Kilimanjaro Trek via Umbwe Route - 6 Days
Tour Overview
Kilimanjaro Climb via – Umbwe Route – 6 Days
The Umbwe Route is the most direct, steepest, and least traveled trail to the summit of Mount Kilimanjaro (5,895m / 19,341 ft). Often chosen by seasoned trekkers, it offers a fast gain in elevation and a dramatic ascent through dense rainforest, rugged ridgelines, and deep valleys.
The route merges with the scenic Machame Route at Barranco Camp, providing stunning views of the Barranco Wall and Southern Icefields. Though physically demanding and not recommended for beginners, Umbwe rewards climbers with solitude, breathtaking scenery, and a truly immersive high-altitude trekking experience. Descent is via the Mweka Route, offering a complete traverse of Kilimanjaro’s southern face.
Safari Highlights
Most challenging non-technical route on Kilimanjaro
Incredible views from the Umbwe Ridge and deep forest valleys
Low foot traffic—remote, quiet, and adventurous
Striking approach to Barranco Wall and Karanga Valley
Merges with Machame Route—experience Kilimanjaro’s scenic south
Summit push from Barafu Camp via Stella Point
Descent via a different route (Mweka), completing the loop
Route Type: Camping Accommodation
Route: Umbwe Route
Duration: 6 Days on the Mountain / 2 Nights at Hotel in Moshi or Arusha
Difficulty: Very Challenging
Success Rate: Lower than Other Routes
Best For: Experienced trekkers seeking a steep, remote, and adventurous climb
Price - Based on2 Pax $ 2,240 Per Person
Kilimanjaro Umbwe Route Trek Itinerary
Day 1: Arrival in Tanzania – Welcome to Kilimanjaro
Upon arrival at Kilimanjaro International Airport (KIA), you’ll be warmly greeted by a representative from Travencia Safaris. After a friendly welcome and short briefing, you’ll be transferred to your hotel in Moshi or Arusha. As you drive through the foothills of Kilimanjaro, keep an eye on the horizon, on clear days, the mountain may reveal itself briefly before retreating behind clouds. This first glimpse of Africa’s tallest peak often stirs a mix of excitement and awe.
- Accommodation: Planet Lodge.
- Meals: Bed & Breakfast
Day 2: Umbwe Gate (1,800m) → Umbwe Cave Camp (2,850m)
Your Kilimanjaro adventure begins after breakfast and a drive to Umbwe Gate. After completing registration and meeting your mountain crew, the trek starts with a steep and steady climb through lush montane rainforest. The trail ascends sharply along a forested ridge, with tangled roots and narrow pathways adding to the challenge. Arrive at Umbwe Cave Camp, tucked within thick forest. Overnight at Umbwe Cave Camp. Meals included Lunch & Dinner.
- Distance: ~10 km
- Hiking Time: 5–7 hours
Day 3: Umbwe Cave Camp → Barranco Camp (3,950m)
Today you ascend above the treeline, leaving the dense rainforest for the heather and moorland zone. The trail follows a steep ridge with panoramic views of Kibo and the Southern Glaciers. After a demanding climb, descend slightly into the dramatic Barranco Valley. Arrive at Barranco Camp, famous for its giant groundsels and alpine views. Overnight at Barranco Camp. Meals included Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner.
Distance: ~5 km
Hiking Time: 4–5 hours
Day 4: Barranco Camp → Karanga Camp (4,035m)
Your day begins with an exciting scramble up the iconic Barranco Wall—a steep but non-technical climb requiring hands and feet. Once atop the wall, traverse rolling terrain with sweeping views of the Karanga Valley. Arrive at Karanga Camp by early afternoon. This camp is essential for acclimatization. Spend the afternoon resting, hydrating, and enjoying the mountain air. Overnight at Karanga Camp. Meals included Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
Distance: ~5 km
Hiking Time: 4–5 hours
Day 5: Karanga Camp → Barafu Camp (4,673m)
After a relaxed morning start, you’ll trek steadily uphill through rocky, windswept terrain to reach Barafu Camp—your summit base camp. With increasing altitude and colder conditions, it’s important to rest, eat, and prepare gear for the summit attempt. Early dinner followed by sleep, as your summit push begins just after midnight. Overnight at Barafu Camp. Meals included Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
Distance: ~4 km
Hiking Time: 3–4 hours.
