Trip Overview

The Umbwe Route is Kilimanjaro’s most challenging and least-traveled trail, offering a thrilling, off-the-beaten-path ascent for experienced hikers.

Known for its steep terrain, fast elevation gain, and breathtaking ridge-line views, this route demands strong fitness and mental grit—but rewards with unmatched solitude and raw mountain beauty.

Starting from the lush rainforests at the base of the mountain, the trail quickly ascends through misty jungle and onto exposed ridges, offering dramatic scenery every step of the way.

By Day 2, the route joins the more popular Machame Route at Barranco Camp, continuing along the scenic Southern Circuit before the final summit push from Barafu Camp.

Because of the rapid ascent, the Umbwe Route is recommended for strong trekkers or those with prior high-altitude experience. It’s perfect for adventurers who want a less crowded and more intense climbing experience on Africa’s tallest peak.

Trip Highlight

Day 1: Arrive Kilimanjaro Airport, transfer to Arusha

Day 2: Drive to Kilimanjaro National Park Umbwe Gate, Hike to Umbwe Cave Camp

Day 3: Umbwe Cave Camp to Barranco Camp

Day 4: Hike Barranco Camp to Karanga Camp

Day 5: Hike Karanga Camp to Barafu Camp

Day 6: Hike Barafu Camp to Summit, down to Mweka Camp

Day 7: Hike Mweka Camp to Mweka Gate, drive to Arusha

Day 8: Depart Arusha

Itinerary – Day by Day

Day 1: Umbwe Gate to Umbwe Camp

Drive from Arusha to the Umbwe Gate (approx. 1.5 hours). The trail starts in lush rainforest and ascends sharply along a ridge. This is a steep and strenuous hike—poles and gaiters are recommended.

• Elevation: 1,800m / 5,900ft to 2,850m / 9,350ft
• Distance: 11 km / 7 mi
• Hiking Time: 5–7 hours
• Habitat: Montane Forest
• Meals: Lunch, Dinner
• Overnight: Umbwe Camp

Day 2: Umbwe Camp to Barranco Camp

The trail gets steeper as you leave the forest behind and enter the heather and moorland zone. You’ll continue along a ridge before dropping slightly into the scenic Barranco Valley. This is where the Umbwe Route joins the Machame Route.

• Elevation: 2,850m / 9,350ft to 3,900m / 12,800ft
• Distance: 6 km / 4 mi
• Hiking Time: 4–5 hours
• Habitat: Moorland
• Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
• Overnight: Barranco Camp

Day 3: Barranco Camp to Karanga Camp

Ascend the Barranco Wall—a non-technical but thrilling scramble—before continuing through alpine desert terrain to Karanga Camp. This day includes several short ascents and descents and is key for acclimatization.

• Elevation: 3,900m / 12,800ft to 4,050m / 13,250ft
• Distance: 5 km / 3 mi
• Hiking Time: 4–5 hours
• Habitat: Alpine Desert
• Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
• Overnight: Karanga Camp

Day 4: Karanga Camp to Barafu Camp

Climb steadily to Barafu Camp, your base for the summit attempt. Enjoy views of Mawenzi and Kibo peaks along the way. Rest, hydrate, and prepare for the early morning climb to the top.

• Elevation: 4,050m / 13,250ft to 4,700m / 15,350ft
• Distance: 4 km / 2 mi
• Hiking Time: 3–4 hours
• Habitat: Alpine Desert
• Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
• Overnight: Barafu Camp

Day 5: Summit to Uhuru Peak, then descend to Mweka Camp

Begin your summit push around midnight. Trek through scree to Stella Point, then continue along the crater rim to Uhuru Peak—the highest point in Africa. After celebrating at the summit, descend to Barafu for lunch, then continue down to Mweka Camp.

• Elevation: 4,700m / 15,350ft to 5,895m / 19,340ft (Uhuru Peak)
• Descent to: 3,090m / 10,150ft
• Distance: 5 km / 3 mi (ascent), 13 km / 8 mi (descent)
• Hiking Time: 6–8 hours up, 5–6 hours down
• Habitat: Arctic to Montane Forest
• Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
• Overnight: Mweka Camp

Day 6: Mweka Camp to Mweka Gate, drive to Arusha

Complete your final descent through the rainforest to Mweka Gate, where you’ll receive your summit certificate. From there, a short transfer takes you back to your hotel in Arusha for a well-earned rest.

• Elevation: 3,090m / 10,150ft to 1,680m / 5,500ft
• Distance: 10 km / 6 mi
• Hiking Time: 3–4 hours
• Habitat: Forest
• Meals: Breakfast