Umbwe Route
Starting from the Southern side of Kilimanjaro, the Umbwe Route takes a direct, steep approach through dense rainforest and rugged terrain. Upon reaching Barranco Camp, the trail merges with the Southern Circuit, leading eastward beneath Kilimanjaro’s magnificent Southern Ice Field. From there, climbers make their final push to the summit via Barafu Camp before descending along the Mweka Route.
Kilitrips offers this route as a 6-day expedition.Designed for seasoned trekkers seeking a fast, intense ascent. The 6-day itinerary follows a direct route from Umbwe Gate through dense forest and steep ridges to Barranco Camp, then continues along the scenic Southern Circuit to Barafu Camp, then continues along the scenic Southern Circuit to Barafu Camp for the summit attempt. The descent is made via the Mweka Route. This shorter schedule is ideal for confident, experienced climbers who can handle rapid altitude gain and wish to complete the climb in minimal time without an added acclimatization day.
What is the length of the Umbwe Route?
The Umbwe route covers a total distance of about 53 kilometers, which is roughly equivalent to 32 miles.
What is the duration to climb Kilimanjaro on the Umbwe Route?
The Umbwe Route is usually completed in 6 days.
Is it hard to climb Kilimanjaro on the Umbwe Route?
The Umbwe Route is known as the most demanding path on Mount Kilimanjaro. It features steep, strenuous climbs and gains elevation rapidly,making acclimatization a significant challenge.
Is it possible to climb Kilimanjaro on the Umbwe Route?
Due to limited available data, the estimated success rate for the 6-day Umbwe route is around 50%.
What is the estimated cost to climb Kilimanjaro on the Umbwe Route?
The estimated cost of climbing Kilimanjaro on the Umbwe Route stands somewhere around $1780.
6 Day Umbwe Itinerary
Elevation: 5,249 ft to 9,514 ft
Hiking Time: 5-7 hours
Distance: 11 Km ( 7 miles))
Habitat: Heath
The day starts with a 50- minute drive to Umbwe Gate, where we complete the registration formalities. From there, we continue through charming villages and lush coffee and banana plantations to reach Umbwe Gate. The trail begins with a steep ascent along a forest track that winds through dense rainforest. As we climb higher, the path becomes narrower and steeper, following a ridge between two rivers and surrounded by towering trees. Our destination for the right, Umbwe Camp, is set amidst thick vegetation and tall forest trees.
Elevation: 9,514 ft to 13,044 ft
Hiking Time: 4-5 hours
Distance: -6 Km ( 4 miles)
Habitat: Heath
On the second day, the trail leads through rocky terrain with sparse vegetation and moss-draped trees. As we climb higher, stunning glimpses of Mount Kilimanjaro begin to appear. The path gradually levels out toward Barranco Valley, before descending from the Umbwe ridge through the unique Senecio Forest to reach Barranco Camp
Elevation: 13,044 ft to 13,106 ftt
Hiking Time: 4-5 hours
Distance: 5 Km ( 3 miles)
Habitat: Alpine Desert
The day starts with a descent into a deep ravine at the base of the Great Barranco Wall. We then tackle the steep, yet non-technical,900- foot climb to the top of the wall. From there, the trail winds across a series of ridges and valleys before descending sharply into the Karanga Valley. A final, steep ascent brings us to Karanga Camp. This shorter trek day is designed to aid acclimatization.
Elevation:13,106 ft to 15,331 ft
Hiking Time: 4-5 hours
Distance:4 km ( 2 miles)
Habitat: Alpine Desert
We depart from Karanga and join the junction that connects to the Mweka Trail. The route then ascends through a rocky section leading to Barafu Hut. At this point, the Southern Circuit is complete, providing panoramic views of the summit from multiple perspectives. We set up camp here, rest and have early dinner in preparation for the upcoming summit attempt. From this vantage point, both Mawenzi and Kibo peaks are clearly visible.
Barafu Camp to Uhuru Peak
Elevation: 15,331 ft to 19,341 ft
Hiking Time: 6-8 hours
Distance: 5 Km ( 3 miles)
Habitat: Arctic
Uhuru Peak to Mweka Camp
Elevation: 19,341 ft to 10,065 ft
Hiking Time:4-6 hours
Distance:12 Km ( 7 miles)
Habitat: Rain Forest
In the very early hours of the morning, around midnight, we begin our final push to the summit. This is the most physically and mentally demanding part of the trek. The cold and wind at this altitude can be intense, making each step a true test of endurance. We ascend through the darkness for several hours, taking short, frequent breaks to maintain our pace. As we near Stella Point at 18,900 ft, we are greeted by a breathtaking sunrise over Mawenzi Peak- a view few will ever forget. From there, it is a final climb to Uhuru Peak, the highest point on Mount Kilimanjaro and the African continent.
After reaching the summit, we begin our descent, heading directly down to Mweka Camp. Along the way, we stop at Barafu Hut for lunch. The rocky trail can be tough on the knees, so trekking poles are highly recommended. Mweka Camp lies within the upper forest, where mist or rain is common in the late afternoon. In the evening, we savor our last dinner on the mountain before enjoying a well-earned night’s rest.
Elevation: 10,065 ft to 5,380 ft
Hiking Time:3-4 hours
Distance: 10 Km ( 6 miles)
Habitat: Rain Forest
On the final day, we begin our descent to Mweka Gate, where we will receive our summit certificates. The lower sections of trail can be wet and muddy. So caution is advised. At Mweka Village a vehicle will be waiting to transfer us back to our hotel in Moshi.