Day 6: Barafu Camp → Uhuru Peak (5,895m) → Mweka Camp (3,100m)
The summit climb begins around midnight in cold and dark conditions. Hike slowly and steadily to Stella Point (5,739m) on the crater rim, then continue to Uhuru Peak—the highest point in Africa. After a short celebration and sunrise views, begin the long descent back to Barafu, then down to Mweka Camp. This is a challenging but rewarding day. Overnight at Mweka Camp. Meals included Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner.
- Distance: ~15 km
- Hiking Time: 12–15 hours.
Day 7: Mweka Camp → Mweka Gate (1,640m)
Your final day on the mountain is a pleasant descent through lush rainforest. Enjoy the return of birdsong and greenery as you make your way to Mweka Gate. Upon signing out, you’ll receive your official Kilimanjaro summit certificate and be transferred back to your hotel in Moshi or Arusha for a well-earned shower and celebration.
Distance: ~10 km
Hiking Time: 3–4 hours.
- Accommodation: Planet Lodge.
- Meal Plan: Bed & Breakfast.
PRICING INCLUDES
- Airport transfers (to and from Kilimanjaro International Airport)
- Two nights hotel accommodation in Arusha (one night before and one night after the trek, with breakfast included)
- Comfortable, high-quality, four-season mountain tents (shared by two climbers)
- Mess tent for dining and shelter
- Sleeping mattress
- All park entry fees, camping fees, and rescue fees
- Professional, experienced mountain guides (Wilderness First Responder certified)
- Assistant guides, cooks, and porters to support you throughout the trek
- Emergency oxygen cylinder carried on the trek for safety purposes
- Pulse oximeter monitoring (daily health checks)
- All meals during the trek (breakfast, lunch, dinner), freshly prepared by our mountain chef
- Drinking water (filtered and treated)
- Summit certificate from Kilimanjaro National Park
- Fair wages for guides, cooks, and porters (following Kilimanjaro Porter Assistance Project guidelines)
- Transfer to and from the Kilimanjaro National Park gate
- Pre-climb briefing with your guide
PRICING EXCLUDES
- International airfare to and from Tanzania
- Tanzania entry visa fees
- Travel insurance (mandatory and must cover high-altitude trekking and emergency evacuation)
- Tips for guides, porters, and cooks (recommended guidelines will be provided)
- Personal trekking gear (sleeping bags, trekking poles, etc.)
- Lunch and dinner in Arusha (except breakfast at the hotel)
- Additional hotel nights beyond those included in the itinerary (if required)
- Personal expenses (such as souvenirs, snacks, and laundry)
- Beverages other than those served with meals (soft drinks, alcohol)
- Optional activities or excursions before or after your trek
- Half-day room use if your departure flight is late and you wish to rest after check-out (available at extra cost)
- Portable power banks or solar chargers for electronic devices
Inquire This Tour
Acclimatization Considerations – Umbwe Route.
The Umbwe Route is known for being the steepest, most direct trail up Kilimanjaro — a true challenge, especially in terms of acclimatization. With limited time to adjust to the altitude and very little gradual elevation gain, this route is recommended for experienced trekkers only.
Fast & Steep = Higher Risk of Altitude Sickness:
Starting at Umbwe Gate (1,600m) and climbing steeply through rainforest to high moorland and alpine zones, trekkers face rapid elevation gain with minimal time to acclimate, increasing the risk of Acute Mountain Sickness (AMS).
Minimal “Climb High, Sleep Low” Opportunities
The route’s tight schedule and sharp terrain don’t allow for much altitude adaptation through staggered sleeping elevations. Camps are relatively close together and at steadily increasing altitudes, giving your body little time to adjust.
Hydration, Nutrition & Slow Pacing Are Vital
Umbwe demands strict self-awareness: drink plenty of water, eat well, move slowly, and monitor for symptoms of AMS. Avoiding overexertion is key to a successful summit attempt.
Best for Fit, Acclimatized Climbers
Due to the route’s aggressive ascent profile, it’s ideal for trekkers with:
- Prior high-altitude trekking experience
- Strong physical conditioning
- Optional pre-trek acclimatization in Moshi, Arusha, or Mount Meru
Joins Machame Route at Barranco Camp
After the second night, the Umbwe Route merges with the Machame Route at Barranco Camp, allowing trekkers to follow a more favorable acclimatization path through the “climb high, sleep low” strategy — particularly around Lava Tower (4,600m) on Day 3 or 4.
