Umbwe Route – 6 Days Trek – Almighty Kilimanjaro

6 Days, 5 Nights Trek

Summit Mount Kilimanjaro VIA Umbwe Route

ROUTE OVERVIEW

The Umbwe route has a well-deserved reputation for being the most challenging route on Mount Kilimanjaro. Due to the fast ascent to high altitude, this route does not provide the necessary stages for acclimatization. Although the number of people on this trail is very low, the chances of success are also low. Umbwe is considered to be very difficult, taxing route – one that should only be attempted by strong hikers who are confident in their ability to acclimatize quickly to altitude.

Approaching from the south, the Umbwe route is a short, steep, and direct climb. After reaching Barranco Camp, the trail turns east and traverses underneath Kilimanjaro’s Southern Ice Field on a path known as the Southern Circuit before summiting from Barafu. Descent is made via the Mweka route.

Price Per Person


1 to 2 People	3 to 4 People	Group of 5+
$1,900	$1,850	$1,800

Trekking Highlights

Summary Route Description

Summit success rates

Umbwe Route 6 days – Uhuru Peak: 72%; Crater Rim: 68.04%

Route Map

Best Time to Use the Umbwe Route

The best time for the Northern Circuit Route on Kilimanjaro is during the dry seasons, specifically July to September (most stable) and December to mid-March. These months offer clear, sunny skies, lower humidity, and minimal rain, providing the best conditions for the route’s long 9-10 day, high-success journey.

DAY TO DAY ITINERARY

Upon arrival at Kilimanjaro International Airport (JRO), you will be transferred to your hotel in Moshi. After check-in, you will meet with your guide for a briefing about the trek, gear check, and discussion of the next day’s plans. The rest of the day is free to relax, explore Moshi, and prepare for the climb.

Altitude: 915m/3,000ft

Accommodation Options (Before and After the Hike):

Departing from Moshi driving to the Kilimanjaro National Park Gate. We will patiently wait for our permits to be issued while watching the hustle and bustle of operations as many crews prepare for the journey ahead Enjoy the beautiful rainforest scenery and windy trails while your guide tells you about the local flora and fauna and natural wildlife. At these lower elevations the trail can be muddy and quite slippery. We highly recommend gaiters and trekking poles here. The path follows a ridge between two deep valleys up through the dense montane forest. The camp is perched between huge trees and thick undergrowth.

Elevation 5895m
Elevation Gain:1,050 meters, 3,445 feet
Hiking time: 4 to 6 hours

Accommodation:

Meal Plan:

The first section of the trail continues following the ridge. After leaving the forest, it continues through open moorlands until reaching Barranco Camp. Barranco is generally regarded as the most scenic campsite on the Umbwe Trail, as giant senecios and lobelias surround it. As Barranco is in a valley, the sun rises later than at the other camps.

Total Elevation Gain: 1,100 meters, 3,610 feet
Hiking time: 5 to 7 hours

Accommodation:

Meal Plan:

The day starts with the climb of the Barranco Wall, a steep and challenging rock wall that requires some scrambling. Although the wall may seem daunting, it is manageable and offers breathtaking views as you climb. After conquering the Barranco Wall, the trail takes you through a series of ridges and valleys, with occasional ascents and descents. The landscape becomes increasingly barren, with scattered boulders and views of the southern glaciers. You’ll reach Karanga Camp in the early afternoon, giving you time to rest and acclimatize—dinner and overnight at Karanga Camp.

Distance: 5 km (3 miles)
Hiking Time: 4-5 hours
Habitat: Alpine Desert

Accommodation:

Meal Plan:

The trail to Barafu Camp is a steady ascent over rocky and barren terrain, with little vegetation. As you approach Barafu Camp, the terrain becomes steeper and more rugged. The camp is located on a rocky ridge, with breathtaking views of Mawenzi Peak and the summit of Kibo. You’ll arrive at Barafu Camp in the early afternoon. This is your base camp for the summit attempt, so after an early dinner, you’ll rest and prepare for the final ascent.

