8 Umbwe Route

8 Days Kilimanjaro Umbwe Climbing Route

$100-120 USD

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Safari summary

The Umbwe Route, while not technically difficult, is certainly the most challenging route to Uhuru Peak. If you are up to the challenge you will be rewarded with stunning views and fewer crowds while you climb through Kilimanjaro's pristine forests and foothills. As you climb the environment shifts around you, from lush forest to alpine mountains while the Kibo Massif looms above you. The route combines with the Machame Route at the Barranco Camp, and continuing up the famous Barranco Wall to Karanga Camp. It's a half-day climb from Karanga Camp through high alpine desert to get to Barafu Camp where you will take a brief rest before the final push to the summit. You'll break camp shortly before midnight for the legendary Kilimanjaro summit hike, a night climb for the last few kilometers to the Roof of Africa. Enjoy the sunrise from Uhuru Peak, bask in the view from the highest point on the continent for a few moments, and then it's time to start

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
Private vehicle and driver

What’s not included?

Alcoholic beverages
Hot air balloons
International flights
Laundry
Spa treatments
Tips and gratuities
Visas

Itinerary

Kilimanjaro Airport to 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.

Camp

Umbwe Cave 2850 meters

Kilimanjaro

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.

Camp

Barranco Camp 3,950 meters

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

Camp

Karanga Camp 4000 meters

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.

Camp

Barafu High Camp 4645 meters /

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.

Camp

Mweka 5,895 meters

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.

Camp

Mweka Camp to Arusha

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 Moshi for the night, enjoy a hot shower and have a final farewell dinner with your guides.

Camp