6 days
Umbwe Route
6 days mount kilimanjaro trekking via Umbwe route
The Umbwe Route stands out for its unique features. It is the steepest and most direct route to the summit. Its less crowded nature offers a more secluded and challenging experience, making it an ideal choice for experienced hikers. However, due to its rapid ascent, the Umbwe Route is considered one of the most challenging paths, and it is recommended for those confident in their ability to acclimate quickly.
Overview of the Lemosho Route
Duration：
6 Days Trekking
Difficulty Level
Very Challenging
Distance
Approximately 42 km (26.1miles)
Best Time to Climb
January to mid-March and June to October
Starting - End Point
Umbwe Gate – Mweka Gate
Departure dates
Rates
Umbwe Route Trekking
Price per person1 Person
$2,301
Per Person
2 – 3 Person
Price From
$ 1,969
Per Person
6 – 10 Person
Price From
$ 1,935
Per Person
11+ Person
Price From
$ 1,875
Per Person
Your Journey Mapped Out
Ready to set out? Your adventure awaits!
- DAY 1 - Arrival at Kilimanjaro International Airport (JRO) - Arusha
- DAY 2 - Umbwe Gate (1640m) to Umbwe Cave Camp (2850m)
- DAY 3 - Umbwe Cave Camp (2850m) to Barranco Camp (3985m)
- DAY 4 - Barranco Camp (3985m) to Karanga Camp (4035m)
- DAY 5 - Karanga Camp (4035m) to Barafu Camp (4640m)
- DAY 6 - Barafu Camp (4640m) to Uhuru Peak (5895m) to Mweka Camp (3080m)
- DAY 7 - Mweka Camp (3080m) to Mweka Gate (1630m) to Arusha
- DAY 8 - Arusha – Kilimanjaro Airport
Day 1
Arrival
Upon arrival at Kilimanjaro International Airport (JRO), your guide and the rest of your trekking team will meet you and take you to your hotel in Arusha. This day is for resting, meeting your team, and getting a briefing. Your team will consist of experienced guides, porters, and cooks who will ensure your safety, comfort, and well-being throughout the trek. Prepare your gear and take time to relax and adjust to the local climate.
Accommodation before and After
Golden Tulip
located in Arusha (City)
- HB – Dinner and Breakfast
- Drinks not included
Day 2: Umbwe Gate – Umbwe Cave Camp
Elevation
Distance
10 km
Hiking Time
Habitat
Day 2
Umbwe Gate (1640m) to Umbwe Cave Camp (2850m)
After breakfast, you will drive to the Umbwe Gate for registration and the start of your trek. The trail ascends steeply through dense rainforest, providing a demanding climb. The narrow, winding path with roots and rocks makes the hike more challenging. You’ll reach Umbwe Cave Camp in the late afternoon, set among giant trees and thick undergrowth.
Day 3: Umbwe Cave Camp – Barranco Camp
Elevation
Distance
Hiking Time
Habitat
Day 3
Umbwe Cave Camp (2850m) to Barranco Camp (3985m)
Day 4: Barranco Camp – Karanga Camp
Elevation
Distance
5 km
Hiking Time
4-5 hours
Habitat
Day 4
Barranco Camp (3985m) to Karanga Camp (4035m)
Today’s hike starts with the challenging Barranco Wall, a steep climb that requires some scrambling but is manageable for most trekkers. The reward is an impressive view from the top. After the Wall, the trail undulates as you cross several valleys and ridges before reaching Karanga Camp. This section is an excellent opportunity for acclimatization
Day 5 : Karanga Camp - Barafu Camp
Elevation
Distance
4 km
Hiking Time
3-4 hours
Habitat
Day 5
Karanga Camp (4035m) to Barafu Camp (4640m)
The trail continues steadily upwards to Barafu Camp, the base camp for summit attempts. The terrain is barren and rocky, with strong winds often sweeping the landscape. You’ll arrive at Barafu Camp in the early afternoon, allowing plenty of time to rest, eat, and prepare for the final ascent. The afternoon is spent sleeping, with an early dinner and bedtime to prepare for the summit push.
Day 6 : Barafu Camp - Uhuru Peak - Mweka Camp
Elevation
Distance
Hiking Time
12-15 hours
Habitat
Day 6
Barafu Camp (4640m) to Uhuru Peak (5895m) to Mweka Camp (3080m)
The summit attempt begins around midnight. You’ll face the most challenging climb as you ascend steeply to Stella Point (5,739m) on the crater rim. The final push from Stella Point to Uhuru Peak is less steep but equally demanding due to the high altitude. Reaching Uhuru Peak, the highest point in Africa, at sunrise is a magnificent and unforgettable experience. After taking in the views and celebrating, you’ll begin the long descent back to Barafu Camp for a short rest, then continue down to Mweka Camp
Day 7 : Mweka Camp - Mweka Gate - Arusha
Elevation
Distance
Hiking Time
12-15 hours
Habitat
Day 7
Mweka Camp (3080m) to Mweka Gate (1630m) to Arusha
The final day involves a rewarding descent through the lush montane forest to Mweka Gate. The trail is well-maintained and easier on the way down. Upon reaching Mweka Gate, you will receive your summit certificates and be greeted with celebratory refreshments. A vehicle will then take you back to your hotel in Arusha or Moshi, where you can rest and reflect on your incredible achievement, marking the end of your memorable journey
Day 8
Arusha – Kilimanjaro Airport
After a good night’s rest and a hearty breakfast, you’ll have time to explore Arusha or relax at the hotel. This time is crucial for rejuvenating your body and mind after the strenuous trek. Depending on your flight schedule, you’ll be transferred to Kilimanjaro International Airport for your departure. This marks the end of your unforgettable journey on the Lemosho Route, leaving you with a treasure trove of memories and experiences that will bring you a smile every time you recall them.
Accommodation before and After
Golden Tulip
located in Arusha (City)
- HB – Dinner and Breakfast
- Drinks not included
Included
- professional, English-speaking guide
- mountain crew (cook & porters)
- 8 nights‘ stay in lodges and mountain tents
- camping equipment (tents, sleeping mats, chairs, tables etc)
- portable toilet and toilet tent
- meals according to the itinerary
- drinking water
- all national park fees
- all mentioned transfers
Excluded
- flights (international and domestic)
- meals not indicated in the itinerary
- alcoholic and soft drinks
- sleeping bag (can be rented at extra cost)
- tips
- personal expenses, visa fees, travel insurance