Kilimanjaro: Umbwe Route
​​​Known for its steep ascents and rugged terrain, the Umbwe Route is the most challenging path to the summit of Mount Kilimanjaro. This route is less traveled, offering an adventurous and remote trekking experience through dense rainforests and dramatic ridges. Ideal for experienced climbers seeking a tough but rewarding ascent, the Umbwe Route is a true test of endurance and determination, providing one of the most exhilarating ways to reach the Roof of Africa.
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All Stunning Kilimanjaro Trekking Tours are private and fully guided, featuring a full-board meal planwith three nutritious meals per day.​ Flexible start dates are available all year round (subject to availability).​​​​
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​Umbwe Gate, the southern entrance of Kilimanjaro National Park.
7 days, with 5 nights on Mount Kilimanjaro.
34,5 km ascending, 20 km descending.
4,095 meters from the starting point to the summit of Mount Kilimanjaro.
Uhuru Peak at 5,895 meters – the roof of Africa!
The most challenging route, due to steep ascents and rugged terrain.
Suitable for the more experienced trekkers, providing a tough, less traveled and remote experience.
High quality tents (per 2 persons), mattresses and private portable toilets.​​​​​​​​​​​​​
​*All estimated prices are per person, based on a 2 person trek.
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Details Kilimanjaro Trekking via the Umbwe Route
Starting from $ 2,199.00​​​​*
​As ​​the most challenging and direct route to the summit of Mount Kilimanjaro, the Umbwe Route is less traveled and a perfect choice for the more experienced trekkers, seeking a more demanding and remote trekking experience.
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Umbwe Route
Umbwe Gate & Umbwe Camp.
Barranco Camp & The Barranco Wall.
Karanga Camp & Barafu Camp.
Stella Point & Uhuru Peak.
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Key Highlights
Kilimanjaro: Day-to-Day Itinerary
Keep in mind that these itineraries are just a starting point to help you plan your Stunning Kilimanjaro adventure. We specialize in creating tailor-made tours and personalized adventures and holidays, fully customized to match your personal preferences.​
- Day 1 -
Welcome to Tanzania!
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Begin your unforgettable Kilimanjaro adventure with a warm welcome at Kilimanjaro International Airport (JRO).
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Our professional transfer team will escort you to your selected hotel in Arusha, your gateway to Mount Kilimanjaro.
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Later that day, you will meet your experienced Kilimanjaro guide for a detailed pre-climb briefing and equipment check. This essential meeting ensures you are fully prepared for the challenging days ahead.
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Enjoy a relaxing dinner and get a good night’s rest as your journey to the Roof of Africa begins.
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From Umbwe Gate to Umbwe Camp
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After a hearty breakfast, your mountain crew will drive you to Umbwe Gate (1,800 m), the starting point of one of Kilimanjaro’s most direct and challenging routes.
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After registration and obtaining your permits, you’ll embark on a steep trail through dense rainforest.
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The narrow ridge offers a dramatic introduction to the climb, as you rapidly gain altitude on your way to Umbwe Camp (2,850 m).
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Surrounded by lush greenery, you’ll enjoy dinner and an overnight stay at the camp, where the sounds of the rainforest will accompany you while you rest.
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Altitude: 1,800 m - 2,850 m
Hiking distance: 11 km
Hiking duration: 4-6 hours
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- Day 2 -
- Day 3 -
From Umbwe Camp to Barranco Camp
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Following an early breakfast at Umbwe Camp (2,850 m), you’ll continue your ascent through the heather and moorland zone.
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The trail remains steep, with vegetation becoming sparser as you climb higher.
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As you approach Barranco Camp, you’ll be greeted with breathtaking views of the towering Kibo Peak and the famous Barranco Wall.
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Located at 3,900 meters, this picturesque camp is one of the most scenic spots on Kilimanjaro.
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Enjoy dinner and an well-deserved overnight stay, preparing for the next day’s climb.
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Altitude: 2,850 m - 3,900 m
Hiking distance: 6 km
Hiking duration: 4-5 hours​
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The Great Barranco Wall & Karanga Camp
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After breakfast, tackle the iconic Barranco Wall (4,202 m).
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Although it looks daunting, the climb is more straightforward than it appears, requiring light scrambling and taking around an hour to complete.
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Once at the top, take a moment to admire the stunning views of Kibo Peak and capture memorable photos.
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Next you will descend to Karanga Camp (3,995 m), where a well-deserved lunch awaits.
