6 Days trekking Kilimanjaro via Umbwe route

The magnificent Mount Kilimanjaro is a dormant stratovolcano that stands tall in Tanzania. Soaring to an impressive 5,985 metres (19,341 feet), this magnificent mountain is the highest point in Africa and is fittingly known as ‘The Roof of Africa’! And it’s not just the tallest free-standing mountain in the world – it’s also the highest point in Africa! And there’s another amazing thing about Kilimanjaro: it’s located just 330km from the equator! The mountain is made up of three incredible volcanic cones: Kibo (5,895m), Shira (3,962m) and Mawenzi (5,149m). Kibo is the highest at Uhuru Peak! While Mawenzi and Shira are extinct, Kibo is dormant and could erupt again in the future, so there’s always the chance of seeing another spectacular display of nature’s power!

You can reach this magnificent roof of Africa via seven incredible routes, including the Umbwe route, which is the most challenging and steepest way to reach Kilimanjaro’s summit. The Umbwe route is recommended only for truly experienced climbers, so if you’re up for an exhilarating challenge, this is the route for you!

The Umbwe Route 8 Days is the perfect choice for climbers looking for a quick and exciting way to the summit of Mount Kilimanjaro. After recent rainfall, the trail is especially muddy, which makes it an extra challenging and fun experience. The ascent to the initial camp, Umbwe Cave, is characterised by steep and rugged terrain, which adds to the adventure. This route is ideal for climbers seeking a challenging and daring experience, and it’s a great way to start your Kilimanjaro journey!

Day 01 :

The adventure begins! Arrival in Moshi

Welcome to Tanzania! As soon as you arrive at Kilimanjaro International Airport (JRO), one of our friendly Polepole Africa team members will be there to greet you and transfer you to your hotel or lodge in Moshi. We can't wait to meet you!
We'll meet up at the hotel for a pre-climb briefing and equipment check. This is your chance to make sure you have the required medical coverage and travel insurance in place for the start of your Mount Kilimanjaro adventure the following day!

Day 02 :

To Umbwe cave (Hiking for 6-8hrs, Altitude 2,900m/9,514ft)

Get ready for an incredible climb! It all begins at Umbwe Gate (1,600 m/5,249ft), where you'll embark on an unforgettable journey along a ridge between two deep valleys through the dense montane forest. On clear days, especially during the dry season, this section offers absolutely stunning scenery! It's lush and picturesque, and while it might be muddy if there have been recent rains, that just adds to the adventure! The ascent to Umbwe Cave, our initial camp, is steep and rugged – but well worth it!

Day 03 :

To Barranco Valley (4-6hrs hike: Altitude 3,950m/12,959ft)

As you leave the forest, the path gets a little steeper, but it's totally doable! You'll find some climbing and scrambling past a 10-metre rock along the way. Once you reach the open landscape, you'll see the vegetation change to typical moorland with towering Senecios. Baranco Camp, situated in the Barranco Valley at 3950 m, offers incredible views of both Kibo and the plains below it. It's truly a sight to behold!

Day 04 :

To Karanga camp (Hiking for 4-5hrs: Altitude 4,040m/13,254ft)

Get set for a truly special experience! A challenging climb up the Barranco Wall leads to an undulating trail on Kibo's south-eastern flank, offering magnificent views of the Southern Ice Fields. The terrain then changes to scree, with the loveliest pockets of lush vegetation in sheltered hollows. Karanga, the last water point before Barafu, is just a stone's throw away. It's a great spot to rest up or take a quick acclimatisation walk.

Day 05 :

To Barafu camp (Hiking for 5-6hrs: Altitude 4645m/15,239ft)

Just a short but steep climb from Karanga Camp and you'll find an easy path on compacted scree with the most amazing, expansive views! Today is all about relaxing and getting ready for the big finale! We'll be having an early night to make sure we're all rested up for the ascent tomorrow.

Day 06 :

To Uhuru peak (Hiking for 6hrs: Altitude 5895m/19,341ft) back to Millenium camp 3,820m/12,532ft

The ascent begins by torchlight around midnight, reaching the Crater Rim for a breathtaking sunrise. The climb to Stella Point at 5735 m takes about five to six hours, followed by a two-hour round trip to Uhuru Peak for those feeling strong. After enjoying the incredible accomplishment at Uhuru Peak, the descent to Millenium camp begins swiftly, where you'll spend the night.

Day 07 :

From Millenium camp 3,820m/12,532ft-Mweka exit gate 1,640m/5,380ft back to Hotel

Congratulations! Your journey through the forest to Mweka National Park Gate is the perfect way to celebrate your achievement. Here, you'll receive your certificate for conquering Mount Kilimanjaro and say goodbye to the amazing porters, cooks, and guides from Polepole African experience. You've become friends during the Umbwe Route 6 Days trek, and you're going to miss them!
As soon as you arrive at Mweka gate, one of our friendly Polepole Africa team members will be there to collect you and transfer you to your hotel or lodge in Moshi.

Day 08 :

Flying home from Kilimanjaro International Airport after an amazing climb!

It's a bittersweet moment as we say goodbye to your holiday. We're so happy you've enjoyed your time in Tanzania! Before you head home, our driver will come to pick you up and take you to Kilimanjaro International Airport for your flight. If you're still longing for more, we've got great news! You can add a few days of safari, a day trip experience, or even a beach holiday to your Kilimanjaro adventure.