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4.8/5

Based on 420+ reviews

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7 Days

Umbwe Route

Overview
Summary
Itinerary
Includes & Excludes
Plan Your Safari

7 Days Umbwe Route

The 7-day Umbwe Route is a challenging, direct Kilimanjaro trek for experienced climbers. Starting at Umbwe Gate, it ascends through rainforests and alpine deserts, offering stunning, isolated views. With rapid elevation gains, acclimatization is crucial. Its tough terrain and exclusive feel make it ideal for those seeking a rewarding, adventurous summit experience.

Tour Summary & Map

Day 1 – Umbwe Gate to Umbwe Camp (11 km / 5-7 hours)

Day 2 – Umbwe Camp to Barranco Camp (6 km / 4-5 hours)

Day 3 – Acclimatization Day at Barranco Camp

Day 4 – Barranco Camp to Karanga Camp (5 km / 4 hours)

Day 5 – Karanga Camp to Barafu Camp (4 km / 3-4 hours)

Day 6 – Summit Day – Barafu Camp to Uhuru Peak, then to Mweka Camp (17 km / 8 hours up, 9-10 hours down)

Day 7 – Mweka Camp to Mweka Gate (10 km / 3-4 hours)

Tour Itinerary

Day 1 - Umbwe Gate to Umbwe Camp (11 km / 5-7 hours)

Umbwe Gate to Umbwe Camp (11 km / 5-7 hours)

Start your journey with a briefing and early breakfast before being driven to Umbwe Village. After registration, hike through dense rainforest, where you’ll encounter giant fig and rubber trees, and occasionally muddy paths. The terrain is steep, but our porters will have the camp set up by the time you arrive at Umbwe Camp, located in the forest. Here, you’ll enjoy a hearty meal and prepare for the days ahead.

Day 2 - Umbwe Camp to Barranco Camp (6 km / 4-5 hours)

Umbwe Camp to Barranco Camp (6 km / 4-5 hours)

Start early with a steep climb through the rainforest before emerging into the drier terrain of Giant Erica and heathland. Continue along a ridge offering views of Uhuru Peak. After lunch, pass through the Senecio gardens and the semi-desert landscape before reaching Barranco Camp. This camp offers stunning views of the surrounding landscape, including a memorable sunset.

Day 3 - Acclimatization Day at Barranco Camp

Acclimatization Day at Barranco Camp

This day is dedicated to acclimatization, allowing your body to adjust to the higher altitudes. Enjoy short walks around Barranco Camp, soaking in the spectacular views of the unique landscape, including the groundsel plants. Many climbers rank Barranco Camp as the most scenic on the route, and it’s the perfect spot for resting and acclimatizing.

Day 4 - Barranco Camp to Karanga Camp (5 km / 4 hours)

Barranco Camp to Karanga Camp (5 km / 4 hours)

After breakfast, tackle the famous Great Barranco Wall, a steep but manageable climb. Reach the Heim Glacier and descend through the Karanga Valley, where your porters will gather water for the remainder of the ascent. Karanga Camp offers excellent views of Mawenzi Peak, and the afternoon is perfect for light exploration or relaxation.

Day 5 - Karanga Camp to Barafu Camp (4 km / 3-4 hours)

Karanga Camp to Barafu Camp (4 km / 3-4 hours)

From Karanga, continue along ridges and valleys to join the Mweka Route. After an hour’s climb, you’ll arrive at Barafu Camp, situated on a rocky ridge. The camp is exposed to high winds, so be sure to familiarize yourself with the area. After an early dinner, prepare your gear for the midnight summit attempt.

Day 6 - Summit Day - Barafu Camp to Uhuru Peak, then to Mweka Camp (17 km / 8 hours up, 9-10 hours down)

Summit Day - Barafu Camp to Uhuru Peak, then to Mweka Camp (17 km / 8 hours up, 9-10 hours down)

Wake at 11:30 PM for tea and snacks before embarking on the summit climb. The first 6 hours of trekking through scree and switchbacks lead to Stella Point. If you’re lucky, you’ll catch a glimpse of sunrise here. Continue along the crater rim to Uhuru Peak, the highest point in Africa. After brief celebrations, start your descent to Barafu Camp, then continue to Mweka Camp for rest and dinner.

Day 7 - Mweka Camp to Mweka Gate (10 km / 3-4 hours)

Mweka Camp to Mweka Gate (10 km / 3-4 hours)

Enjoy breakfast before descending through the scenic forest to Mweka Gate. Upon arrival, receive your summit certificate (green for Stella Point, gold for Uhuru Peak). If the road is too muddy for vehicles, you’ll walk an additional hour to Mweka Village for a hot lunch. Finally, you’ll be transferred back to Moshi for your well-earned shower and rest.

Includes & Excludes

Include & Exclude

Pick up at the International Airport
Transfer to the hotel Parkview Inn or Kilimanjaro Wonders Hotel
Kilimanjaro National Park permits
Kilimanjaro National Park rescue fees
Camping/hut fees
3 meals daily while on the mountain. The menu includes different soups, garnishes, several types of fish and meat, fresh fruit and vegetables; vegetarian options are available upon request
Modern tents
First aid kit
Warm and comfortable sleeping pads (2 inches thick)
Portable flush toilets can be provided for free upon clients' request
Group equipment (dining tent, table, chairs, crockery and cutlery)
Meeting the group at the National Park exit and transfer to the hotel
Accommodation after the climb
International certificates for a successful ascent

Local and international flights
Visa
Tips
Other meals at the hotel in the town
Personal gear such as a sleeping bag, boots and clothes
Laundry services
Personal items such as souvenirs and travel insurance
Soft and alcoholic beverages

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"We had a fantastic time with Kingse Safari’s. We went from Arusha, to Ngorongoro and Serengeti. Peter was an awesome guide. Very knowledgeable and a skilled driver."

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Incredible Trip

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