7 Days Umbwe Route
Tour Overview
Climbing Mount Kilimanjaro via the Umbwe Route is an exhilarating adventure that promises a unique perspective of Africa’s highest peak, Uhuru Peak, standing tall at 5,895 meters (19,341 feet) above sea level. The Umbwe Route is celebrated for its challenging terrain and solitude, providing trekkers with an unforgettable journey. Here’s a comprehensive overview of your Kilimanjaro adventure, including arrival, a 7-day itinerary, and departure details.
Day 1: Arrival at JRO
Your Kilimanjaro expedition commences with your arrival at Kilimanjaro International Airport (JRO). Upon landing, you’ll be warmly welcomed by our experienced team, signaling the start of your Tanzanian adventure. We’ll ensure a smooth transfer to your accommodation in Arusha. This arrival day offers a vital period for rest, acclimatization, and a comprehensive pre-climb briefing to prepare you for the ascent.
Day 2: Umbwe Gate (1,600m) to Umbwe Cave Camp (2,940m)
Your Kilimanjaro journey begins at the Umbwe Gate (1,600 meters or 5,249 feet). On Day 2, you’ll register, meet your seasoned guides, and commence a captivating hike through the dense rainforests. The trail is teeming with unique flora and fauna. Your first night will be spent at the Umbwe Cave Camp (2,940 meters or 9,646 feet).
Day 3: Umbwe Cave Camp to Barranco Camp (3,960m)
On Day 3, continue your ascent from Umbwe Cave Camp to Barranco Camp. The hike, lasting around 6 to 7 hours, takes you through the lush rainforests before ascending to the moorland zone. Barranco Camp, situated at an elevation of 3,960 meters (12,992 feet), awaits you for your overnight stay.
Day 4: Barranco Camp to Karanga Camp (4,035m)
Day 4 begins with a thrilling rock scramble up the Barranco Wall. As you traverse rocky terrain, you’ll ascend to Karanga Camp at an elevation of 4,035 meters (13,238 feet). The hiking time on this day is approximately 4 to 5 hours.
Day 5: Acclimatization Day at Karanga Camp (4,035m)
Day 5 is designated for acclimatization at Karanga Camp. You’ll have the opportunity to explore the surrounding area or take short hikes to higher elevations. This day helps your body adjust to the increasing altitude, a crucial step for summit success.
Day 6: Karanga Camp to Barafu Camp (4,680m)
Begin Day 6 by departing from Karanga Camp and ascending toward Barafu Camp, your final base camp before the summit push. At an elevation of 4,680 meters (15,354 feet), Barafu Camp offers a strategic location for the summit attempt. Expect a 4 to 5-hour hike on this day.
Day 7: Summit Day - Uhuru Peak (5,895m) and Mweka Camp (3,100m)
Day 7 marks the pinnacle of your adventure as you join on the summit attempt. You’ll rise either late on Day 6 or early on the following day, depending on your pace. The ascent will take you through challenging scree slopes and past Gilman’s Point (5,681 meters or 18,638 feet) on the crater rim. Finally, you’ll reach Uhuru Peak (5,895 meters or 19,341 feet), the highest point in Africa, where you’ll celebrate your remarkable achievement. Afterward, commence the descent to Mweka Camp (3,100 meters or 10,170 feet).
Day 8: Mweka Camp (3,100m) to Umbwe Gate (1,600m)
The final leg of your incredible journey will guide you from Mweka Camp to the Umbwe Gate (1,600 meters or 5,249 feet). At the gate, your accomplishment will be celebrated with a summit certificate, a testament to your indomitable spirit.
Day 9: Departure
The final leg of your journey guides you from Mweka Camp to the Mweka Gate (1,640 meters or 5,381 feet). At the gate, your accomplishment will be celebrated with a summit certificate, a testament to your indomitable spirit. The adventure concludes with a transfer back to Arusha, where you can reflect on your Kilimanjaro triumph before your departure from Kilimanjaro International Airport (JRO). This journey will etch the magnificence of Mount Kilimanjaro into your life’s tapestry, leaving an indelible mark.
