6 Days Umbwe Route | Climbing Kilimanjaro
6 Days Umbwe route -Environment Adventure
This Umbwe is the most spectacular and direct way to reach Uhuru Peak. This route became famous when it was featured in the dramatic IMAX film Kilimanjaro – To the Roof of Africa. On the Umbwe, you pass through strange landscapes as you climb through five climate zones ranging from rainforest to the summit’s glaciers. The route follows a forested ridge to the moorlands, then traverses below the southern icefields to reach the Machame Route, which you follow to the summit. This steep, tough, and in places slightly exposed trek is suitable for a fit individual used to walking in mountain areas. Because of the route’s steepness, it is seldom used, and trekking poles are useful on the steep, slippery slopes in the rainforest. All your equipment and supplies are carried by porters and a cook prepares all your meals. Unlike the Marangu Route where you sleep in huts, on the Umbwe you sleep in tents (tents are included), and the porters will pitch your tent for you. Meals are served in a dinner tent or on a blanket outside. You can add an extra day to your itinerary to explore or relax along the route (best taken at the Barranco Camp).
Upon arriving at Kilimanjaro International Airport, you will be met and transferred to your hotel in Moshi. After settling in, you will have a briefing with your guide, who will go over the trek details, safety protocols, and answer any questions you might have about the climb.
Your adventure begins with a 1.5-hour drive to Umbwe Gate, the starting point of your trek. From here, you will start your ascent through the dense forest as you make your way to Umbwe Camp, located at an altitude of 2,850 meters. You’ll spend the night here, surrounded by the tranquility of the rainforest.
On this day, you will leave the rainforest behind and trek through moorland landscapes on your way to Barranco Camp, which sits at 3,960 meters. The terrain will gradually become more rugged, offering incredible views of the surrounding peaks. You’ll spend the night at Barranco Camp, where you can rest and enjoy the evening beneath the stars.
Today, you’ll face the thrilling challenge of climbing the Barranco Wall, a steep, rocky section that requires both hands and feet. Once you conquer the wall, the trail eases as you continue on to Karanga Camp at 4,030 meters. You’ll spend the night at Karanga Camp, where you can recover and prepare for the higher altitudes ahead.
This leg of the journey takes you to Barafu Camp, perched at 4,640 meters. This camp serves as your base for the summit attempt, so you will spend the afternoon resting and preparing your gear for the final ascent to Uhuru Peak. You’ll get to bed early to rest for the midnight climb.
At midnight, you will begin your ascent to the summit of Mount Kilimanjaro. Trekking under the stars, you will push through the cold and thin air towards Uhuru Peak, the highest point in Africa at 5,895 meters. After reaching the summit and celebrating this incredible achievement, you will descend to Mweka Camp at 3,100 meters for a well-earned rest.
On your final day of trekking, you will descend through the rainforest to Mweka Gate. Upon arrival, you will receive your summit certificate as a proud reminder of your accomplishment. A vehicle will transfer you back to Moshi, where you will enjoy a celebratory dinner.
After a restful night in Moshi, you will be transferred to Kilimanjaro International Airport for your flight home, carrying with you unforgettable memories of your Kilimanjaro adventure.
