6 Days Umbwe Route Trek – Kilimanjaro Climb
Tour Overview
The 6 Days Umbwe Route is the shortest, steepest, and most challenging route on Mount Kilimanjaro. It is recommended for experienced trekkers who are confident hiking at high altitudes and prefer a less crowded trail. The route ascends rapidly through dense rainforest before joining the Machame Route at Barranco Camp, offering spectacular scenery and an adventurous climb to Uhuru Peak (5,895m).
- Climb Africa’s highest mountain (5,895m)
- Summit at Uhuru Peak
- One of Kilimanjaro’s most scenic routes
- Excellent acclimatization profile
- High summit success rate
- Cross five unique ecological zones
- Professional mountain guides and porters
- Stunning sunrise from the summit
- Ideal for adventurous travelers and photographers
Itinerary
- Arrival at Kilimanjaro International Airport (JRO).
- Meet and greet by your mountain guide and transfer to your hotel in Arusha.
- Pre-climb briefing and equipment check.
- Overnight at the hotel.
Accommodation: Hotel in Arusha
Meals: Bed & Breakfast
- Drive from Arusha to Umbwe Gate for registration.
- Begin the trek through the lush rainforest on a steep and scenic trail.
- Pass giant trees, ferns, and dense vegetation before reaching Umbwe Cave Camp.
Distance: 10 km (6.2 miles)
Hiking Time: 5–7 hours
Accommodation: Umbwe Cave Camp
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
- Continue climbing through the forest before entering the heath and moorland zone.
- Enjoy stunning views as the landscape opens up.
- Join the Machame Route and arrive at the scenic Barranco Camp beneath the famous Barranco Wall.
Distance: 6 km (3.7 miles)
Hiking Time: 4–5 hours
Accommodation: Barranco Camp
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
- Climb the spectacular Barranco Wall with guidance from your experienced mountain guides.
- Trek across ridges and valleys with breathtaking views of Kibo Peak.
- Arrive at Karanga Camp for lunch and relaxation.
Distance: 5 km (3.1 miles)
Hiking Time: 4–5 hours
Accommodation: Karanga Camp
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
- Continue through the alpine desert to Barafu Camp.
- Enjoy incredible views of Mawenzi Peak and the surrounding glaciers.
- Rest, hydrate, and prepare for the midnight summit attempt.
Distance: 4 km (2.5 miles)
Hiking Time: 3–4 hours
Accommodation: Barafu Camp
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
Begin the summit ascent shortly after midnight.
Reach Stella Point (5,756m) at sunrise before continuing to Uhuru Peak (5,895m), the highest point in Africa.
Celebrate your achievement and enjoy spectacular panoramic views.
Descend via Barafu Camp to Mweka Camp for your final night on the mountain.
Distance: 17 km (10.6 miles)
Hiking Time: 10–14 hours
Accommodation: Mweka Camp
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
- Descend through the lush rainforest to Mweka Gate.
- Receive your official Kilimanjaro summit certificate.
- Transfer back to Arusha for relaxation or your onward travel.
Distance: 10 km (6.2 miles)
Hiking Time: 3–4 hours
Meals: Breakfast & Lunch
Package Includes
- Airport transfers
- Professional English-speaking mountain guide
- Assistant guides, cook, and porters
- Kilimanjaro National Park fees
- Camping equipment (tents, dining tent, tables, and chairs)
- Three freshly prepared meals daily on the mountain
- Drinking water throughout the trek
- Emergency oxygen and first aid kit
- Daily health monitoring with pulse oximeter
- Rescue fees
- Summit certificate
Package Excludes
- International and domestic flights
- Tanzania visa
- Travel insurance
- Personal trekking gear
- Sleeping bag (available for rent)
- Tips for guides, porters, and cook
- Personal expenses such as drinks, laundry, and souvenirs