OVERVIEW
The 6-day Umbwe route is known for being one of the toughest ways to climb Mount Kilimanjaro. Starting from the south, the route is short but very steep, making the climb challenging right from the beginning. After reaching Barranco Camp, the path continues along the southern circuit to the summit, and the descent is made via the Mweka route. The main reason this route is so difficult is because of the steep terrain in the first two days and the limited time to adjust to the high altitude. Only experienced hikers who are confident in their ability to adapt to the altitude usually attempt this route.
DAY-1
Arrival at Kilimanjaro Airport to Arusha Town
Upon arrival at Kilimanjaro International Airport, you’ll be greeted by our representative who will transfer you to Arusha. Check-in for an overnight stay at Gold Crest Arusha. After settling in, gather for a briefing with your guide. They’ll inspect your equipment, ensuring you have everything necessary for the climb. Any additional items needed can be advised upon and rented from our store at reasonable prices.
ACCOMODATION: GOLD CREST ARUSHA
DAY-2
Arusha – Umbwe Gate (1,614 masl) – Umbwe Cave Camp (2,850 masl)
Your hike starts on day 2. Our destination today is the Umbwe Cave Camp. After breakfast, the team will drive you from your hotel in Arusha to Kilimanjaro National Park, a 2-hour drive. You’ll pass through Machame Gate, where you’ll complete all legal registrations before beginning your hike. After registration, the team will drive you to Umbwe Gate, your starting point. The hike will take 5 to 7 hours, including lunch, and will lead you through the rainforest. Dinner will be served at Umbwe Cave Campsite, where you’ll spend the night.
ACCOMMODATION: UMBWE CAVE CAMP
DAY-3
Umbwe Cave Camp (2,850 masl) – Barranco Camp (3950 masl)
On the third day of your hike, the first section of the trail continues along the ridge. After leaving the forest, you’ll proceed through open moorlands heading toward Barranco Camp. The hike will take about 5 hours, including lunch. Barranco Camp is considered the most scenic campsite on the Umbwe Trail, surrounded by giant Senecio and lobelias. Situated in a valley, the sun rises later here compared to other camps. The team will serve you dinner, and you’ll spend the night at Barranco Camp.
ACCOMMODATION：BARRANCO CAMP
DAY-4
Barranco Camp (3950 masl) – Barafu Camp (4676 masl)
On day 4, you will make your way up the Barranco Wall, an impressive-looking obstacle. Don’t be intimidated—it’s not as difficult as it seems. It will take you about 1 hour to reach the top of the rocky wall. Some sections may require you to use your hands for a better grip, but it doesn’t require technical climbing skills. Upon reaching Karanga Camp, the team will serve you lunch, and you’ll have some time to rest before continuing the hike to Barafu Camp. Our team will be with you every step of the way to assist when necessary. The entire hike from Barranco Camp to Barafu Camp will take about 8 hours, including lunch.
ACCOMMODATION: BARAFU CAMP
DAY-5
Barafu Camp (4600 masl) –Uhuru Peak (5,895m) – Mweka Camp (3,100 masl)
On arrival at Barafu Camp, which is the base camp, the Explore Green Africa Safaris team will serve you dinner. You will then be allowed to rest in preparation for the summit night. Around midnight, our guides will wake you with a warm cup of tea and biscuits to help get you ready for your final ascent. Your headlamps, and on lucky nights the moonlight, will be your only source of light as you make your way up to Stella Point at 5,730 meters above sea level, reaching the crater rim in about 5 to 7 hours. Another 1 to 2 hours will take you to Uhuru Peak, where you can enjoy the sunrise on the roof of Africa. After capturing this incredible view and achievement on film, you will begin your descent along the same route back to Barafu Camp, where the Explore Green Africa Safaris team will be waiting for you with snacks and refreshments. You’ll rest for a while before making your way to Mweka Camp for dinner and an overnight stay. This is your last night on this magnificent mountain, and after dinner, you’ll retire to bed.
ACCOMMODATION: MWEKA CAMP
DAY-6
Mweka Camp (3,100 masl) -Mweka Gate (1,830 masl) – Arusha Town
This is the last day of your adventure with Explore Green Africa Safaris. After breakfast, our team will host a traditional farewell ceremony for you. You will then begin your final descent from Mweka Camp to Mweka Gate, a journey of about 2 to 3 hours. At the Mweka Gate, you will be served lunch and soft drinks. You’ll have the chance to sample Kilimanjaro beer in celebration of your achievement. You will also receive your certificates and sign out. Afterward, you will be driven back to Arusha to your hotel or lodge.
NO ACCOMODATION:
