7-Day Umbwe Route: Intensive Trek to Kilimanjaro's Summit

Day 1: Umbwe Gate to Umbwe Camp

• Elevation (ft): 6,076ft to 9,514ft

• Distance: 10 km

• Hiking Time: 5-7 hours

• Habitat: Rainforest

Begin your expedition at Umbwe Gate, delving into the lush rainforest. The path leads you through ancient trees, offering glimpses of Kilimanjaro's grandeur. Reach Umbwe Camp, where you'll rest and prepare for the challenges ahead.

 

Day 2: Umbwe Camp to Barranco Camp via Lava Tower

• Elevation (ft): 9,514ft to 13,065ft

• Distance: 7 km

• Hiking Time: 6-8 hours

• Habitat: Moorland

Ascend to Lava Tower, a volcanic formation, for a taste of higher altitudes. Descend to Barranco Camp, nestled in a picturesque valley. This day provides crucial acclimatization.

 

Day 3: Barranco Camp to Karanga Camp

• Elevation (ft): 13,065ft to 13,106ft

• Distance: 5 km

• Hiking Time: 4-5 hours

• Habitat: Alpine Desert

Conquer the Barranco Wall, a thrilling scramble with awe-inspiring views. Continue to Karanga Camp, perched on a ridge with sweeping vistas of the plains below.

 

Day 4: Karanga Camp to Barafu Camp

• Elevation (ft): 13,106ft to 15,331ft

• Distance: 4 km

• Hiking Time: 4-5 hours

• Habitat: Alpine Desert

Journey to Barafu Camp, the final stop before your summit attempt. As you ascend, the landscape shifts into an arid alpine desert, providing an otherworldly experience.

 

Day 5: Barafu Camp to Uhuru Peak to Mweka Camp

• Elevation (ft): 15,331ft to 19,341ft (and down to 10,170ft)

• Distance: 5 km ascent / 12 km descent

• Hiking Time: 7-8 hours ascent / 4-6 hours descent

• Habitat: Arctic / Rainforest

Embark on your summit bid in the early hours, guided by moonlight and the promise of dawn. Reach Uhuru Peak, Africa's highest point, just in time for an awe-inspiring sunrise. Descend to Mweka Camp, immersed in the vibrant rainforest.

 

Day 6: Mweka Camp to Mweka Gate

• Elevation Loss: 10,170ft to 5,380ft

• Distance: 10 km

• Hiking Time: 3-4 hours

• Habitat: Rainforest

Descend through the vibrant rainforest, reflecting on your extraordinary achievement. Arrive at Mweka Gate, where you'll receive a well-deserved certificate and bid farewell to Kilimanjaro.

 

Day 7: Farewell Moshi

After a restful night, bid farewell to Moshi, cherishing the memories of your incredible journey on Kilimanjaro's Umbwe Route.

Embark on this thrilling 7-day adventure, conquering Kilimanjaro's Umbwe Route and standing tall at Uhuru Peak, the pinnacle of Africa.