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7 Days

Umbwe Route

Overview
Summary
Itinerary
Includes & Excludes
Plan Your Safari

7 Days Umbwe Route

The 7-day Umbwe Route is a challenging, direct Kilimanjaro trek for experienced climbers. Starting at Umbwe Gate, it ascends through rainforests and alpine deserts, offering stunning, isolated views. With rapid elevation gains, acclimatization is crucial. Its tough terrain and exclusive feel make it ideal for those seeking a rewarding, adventurous summit experience.

Tour Summary & Map

Day 1 – Umbwe Gate to Umbwe Camp (11 km / 5-7 hours)

Day 2 – Umbwe Camp to Barranco Camp (6 km / 4-5 hours)

Day 3 – Acclimatization Day at Barranco Camp

Day 4 – Barranco Camp to Karanga Camp (5 km / 4 hours)

Day 5 – Karanga Camp to Barafu Camp (4 km / 3-4 hours)

Day 6 – Summit Day – Barafu Camp to Uhuru Peak, then to Mweka Camp (17 km / 8 hours up, 9-10 hours down)

Day 7 – Mweka Camp to Mweka Gate (10 km / 3-4 hours)

Tour Itinerary

Day 1 - Umbwe Gate to Umbwe Camp (11 km / 5-7 hours)

Umbwe Gate to Umbwe Camp (11 km / 5-7 hours)

Start your journey with a briefing and early breakfast before being driven to Umbwe Village. After registration, hike through dense rainforest, where you’ll encounter giant fig and rubber trees, and occasionally muddy paths. The terrain is steep, but our porters will have the camp set up by the time you arrive at Umbwe Camp, located in the forest. Here, you’ll enjoy a hearty meal and prepare for the days ahead.

Day 2 - Umbwe Camp to Barranco Camp (6 km / 4-5 hours)

Umbwe Camp to Barranco Camp (6 km / 4-5 hours)

Start early with a steep climb through the rainforest before emerging into the drier terrain of Giant Erica and heathland. Continue along a ridge offering views of Uhuru Peak. After lunch, pass through the Senecio gardens and the semi-desert landscape before reaching Barranco Camp. This camp offers stunning views of the surrounding landscape, including a memorable sunset.

Day 3 - Acclimatization Day at Barranco Camp

Acclimatization Day at Barranco Camp

This day is dedicated to acclimatization, allowing your body to adjust to the higher altitudes. Enjoy short walks around Barranco Camp, soaking in the spectacular views of the unique landscape, including the groundsel plants. Many climbers rank Barranco Camp as the most scenic on the route, and it’s the perfect spot for resting and acclimatizing.

Day 4 - Barranco Camp to Karanga Camp (5 km / 4 hours)

Barranco Camp to Karanga Camp (5 km / 4 hours)

After breakfast, tackle the famous Great Barranco Wall, a steep but manageable climb. Reach the Heim Glacier and descend through the Karanga Valley, where your porters will gather water for the remainder of the ascent. Karanga Camp offers excellent views of Mawenzi Peak, and the afternoon is perfect for light exploration or relaxation.

Day 5 - Karanga Camp to Barafu Camp (4 km / 3-4 hours)

Karanga Camp to Barafu Camp (4 km / 3-4 hours)

From Karanga, continue along ridges and valleys to join the Mweka Route. After an hour’s climb, you’ll arrive at Barafu Camp, situated on a rocky ridge. The camp is exposed to high winds, so be sure to familiarize yourself with the area. After an early dinner, prepare your gear for the midnight summit attempt.

Day 6 - Summit Day - Barafu Camp to Uhuru Peak, then to Mweka Camp (17 km / 8 hours up, 9-10 hours down)

Summit Day - Barafu Camp to Uhuru Peak, then to Mweka Camp (17 km / 8 hours up, 9-10 hours down)

Wake at 11:30 PM for tea and snacks before embarking on the summit climb. The first 6 hours of trekking through scree and switchbacks lead to Stella Point. If you’re lucky, you’ll catch a glimpse of sunrise here. Continue along the crater rim to Uhuru Peak, the highest point in Africa. After brief celebrations, start your descent to Barafu Camp, then continue to Mweka Camp for rest and dinner.

Day 7 - Mweka Camp to Mweka Gate (10 km / 3-4 hours)

Mweka Camp to Mweka Gate (10 km / 3-4 hours)

Enjoy breakfast before descending through the scenic forest to Mweka Gate. Upon arrival, receive your summit certificate (green for Stella Point, gold for Uhuru Peak). If the road is too muddy for vehicles, you’ll walk an additional hour to Mweka Village for a hot lunch. Finally, you’ll be transferred back to Moshi for your well-earned shower and rest.

