Kilimanjaro Umbwe Route

8 Days Kilimanjaro Umbwe Climbing Route

$2400-2780 USD

Get quote

Safari summary

Daring adventurers, the Umbwe Route awaits! Renowned for its intensity rather than technical difficulty, this trail challenges the bold while offering unmatched rewards—breathtaking vistas, serene solitude, and an intimate journey through Kilimanjaro’s untouched beauty.
Your adventure begins in lush, emerald forests and winds through Kilimanjaro’s rugged foothills, where the scenery transforms dramatically. As you ascend, dense greenery gives way to the stark beauty of alpine wilderness, with the towering Kibo Massif always in sight.
Joining the Machame Route at the Barranco Camp, you'll tackle the famed Barranco Wall before reaching Karanga Camp. From there, the route leads you through an alien-like alpine desert to Barafu Camp, your final stop before the ultimate climb.
As midnight approaches, you'll begin the legendary trek to Uhuru Peak under a starlit sky. The thrill of the night ascent is matched only by the awe of standing atop the Roof of Africa at sunrise. Relish the stunning views from Uhuru Peak, savoring every moment at the continent’s highest point.
Choose Moonlight Tours Expedition for an unforgettable Kilimanjaro experience that tests your limits and rewards your spirit.

About this tour

	Tour type	Custom, tailor-made, private
	Main focus	Hiking \| trekking
	Activity level	Strenuous activity
	Best months	All months
	Countries	Tanzania
	Parks	Kilimanjaro

Fine details

Safari highlights

Bird watching—with professional guide
Photography safari—with professional guide
Hiking | trekking

What’s included?

Accommodation
Airport transfers
All drinks
Meals
Park fees

What’s not included?

Hot air balloons
International flights
Laundry
Park fees
Premium alcoholic beverages
Spa treatments
Tips and gratuities
Visas

Itinerary

Arusha

Kilimanjaro

Pick up from Kilimanjaro International Airport and transfer to Arusha town, which is commonly known as the gateway to Mount Kilimanjaro. Meet your guide and review your equipment in the evening in preparation for the trek the following day

Arusha Serena Hotel

Umbwe Cave

The day begins with a drive from Arusha to the Umbwe Gate, where you'll check in with the Park Service, weigh your bags and meet your porters. From there, you'll start your climb through the rainforest foothills of Kilimanjaro for 5 to 7 hours to reach Umbwe Cave Camp

Umbwe Cave Camp

Barranco Camp

Kilimanjaro

Today the landscape shifts from rainforest to mountain heaths as vegetation gives way to large rock outcroppings. You'll follow the narrow Umbwe Ridge into the Barranco Valley, where the Umbwe Route begins to merge with the Machame Route before ending the day at the Barranco Camp. You'll rest in the shadow of Kibo summit before climbing the famous Barranco Wall in the morning.

Barranco Camp

Karanga Camp

Kilimanjaro

The day starts with a challenging climb up the steep Barranco Wall. This includes some scrambling, but is not a technical climb. Remember to use your hands and look where you step and you'll be over the wall and dropping into the Karanga Valley before lunch. You'll follow the circuit across the valley to Karanga Camp, resting at 4000m.

Karanga Camp

Barafu High Camp

Kilimanjaro

Day 5 is a shorter climb as you make your way to Barafu High Camp and prepare for your assault on Uhuru Peak. You'll arrive in camp early, and have some time to rest and prepare for your ascent that night. Pack your headlamp, water, and other essentials and get a few hours' sleep, you'll be back on the trail by midnight for the fabled climb to Kilimanjaro's summit

Barafu Camp

Mweka

Kilimanjaro

Today's the day. You'll leave Barafu High Camp at midnight and begin your night climb to the Roof of Africa. This stretch will push you, as your body is tired and the climb keeps going through the night. Keep a steady pace and listen to your guides as you make it through the final stage of the climb. Standing at Uhuru Peak, watching the sun rise and the clouds run below you, you'll be glad you kept pushing. After a brief rest and a few photos from the peak you'll be back on the trail.

Mweka Camp

Kilimanjaro

From Mweka campsite it is a half-day descent through the forest to Mweka gate to collect certificates and meet the vehicle. Return to Arusha for the night, enjoy a hot shower, and have a final farewell dinner with your guides.