KILIMANJARO - UMBWE ROUTE

PAMOJA SAFARIS

TRIP ITINERARY OVERVIEW

The Umbwe route is known as one of the shortest, steepest, and most direct routes to the summit of Mount Kilimanjaro. It is a challenging and less crowded path, which makes it appealing for trekkers seeking a more strenuous climb. The Umbwe route merges with the Machame route on the third day and approaches the summit via Barafu Camp, similar to Machame and Lemosho routes.

UMBWE ROUTE

DAY 01

ARRIVAL IN TANZANIA

Fly to Kilimanjaro International Airport (JRO) where you’ll be met by a Pamoja Safaris guide and taken to your lodge in Arusha.
Lodging: Serena Arusha Lodge & Spa, Arusha or similar
DAY 02

PREPARATION DAY

After breakfast at your lodge in Arusha, your guide will join you in making preparations for the climb, including talking over the plans for the days ahead, a gear check, and grabbing any rental equipment necessary. Dinner will be at your lodge that evening.
Lodging: Serena Arusha Lodge & Spa, Arusha or similar
DAY 03

Umbwe Gate to Umbwe Cave Camp

Your journey starts at the Umbwe Gate, where after completing the necessary formalities, you begin your ascent through the dense rainforest. The path is steep and can be slippery if wet. The first campsite, Umbwe Cave Camp, is reached in the late afternoon.
Distance: 6 km/3.7 mi
Trekking Time: 4-6 hours
DAY 04
Umbwe Cave Camp to Barranco Camp
The trail becomes steeper and exits the rainforest, entering the moorland zone. Views of Kibo and Mawenzi peaks can be seen as you approach the camp. The day’s trek ends at Barranco Camp, known for its spectacular views and the giant groundsels and lobelia plants.
Distance: 6 km/3.7 mi
Trekking Time: 4-6 hours
DAY 05
Barranco Camp to Karanga Camp
This day starts with a challenging and thrilling climb up the Barranco Wall, also known as the “Breakfast Wall”. After conquering the wall, the path undulates in the alpine desert landscape before descending slightly to Karanga Camp. This day is crucial for acclimatization.
Distance: 5 km/3.1 mi
Trekking Time: 4-5 hours
DAY 06
Karanga Camp to Barafu Camp
After leaving Karanga, the trail intersects with the Mweka Route (used for descending) and continues up to Barafu Camp. The landscape is barren and rocky, with stunning views of the summit from the camp. Trekkers prepare for the summit bid, resting early in the evening.
Distance: 4 km/2.5 mi
Trekking Time: 4-5 hours
DAY 07
Barafu Camp to Uhuru Peak to Mweka Camp
The summit attempt begins around midnight, traversing steep scree or snow to reach Stella Point on the crater rim, followed by a less strenuous hike to Uhuru Peak. After celebrating at the summit, the descent follows the same route back to Barafu Camp for a short rest before continuing down to Mweka Camp for the final night on the mountain.
Distance: 5 km/3.1 mi ascent + 12 km/7.5 mi descent
Trekking Time: 7-8 hours ascent + 4-6 hours descent
DAY 08
Mweka Camp to Mweka Gate
The final descent takes you through the lush rainforest to Mweka Gate. This is where trekkers receive their summit certificates. From the gate, you will be driven back to your hotel to celebrate your achievement.
Distance: 10 km/6.2 mi
Trekking Time: 3-4 hours
DAY 09
DEPARTURE
Have breakfast at the hotel and relax until your flight back. You’ll be transferred by the hotel to the airport (15 minutes drive) approximately 2.5 hours before your flight is scheduled to depart.
Departure

EQUIPMENT & SUPPORT

Premium Tents

High End Sleeping Pads & Bags

Experienced Guides

Price includes

$ 5900+
- start price (depending on group size & season)
  • All domestic transport
  • Fees & Taxes
  • All meals (as specified per day)
  • Base gratuity for all staff

Price excludes

-
a 30% deposit is required to book
  • International Travel
  • Private room (available for extra charge)
  • International Airfare and Visa
  •  

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Ready to plan your trip?

Get in contact and one of our team members will get back to you to start planning the details of your trip.

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