- Arusha, Tanzania
- info@tobikoadventures.com
Tackle Kilimanjaro’s toughest route with this 6-day Umbwe Route climb. Steep, scenic, and challenging — ideal for experienced trekkers aiming for Africa’s highest peak.
The Umbwe Route is Kilimanjaro’s most demanding trail, perfect for seasoned trekkers with a strong sense of adventure. With rapid elevation gain, narrow ridgelines, and dramatic landscapes, this trail rewards the daring with solitude, challenge, and sweeping views few others get to experience.
Starting from the southern rainforest and climbing sharply toward the alpine zone, the route merges with the Machame path at Barranco Camp and follows the famed Southern Circuit before reaching the summit via Barafu. It’s a direct, scenic, and tough climb — but for those up to the challenge, the experience is unforgettable.
“Kilimanjaro isn’t just a climb—it’s a journey through every layer of Earth, ending at the stars.”
Through the Jungle: Your Adventure Begins
After a drive to Umbwe Gate, your trek kicks off deep in the rainforest. Expect a steep and steady climb through mossy trees, tangled roots, and thick vegetation. Keep an eye out for black-and-white colobus monkeys swinging in the canopy.
Distance: ~11 km | Time: 5–6 hrs
Elevation Gain: ~1,190m
Habitat: Montane Forest
Overnight: Umbwe Cave Camp
Meals: Lunch, Dinner
Climb into the Clouds
Leaving the forest behind, the trail enters open moorland. As altitude increases, vegetation thins and giant senecios emerge from the mist. Today’s route offers sweeping valley views and ends at the scenic Barranco Camp below the looming Barranco Wall.
Distance: ~6 km | Time: 4–5 hrs
Elevation Gain: ~1,130m
Habitat: Heath / Moorland
Overnight: Barranco Camp
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Scale the Famous Barranco Wall
The day begins with an exhilarating scramble up the iconic Barranco Wall — one of Kilimanjaro’s most memorable features. Once on top, enjoy panoramic vistas before a gentle traverse through alpine valleys to Karanga Camp.
Distance: ~5 km | Time: 3–4 hrs
Elevation Gain: ~70m
Habitat: Alpine Desert
Overnight: Karanga Camp
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Final Preparations at Base Camp
Today’s short hike brings you to Barafu Camp, perched in the high alpine desert. Rest, hydrate, and mentally prepare for the summit push. Your guide will conduct a thorough briefing before an early bedtime — tomorrow starts at midnight.
Distance: ~4 km | Time: 3–4 hrs
Elevation Gain: ~620m
Habitat: Alpine Desert
Overnight: Barafu Camp
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Summit Day – The Roof of Africa
Wake before midnight to begin the final ascent. Trek slowly in the cold and darkness up steep switchbacks to Stella Point, then follow the crater rim to Uhuru Peak — the highest point on the continent. Soak in the sunrise and celebrate your achievement before descending back to Barafu and then down to Mweka Camp.
Ascent: ~6 km | ~6–8 hrs
Descent: ~13 km | ~5–6 hrs
Elevation: 4,670m → 5,895m → 3,100m
Habitat: Arctic to Moorland
Overnight: Mweka Camp
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Descent through the Rainforest
Your final trek leads down through lush rainforest. The trail can be slippery, so watch your step. At Mweka Gate, you’ll receive your summit certificate and say goodbye to your mountain crew before returning to Moshi or Arusha.
Distance: ~10 km | Time: 3–4 hrs
Elevation Loss: ~1,460m
Meals: Breakfast
Ready to explore Tanzania’s wildlife, culture, and landscapes? Let Tobiko Adventure craft your perfect journey. Book now and let the adventure begin!
