Kilimanjaro Umbwe Route

The Umbwe route approaches Kilimanjaro from the south. The route is a short, steep and direct one, and considered to be very difficult. Due to the fast ascension, this route does not provide the necessary stages for altitude acclimatization. Although the traffic on this route is very low, the chances of success are also very low.

The route is offered at a minimum of six days, and seven days is preferred when attempting to climb using Umbwe. However, overall, the Umbwe route is not recommended.

DAY 1: Umbwe Gate (1,700 m.) to Umbwe Cave (2,900 m.)
Walking time: 6 hrs.; elevation change: +1,200 m.
Estimated distance: 9 km.
After breakfast, we will drive to Kilimanjaro Umbwe Park Gate (1,700 m.), where we will register and then begin the climb. From here, the walk will take place in the forest through a narrow ridge between the Umbwe and Lonzo Rivers until reaching Bivouac No. 1 (known as the Forest Caves at 2,900 m.), where you will camp overnight.

DAY 2: Umbwe Cave (2,900 m.) to Barranco Camp (3,950 m.)
Walking time: 5 hrs.; elevation change: +1,050 m.
Estimated distance: 7 km.
After breakfast, we shall continue to follow the ridge, leaving the forest through open moorlands. In the moorlands, you will be able to see trees known as Erica arborea before reaching Barranco Hut at 3,950 m., where you will spend the night.

DAY 3: Barranco Hut (3,950 m.) to Karanga Valley Hut (4,035 m.)
Walking time: 4 hrs.; elevation change: +85 m.
Estimated distance: 4.5 km.
After breakfast, you will continue by climbing a very steep rock called “Breakfast Rock” for approximately one hour. Then you will walk for a short distance before dropping to Karanga Valley, which is the last water point. Overnight will be taken here.

DAY 4: Summit Day: Karanga Valley Hut (4,035 m.) to Barafu Hut (4,600 m.), then to summit
Walking time: 4 hrs./6-7 hrs.; elevation change: +565 m./+1,295 m.
Estimated distance: 4 km./9 km.
After breakfast, you will turn north and walk through semi-desert to Barafu. Along the way, you will be able to see the front side of Kibo Peak. After arriving at Barafu, you shall rest a little bit and then you will walk 200 m. up the mountain and then back down to camp (for acclimatization). You then will prepare for your trek to the summit. The trekking will start at 11:00 p.m. to midnight. You will walk in a northwesterly direction up to the Southeast Valley toward Stella Point, which is at about 5,700 m. on the crater rim, and then to Uhuru Peak (5,895 m./19,340 ft.)

DAY 5: Barafu Camp (4,600 m.) to Mweka Hut (3,000 m.)
Walking time: 5 hrs.; elevation change: -1,600 m.
Estimated distance: 6 km.
After summiting, you will return to Barafu Hut for a short rest and a hot lunch, and you also will pack your gear to continue your descent. You will descend via the Barafu Route to Mweka Camp for approximately five hours. Dinner and overnight will be taken here.

DAY 6: Mweka Hut (3,000 m.) to Mweka Gate (1,450 m.)
Walking time: 4 hrs.; elevation change: -1550 m.
Estimated distance: 10 km.
After breakfast, we shall descend through natural forest for approximately 10 km. to reach the Mweka Gate. Thereafter, our representative shall finalize all registration issues at the Mweka Gate Park and then return you to the Zebra Hotel in Moshi to complete your trek.
About the Zebra Hotel
The Zebra Hotel has air-conditioned rooms and is located in a quiet environment in Moshi. Breakfast is included and is served on the first floor of the hotel.
Price
Please contact us for current pricing for this Itinerary.
Included in this Package

• 2 transfers from Moshi to Umbwe Gate/Mweka Gate
• 3 meals per day while trekking, either vegetarian or non-vegetarian
• 6 days’ Kilimanjaro trek on the Umbwe Route
• 5 nights’ accommodation in camps while trekking Umbwe (Peter Tours and Mountaineering supplies tents)
• First and last night bed-and-breakfast accommodations at Zebra Hotel or equivalent
• All park entrance fees and government levies

Not Included in this Package

• Personal mountain gear
• Meals outside the regular itinerary
• Tips for guide and porters
• Airfares and airport taxes
• Double room supplement for hotel
• International visas for Tanzania
• Medical/evacuation trip insurance

Note that personal gear may be rented at a reasonable price.
Health Information
Most able-bodied persons aged 10 and older can hike Mt. Kilimanjaro; however, preparation, precaution and care must be made to ensure everyone’s safety.