Umbwe – Fast, Steep & Scenic

6 days—Push Your Limits on Kilimanjaro’s Steepest Route

$1890-3600 USD

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Safari summary

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.
Approaching from the south, Umbwe route is a short, steep and direct climb. After reaching Barranco Camp, the trail turns east and traverses’ underneath Kilimanjaro’s Southern Ice Field on a path known as the Southern Circuit before summiting from Barafu. Descent is made via the Mweka rout

About this tour

	Tour type	Custom, tailor-made, private
	Main focus	None
	Activity level	Strenuous activity
	Best months	All months
	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
All drinks
Hot air balloons
Internal flights
International flights
Laundry
Premium alcoholic beverages
Spa treatments
Tips and gratuities
Visas

Itinerary

Umbwe Gate to Umbwe Camp

Kilimanjaro

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.

Umbwe Camp

Umbwe Cave Camp to Barranco Camp

Kilimanjaro

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.

Barranco Camp

Barranco Camp to Karanga Camp

Kilimanjaro

Start your day with an energizing breakfast before tackling the Barranco Wall, a short but rewarding climb that takes around an hour. To avoid crowds, we recommend an early departure. Once at the top, enjoy a break and take in views of the Kibo volcano. Next, continue your hike to Karanga Camp, where you’ll face some ups and downs along the way. After a warm lunch, you'll do a short acclimatization hike toward Barafu Camp, gaining 200m before returning to camp for a well-deserved rest.

Karanga Camp

Karanga Camp to Barafu Camp

Kilimanjaro

In the morning, after a warm and hearty breakfast, you will begin your hike to Barafu Summit Camp. This camp is the starting point for the final night summit to Uhuru Peak (5,895 m /19,336 f) – your end goal. Our team will set up camp ahead of time, so when you arrive your tents and sleeping bags will already be prepared, meaning you can just relax and rest when you reach Barafu Summit Camp. It is better to spend the remainder of the day resting and sleeping before the night summit.

Barafu Camp

Uhuru Peak-Millennium Camp

Kilimanjaro

Your group will start the final ascent from Barafu Camp (4,673 m / 15,327 ft) in the early morning, heading towards Uhuru Peak (5,895 m / 19,336 ft), the highest point on Kilimanjaro. While the climb is direct, the altitude adds to the challenge. Each climber is paired with a guide for extra support. Once at the summit, enjoy the stunning glacier views before descending to Millennium Camp for some well-deserved rest. Stay cautious on the way down, as most accidents happen here.

Millennium Camp

Millennium Camp-Mweka Gate

Kilimanjaro

The Millennium Camp is tucked away in a lush rainforest, offering a peaceful start after your summit success. Wake up feeling the relief of lower altitude and the satisfaction of reaching the top. After a hearty breakfast, you'll begin your descent toward Mweka Gate (1,640m / 5,379ft). Once at the gate, your group will gather to celebrate, share thoughts in the guestbook, and receive your well-earned certificate before heading back to the hotel.

Panama Garden Resort

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