Includes & Excludes

Include & Exclude

Pick up at the International Airport
Transfer to the hotel Parkview Inn or Kilimanjaro Wonders Hotel
Kilimanjaro National Park permits
Kilimanjaro National Park rescue fees
Camping/hut fees
3 meals daily while on the mountain. The menu includes different soups, garnishes, several types of fish and meat, fresh fruit and vegetables; vegetarian options are available upon request
Modern tents
First aid kit
Warm and comfortable sleeping pads (2 inches thick)
Portable flush toilets can be provided for free upon clients' request
Group equipment (dining tent, table, chairs, crockery and cutlery)
Meeting the group at the National Park exit and transfer to the hotel
Accommodation after the climb
International certificates for a successful ascent

Local and international flights
Visa
Tips
Other meals at the hotel in the town
Personal gear such as a sleeping bag, boots and clothes
Laundry services
Personal items such as souvenirs and travel insurance
Soft and alcoholic beverages

7 Days Umbwe Route

Mid Range

Luxury

Top Luxury

Plan Your Safari

Discover Africa's Best Mountain Packages

Mount Kilimanjaro offers several scenic routes to its summit, each varying in difficulty and duration. Popular paths include Marangu, Machame, Lemosho, Rongai, and Northern Circuit. These routes showcase diverse landscapes—from rainforest to alpine desert—culminating at Uhuru Peak, Africa’s highest point.

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7 Days Umbwe Route FAQs

How do I choose a Kilimanjaro tour operator?

Choosing the right Kilimanjaro Tour Operator is one of the most important decisions you’ll make when hiking Africa’s highest peak.

It is often advised to look for a registered and experienced operator that has good reviews, professional mountain guides, and follows proper safety practices.

A good company should also take care of its crew, provide fair wages, reasonable porter loads, and appropriate meals. Don’t just go with the cheapest option.

A reliable operator provides superior support, high-quality equipment, and a safer experience on the mountain.

How much does it cost to climb Kilimanjaro?

The cost of Climbing Kilimanjaro usually ranges between $2,000 and $5,000. This depends on the route, the number of days, whether the climb is group or private, and the services included.

Remember, cheaper companies may cut corners on staff welfare or safety equipment.

A reasonable price usually includes park fees, experienced guides, meals, tents, porters, and airport transfers.

Therefore, always ask for a detailed cost breakdown before booking.

When is the best time to climb Kilimanjaro?

The best time to climb Kilimanjaro is during the dry seasons. January to mid-March and June to October offer the most stable weather and clearer views.

These months are ideal for achieving summit success and enjoying comfort. The long rains (late March to May) and short rains (November) make the trails slippery and reduce visibility.

While climbing during the rainy seasons is possible, it’s not ideal unless you’re prepared for wet, muddy, and more difficult conditions.

Which is the best route for climbing Kilimanjaro?

The Lemosho and Northern Circuit routes are known for beautiful scenery and good acclimatization.

Machame is the most popular, offering a dramatic and varied landscape.

Rongai is less crowded and drier, great for those seeking quiet trails.

Marangu is the only route with hut accommodations, but it offers less time for acclimatization.

Hence, your choice should depend on your fitness, time, and comfort level with altitude.

How many days should I spend on the mountain?

Climbing Kilimanjaro should not be rushed. The longer you spend on the mountain, the better your chances of acclimatizing properly and reaching the summit safely.

Most climbers choose a seven or 8-day route. These extra days allow your body to adjust gradually to the altitude and reduce the risk of altitude sickness.

Kilimanjaro Climbing Routes shorter than 6 days often lead to lower summit success and more health issues.

What kind of weather should I expect?

The weather on Kilimanjaro changes dramatically with altitude. You’ll experience five different climate zones, from tropical rainforest at the base to arctic conditions at the summit.

Days are warmer on the lower slopes (around 20–27°C / 68–80°F), while nights are much colder at higher altitudes.

Near the summit, temperatures can drop as low as -20°C (-4°F), especially before sunrise. Be ready for sun, wind, rain, and freezing temperatures—all in one climb.

What gear do I need to bring?

The essential items that are a must-have when climbing Kilimanjaro include: waterproof hiking boots, thermal base layers, an insulated jacket, waterproof pants and jacket, gloves, a hat, a warm sleeping bag, a headlamp, and a daypack.

The support team carries your large duffel bag (up to 15 kg), while you have only a small daypack with essentials like water, snacks, and a jacket. We always provide a complete Kilimanjaro Packing List.

How should I train and prepare for the climb?

You don’t need to be an athlete, but you must be physically prepared by doing some intensive training for Kilimanjaro. The best way to train is by doing long-distance hikes with elevation gain while carrying a backpack.

Build your endurance 2–3 months before the trip with regular walking, stair climbing, strength training, and cardio.

Aim for 4–6-hour hikes at a steady pace. Most of all, get used to walking uphill and downhill for several days in a row.

Is it safe to climb Kilimanjaro?

Kilimanjaro is considered a non-technical mountain, but the high altitude can be risky. Good operators take safety seriously. Trained guides monitor your health every day using pulse oximeters and ask questions to check for signs of altitude sickness. Oxygen cylinders, first-aid kits, and emergency evacuation plans are standard. If you climb with an experienced team and follow their advice, the climb is safe and well-managed.

Why are some Kilimanjaro climbs much cheaper than others?

If the price looks too good to be true, it probably is. Budget operators often cut costs by paying porters unfair wages, overloading staff, using worn-out gear, or skipping proper meals and safety checks. These practices are not just unethical; they also affect your overall experience. Reputable companies charge more because they take care of their team, use better equipment, and focus on your safety and success.

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