6 Days
Adventure
10-20 People
Any Language
Umbwe route is a short, steep, and direct route based in the south and is said to be the most scenic and difficult one offered on Kilimanjaro. The main reason that the Umbwe route is considered to be very hard is its steepness the first two days with extremely muddy. Although the traffic on this route is low, the chances of success are also low. This route is only recommended for experienced and well-trained climbers. It's a short time of acclimatization within a 6-day/5-night tour.
The day begins with a 50-minute drive to Machame Gate where registration formalities will be completed. We then transfer through villages and coffee and banana plantations to Umbwe Gate. The trail ascends sharply on a forestry track which winds up the dense rain forest. The path narrows and steepens as we climb the ridge between two rivers surrounded by huge trees. Umbwe Camp is perched between trees and thick undergrowth.
The second day of the trek follows rockier terrain with sparse undergrowth and straggly, moss-covered trees. As we gain elevation, glimpses of Kilimanjaro can be seen. The path flattens as we approach Barranco Valley. From Umbwe ridge, the route descends to Barranco Camp through the strange but beautiful Senecio Forest.
We begin the day by descending into a ravine to the base of the Great Barranco Wall. Then we climb the non-technical but steep, nearly 900 ft cliff. From the top of the Barranco Wall we cross a series of hills and valleys until we descend sharply into Karanga Valley. One more steep climb up leads us to Karanga Camp. This is a shorter day meant for acclimatization.
We leave Karanga and hit the junction which connects with the Mweka Trail. We continue up to the rocky section to Barafu Hut. At this point, you have completed the Southern Circuit, which offers views of the summit from many different angles. Here we make camp, rest, and enjoy an early dinner to prepare for the summit day. The two peaks of Mawenzi and Kibo are viewable from this position.
Very early in the morning (around midnight), we begin our push to the summit. This is the most mentally and physically challenging portion of the trek. The wind and cold at this elevation and time of day can be extreme. We ascend in the darkness for several hours while taking frequent, but short, breaks. Near Stella Point (18,900 ft), you will be rewarded with the most magnificent sunrise you are ever likely to see coming over Mawenzi Peak. Finally, we arrive at Uhuru Peak- the highest point on Mount Kilimanjaro and the continent of Africa.
From the summit, we now make our descent continuing straight down to the Mweka Hut camp site, stopping at Barafu for lunch. The trail is very rocky and can be quite hard on the knees; trekking poles are helpful. Mweka Camp is situated in the upper forest and mist or rain can be expected in the late afternoon. Later in the evening, we enjoy our last dinner on the mountain and a well-earned sleep
On our last day, we continue the descent to Mweka Gate and collect the summit certificates. At lower elevations, it can be wet and muddy. From the gate, we continue another hour to Mweka Village. A vehicle will meet us at Mweka Village to drive us back to the hotel in Moshi.
Experience Africa’s highest peak with guided climbs, breathtaking views, and rewarding challenges that inspire adventure, resilience, and lifelong memories.
Before taking on Kilimanjaro, knowing the details makes all the difference. Our FAQs cover routes, weather, and preparation, guiding you toward a safer, smoother, and unforgettable climb up Africa’s tallest mountain.
The length of the Umbwe Route on Kilimanjaro is around 53 kilometres (32 miles).
It takes around 6 to 7 days to complete climbing Kilimanjaro via the Umbwe Route. Yes, you can complete the climb in 6 days, but some itineraries extend the climb to 7 days to allow for better acclimatization.
BestDay Safaris offers Kilimanjaro climbs via both 6-day and 7-day routes. For preparation tips, check our Kilimanjaro Travel Guides.
The Umbwe Route is considered the most challenging route to climb Kilimanjaro. The steep path gains altitude quickly, making acclimatization difficult.
Varied terrain, unpredictable Kilimanjaro weather, and reduced oxygen levels at higher elevations all add to the difficulty level of this route.
If something goes wrong, our trained guides and support personnel at BestDay Safaris will prioritize your safety and well-being. They know how to carry first aid equipment and provide basic medical assistance when needed. If necessary, they will follow the Kilimanjaro Rescue methods to ensure a safe evacuation.
Guests Remember UsWhen someone says a trip changed them, we listen. Many guests have written about moments that stayed long after they left, wildlife, culture, and friendships. Their voices give you a glimpse of the Tanzania we’re proud to show.
I can’t thank best day safari enough for the incredible journey they planned for us.Climbing Kilimanjaro was a dream come true & the guides and the support team made us feel safe.
Bestday Safaris designed this fantastic safari to meet our needs. There were eight of us, two families of friends, split between two jeeps with the fantastic guides Tuma and Emanuel.
These were days we will never forget. The organization by Bestdays Safari was flawless in every way.Yuna is a truly special person – she fulfilled every single request of mine.
Whether you are ready for Tanzania Safari Dream or Kilimanjaro Adventure or Beach Relaxation for a few days or a few weeks long, our experts will create an itinerary from scratch, fully tailored to your wishes. Want to visit a beautiful destination or start an adventure to reach the top, or relax in a paradise, we will make it happen.
