Duration

6 Days
From $1,890
/ Person
  • Kilimanjaro Int. Airport (KIA)
  • Jan, Feb, Mar, Jun, Jul, Aug, Sep, Oct
  • Camping in Mountain Tents
  • Coster Bus
  • English
  • Kilimanjaro Int. Airport (KIA)

Overview

The Umbwe Route is one of Kilimanjaro’s lesser-known trails, offering a challenging yet rewarding experience. It’s famous for its steep ascent during the first two days, but with proper preparation and training, many hikers can take it on. Starting from the southern side of the mountain, the trail climbs sharply through dense rainforest before merging with the Lemosho and Machame routes on the third day, just before the iconic Barranco Wall. The early stages of this trek are quieter than other routes, making it a great choice for those who prefer a more solitary and immersive adventure.

Hikers can choose between a 6-day or 7-day itinerary, with the longer option being ideal for those who need extra time to acclimatize. Taking the extra day helps reduce the risk of altitude sickness, making the journey smoother and more enjoyable. The Umbwe Route is also one of the most scenic trails, offering breathtaking views as it winds through Kilimanjaro’s diverse landscapes. Along the way, trekkers can spot unique flora and wildlife, making this route a fantastic option for adventurers looking for both challenge and beauty.

Tour Highlights

  • Steep & Scenic – Challenging start through dense rainforest.
  • Quiet & Remote – Fewer trekkers in the early days.
  • Diverse Landscapes – From jungle to alpine desert.

Tour Itinerary

After a hearty breakfast, a short drive will take you from Moshi to the Umbwe Gate, where you'll complete park registration and officially begin your trek. The trail winds through lush rainforest, offering glimpses of exotic flora and fauna along the way. As you ascend, you'll gradually gain elevation, eventually reaching Umbwe Cave Camp, your home for the night. Dinner will be served amidst the tranquility of the forest, setting the stage for the days ahead.

  • Elevation: 1,000m/3,280ft to 2,850m/9,350ft
  • Hiking Time: 5-7 hours
  • Distance: 11km/7 miles
  • Difficulty: Moderate to Difficult
  • Habitat: Rainforest

Leaving Umbwe Cave Camp behind, you'll continue your journey through diverse terrain, including the challenging Barranco Wall. As you climb, the scenery changes from lush forest to open moorland, offering stunning views of Kilimanjaro's towering peaks. By midday, you'll arrive at Barranco Camp, nestled in a scenic valley. Here, you'll rest and recharge for the adventures to come.

  • Elevation: 2,850m/9,350ft to 3,960m/13,000ft
  • Hiking Time: 4-6 hours
  • Distance: 6km/3.7 miles
  • Difficulty: Difficult
  • Habitat: Moorland

Today's trek takes you from Barranco Camp to Karanga Camp, traversing the rugged landscapes of Kilimanjaro's alpine desert. Along the way, you'll navigate steep ridges and valleys, with breathtaking vistas unfolding at every turn. By late afternoon, you'll arrive at Karanga Camp, where you'll spend the night beneath the star-studded African sky.

  • Elevation: 3,960m/13,000ft to 4,035m/13,106ft
  • Hiking Time: 4-5 hours
  • Distance: 5km/3.1 miles
  • Difficulty: Moderate
  • Habitat: Alpine Desert

As you ascend to Barafu Camp, the air grows thinner, and the landscape transforms into a barren, lunar-like expanse. Despite the challenging terrain, the camaraderie among your fellow trekkers and the promise of reaching new heights keeps you motivated. Upon reaching Barafu Camp, you'll enjoy a hearty meal before resting in preparation for the final push to the summit.

  • Elevation: 4,035m/13,106ft to 4,640m/15,223ft
  • Hiking Time: 4-5 hours
  • Distance: 4km/2.5 miles
  • Difficulty: Moderate to Difficult
  • Habitat: Alpine Desert

Today is the culmination of your journey as you embark on the exhilarating trek to Uhuru Peak, the highest point in Africa. Beginning in the darkness of night, you'll navigate steep switchbacks and icy terrain under the guidance of your experienced guides. As the sun rises over the horizon, you'll reach Stella Point before continuing to the summit. Upon reaching Uhuru Peak, you'll be rewarded with awe-inspiring panoramic views and a profound sense of accomplishment. After celebrating your achievement, you'll begin the descent to Mweka Camp, where a warm meal and well-deserved rest await.

