7-Day Umbwe Route Kilimanjaro
Umbwe Route Kilimanjaro Overview
7-Day Umbwe Route Kilimanjaro The Umbwe Route is one of the most challenging yet rewarding paths to conquer Africa’s highest peak. This 7-Day Umbwe Route Kilimanjaro expedition is designed for seasoned trekkers seeking a steep, direct, and less-crowded ascent. Beginning in lush rainforest, the trail rapidly rises through thick vegetation, rugged ridges, and alpine desert. Unlike popular routes, Umbwe provides solitude and an authentic wilderness experience. Trekkers can tackle the demanding Western Breach or link to the Southern Circuit, both offering awe-inspiring scenery. With fast altitude gain, it suits only experienced hikers. The reward—reaching Kilimanjaro’s summit, surrounded by dramatic landscapes—is truly unforgettable. Book 7-Day Umbwe Route Kilimanjaro now
Day by day itinerary
Day 1: Arusha- to Umbwe Gate to Umbwe Camp
Your day begins early with a briefing and breakfast before a one-hour drive from Moshi to Umbwe Village (1,490 m/4,890 ft). Here, your guides and porters organize equipment, supplies, and lunch packs. The trek starts at Umbwe Gate, just above the village, where you follow a winding track for about an hour until reaching a signboard marking the steep Umbwe trail. From here, the real climb begins—an invigorating ascent through dense rainforest filled with rubber and towering fig trees. The path is steep and rugged, requiring you at times to scramble over roots and rocks as you gain elevation. After several hours of challenging trekking, you reach Umbwe Camp, tucked within the forest. Nearby caves add to the wilderness atmosphere. On arrival, you’ll be warmly welcomed by your team and treated to a hot, freshly prepared meal, offering comfort and energy for the adventure ahead.
Lunch, Dinner
Day 2: Umbwe Camp to Barranco Camp
Day 3: Barranco Camp (3,900 m/12,800 ft)
This is an extra day dedicated to acclimatization, giving your body time to adjust to the altitude. Spending an additional night at Barranco Camp not only reduces fatigue but also increases your chances of summit success. The day is spent exploring nearby ridges, enjoying the dramatic scenery of towering cliffs and glaciers, and preparing both physically and mentally for the climb ahead.
Day 4: Barranco Camp to Karanga Camp
Start the day with the exciting climb up the Barranco Wall, involving some light scrambling. After reaching the top, continue through stunning alpine desert terrain. Arrive at Karanga Camp (3,995m) in the afternoon for dinner and overnight rest, preparing for the final ascent stages.
Elevation: 4,200m to 4,600m to 3,900m
Distance: ~12 km | Time: 6–7 hrs | Habitat: High Alpine Zone
Day 5: Karanga Camp to Barafu Camp
Ascend through the dry alpine desert landscape toward Barafu Camp (4,673m), your final base before the summit. The trail is steep but steady. Upon arrival, rest, hydrate, and prepare for the midnight summit push. Dinner and overnight at Barafu Camp.
Elevation: 3,900m to 3,960m
Distance: 7 km | Hiking Time: 4 hours | Habitat: High Alpine Zone
Day 6: Barafu Camp to Uhuru Peak to Mweka Camp
Begin your summit push at midnight, climbing steep switchbacks to Stella Point (5,739m) on the crater rim. Continue to Uhuru Peak (5,895m), the highest point in Africa. After celebrating and taking photos, descend through Barafu to Mweka Camp (3,100m). Enjoy dinner and a well-earned rest.
Elevation: 3,960m to 4,680m
Distance: Approximately 6 km
Hiking Time: 3 hours
Habitat: High Alpine Zone
Day 7: Mweka Camp to Mweka Gate to Arusha
Elevation (M): 4,680m to 5,895m to 3,100m Distance: 4.5 km ascent / 11 km descent
Hiking Time: 6–8 hrs ascent / 5–8 hrs descent
Habitat: Glacial Zone
Cost includes
All transfers
Professional and experienced mountain guide, cook and porters
Rescue fees
Quality mess tents with tables and chairs
Clean purified water
Accommodation before climbing
All entry fees
All meals during your trekking
Large portion of fresh healthy nutritious food
Cost Excludes
Sleeping bags, bring your own sleeping bag but still you can rent it in Arusha at reasonable
Flight ticket
Gratitude’s for Kilimanjaro climbing crews
Personal expenses (e.g. laundry bills, telephone bills, beverages etc.)
Anything not mentioned above