6 Days Umbwe Route
Umbwe Gate, Umbwe Cave Camp, Barranco Camp, Karanga Camp, Barafu Camp, Uhuru Peak, Mweka Camp and Mweka Gate
*Price per person includes: professional mountain guide, park entry fees, all camping accommodations, meals during the trek, transfers to/from the park gate, and hotel stay in Moshi/Arusha after the climb.
At Asili Climbing Kilimanjaro, we believe every trekker is unique. That’s why all our itineraries are flexible and can be tailored to match your pace, preferences, and goals. Let us help you craft a once-in-a-lifetime mountain adventure.
Trek Overview
The Umbwe Route is known as the most direct, steepest, and most challenging path to the summit of Mount Kilimanjaro. This route is not for the faint of heart. It demands good physical fitness, mental resilience, and some trekking experience. What sets Umbwe apart is its solitude, dramatic scenery, and the raw, wild atmosphere it offers from start to finish.
If you’re an experienced hiker looking for a quiet trail with minimal traffic and a quick ascent, the Umbwe Route may be your perfect fit. Despite its toughness, the route joins the Machame trail on the second or third day, allowing for some acclimatization before summit night.
Full Itinerary
Arrival & Briefing
Upon arrival at Kilimanjaro International Airport, you’ll be transferred to your accommodation, where your guide will conduct a full briefing and equipment check to prepare you for the adventure ahead.
Lodge
Overnight Stay
Ameg Lodge
Kaliwa Lodge
Umbwe Gate to Umbwe Cave Camp
- Umbwe Gate (1,600m) → Umbwe Cave Camp (2,850m)
- Elevation Gain: 1,250m / 4,100ft
- Duration: 5–6 hours
Your journey begins with a short drive from Moshi to Umbwe Gate. After registration, the trail dives straight into a dense and humid rainforest. The steep path climbs rapidly through tree roots and mossy ridges until you reach Umbwe Cave Camp — your first night on the mountain.
Umbwe Cave Camp
Overnight Stay
Umbwe Cave to Barranco Camp
- Umbwe Cave Camp (2,850m/9,350ft) → Barranco Camp (3,976m/13,044ft)
- Elevation Gain: 1,126m (3,694ft)
- Duration: 4–5 hours
You’ll climb steeply out of the forest zone and enter the heather and moorland region. The trail narrows along rocky ridges, revealing sweeping views of the Kibo peak and Western Breach. By early afternoon, you’ll reach Barranco Camp, nestled beneath the towering Barranco Wall.
Barranco Camp
Overnight Stay
Barranco Camp to Karanga Camp via the Barranco Wall
- Barranco Camp (3,850m/12,600ft) → Barranco Wall (4,200m/13,800ft) → Karanga Camp (3,950m/13,000ft)
- Elevation Gain: 350m / 1,150ft
- Elevation Loss: 250m / 820ft
- Duration: 3-4 hours
Begin the day by tackling the impressive Barranco Wall, an exciting climb that rewards you with breathtaking views.
After reaching the top at 4,200m, follow a scenic undulating path around the mountainside, with Mount Meru visible to your right and Kibo towering to your left.
A descent into Karanga Valley is followed by a short but steep ascent to Karanga Camp, your stop for the night.
Karangu Camp
Overnight Stay
Karanga Camp to Barafu Camp
- Karanga Camp (3,950m/13,000ft) → Barafu Camp (4,600m/15,100ft)
- Elevation Gain: 650m / 2,150ft
- Duration: 3-4 hours
A steady morning climb leads to Barafu Camp, which means ice in Swahili. This high-altitude camp sits on a ridge below the summit cone and marks the completion of Kilimanjaro’s South Circuit, offering spectacular summit views from multiple angles.
You’ll arrive in time for afternoon rest and an early dinner to prepare for summit night.
Barafu Camp
Overnight Stay
Barafu Camp to Uhuru Peak to Mweka Camp
- Barafu Camp (4,600m/15,100ft) → Uhuru Peak (5,895m/19,300ft) → Mweka Camp (3,110m/10,200ft)
- Elevation Gain: 1,295m / 4,200ft
- Elevation Loss: 2,785m / 9,100ft
- Summit Ascent: 6-8 hours
- Descent: 6 hours
At midnight, your final ascent to the summit begins. The trail is steep and demanding, with temperatures well below freezing. As dawn breaks, the magnificent red sunrise behind Mawenzi Peak will keep you motivated.
Reaching Stella Point (5,750m), you’ll trek along the crater rim before arriving at Uhuru Peak (5,895m), the highest point in Africa!
After celebrating at the summit, begin the long descent to Mweka Camp, passing through varied terrain and stopping for lunch en route. Tonight, you’ll enjoy your last dinner on the mountain.
Mweka Camp
Overnight Stay
Mweka Camp to Mweka Gate
- Mweka Camp (3,110m/10,200ft) → Mweka Gate (1,830m/6,000ft)
- Elevation Loss: 1,280m / 4,220ft
- Duration: 2-3 hours
The final descent takes you through lush rainforest, with a chance to spot playful monkeys along the way.