  • Elevation: 4,640m/15,223ft to 5,895m/19,341ft, then down to 3,100m/10,170ft
  • Hiking Time: 10-14 hours
  • Distance: 17km/10.5 miles
  • Difficulty: Very Difficult
  • Habitat: Arctic to Rainforest

Your final day on the mountain begins with a leisurely descent through the lush rainforest, retracing your steps back to Mweka Gate. Along the way, you'll savor the sights and sounds of the forest, reflecting on the incredible journey you've undertaken. Upon reaching Mweka Gate, you'll bid farewell to your guides and porters before transferring back to Moshi. Here, you'll enjoy a hot shower, a delicious meal, and a well-deserved night of rest in the comfort of your hotel.

  • Elevation: 3,100m/10,170ft to 1,650m/5,413ft
  • Hiking Time: 3-4 hours
  • Distance: 10km/6.2 miles
  • Difficulty: Moderate
  • Habitat: Rainforest

Price Includes

  • Professional, experienced, mountain guides
  • Guides, Porters, Cook salaries, and park fees
  • Emergency Oxygen Cylinder
  • All meals while on the Mountain
  • Quality Mess tents with tables and chairs
  • Large portions of fresh, healthy, nutritious food
  • Clean, purified drinking water
  • Conservation fees (part of park fees)
  • Camping or Hut fees (part of park fees)
  • Rescue fees (part of park fees)
  • VAT (18% charged by the Government)
  • Kilimanjaro summit certificate
  • All transfers to the mountain and back to your hotel

Price Excludes

  • Alcohol and soft drinks
  • Sleeping bag
  • Flights
  • Visa fees
  • Tips
  • Personal spending money for souvenirs
  • Travel insurance

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Our Testimonial

What’s Our Client’s Words

Safari Escort is honored to receive a perfect 5/5 client rating, reflecting its commitment to outstanding and memorable safari experiences. The team is grateful for guest support and remains dedicated to delivering excellence on every trip.

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Voyager24127367264
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Best Family safari with Safari Escort We visited Tanzania as a family of 8 people and had to see Great Wildebeest Migration in Serengeti for the first time. We were worried of the kids but Isack and the company assured us that we can have kids with us. Sure enough, it was amazing. We stayed at Acacia properties in Tarangire, Ngorongoro Crater and Serengeti.
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Zumbwe
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Incredible This was our second experience in Tanzania after we had visited in 2023. This time we wanted to visit southern circuit of Tanzania. We therefore booked our 15 day safari covering Nyerere, Mikumi, Udzungwa and Ruaha including different ads-on activities like Walking, Boat, Hiking and Game drives. Lodges and camps were excellent, the foods (local foods), staff we met at every place we stayed were splendid. Can't say much above all Khalifa was a great guy, we had him as a guide for the trip. This was cost effective safari experience.
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Zenesta
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Can't wait to visit again We contacted Isack for our safari to experience Migration, he responded on time and arranged everything perfectly. Our 7 days were amazing, Jimson was the best guide we had and made it exceptional.
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Melan
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Best Tanzania Safari We enjoyed an exceptional 5-day safari in February during the calving season. We explored Tarangire, the Ngorongoro Crater, and the Ndutu area. Wildlife viewing was outstanding, particularly witnessing numerous newborn animals in Ndutu. The guides were highly knowledgeable and welcoming, consistently ensuring we experienced the best sightings in complete safety.The entire journey was excellently organized, and the driver was outstanding, driving smoothly while sharing many insightful facts. I felt safe and comfortable throughout the trip overall. This safari ranks among the finest experiences of my life. I wholeheartedly recommend this tour and Safari Escort.
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