7 Day Mount Kilimanjaro Hike, Umbwe Route

The Umbwe Route is considered to be the least crowded path, on Mount Kilimanjaro. However it offers an advantage of providing a route to the Southern Glaciers and the Western Breach. It is important to note that this route is also known for being the one on the mountain. Below is a suggested 6 day itinerary;

Day 1; Arrival in Tanzania

Upon your arrival at Kilimanjaro International Airport you will be warmly. Transferred to your accommodation in Moshi. This will allow you some time to prepare for the trek and adjust to the altitude.

Day 2; Umbwe Gate to Umbwe Cave Camp

  • Elevation; From 1800m to 2940m
  • Distance; 11 km
  • Trekking Time; Around 5 7 hours

After enjoying a breakfast you will be transported to the Umbwe Gate located within Kilimanjaro National Park. This marks the starting point of your climb. The trail leads you through forests until reaching your campsite situated just below the Umbwe Cave.

Day 3; Umbwe Cave Camp to Barranco Camp

  • Elevation; From 2940m, to 3960m
  • Distance; 6 km/li>
  • Trekking Time; 4 5 hours/li>

You will continue your ascent through the forest, along a ridge, which then opens up to moorland. Take in the plant life and breathtaking views before reaching Barranco Camp.

Day 4; Barranco Camp to Karanga Camp

Altitude; From 3960m to 4035m
Distance; Covering 5 km
Hiking time; 4 5 hours

Conquer the Barranco Wall that leads to the Karanga Valley. The tour may be challenging,. The rewards are worth it as you’ll witness sights of Heim, Kersten and Decken Glaciers.

Day 5; Karanga Camp to Barafu Camp

Altitude; From 4035m to 4673m
Distance; Covering a distance of 4 km
Hiking time; 4 5 hours

Starting from Karanga Camp you will ascend to Barafu Camp, which serves as your base for the push, towards the summit. Take this opportunity to rest and prepare yourself for the demanding trek

Day 6; From Barafu Camp ascend to Uhuru Peak. Then descend to Mweka Camp.

Altitude; Start at 4673m reach 5895m at Uhuru Peak and descend to 3100m.
Distance; Ascend for 5 km and descend for 12 km.
Hiking time; Expect a 7 8 hour ascent and a 4 6 hour descent.

Begin your trek in the hours of the day so you can witness the sunrise, at Stella Point. Continue onward to reach Uhuru Peak. Celebrate your accomplishment before making your way to Mweka Camp.

Day 7; From Mweka Camp, head towards Mweka Gate. Return to Moshi.

Altitude; Descend from 3100m to 1630m.
Distance; Cover a distance of 10 km.
Hiking time; Estimate around 3 4 hours.

Descend from Mweka Camp until you reach the Mweka Gate. At this point you will receive summit certificates if you reached either Stella Point or Uhuru Peak. Afterward you will be transferred back to your hotel, in Moshi.

Day 8; Departure

Use this day according to your travel plans. You may choose to explore Moshi or begin your tour home. The Umbwe Route is known for its steepness. The need for climbers to have experience, with high altitudes and steep climbing. It is important to listen to your guides advice stay hydrated and give yourself time to adjust to the altitude. Remember, it’s not, about rushing; take your time and savor the tour at a pace that suits you!