6-Day Kilimanjaro Trek - Umbwe Route

Safari overview

The Umbwe Route is a steep and less-traveled path, offering an adventurous experience for trekkers. This itinerary includes an extra acclimatization day to improve your chances of reaching Uhuru Peak.

Kilimanjaro trekking is one of the most popular adventures in Africa, attracting hikers eager to conquer the continent’s highest peak at 5,895 meters. The climb requires no technical mountaineering skills, making it accessible to both beginners and experienced trekkers. Various routes, such as Machame, Marangu, and Lemosho, offer different levels of challenge and scenery, from dense rainforests to alpine deserts and glacial peaks. While the trek is demanding due to high altitude, proper acclimatization and a steady pace increase the chances of reaching Uhuru Peak. The reward is an unforgettable experience with breathtaking views and the ultimate sense of achievement.

Safari Itinerary

Upon arrival at Kilimanjaro International Airport, our team will welcome you and transfer you to your hotel in Arusha. In the evening, you’ll attend a pre-trek briefing where our guides will discuss essential details about the trek, conduct a gear check, and answer any questions. It’s a day to relax and prepare for the adventure.

  • Altitude: Arusha sits at about 1,400m (4,593ft).
  • Accommodation: Hotel in Arusha
  • Meals: Dinner included

After breakfast, drive to Umbwe Gate (1,640m/5,380ft) for registration. Begin your trek through lush rainforest, covering 10 kilometers (6.2 miles) over 5 to 7 hours to Umbwe Camp (2,850m/9,350ft). Experience the beauty of the rainforest and the sounds of nature along the way.

  • Altitude: 1,640m/5,380ft to 2,850m/9,350ft
  • Distance: 10km (6.2 miles)
  • Trekking Time: 5-7 hours
  • Accommodation: Umbwe Camp
  • Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner

Today, trek 6 kilometers (3.7 miles) over 5 to 6 hours as you ascend to Barranco Camp (3,960m/12,992ft). The trail becomes steeper, and you’ll enjoy stunning views of the surrounding landscape and the dramatic Barranco Wall.

  • Altitude: 2,850m/9,350ft to 3,960m/12,992ft
  • Distance: 6km (3.7 miles)
  • Trekking Time: 5-6 hours
  • Accommodation: Barranco Camp
  • Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner

Begin the day by climbing the Barranco Wall, which provides a thrilling experience and spectacular views. Afterward, trek 5 kilometers (3.1 miles) over 4 to 5 hours to Karanga Camp (4,035m/13,238ft), where you can relax and enjoy the scenery.

  • Altitude: 3,960m/12,992ft to 4,035m/13,238ft
  • Distance: 5km (3.1 miles)
  • Trekking Time: 4-5 hours
  • Accommodation: Karanga Camp
  • Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner

Trek to Barafu Camp (4,640m/15,223ft), covering 4 kilometers (2.5 miles) in 3 to 4 hours. This section of the trek offers views of Kibo and the surrounding landscape. Arrive at Barafu, where you can rest and prepare for the summit push.

  • Altitude: 4,035m/13,238ft to 4,640m/15,223ft
  • Distance: 4km (2.5 miles)
  • Trekking Time: 3-4 hours
  • Accommodation: Barafu Camp
  • Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner

Begin your summit ascent around midnight. Trek to Gilman’s Point (5,685m/18,652ft) and then to Uhuru Peak (5,895m/19,341ft), the highest point on Kilimanjaro. After celebrating at the summit, descend to Mweka Camp (3,110m/10,204ft). This challenging day covers about 17 kilometers (10.6 miles) over 12 to 15 hours.

  • Altitude: 4,640m/15,223ft to 5,895m/19,341ft (Uhuru Peak), then down to 3,110m/10,204ft
  • Distance: 17km (10.6 miles)
  • Trekking Time: 12-15 hours
  • Accommodation: Mweka Camp
  • Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner

Descend through the lush rainforest to Mweka Gate, covering 10 kilometers (6.2 miles) over 3 to 4 hours. At the gate, collect your summit certificate before returning to Arusha for a celebration dinner.

  • Altitude: 3,110m/10,204ft to 1,640m/5,380ft
  • Distance: 10km (6.2 miles)
  • Trekking Time: 3-4 hours
  • Accommodation: Hotel in Arusha
  • Meals: Breakfast and Lunch

After a restful night, you’ll transfer to Kilimanjaro International Airport for your departure, carrying unforgettable memories of your Kilimanjaro adventure.

  • Meals: Breakfast included

Includes

  • Airport transfers (Kilimanjaro International Airport)
  • Two (2) nights’ accommodation in Arusha
  • All park transfers and Park fees
  • Quality mountain camping equipment (tents & sleeping mats)
  • Certified professional mountain guides, cook, and porters
  • Three hot meals daily on the mountain with treated drinking water
  • Safety equipment (oxygen, pulse oximeter, first-aid kit)
  • Portable flush toilet for groups of 4+ (USD 95 extra for smaller groups)

Excludes

  • International and domestic flights
  • Visa fees and travel insurance
  • Personal expenses (laundry, beverages, souvenirs, etc.)
  • Personal trekking gear and clothing
  • Optional activities not listed in the itinerary
  • Tips for guides, porters, and mountain crew
  • Additional accommodation outside the stated itinerary
  • Online payment surcharge of 5% on the remaining balance

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