At Mweka Gate, you’ll receive your summit certificates, and from Mweka Village, you’ll be transferred back to your hotel in Moshi.
Departure or Onward Travel
Transfer to Kilimanjaro International Airport for your flight home, or continue your Tanzanian adventure!
Tour Outline
Interested in this Itinerary?
Turn your dream vacation into reality with a Tanzania Expert.
With Tanzania Expert, you can personalize your adventure. Our suggested itineraries can be tailored to suit your preferences. Our specialists collaborate with you to design your perfect journey!
Tour Includes
- Entrance fees/Admission fee
- Conservation Fees
- All activities mentioned in the itinerary
- All accommodations as stated in the itinerary
- All transportation
- All Taxes/VAT 18%
- Airport Pickup and Drop off
- All Meals as stated in the itinerary
Tour Excludes
- Any International or Local flights (from/to home)
- Tips (tipping guideline US$10.00 pp per day)
- Personal items (souvenirs, travel insurance, visa fees application, etc.)
- Travel insurance and medical repatriation
- Items of a personal nature
Chat With Our Expert
Our expert will get in touch with you soon.
What Client Say About us
Climb of a lifetime! Our Kilimanjaro climb with Asili Explorer African Safaris was truly extraordinary! From start to finish, the team ensured an unforgettable experience, making our summit journey smooth, safe, and memorable.
Obazee
2023-11-28
It's no surprise that Asili Explorer African Safaris maintains a 5-star reputation. Their expertise, professionalism, and dedication to customer satisfaction set them apart. If you're looking for the best Kilimanjaro trekking company, look no further!
Romy H
2023-11-28
In October 2023, we completed a six-day trek to the Kilimanjaro summit with Asili Explorer African Safaris. The experience was phenomenal, and I highly recommend them for anyone planning this adventure.
Rony V
2023-12-27
Joe was a perfect guide and driver. He made us visit and discover the real wildlife of Tanzania. No trouble was too much for him. His knowledge about all the hotspots of the different animals is amazing.
Avdb
2023-11-28
6 Days Umbwe Route FAQs
Is the Umbwe Route difficult?
Yes, the Umbwe Route is considered one of the most challenging routes up Mount Kilimanjaro due to its steep ascent and rapid altitude gain. It’s best suited for experienced hikers or those in excellent physical condition who are comfortable with steep trails and high altitude.
What makes the Umbwe Route unique?
Its direct and quiet approach is what makes Umbwe special. It’s the least crowded route and offers dramatic scenery, dense rainforest, and ridge-line trekking. It also connects with the more scenic southern circuit near Barranco Camp, offering stunning views.
How many days does it take to climb Kilimanjaro via Umbwe?
The standard Umbwe itinerary is 6 days, but some climbers choose to extend it to 7 days to allow for better acclimatization and increase summit success rates.
What is the success rate for the 6-day Umbwe Route?
Because of the quick elevation gain and lack of acclimatization time, the success rate for the 6-day Umbwe Route is lower than longer routes—typically around 60–70%. However, fit and well-prepared climbers with prior altitude experience often succeed.
Is the Umbwe Route dangerous?
The route isn’t dangerous if approached properly, but it is more physically demanding than other routes. The main risk is altitude sickness due to the rapid ascent. We take safety seriously and monitor all climbers closely for signs of AMS (Acute Mountain Sickness).
What kind of accommodation is provided on the Umbwe Route?
All accommodation is in mountain tents, pitched at designated campsites. We provide quality sleeping tents, thick sleeping mats, and a separate dining tent with tables and chairs for your comfort.
What is included in the Umbwe climb package?
Our package includes professional mountain guides, porters, park fees, camping equipment, meals on the mountain, and transfers from/to your hotel. International flights, tips, personal gear, and extra nights at the lodge are not included.
Can I rent gear if I don’t have everything?
Yes, we offer gear rental in Moshi or Arusha. Items like sleeping bags, trekking poles, jackets, and boots are available for rent at reasonable prices. We’ll provide you with a gear checklist before your trip.
What’s the weather like on the Umbwe Route?
The weather varies by altitude. Expect humid rainforest conditions at the start, cold and dry alpine conditions mid-route, and freezing temperatures near the summit. It’s important to pack in layers and be prepared for sudden weather changes.
When is the best time to climb the Umbwe Route?
The best times to trek are during the dry seasons: January to early March and June to October. These months offer the clearest skies, best trail conditions, and more stable weather.
If your question is not listed, please CONTACT US to chat with our expert for assistance.
Others routes on Mt.Kilimanjaro
- 6 Days Tour
6 Days Machame Route
The Machame Route, often called the “Whiskey Route,” is one of Kilimanjaro’s most scenic and diverse trails.
- 6 Days Tour
6 Days Marangu Route
The Marangu Route, often nicknamed the “Coca-Cola Route,” is the only Kilimanjaro trail that offers hut accommodations instead of camping.
- 8 Days Tour
8 Days Lemosho Route
The Lemosho Route is one of the most beautiful and well-balanced routes to climb Mount Kilimanjaro.
