Kilimanjaro Umbwe Route 6 Days

Upon your arrival at Kilimanjaro International Airport, you'll be warmly welcomed and transferred to your hotel in Moshi. This day is reserved for rest and preparation. In the evening, you'll meet your trekking guide for a detailed briefing about the upcoming adventure. They will also conduct an equipment check to ensure you're fully prepared for the climb. Missing gear can be rented at this time.

• Accommodation: Hotel in Moshi (e.g., Panama Garden Resort)

• Meals: Dinner
• Elevation: Approximately 800 meters (2,625 feet)

After an early breakfast, you'll be driven to the Umbwe Gate, the starting point of your trek. The trail begins with a steep ascent through the lush montane rainforest. As you progress, the path narrows and becomes steeper, winding along a ridge between two rivers. The dense vegetation and towering trees provide a serene backdrop as you make your way to Umbwe Cave Camp.

• Accommodation: Camping at Umbwe Cave Camp
• Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
• Elevation Gain: 1,300 meters (4,265 feet)
• Distance: 11 km (7 miles)
• Hiking Time: 5–7 hours
• Habitat: Montane Forest

Leaving the rainforest behind, the trail ascends into the moorland zone. The vegetation becomes sparser, with moss-covered trees and rocky terrain. As you gain elevation, glimpses of Kilimanjaro's peak become visible. The path eventually flattens as you approach the Barranco Valley. Descending slightly, you'll arrive at Barranco Camp, situated beneath the impressive Barranco Wall.

• Accommodation: Camping at Barranco Camp
• Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
• Elevation Gain: 1,050 meters (3,445 feet)
• Distance: 6 km (3.7 miles)
• Hiking Time: 4–5 hours
• Habitat: Moorland

The day begins with a challenging climb up the Barranco Wall, a non-technical but steep ascent offering panoramic views of the surrounding landscape. Upon reaching the top, the trail undulates through a series of ridges and valleys before descending into the Karanga Valley. A final steep climb leads you to Karanga Camp. This shorter day aids in acclimatization.

• Accommodation: Camping at Karanga Camp
• Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
• Elevation Gain: 100 meters (330 feet)
• Distance: 5 km (3.1 miles)
• Hiking Time: 4–5 hours
• Habitat: Alpine Desert

Continuing from Karanga Camp, the trail intersects with the Mweka Trail before ascending towards Barafu Camp. The landscape is characterized by alpine desert, with sparse vegetation and expansive views. Upon arrival at Barafu Camp, you'll rest and prepare for the summit attempt, which begins around midnight.

• Accommodation: Camping at Barafu Camp
• Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
• Elevation Gain: 590 meters (1,935 feet)
• Distance: 4 km (2.5 miles)
• Hiking Time: 3–4 hours
• Habitat: Alpine Desert

Around midnight, you'll commence the final ascent to Uhuru Peak, the highest point in Africa. The trail is steep and challenging, with cold temperatures and high altitude. Upon reaching the summit, you'll have time to take photos and savor your achievement. The descent follows the same path back to Barafu Camp for a short rest before continuing down to Mweka Camp.

• Accommodation: Camping at Mweka Camp
• Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
• Elevation Gain: 1,255 meters (4,120 feet)
• Elevation Loss: 2,795 meters (9,170 feet)
• Distance: 5 km (3.1 miles) ascent, 12 km (7.5 miles) descent
• Hiking Time: 12–15 hours total
• Habitat: Arctic at the summit, descending through alpine desert and rainforest

After breakfast, you'll continue your descent through the lush rainforest to Mweka Gate. This final stretch is a gentle walk, allowing you to reflect on your journey. At the gate, you'll receive your summit certificate before being transferred back to your hotel in Moshi for a well-deserved rest.

• Accommodation: Hotel in Moshi
• Meals: Breakfast, Lunch
• Elevation Loss: 1,460 meters (4,790 feet)
• Distance: 10 km (6.2 miles)
• Hiking Time: 3–4 hours
• Habitat: Rainforest

Depending on your flight schedule, you may have time to explore Moshi or relax at the hotel. When it's time, you'll be transferred to Kilimanjaro International Airport for your departure flight, marking the end of your unforgettable adventure.

• Meals: Breakfast