Six Days Umbwe Route

Safari summary

The Umbwe Route is celebrated as one of the most challenging and direct paths to the summit of Mount Kilimanjaro, making it an exhilarating choice for seasoned trekkers seeking a true adventure. This 6-day trek starts at Umbwe Gate, where you’ll embark on a journey through the dense and vibrant rainforests. The trail is steep and narrow, winding through an environment rich with unique plant and animal life, offering an immersive experience in Kilimanjaro's diverse ecosystems. As you ascend to Umbwe Camp, the landscape gradually shifts from lush greenery to the stunning moorlands, where the air begins to thin, and the adventure intensifies.

On the second day, the trek becomes more demanding as you approach one of Kilimanjaro's most famous features—the Barranco Wall. This challenging and steep climb is a true test of your endurance and determination. However, the effort is rewarded with sweeping, panoramic views of the surrounding landscapes. As you reach Barranco Camp, you'll find yourself surrounded by rugged terrains and awe-inspiring vistas, making it a memorable stop for the night.

The third day offers a blend of physical challenge and natural beauty as you trek across ridges and valleys, leading you to Karanga Camp. Here, in the alpine desert, you’re treated to a stark yet captivating landscape, where the vastness of the mountain truly begins to sink in. The day is marked by a sense of isolation and majesty, as you prepare for the summit push.

Day four takes you to Barafu Camp, perched at 4,600 meters, which serves as the final base before the ultimate ascent. The alpine desert terrain at this altitude is barren and rugged, perfectly preparing you for the final and most challenging leg of the journey. The excitement and anticipation build as you rest and acclimatize, knowing that the summit is within reach.

The fifth day is the pinnacle of the Umbwe Route adventure, as you begin your ascent to Uhuru Peak well before dawn. Guided by your headlamp and the stars above, you climb through the night, battling the cold and altitude, with your determination driving you forward. Reaching Uhuru Peak at 5,895 meters is a moment of pure triumph, as you stand at the highest point in Africa, with the sun rising to illuminate the world below in breathtaking hues of gold. This achievement is a once-in-a-lifetime experience, creating memories that will stay with you forever. After celebrating at the summit, you begin the descent to Mweka Camp, where you’ll rest and reflect on the incredible journey.

The final day of the trek takes you through the lush rainforests once again as you descend to Mweka Gate. This marks the end of your remarkable 6-day Umbwe Route trek. At the gate, you’ll receive a certificate to commemorate your successful climb, a symbol of your endurance, determination, and the incredible achievement of summiting Kilimanjaro. The Umbwe Route is known for its steep, direct path, and offers a more solitary experience with fewer crowds, making it ideal for those seeking a challenging, rewarding, and unforgettable adventure on Africa's highest peak.

About this tour

	Tour type	Set-date, set-itinerary, group
	Main focus	None
	Activity level	Strenuous activity
	Best months	January, May, June, July, August, September, October, November, December
	Countries	Tanzania
	Parks	Kilimanjaro

Fine details

Safari highlights

• Hiking | trekking

What’s included?

• Accommodation
• Airport transfers
• Meals
• Park fees
• Private vehicle and driver

What’s not included?

• Alcoholic beverages
• Internal flights
• International flights
• Laundry
• Spa treatments
• Visas