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Altitude: 3,900 m - 4,202 m - 3,995 m
Hiking distance: 6 km
Hiking duration: 4-5 hours​​​​​​​​
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- Day 4 -
Acclimatization Hike towards Barafu Camp
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In the afternoon, take a short acclimatization hike towards Barafu Camp, reaching an altitude of 4,270 m, before returning to Karanga Camp (3,995 m), where a hot dinner will be served and you can a rest for the night.
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Acclimatization hikes involve easy-paced walks with modest altitude gains, designed to help your body adapt to the decreasing oxygen levels at higher elevations. These treks are crucial for minimizing the risk of altitude sickness and significantly enhance your chances of reaching Kilimanjaro’s summit. Approach them with care to ensure a safer and more enjoyable journey to the top.
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Altitude: 3,995 m - 4,270 m - 3,995 m
Hiking distance: 2.5 km
Hiking duration: 1-2 hours​​​​​​​​
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- Day 5 -
From Karanga Camp to Barafu Camp
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After breakfast, begin your trek to Barafu Summit Camp (4,673 m), the base for your summit attempt.
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The landscape becomes more barren and rocky as you ascend, with cold winds reminding you of the mountain’s icy reputation — "Barafu" means "ice" in Swahili.
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Your mountain crew will have everything set up upon your arrival, allowing you to conserve energy for the challenging summit night ahead.
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Enjoy dinner and rest early, preparing for the ultimate push to Uhuru Peak.
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Altitude: 3,995 m - 4,673 m
Hiking distance: 4 km
Hiking duration: 4-5 hours
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Sunrise at Uhuru Peak (5,895 m)
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Depart around midnight to begin your ascent to Uhuru Peak, the highest point in Africa. The trail first leads to Stella Point (5,756 m) before continuing to the summit.
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Although technically straightforward, the final push is physically demanding due to the high altitude.
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Reaching Uhuru Peak (5,895 m) at sunrise over the East African horizon is a moment of triumph — a reward for your determination and endurance.
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Take time to capture photos and celebrate your incredible achievement before beginning your descent.
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Altitude: 4,673 m - 5,756 m - 5,895 m
Hiking distance: 5 km
Hiking duration: 6-7 hours
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- Day 6 -
The Descent Back to Mweka Camp
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After a brief rest at Barafu Camp (4,673 m), you’ll continue your descent to Mweka Camp (3,100 m).
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Enjoy dinner and a restful night at Mweka Camp, reflecting on your incredible journey.
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The descent is quicker, but the path remains steep and can be physically demanding, especially after the long summit night.
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Altitude: 5,895 m - 4,673 m - 3,100 m
Hiking distance: 10 km
Hiking duration: 6-7 hours​​​​​​​​ (2 hours of rest at Barafu Camp excluded)
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- Day 7 -
The Final Descent to Mweka Gate
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Your final day on the mountain involves a descent through lush rainforests to Mweka Gate (1,640 m).
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At the park’s exit, you’ll receive your Kilimanjaro Certificate of Achievement, commemorating your successful climb.
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From here, a transfer will take you back to your hotel in Arusha, where a refreshing shower, a delicious dinner, and a comfortable bed await.
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Depending on your travel plans, this concludes the end of your Stunning Kilimanjaro adventure.
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Altitude: 3,100 m - 1,640 m
Hiking distance: 10 km
Hiking duration: 3-4 hours
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- Day 8 -
- Day 9 -
- Day 10 -
From the Roof to the Rawr
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After your Kilimanjaro climb, consider extending your adventure with a safari in the Serengeti or in the Ngorongoro Crater, where you can experience the Big Five up close.
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Alternatively, visit the island of Zanzibar to enjoy your time relaxing under swaying palms and get exposed to a true Swahili coastal escape.
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Extraordinary Achievement!
You’ve conquered the Umbwe Route, one of the most challenging routes to Kilimanjaro’s summit.
Included
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All entrance fees including government taxes.
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All activities (unless indicated as optional).
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All accommodations as mentioned in the itinerary.
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A professional driver and mountain guide, including expert guidance and informative commentary.
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3 meals per day: breakfast, lunch, and dinner.
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Unlimited bottles of drinking water.
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Transportation to and from the base of the mountain.
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Pick-up and drop-off at the airport.
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Camping equipment and porter services.​
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Official certificates issued by the Kilimanjaro National Park Authority (KINAPA).
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Excluded
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International and/or domestic flights.
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Tips (read Additional Advice).
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Visa (50 USD for Tanzania)
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Medical and/or travel insurance.
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Local SIM card.
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Personal expenses, such as souvenirs.
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Alcoholic beverages, soft drinks, and meals not specified as included.​
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Climbing gear (can be rented upon request).
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Medical evacuation by helicopter.
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Increases in taxes or park fees initiated by the government or other official authorities.​​​​​
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