Description
The Umbwe Route is known as the most challenging and direct route to the summit of Mount Kilimanjaro. It offers a steep, short climb that allows for little acclimatization but is compensated by its scenic views and solitude, making it ideal for experienced trekkers seeking a less crowded path. This 7-day itinerary provides a rapid ascent, traversing through lush rainforest, moorland, and alpine desert before reaching the arctic zone near the summit. The Umbwe Route merges with the Machame Route at Barranco Camp, combining the solitude of early days with the popularity of later stages, culminating in a rewarding summit attempt.
Day by Day Itineray
Day 1: Umbwe Gate to Umbwe Cave Camp
Start your ascent at Umbwe Gate (1,600 meters) and hike through dense montane forest to reach Umbwe Cave Camp (2,850 meters). This initial day involves a sharp ascent over a relatively short distance, approximately 6-7 hours of trekking, making it a tough start to your climb.
Day 2: Umbwe Cave Camp to Barranco Camp
Continue climbing steeply out of the forest and into the heather and moorland zone, reaching Barranco Camp (3,960 meters). The path becomes less steep as you approach Barranco Camp, offering stunning views and more complex terrain. This segment takes about 6-7 hours and ends at the scenic Barranco Camp where you meet climbers from other routes.
Day 3: Barranco Camp to Karanga Camp
Tackle the Barranco Wall, an exhilarating scramble that is a highlight for many climbers. After ascending the wall, the path traverses underneath the glaciers of the southern slope of Kibo to Karanga Camp (3,995 meters), which takes about 4-5 hours. This day is crucial for acclimatization and preparation for the summit push.
Day 4: Karanga Camp to Barafu Camp
Hike from Karanga to Barafu Camp (4,673 meters). The trek is relatively short but steep, taking approximately 3-4 hours. The afternoon is spent resting and preparing for the midnight summit attempt. Barafu Camp offers expansive views of the summit route that awaits you.
Day 5: Barafu Camp to Uhuru Peak to Mweka Camp
Begin the summit bid around midnight, trekking through heavy scree towards Stella Point (5,756 meters) on the crater rim, and continuing to Uhuru Peak (5,895 meters). The climb from Barafu to the summit takes about 6-8 hours. After reaching the summit, descend to Mweka Camp (3,100 meters), a long but gratifying day of 12-14 hours in total.
Day 6: Mweka Camp to Mweka Gate
Descend from Mweka Camp to Mweka Gate (1,640 meters), taking about 3-4 hours. This final trek through the forest offers a gentle close to the intense and rewarding journey. Collect your summit certificates at the gate and celebrate the achievement with your team.
Day 7: Departure
Transfer back to your hotel in Moshi or Arusha, where you can relax, reflect on your climbing experience, and enjoy the amenities of a comfortable lodging after the rigorous expedition.