6 Days 5 Nights
Tanzania, United Republic of
6-Day Kilimanjaro Climb Via Umbwe Route
Umbwe is the most scenic and direct way to Uhuru Peak. This route became well-known after it was featured in the suspenseful IMAX film Kilimanjaro: To the Roof of Africa. You pass through five different climate zones while climbing the Umbwe, from the jungle to the glaciers at the top. After following a forested ridge that falls to the moorlands, the path crosses the southern icefields and joins the Machame path, which continues all the way to the summit.
Overview
Overview
Umbwe is the most scenic and direct way to Uhuru Peak. This route became well-known after it was featured in the suspenseful IMAX film Kilimanjaro - To the Roof of Africa. You pass through five different climate zones while climbing the Umbwe, from the jungle to the glaciers at the top. After following a forested ridge that falls to the moorlands, the path crosses the southern icefields and joins the Machame path, which continues all the way to the summit.
Itinerary
Itinerary
Day 1
Arusha to Umbwe Gate to Umbwe Camp 8 km, 5-7 hours Montane Forest
Umbwe Gate to Umbwe Camp
Elevation: 5,249 ft to 9,514 ft
Distance: 11 km/7 miles
Hiking Time: 5-7 hours
Habitat: HeathDriving to Machame Gate, where registration procedures are finished, takes 1 hour and 30 minutes minutes at the start of the day. Once at Umbwe Gate, we proceed across communities and plantations of bananas and coffee. The forestry track that leads up through the deep rain forest has a steep ascent. We walk up the mountain between two rivers, through massive trees, and the trail becomes narrower and steeper. Trees and dense vegetation encircle Umbwe Camp.
Accommodation at Umbwe Camp
Meal Plan: B, L & D
Day 2
Umbwe Camp to Barranco Camp
Elevation: 9,514 ft to 13,044 ft
Distance: 6 km/4 miles
Hiking Time: 4-5 hours
Habitat: HeathThe 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.
Accommodation at Barranco Camp
Meal Plan: B, L & D
Day 3
Barranco Camp to Karanga Camp
Elevation: 13,044 ft to 13,106 ft
Distance: 5 km/3 miles
Hiking Time: 4-5 hours
Habitat: Alpine DesertWe 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.
Accommodation at Karanga Camp
Meal Plan: B, L & D
Day 4
Karanga Camp to Barafu Camp
Elevation: 13,106 ft to 15,331 ft
Distance: 4 km/2 miles
Hiking Time: 4-5 hours
Habitat: Alpine DesertWe 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.
Accommodation at Barafu Camp
Meal Plan: B, L & D
Day 5
Barafu Camp to Uhuru Peak
Elevation: 15,331 ft to 19,341 ft
Distance: 5 km/3 miles
Hiking Time: 7-8 hours
Habitat: ArcticUhuru Peak to Mweka Camp
Elevation: 19,341 ft to 10,065 ft
Distance: 12 km/7 miles
Hiking Time: 4-6 hours
Habitat: Rain Forest
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.Accommodation at Mweka Camp
Meal Plan: B, L & D
Day 6
Mweka Camp to Mweka Gate
Elevation: 10,065 ft to 5,380 ft
Distance: 10 km/6 miles
Hiking Time: 3-4 hours
Habitat: Rain ForestOn 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 Arusha.
Accommodation; No accommodation but it can be arranged at addinational cost
Meal Plan: B & L
Cost Info
Cost Info
Price includes
- Porterage
- Rescue fee
- Climbing gear
- Park fees(
- All activities (unless labeled as optional)
- All accommodation(Unless listed as upgrade.)
- Camping equipment
- A professional guide
- All transportation (unless labeled as optional)
- All Government taxes and VAT
- Meals (as specified in the day-by-day section)
- Sleeping bag
Price excludes
- International flights (from or to home)
- Roundtrip airport transfer
- Additional accommodation before and at the end of the tour
- Personal items (souvenirs, travel insurance, visa fees, etc.)
FAQ
FAQ
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