Description
The Umbwe Route is renowned as the steepest, shortest, and most direct route to the summit of Mount Kilimanjaro. Due to its rapid ascent, it offers less opportunity for acclimatization and is thus best suited for experienced climbers who are confident in their altitude acclimation. This challenging route is often less crowded and provides a tough yet rewarding journey to the roof of Africa, typically completed in 6 to 7 days.
Why Choose the Umbwe Route?
- Challenge: Offers the steepest ascent, providing a physical and mental challenge suitable for experienced climbers.
- Speed: Being a direct route, it is ideal for those with limited time but high confidence in their climbing ability.
- Solitude: Less crowded, allowing for a more solitary and intense climbing experience.
- Scenery: Spectacular views and varied landscapes from rainforest to alpine desert.
The Umbwe Route is a test of endurance and climbing prowess, making it an exhilarating option for those seeking the thrill of a tough ascent coupled with the beauty of Kilimanjaro’s diverse ecosystems.
Day 1: Umbwe Gate to Umbwe Cave Camp
Altitude: 1,600m to 2,850m
Hiking Time: 5-7 hours
Distance: About 11 km
Activities: Start at Umbwe Gate and ascend steeply through the rainforest. The path is rugged and involves some climbing over tree roots and rocks. Camp is set near the Umbwe Cave.
Day 2: Umbwe Cave Camp to Barranco Camp
Altitude: 2,850m to 3,950m
Hiking Time: 4-6 hours
Distance: About 6 km
Activities: Continue climbing steeply out of the forest and into heath and moorland. This section offers spectacular views of the mountain and valleys below. The route then joins the Machame Route at Barranco Camp, known for its stunning scenery and the challenging Barranco Wall.
Day 3: Barranco Camp to Karanga Camp
Altitude: 3,950m to 3,995m
Hiking Time: 4-5 hours
Distance: About 5 km
Activities: Start with a climb over the Barranco Wall, then traverse up and down the valleys which carve their way through the mountain’s southern slopes. The day’s hike ends at Karanga Camp, which is perfect for acclimatization.
Day 4: Karanga Camp to Barafu Camp
Altitude: 3,995m to 4,673m
Hiking Time: 3-4 hours
Distance: About 4 km
Activities: Ascend to Barafu Camp. The trail merges with the southern circuit. Upon reaching camp, rest and prepare for the summit night.
Day 5: Barafu Camp to Uhuru Peak to Mweka Camp
Altitude: 4,673m to 5,895m (Summit) down to 3,100m
Hiking Time: 12-14 hours
Distance: About 5 km ascent and 12 km descent
Activities: Begin the final ascent around midnight, climbing through heavy scree towards Stella Point on the crater rim, followed by Uhuru Peak, the summit. After reaching the summit, descend to Mweka Camp for overnight.
Day 6 (or Day 7 if opting for a slower pace): Mweka Camp to Mweka Gate
Altitude: 3,100m to 1,640m
Hiking Time: 3-4 hours
Distance: About 10 km
Activities: Descend through the forest to Mweka Gate. Collect summit certificates and celebrate the completion of the climb. Transfer back to Arusha or Moshi.
- Camping accommodations throughout the climb
- All meals and water on the climb
- Professional guide, porters, and cook services
- Park fees, camping fees, and rescue fees
- Transfer to and from the starting point
