6 Days Kilimanjaro Trekking Via Umbwe Route

The Umbwe route has a well-deserved reputation of being the most challenging route on Mount Kilimanjaro. Due to the fast ascent to high altitude, this route does not provide the necessary stages for acclimatization. Although the number of people on this trail is very low, the chances of success are also low. Umbwe is considered to be very difficult, taxing route – one that should only be attempted by strong hikers who are confident in their ability to acclimatize quickly to altitude. 

Day 1: Umbwe Gate to Umbwe Camp

Elevation: 5,249 ft to 9,514 ft

Distance: 11 km/7 miles

Hiking Time: 5-7 hours

Habitat: Heath

The day begins with a 50 minute drive to Machame Gate where registration formalities will be completed. We then transfer through villages and coffee and banana plantations to Umbwe Gate. The trail ascends sharply on a forestry track which winds up the dense rain forest. The path narrows and steepens as we climb the ridge between two rivers surrounded by huge trees. Umbwe Camp is perched between trees and thick undergrowth.

Day 2: Umbwe Camp to Barranco Camp

Elevation: 9,514 ft to 13,044 ft

Distance: 6 km/4 miles

Hiking Time: 4-5 hours

Habitat: Heath

The second day of the trek follows rockier terrain with sparse undergrowth and straggly, moss-covered trees. As we gain elevation, glimpses of Kilimanjaro can be seen. The path flattens as we approach Barranco Valley. From Umbwe ridge, the route descends to Barranco Camp through the strange but beautiful Senecio Forest.

3 Day: Barranco Camp to Karanga Camp

Elevation: 13,044 ft to 13,106 ft

Distance: 5 km/3 miles

Hiking Time: 4-5 hours

Habitat: Alpine Desert

We begin the day by descending into a ravine to the base of the Great Barranco Wall. Then we climb the non-technical but steep, nearly 900 ft cliff. From the top of the Barranco Wall we cross a series of hills and valleys until we descend sharply into Karanga Valley. One more steep climb up leads us to Karanga Camp. This is a shorter day meant for acclimatization.

4 Day: Karanga Camp to Barafu Camp

Elevation: 13,106 ft to 15,331 ft

Distance: 4 km/2 miles

Hiking Time: 4-5 hours

Habitat: Alpine Desert

We leave Karanga and hit the junction which connects with the Mweka Trail. We continue up to the rocky section to Barafu Hut. At this point, you have completed the Southern Circuit, which offers views of the summit from many different angles. Here we make camp, rest and enjoy an early dinner to prepare for the summit day. The two peaks of Mawenzi and Kibo are viewable from this position.

5 Day: Barafu Camp to Uhuru Peak

Elevation: 15,331 ft to 19,341 ft

Distance: 5 km/3 miles

Hiking Time: 7-8 hours

Habitat: Arctic

Uhuru Peak to Mweka Camp

Elevation: 19,341 ft to 10,065 ft

Distance: 12 km/7 miles

Hiking Time: 4-6 hours

Habitat: Rain Forest

Very early in the morning (around midnight), we begin our push to the summit. This is the most mentally and physically challenging portion of the trek. The wind and cold at this elevation and time of day can be extreme. We ascend in the darkness for several hours while taking frequent, but short, breaks. Near Stella Point (18,900 ft), you will be rewarded with the most magnificent sunrise you are ever likely to see coming over Mawenzi Peak. Finally, we arrive at Uhuru Peak- the highest point on Mount Kilimanjaro and the continent of Africa.

From the summit, we now make our descent continuing straight down to the Mweka Hut camp site, stopping at Barafu for lunch. The trail is very rocky and can be quite hard on the knees; trekking poles are helpful. Mweka Camp is situated in the upper forest and mist or rain can be expected in the late afternoon. Later in the evening, we enjoy our last dinner on the mountain and a well-earned sleep

6 Day: Mweka Camp to Mweka Gate

Elevation: 10,065 ft to 5,380 ft

Distance: 10 km/6 miles

Hiking Time: 3-4 hours

Habitat: Rain Forest

On our last day, we continue the descent to Mweka Gate and collect the summit certificates. At lower elevations, it can be wet and muddy. From the gate, we continue another hour to Mweka Village. A vehicle will meet us at Mweka Village to drive us back to the hotel in Moshi.

1. 1. What is Mount Kilimanjaro?

      • Mount Kilimanjaro is the highest peak in Africa, located in Tanzania. It is a dormant volcano and one of the most iconic mountains in the world.

   2. How tall is Mount Kilimanjaro?

      • The summit of Mount Kilimanjaro, called Uhuru Peak, stands at an elevation of 5,895 meters (19,341 feet) above sea level.

   3. How long does it take to climb Mount Kilimanjaro?

      • The duration of a Kilimanjaro climb varies depending on the route chosen. Most climbs typically range from 5 to 9 days.

   4. What are the different routes up Mount Kilimanjaro?

      • There are several routes to the summit of Kilimanjaro, each with its own characteristics and scenery. Popular routes include the Marangu, Machame, Lemosho, Rongai, and Northern Circuit routes.

   5. Is climbing Mount Kilimanjaro difficult?

      • Climbing Kilimanjaro is challenging due to its high altitude, but it doesn’t require technical climbing skills. However, climbers should be physically fit and prepared for the rigors of high-altitude trekking.

   6. Do I need a guide to climb Mount Kilimanjaro?

      • Yes, it is mandatory to have a registered guide accompany you on your Kilimanjaro climb. Guides are essential for safety, navigation, and providing support throughout the trek.

   7. When is the best time to climb Mount Kilimanjaro?

      • The best times for climbing Kilimanjaro are during the dry seasons, which are typically from late June to October and from December to March. These months offer clearer skies and better trekking conditions.

   8. What should I pack for climbing Mount Kilimanjaro?

      • Essential items for climbing Kilimanjaro include proper clothing for varying temperatures, sturdy hiking boots, a good quality sleeping bag, trekking poles, personal medications, and other necessary gear as recommended by your tour operator.

   9. What are the risks of climbing Mount Kilimanjaro?

      • The main risks of climbing Kilimanjaro include altitude sickness, which can affect anyone regardless of fitness level, as well as other potential hazards such as extreme weather conditions and physical exhaustion.

   10. Do I need to train before climbing Mount Kilimanjaro?

       • Yes, it is highly recommended to undergo physical training and preparation before attempting to climb Kilimanjaro. This can include cardiovascular exercises, strength training, and hiking to build endurance and fitness levels.