Six-Day Umbwe Route

6 days—A demanding yet rewarding 6-day adventure on Kilimanjaro’s Umbwe Route, offering steep ascents,breathtaking scenery, and a determined journey toward

$2200-3000 USD

pp
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Safari summary

The 6-Day Kilimanjaro Climb via the Umbwe Route is one of the most challenging yet rewarding ways to reach Africa’s highest peak. Known for its steep, direct ascent and dramatic forest trails, the Umbwe Route is ideal for experienced trekkers seeking a more demanding and less crowded path to Uhuru Peak. The journey begins in the lush montane rainforest, where narrow ridges and rapid elevation gain set the tone for an intense climb. As trekkers rise above the forest canopy, the landscape opens to the scenic Barranco Valley, offering striking views of the Great Barranco Wall and the southern glaciers of Kibo.

Over six days, climbers traverse diverse ecological zones—forest, heath, moorland, and alpine desert—while acclimatizing on shared sections of the Machame and Lemosho routes. Campsites along the way provide strategic rest points before the final summit push from Barafu Camp. The ascent to Uhuru Peak typically starts at midnight, rewarding successful climbers with breathtaking sunrise views from the roof of Africa.

The 2026 Umbwe Route expedition emphasizes safety, acclimatization, and expert guiding to support trekkers through demanding terrain. Though physically taxing, the route offers remarkable solitude, unforgettable scenery, and a powerful sense of achievement for those determined to conquer Kilimanjaro’s most direct path to the top


About this tour

Tour type Custom, tailor-made, private
Main focus None
Activity level Strenuous activity
Best months All months
Countries
Parks

Fine details

Safari highlights
  • Bird watching—with professional guide
  • Hiking | trekking
  • Farm | plantation visits
What’s included?
  • Accommodation
  • Airport transfers
  • Meals
  • Park fees
What’s not included?
  • Alcoholic beverages
  • All drinks
  • Hot air balloons
  • Internal flights
  • International flights
  • Laundry
  • Premium alcoholic beverages
  • Tips and gratuities
  • Visas

Itinerary

Day 1: Umbwe Gate to Umbwe Cave

Start your Mount Kilimanjaro trekking via Umbwe Route with a drive to Umbwe Gate (1,800m). Trek through lush rainforest to Umbwe Cave Camp (2,850m), navigating steep trails and enjoying views of dense vegetation. This fast ascent sets the tone for the challenging Umbwe Route.

Umbwe Cave Camp

Day 2: Umbwe Cave Camp to Barranco

Continue from Umbwe Cave Camp to Barranco Camp (3,950m), ascending through moorland and alpine zones. The trail offers stunning views of Kilimanjaro’s southern slopes and the Barranco Valley. This leg is critical for altitude acclimatization on Umbwe Route.

Barranco Camp

Day 3: Barranco Camp to Karanga

Tackle the iconic Barranco Wall, a steep climb requiring some scrambling, before reaching Karanga Camp (4,035m). This shorter day aids acclimatization, offering panoramic views of the Karanga Valley and Kibo Peak.

Karanga Camp

Day 4: Karanga Camp to Barafu Camp

Trek to Barafu Camp (4,680m), your base for the summit push. The trail crosses alpine desert, preparing you for the final ascent. Rest early to conserve energy for the midnight climb to Uhuru Peak.

Barafu Camp

Day 5: Barafu Camp to Uhuru Peak

Begin your summit attempt at midnight, trekking to Stella Point (5,739m) and then Uhuru Peak (5,895m), the highest point in Africa. Celebrate your achievement before descending to Mweka Camp (3,100m) for a well-earned rest.

Mweka Camp

Day 6: Mweka Camp to Mweka Gate

Descend through rainforest to Mweka Gate (1,650m), where you’ll receive your summit certificate. Transfer back to Moshi, reflecting on your incredible 6-day Kilimanjaro climb via Umbwe Route.

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