climb kilimanjaro umbwe route

Safari summary

The Umbwe is the shortest, steepest and hardest Kilimanjaro route. It's not ideal for most trekkers, as it doesn't give your body much time to acclimatise to the increased elevation. The Umbwe Route is one of the less-traveled routes to the summit of Mount Kilimanjaro, the highest peak in Africa. It is known for its steep and challenging terrain, making it a more difficult route compared to the popular Marangu and Machame routes. The Umbwe Route is ideal for experienced climbers looking for a challenging adventure and a unique wilderness experience.

OVERVIEW OF UMBWE ROUTE

Challenge of Umbwe Route

The Umbwe Route is considered one of the most challenging routes on Mount Kilimanjaro due to its steep and rugged terrain. The first day of the climb involves a steep ascent through dense rainforest, which can be physically demanding. The trail is narrow and slippery in places, requiring climbers to use their hands and feet to scramble up rocky outcrops.

The second day of the climb continues through the moorland zone, where the vegetation becomes sparse and the landscape more barren. The trail remains steep and rocky, with few clear paths to follow. Climbers must navigate carefully to avoid getting lost or injured.

The third day involves a challenging ascent to Barranco Camp at an elevation of 3,950 meters (12,959 feet). This section of the climb includes several steep sections that require scrambling up rocky outcrops. The fourth day involves a challenging ascent to Lava Tower at an elevation of 4,600 meters (15,092 feet), followed by a descent to Base Camp at 4,600 meters (15,092 feet). This acclimatization day helps climbers adjust to the high altitude before the final push to the summit.

The fifth day is the summit day. Climbers start their ascent in the early hours of the morning and must navigate through rocky terrain and scree slopes in darkness. The final ascent to Uhuru Peak is relatively easy but can be physically and mentally demanding due to exhaustion and high altitude. Climbers must be well-prepared for this route’s physical challenges and have prior experience with high-altitude mountaineering.

The Umbwe Route starts at the Umbwe Gate, located on the south side of Mount Kilimanjaro. The route is approximately 50 kilometers (31 miles) long and takes six days to complete. The first day of the climb involves a steep ascent through the rainforest, gaining an elevation of over 1,000 meters (3,280 feet) in just a few hours. The second day continues through the moorland zone, where the vegetation becomes sparse, and the landscape more barren.

On the third day, climbers reach the Barranco Camp, located at an elevation of 3,950 meters (12,959 feet). This camp offers stunning views of the surrounding mountains and valleys. The fourth day involves a challenging ascent to Lava Tower, located at an elevation of 4,600 meters (15,092 feet), before descending to the Base Camp at 4,600 meters (15,092 feet). This acclimatization day helps climbers adjust to the high altitude before the final push to the summit.

The fifth day is the summit day. Climbers start their ascent in the early hours of the morning, reaching Stella Point at an elevation of 5,739 meters (18,832 feet) by sunrise. From Stella Point, it is a relatively easy walk to Uhuru Peak, the highest point on Mount Kilimanjaro at an elevation of 5,895 meters (19,341 feet). After reaching the summit, climbers descend to Mweka Camp at an elevation of 3,100 meters (10,171 feet) for their final night on the mountain.

About this tour

	Tour type	Custom, tailor-made, private
	Main focus	Hiking | trekking
	Activity level	Strenuous activity
	Best months	January, February, March, April, June, July, August, September, October, November, December
	Countries	Tanzania
	Parks	Kilimanjaro

Fine details

Safari highlights

• Hiking | trekking

What’s included?

• Accommodation
• All drinks
• Meals
• Park fees
• Private vehicle and driver

What’s not included?

• Internal flights
• Tips and gratuities
• Visas