6 Days Kilimanjaro Climbing Umbwe Route

Arrival Day 

• Arrive at Kilimanjaro International Airport (JRO) where you'll be met by a representative and transferred to your Moshi hotel.
• Relax and unwind at your comfortable hotel accommodation.

Day 1: Umbwe Gate (1,600m) to Umbwe Camp (2,930m)

• Take a scenic 50-minute drive to Machame Gate for registration formalities.
• Transfer through charming villages and coffee/banana plantations to Umbwe Gate (1,600m).
• Begin your trek, ascending sharply on a forested trail through dense rainforest (5-7 hours, 11km).
• The path narrows and steepens as you climb a ridge between rivers, surrounded by towering trees.
• Reach your first camp, Umbwe Camp, nestled amidst trees and thick undergrowth.

Day 2: Umbwe Camp (2,930m) to Barranco Camp (3,960m)

• Embark on a challenging trek across rockier terrain with sparse vegetation (4-5 hours, 6km).
• Catch glimpses of Kilimanjaro as you gain elevation.
• The path flattens near Barranco Valley.
• Descend from Umbwe Ridge through the unique Senecio Forest to reach Barranco Camp.

Day 3: Barranco Camp (3,960m) to Karanga Camp (4,035m)

• Start by descending into a ravine to the base of the Great Barranco Wall.
• Ascend the non-technical but steep Barranco Wall, nearly 900ft high.
• Hike across a series of hills and valleys before descending steeply into Karanga Valley.
• One final steep climb leads you to Karanga Camp, located at a slightly higher altitude for acclimatization.
• This is a shorter day for rest and allowing your body to adjust to the increasing altitude.

Day 4: Karanga Camp (4,035m) to Barafu Camp (4,640m)

• Leave Karanga and join the Mweka Trail junction.
• Continue up the rocky section to reach Barafu Camp.
• Completing the Southern Circuit offers breathtaking views of the summit from various angles.
• Enjoy a hearty dinner and early rest in preparation for the summit push tomorrow.
• Witness the majestic peaks of Mawenzi and Kibo from Barafu Camp.

Day 5: Barafu Camp (4,640m) to Uhuru Peak (5,895m) - Mweka Camp (3,080m)

• Begin your summit push in the pre-dawn hours (around midnight) - the most demanding part of the trek.
• The extreme wind and cold at high altitude require physical and mental resilience.
• Ascend in darkness for several hours, taking short breaks to catch your breath.
• Near Stella Point (5,760m), witness a spectacular sunrise over Mawenzi Peak.
• Finally, reach Uhuru Peak, the highest point in Africa, and celebrate your incredible achievement!
• Descend directly to Mweka Camp, stopping at Barafu Camp for lunch.
• The rocky descent can be tough on your knees; trekking poles are recommended.
• Mweka Camp is situated in the upper forest, so expect mist or rain in the afternoon.
• Enjoy a celebratory last dinner on the mountain and a well-deserved rest.

Day 6: Mweka Camp (3,080m) to Mweka Gate (1,630m) - Moshi

• Hike down through the rainforest to Mweka Gate, where you'll receive your summit certificates (3-4 hours, 10km).
• The lower elevations can be wet and muddy.
• From the gate, continue to Mweka Village for your transfer back to your Moshi hotel.

Departure Day 

• Relax at your hotel before your transfer to Kilimanjaro International Airport for your departing flight.

Important Notes:

• The Umbwe Route is considered the most challenging route on Kilimanjaro. It's recommended for experienced hikers in excellent physical condition.
• Proper acclimatization is crucial for a safe and successful summit attempt.
• Be prepared for extreme weather conditions, including wind, cold, and rain.
• Pack appropriate gear for various climates encountered throughout the trek.

Embrace the challenge and embark on an unforgettable journey to conquer the "Roof of Africa" via the Umbwe Route!