Distance: 4 km (2.5 miles)
Hiking Time: 4-5 hours
Habitat: Alpine Desert

Accommodation:

Meal Plan:

The summit attempt begins around midnight. With headlamps lighting the way, you’ll begin the challenging climb up steep scree and ice slopes. The climb to Stella Point is the most physically demanding part of the journey. Upon reaching Stella Point at sunrise, you’ll take a short rest and then continue along the crater rim to Uhuru Peak, the highest point on Kilimanjaro and in Africa. After celebrating at Uhuru Peak, you’ll descend back to Barafu Camp for a brief rest, and then continue the descent to Mweka Camp.

Distance: 5 km (3 miles) ascent to Uhuru Peak + 12 km (7.5 miles) descent to Mweka Camp
Hiking Time: 7-8 hours to the summit, 4-6 hours descent to Mweka Camp
Habitat: Arctic to Rainforest

Accommodation:

Meal Plan:

On the final day, you’ll continue descending through the rainforest to Mweka Gate. The trail is gentle and surrounded by the sounds and sights of the forest, a stark contrast to the barren summit. At Mweka Gate, you’ll complete park formalities and receive your summit certificates. After celebrating with your guides and porters, you’ll be driven back to Moshi, where you can enjoy a well-deserved rest.

Distance: 10 km (6 miles)
Hiking Time: 3-4 hours
Habitat: Rainforest

Accommodation:

Meal Plan:

COST BREAKDOWN

Trekking Cost Covers

All entrance fees and Government Taxes
Airport Transfers (upon Arrival and Departure)
Clean, purified drinking water
Fair wages for the mountain crew.
All meals while on the Mountain 
Rescue Fees and all taxes.
Salaries for Porters, Cook, and Guides 
Oxygen Tanks, Pulse Oximeter, and First Aid Kit
Private cook speaking fluent English
Private guide speaking fluent English
Transfers from the Hotel to the Kilimanjaro entrance gate and from the Kilimanjaro exit gate to the hotel.

Does not Cover

Travel insurance
International flights (can be booked for you on request)
Tips for guides, porters, and cooks
Accommodation on day of arrival and departure
Visas & vaccinations
Personal expenses eg. Laundry, beverages, etc.
Bed, Sleeping Bag, and walking Poles.
Private Toilet and hot shower tent.

INQUIRIES & FAQ's

Inquiry Space

Your Trekking & Hiking Questions Answered

When is the best time to climb the 6 Days Umbwe Route?

The best time to climb Kilimanjaro via the steep, challenging Umbwe route is during the dry seasons: July to September (dry and warmer/cooler) and January to early March (warmer, less crowded). These periods offer the clearest skies, driest trails, and best safety conditions for the steep, treacherous, and rapid ascent.

How should I prepare for the 6 Days Umbwe Route?

Prepare with physical training, mental readiness, and gear planning. Cardio, strength exercises, and long hikes with a weighted backpack are recommended. Layered clothing, waterproof gear, trekking poles, and sturdy boots are essential. Stay hydrated, eat well, and learn to recognize high-altitude symptoms.

Are there other Kilimanjaro routes besides Umbwe?

Yes, other routes include Machame (scenic southern approach), Rongai (northern, drier), Umbwe (steep), and the Northern Circuit (longest and most scenic). Marangu stands out for hut accommodations, gradual ascent, and a well-structured six-day climb.

What is the summit success rate for the 6 Days Umbwe Route?

The 6-Day Umbwe Route offers a good summit success rate of about 72%. The route’s gradual climb and helpful acclimatization points improve your chances of reaching Uhuru Peak. Success rates are strong when trekkers pace themselves well and stay hydrated.

Is it possible to arrange a safari after Trekking?

Yes, we can arrange a safari for you after you complete the Marangu Route of the Kilimanjaro Trek. Tanzania offers incredible safari destinations, such as the Serengeti, the Ngorongoro Crater, and Tarangire National Park, which you can easily add to your adventure. Our team will help you customize an itinerary to suit your preferences, allowing you to experience the best of Tanzanian wildlife after your trek. Simply let us know your interests, and we will arrange an unforgettable safari to complete your Kilimanjaro experience.

Can I join Kilimanjaro group treks on the Umbwe Route?

Yes, group treks are available. Groups share porters, enjoy guided support, and create a social trekking experience. Group sizes vary; early booking is recommended.