Medication Consideration
Use of altitude medications like Diamox (if approved by your doctor) is often recommended for this route, due to the fast pace and significant elevation changes.
Experience & Support
- Led by expert Travencia Safaris mountain guides, certified in Wilderness First Response (WFR).
• Accompanied by a full mountain support team: assistant guides, chefs, and porters.
• Daily oximeter checks and health monitoring.
• Emergency oxygen and evacuation protocols on standby.
• First-aid kits and pulse oximeters carried on all treks.
• All meals, filtered water, camping gear, and logistics included.
• Pre- and post-trek support from Travencia’s base in Arusha.
Frequently Asked Questions – Kilimanjaro Umbwe Route Trek
What is the Umbwe Route?
The Umbwe Route is the shortest and steepest trail up Mount Kilimanjaro, approaching from the south. Known for its direct ascent and dramatic scenery, it is often considered the most challenging non-technical route. The route joins the Machame trail at Barranco Camp and descends via the Mweka Route
Is the Umbwe Route difficult?
Yes. Umbwe is considered the most difficult route on Kilimanjaro due to its steep, relentless climbs and limited time for acclimatization. It is recommended only for experienced trekkers or those with strong fitness and prior high-altitude experience.
What makes the Umbwe Route unique?
- It’s the steepest and most direct route to the summit
- Stunning views through rainforest and deep gorges
- Less crowded in the early days
- Feels more adventurous and remote
- Converges with Machame Route at Barranco, offering scenic highlights like the Barranco Wall
What is the success rate on the Umbwe Route?
The 6-day version has a lower success rate (~60–70%) due to poor acclimatization. The 7-day itinerary improves this (~75–80%) by adding a night for acclimatization at Karanga Camp. Good preparation and slow pacing are crucial for success.
When is the best time to trek the Umbwe Route?
- Best months: January–March and June–October
- Shoulder seasons (November and May) may have rain and muddy conditions
- Because it’s steep and exposed, drier months are safer and more enjoyable
What is the accommodation like?
Like most Kilimanjaro routes (except Marangu), Umbwe is a fully camping route. You’ll sleep in four-season mountain tents provided by your tour company, often with foam sleeping pads and a mess tent for meals. Before and after the trek, accommodation is usually in a hotel or lodge in Moshi.
Do I need to be super fit to do the Umbwe Route?
High fitness is strongly recommended. The trail is steep, fast-gaining in altitude, and physically demanding. Summit day is especially taxing and can last 12–15 hours. Endurance training (hiking, cardio, stair climbs) is highly advised.
What should I pack?
You’ll need warm layers, waterproof gear, hiking boots, a headlamp, and a warm sleeping bag. Trekking poles are very useful on the steep terrain. A detailed packing list is provided by most tour companies, and rental gear is available in Moshi.
How do I prevent altitude sickness?
- Take the climb slow – “pole pole”
- Drink at least 3–4 liters of water daily
- Eat well, rest, and listen to your body
- Acclimatization days are critical (opt for the 7-day route if possible)
- Consider taking Diamox after consulting your doctor
- Your guides will monitor your oxygen saturation and symptoms daily.
What about toilets and hygiene?
Portable private toilets are usually offered by most operators. Public toilets exist but are basic. Handwashing stations, bowls of warm water, and personal hygiene supplies like wet wipes and sanitizers are essential.
What kind of food is provided?
Hot, nutritious meals are cooked daily by your mountain chef. Expect:
• Breakfast: porridge, eggs, toast, fruit, tea/coffee
• Lunch: hot meals or packed food depending on the day
• Dinner: soup, carbs (rice/pasta), vegetables, meat or vegetarian dishes
Special dietary requirements (vegan, gluten-free, etc.) can usually be accommodated with advance notice.
Is there electricity or Wi-Fi on the route?
No. The Umbwe Route, like all Kilimanjaro routes, is off-grid. Carry power banks or solar chargers. There is no consistent phone signal either, making it a great way to truly unplug.
Is travel insurance mandatory?
Yes. You must have insurance that covers:
• High-altitude trekking (above 4,500 meters)
• Emergency medical evacuation
• Hospitalization and treatment
Double-check that Kilimanjaro trekking is specifically covered in your policy.
Is the Umbwe Route safe?
Yes, with a certified and reputable operator. Safety measures include:
• Wilderness First Responder (WFR)-certified guides
• Daily health monitoring
• Portable oxygen and emergency evacuation plans
• Communication with park rangers in case of emergency
