Umbwe Route

Umbwe Route is the steepest route up Kilimanjaro. It is the hardest, but most spectacular and direct way to reach Uhuru Peak. It follows a forested ridge to the moorlands and then traverses below the southern icefields to reach Barafu Camp, which is followed to the summit. It is quite taxing, primarily due to the relatively fast ascent to higher altitude, but the rewards are plentiful. Fewer people, pristine forest and shorter walking distances make it a great option for fit hikers. Overnights are spent camping in tents.

Day 1:  Umbwe Gate – Umbwe Cave Camp

1,661m (5,449ft) – 2,850m (9,350ft)
The route initially follows a forest track winding up through the natural rain forest. The path follows a narrow ridge crest between the Lonzo River to the West and the Umbwe River to the east. Lush vegetation with very old trees, ferns and mosses mark this area. The path continues to follow the ridge, rising steadily with some steep sections and scramble rocks. The route takes you to the first camp in the forest by some rock overhangs.
Overnight at Umbwe Cave Camp, Average hiking time: 6 hours

Day 2:  Umbwe Cave Camp – Barranco Camp

2,850m (9,350ft) – 3,985m (13,074ft)
Shortly after leaving the camp you will see the forest making way for a path along a narrow ridge with spectacular views. The forest gradually gives way to the giant heath. As you hike towards your camp the Breach Wall appears and disappears as the afternoon mists roll up the Great Barranco. From the Umbwe ridge the route descends slightly to the Great Barranco. The camp overlooks the Barranco Valley with upwards views of Arrow Glacier.
Overnight at Barranco Camp, Average hiking time: 7 hours

Day 3:  Barranco Camp – Karanga Valley Camp

3,985m (13,074ft) – 4,040m (13,255ft)
A steep climb up the Barranco Wall leads us to an undulating trail on the southeastern flank of Kibo, with superb views of the southern Ice fields. Karanga Valley is the last water point on this route.
Overnight at Karanga Camp, Average hiking time: 4 hours

Day 4:  Karanga Valley Camp – Barafu Camp

4,040m (13,255ft) – 4,681m (15,358ft)
Start your hike up the steep walk of the Karanga Valley. The terrain changes to scree and we climb steeply to reach the Barafu Camp during the early afternoon. The remainder of the day is spent resting in preparation for the final ascent before a very early night.
Overnight at Barafu Camp, Average hiking time: 4 hours

Day 5:  Barafu Camp – Uhuru Peak (SUMMIT!!)

4,681m (15,358ft) – 5,895m (19,341ft)

Uhuru Peak – Mweka Camp (descent)

5,895m (19,341ft) – 3,090m (10,138ft)
We will start our ascent to reach the crater rim by sunrise. The steep climb over loose volcanic scree has some well-graded zigzag and a slow, but steady pace will take us to Stella Point in about six or seven hours. We will rest there for a short time to enjoy the sunrise over Mawenzi. We’ll walk along the crater rim to the summit, passing close by spectacular glaciers and ice cliffs that still occupy most of the summit area. And then... YOU SUMMIT THE HIGHEST PEAK IN AFRICA!!! The descent to Barafu is surprisingly fast, and after some refreshment, we continue to descent to reach our final campsite at the edge of Mweka Forest.
Overnight at Mweka Camp, Average hiking time to the summit: 7 hours, Average descending time: 5 hours

Day 6:  Mweka Camp – Mweka Gate

3,090m (10,138ft) – 1,641m (5,384ft)
The day is spent descending through moorlands and rain forest with lush undergrowth to the Park Gate at Mweka. Transfer to a nice shower and a real bed where you can sleep soundly, knowing you’ve conquered the mountain.
Average hiking time: 4 hours

*Hiking times are estimated only, but have been calculated to give the hiker a comfortable pace throughout the hike.

WHY BOOK WITH EXPLORE PLUS?

We offer you:

• A detailed itinerary, including graphics and altitude estimations;
• Practical advice based on our personal experience of the routes;
• All quotes include enough time for acclimatisation, as it plays a vital part in ensuring a successful attempt;
• Emergency assistance. Our team is available around the clock during your climb to ensure that you have all the support you need, both in Tanzania and South-Africa;