevation Loss: 1,600 meters / 5,250 feet
- Hiking Time: 4 hours
- Meals: Breakfast & Lunch Included
Day 8: Departure and Optional Excursions
On your final day, we ensure your adventure concludes smoothly and memorably. Depending on your flight schedule, our team will provide a comfortable transfer from your hotel to Kilimanjaro International Airport. For guests with extra time before departure, optional activities can be arranged, including cultural experiences, wildlife visits, scenic nature excursions, or relaxing opportunities. Extended stays can include safaris or beach holidays to continue your Tanzanian adventure.
- Meals: Not included
Inclusions (What’s included in your Kilimanjaro adventure)
We ensure you are fully supported throughout your trek. Your package includes:
- Transfers to and from Kilimanjaro International Airport
- Transport to and from Umbwe Gate
- National Park entry fees, camping fees, and applicable crater fees
- Rescue fees and emergency support
- Accommodation on the mountain in 4-season tents
- Double-layered sleeping mats (10 cm thick)
- Experienced guides, cooks, and porters
- Three nutritious meals per day while trekking
- Continuous access to treated and filtered drinking water
- Hot water for washing
- Fair wages for all crew, approved by KINAPA and KIATO
- Government taxes
- Portable oxygen tanks, oximeter, and first-aid equipment
- Portable flush toilet facilities on the mountain
- Official Kilimanjaro climbing summit certificate
- 18% VAT on tour fees & services
Exclusions (What you’ll need to arrange yourself)
To ensure clarity, these items are not included in your trek package:
- International flights to and from Tanzania
- Accommodation in Moshi before or after the trek (2 nights)
- Comprehensive travel insurance (strongly recommended)
- Personal trekking equipment such as trekking poles, and other personal gear
- Personal items and toiletries
- Optional excursions, souvenirs, or extra activities outside the itinerary
- For clients arriving at Arusha Airport, an additional $50 for extended transfer
- Gratuities for the mountain crew – Recommended tipping guidelines are $20 per guide, $15 per cook, and $10 per porter per day per group.
Route Quote
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Group size
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1 Pax
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2 – 3 Pax
|
4 -5 Pax
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6 -7 Pax
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8 - 9 Pax
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10 Pax & Above
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|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
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Quote per person
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$1820
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$1672
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$1622
|
$1596
|
$1593
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$1583
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