Umbwe Route – Steep & Challenging
The Umbwe Route is the shortest, steepest, and most physically demanding trail on Mount Kilimanjaro. Often referred to as the “hardcore route,” it’s designed for experienced and fit trekkers seeking a tough but rewarding adventure. It offers dramatic scenery, including narrow ridges, deep gorges, and unmatched vertical gain from the start.
Duration: 6 Days / 5 Nights (trekking)
Difficulty Level: Very Challenging
Highest Elevation: 5,895m (Uhuru Peak)
Starting Point: Umbwe Gate (Southern Kilimanjaro)
Route Type: Steep Ascent, Camping
Success Rate: Moderate (due to steep elevation gain)
Route Highlights
Steep, fast-paced climb through rainforest and ridgelines
Fewer climbers – ideal for solitude seekers
Spectacular scenery with views over the Southern Icefields
Passes through Barranco Valley and joins the Machame Route
Intense and rewarding for experienced trekkers
Itinerary Overview (6-Day Trek)
Day 1: Umbwe Gate (1,600m) to Umbwe Cave Camp (2,850m)
Begin a steep climb through dense rainforest and narrow ridges.
⛺ Overnight at Umbwe Cave Camp.
Day 2: Umbwe Cave to Barranco Camp (3,960m)
Ascend into moorland and emerge onto the Barranco Valley. Join the Machame Route.
⛺ Overnight at Barranco Camp.
Day 3: Barranco Camp to Karanga Camp (4,035m)
Climb the Barranco Wall and trek through alpine terrain to Karanga.
⛺ Overnight at Karanga Camp.
Day 4: Karanga Camp to Barafu Camp (4,640m)
Short hike to high camp. Early dinner and rest before summit attempt.
⛺ Overnight at Barafu Camp.
Day 5: Summit Day – Barafu to Uhuru Peak (5,895m), descend to Mweka Camp (3,100m)
Start summit push at midnight. Reach Uhuru Peak at sunrise, then descend to Mweka Camp.
⛺ Overnight at Mweka Camp.
Day 6: Mweka Camp to Mweka Gate (1,640m)
Final descent through the rainforest to the gate. Receive your certificate and return to Moshi or Arusha.
End of trek.
✅ What’s Included
Kilimanjaro park and camping fees
All meals and clean drinking water during trek
Professional mountain crew (guides, cook, porters)
Tents, sleeping mats, mess tent
Emergency oxygen & daily health monitoring
Transfers to and from Umbwe Gate
Kilimanjaro climbing certificate
❌ What’s Not Included
Flights and Tanzania visa
Sleeping bags and trekking poles (can be rented)
Tips for guides and porters
Pre/post climb hotel (available on request)
Travel and medical insurance