7 Days – Rongai Route
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Climbing
7 Days – Umbwe Route Itinerary
The Umbwe Route is one of the most challenging and least-traveled routes on Mount Kilimanjaro, known for its steep ascent and rapid altitude gain. Often regarded as the most direct and dramatic route to the summit, Umbwe is ideal for experienced trekkers looking for a physically demanding and less crowded experience. The trail begins with a sharp climb through dense rainforest and quickly transitions into moorland and alpine desert as it merges with the Machame Route near Barranco Camp. Despite its difficulty, the route rewards climbers with solitude, raw beauty, and some of the most breathtaking views on the mountain.
itinerary
Day 1
Umbwe Gate to Umbwe Cave Camp
Your trek begins with a transfer from Moshi or Arusha to Umbwe Gate (1,800 meters). After registration and a short briefing, the hike begins through dense montane rainforest. The trail is steep and direct, climbing along a forested ridge with occasional views of valleys below. After 5 to 7 hours of hiking covering about 11 kilometers, you’ll arrive at Umbwe Cave Camp (2,850 meters), where you will settle in for the night.
Day 2
Umbwe Cave Camp to Barranco Camp
Today the trail steepens as you leave the forest behind and enter heath and moorland zones. You’ll continue up a rocky ridge with views of the Western Breach and the Southern Icefields. Eventually, the route joins the Machame trail at Barranco Camp (3,960 meters), nestled beneath the imposing Barranco Wall. The day covers approximately 6 kilometers and takes 4 to 6 hours.
Day 3
Acclimatization at Barranco Camp
This is an acclimatization day designed to help your body adjust to the altitude. You may take a short hike up the Barranco Wall and explore surrounding ridges or simply rest at camp. This additional day enhances your chances of a successful summit while allowing you to enjoy the spectacular scenery.
Day 4
Barranco Camp to Karanga Camp
After breakfast, begin your ascent of the iconic Barranco Wall—a challenging but non-technical scramble that offers incredible panoramic views. Once at the top, the trail undulates through valleys and over ridges before reaching Karanga Camp (4,035 meters). The hike covers approximately 5 kilometers and takes 4 to 5 hours.
Day 5
Karanga Camp to Barafu Camp
The trek continues through a dry alpine desert landscape with minimal vegetation. This short day helps with acclimatization as you approach Barafu Camp (4,640 meters), your base for the summit attempt. After an early dinner and rest, you’ll prepare for the midnight summit ascent. Today’s hike takes about 3 to 4 hours over 4 kilometers.
Day 6
Barafu Camp to Uhuru Peak to Mweka Camp (Summit Day)
You’ll begin the summit push shortly after midnight, navigating switchbacks and scree fields in the dark. The first milestone is Stella Point (5,756 meters), followed by the final push to Uhuru Peak (5,895 meters), the highest point in Africa. After celebrating at the summit, you’ll descend to Barafu Camp for a short rest, then continue down to Mweka Camp (3,080 meters). The total hiking time is 11 to 14 hours, covering approximately 17 kilometers.
Day 7
Mweka Camp to Mweka Gate – Return to Moshi/Arusha
After breakfast, you’ll make your final descent through the lush rainforest back to Mweka Gate (1,640 meters). This final stretch covers around 10 kilometers and takes 3 to 4 hours. At the gate, you’ll receive your summit certificate and be transferred to your hotel in Moshi or Arusha for a well-earned rest and celebration.
Price Includes
- Park fees and camping/hut fees
- Rescue fees
- All meals on the mountain
- Professional, experienced mountain guides and porters
- Tents and camping equipment
- Transfers to/from park gates
- Certificate of achievement
Price Excludes
- Flights
- Accommodation before/after trek (can be added)
- Personal trekking gear
- Tips for guides, porters, cook
- Travel insurance
- Medical evacuation (highly recommended to have coverage)
