6 Days Umbwe Route
Trip Overview
The Umbwe route on Mount Kilimanjaro is renowned as the most challenging due to its fast ascent and lack of acclimatization stages. With low success rates, it’s recommended only for strong, quick acclimatizing hikers.
The short, steep climb from the south leads to Barranco Camp, then east along the Southern Circuit, summiting from Barafu. Descending via Mweka, Safari Moja Matata offers a six or seven-day private climb, the latter including an acclimatization day at Barranco Camp.
With Lusen Tours & Safaris
- Known as the most challenging and steepest route
- Fast ascent with limited acclimatization stages
- Recommended for strong, experienced, and quick-acclimatizing hikers only
- Starts from the south, reaching Barranco Camp quickly
- Continues along the Southern Circuit to summit at Barafu
- Descent via the scenic Mweka Route
- Offers 6- or 7-day private climbs, with the 7-day including an acclimatization day at Barranco
- Adventure for those seeking a tough and rewarding Kilimanjaro climb
Trip Highlight
- Tour Duration:
6 Days / 5 Nights
- Start / End:
Moshi
Full Itinerary
Day to day
Day 1: Machame Gate - Umbwe gate - Umbwe Cave Campsite.
Following breakfast, we journey from the hotel to Machame gate for registration and permit issuance. Subsequently, we proceed to Umbwe gate, where we weigh our bags and fulfill necessary formalities before embarking on the climb to Umbwe Cave Campsite. The trek takes us through rainforests, ridges, and valleys, culminating in an evening dinner at the camp, where we’ll spend the night.
Elevation: 800m – 1800m – 2850m
Trail Trek: 10km
Trek Duration: 4-5 hours
Habitat: Mountain forest
Meals: Lunch and Dinner
Day 2: Umbwe Cave Campsite - Baranco Campsite
Following breakfast, we ascend beyond the thick forest to the moorland and heath zone, savoring the scenic Baranco valleys and the impressive Baranco wall. This is where our path converges with fellow hikers from the Machame, Lemosho, and Shira routes. Dinner will be served at the camp, as per usual.
Elevation: 2850m – 3900m
Trail Trek: 10 Km
Trek Duration: 4-5 hours
Habitat: Montane forest and heather
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner
Day 3: Baranco Campsite - Karanga Campsite
Following breakfast, our ascent leads us towards the challenging Baranco Wall at 4200m, navigating through ridges and valleys to reach Karanga Campsite. A break for lunch and a nap awaits at the camp. In the evening, there will be a briefing about the next day’s plans, followed by dinner with your guide.
Elevation: 3900m – 4200m -3995m
Trail Trek: 6km
Trek Duration: 4-5 hours
Habitat: Moorland
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner
Day 4: Karanga Camp - Barafu Campsite
The journey from Karanga Campsite to Barafu Campsite is challenging, primarily due to the altitude. Although the distance is short, the steep terrain necessitates a slow pace. After lunch and a pre-climb briefing, a restful nap awaits. An early dinner precedes a brief rest before the midnight commencement of our final ascent to Africa’s highest peak, Uhuru Peak.
Elevation: 3995 – 4673m
Trail Trek: 4km
Trek Duration: 3-4 hours
Habitat: Alpine desert
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner
Day 5: Barafu Hut camp/ Uhuru peak/ Mweka Campsite
At midnight, a light breakfast precedes our summit attempt. Starting before dawn is crucial for tackling the steep trail to Stella Point at 5756m, where views of the glacier, crater, and sunrise unfold. The final stretch to Uhuru Peak takes about an hour, allowing for photo moments based on weather and physical conditions.
Descending back to Barafu Campsite follows, where a short nap, lunch, and preparation for the descent to Mweka Campsite ensue. At Mweka Camp, a comforting basin of hot water and delicious meals await before bedtime.
Elevation: 4673m – 5895m – 3100 m
Trail Trek: 17.5km
Trek Duration: 10-12 hours
Habitat: alpine desert and glacier
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner
Day 6: Mweka Campsite - Mweka Gate
In the morning, a celebratory moment awaits after breakfast, with the crew singing and dancing to traditional African songs or Jambo songs, marking the culmination of the trek. This is an opportunity to express gratitude by providing tips to the guide, porter, and cook for their dedicated service.
Following this, the descent to Mweka gate begins, where you’ll sign out and receive certificates. The journey concludes at your hotel, offering a chance to indulge in a long, hot shower and well-deserved rest.
Elevation: 3100m – 1800m
Trail Trek: 10km
Trek Duration: 3-4 hours
Habitat: Mountain forest
Meals: Breakfast
Machame Gtae, Umbwe Gate, Umbwe Cave Campsite,Barranco Campsite, Karanga Campsite,Barafu Campsite,Barafu Hut Camp, Uhuru Peak, Mweka Campsite, Mweka Campsite and Mweka Gate
DestinationS
| Traveller Group | Price /pp |
|---|---|
|
Solo Trekker |
USD 2100 per person |
|
Group of 2 |
USD 1850 per person |
|
Group of 3 |
USD 1840 per person |
|
Group of 4 |
USD 1830 per person |
PRICE includes
- Comprehensive mountain climbing certificates
- Hassle-free hotel/airport pickup and drop-off
- All-encompassing government taxes
- Comfortable accommodations
- Well-equipped emergency first-aid kit
- Proficient English-speaking professional guide
- Inclusive park entry fees and camping fees
- Portable oxygen tanks for safety
- Satisfying meals throughout the climbing journey
PRICE excludes
- International flights to the adventure
- Alcoholic and soft drinks beyond the essentials
- Appreciation tips for the safari guide
- Optional activities for personalized experiences
- Visa fees for entry to specified regions
- Meals while relaxing in the hotel
- Personal spending money for memorable souvenirs and more.
Book This Tour
Related Mt. Kilimanjaro Trekking Package
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