6 Days Umbwe Route – The Most Difficult Route kilimanjaro

Day 1: Umbwe Gate to Umbwe Cave Camp (2,943m)

After breakfast, you will drive from Moshi or Arusha to the Umbwe Gate, located at an altitude of 1,650 meters. After completing the necessary registration formalities, you will begin your hike to Umbwe Cave Camp. The trail is steep and challenging, passing through dense rainforest and bamboo forest. The hike takes approximately 4-5 hours, and you will have lunch on the way. You will reach Umbwe Cave Camp in the late afternoon, where you will have dinner and rest for the night.

Day 2: Umbwe Cave Camp to Barranco Camp (3,976m)

After breakfast, you will continue your hike to Barranco Camp, located at an altitude of 3,976 meters. The trail passes through the moorlands and heath zone, offering stunning views of Mount Kilimanjaro and the surrounding valleys. The hike is long and challenging, taking approximately 6-7 hours, and you will have lunch on the way. You will reach Barranco Camp in the late afternoon, where you will have dinner and rest for the night.

Day 3: Barranco Camp to Karanga Camp (3,995m)

After breakfast, you will continue your hike to Karanga Camp, located at an altitude of 3,995 meters. The trail passes through the Alpine Desert, characterized by rocky and barren landscapes. You will cross the Barranco Wall, a steep and challenging climb that requires the use of hands and feet. The hike takes approximately 4-5 hours, and you will have lunch on the way. You will reach Karanga Camp in the early afternoon, where you will have dinner and rest for the night.

Day 4: Karanga Camp to Barafu Camp (4,673m)

After breakfast, you will continue your hike to Barafu Camp, located at an altitude of 4,673 meters. The trail passes through the Alpine Desert, and the air gets thinner as you ascend higher. The hike takes approximately 3-4 hours, and you will have lunch on the way. You will reach Barafu Camp in the early afternoon, where you will have dinner and rest for the night.

Day 5: Barafu Camp to Uhuru Peak (5,895m) to Mweka Camp (3,100m)

You will start your hike to the summit of Mount Kilimanjaro, Uhuru Peak, at midnight. You will be woken up by your guide and have a light breakfast before beginning your climb. The climb is challenging, and you will have to take it slow to avoid altitude sickness. After approximately 6-7 hours of climbing, you will reach Uhuru Peak, the highest point on Mount Kilimanjaro, at an altitude of 5,895 meters. You will have a short celebration and take photos before descending to Mweka Camp. The descent will take approximately 5-6 hours, and you will have lunch on the way. You will reach Mweka Camp in the late afternoon, where you will have dinner and rest for the night.

Day 6: Mweka Camp to Mweka Gate (1,640m)

After breakfast, you will begin your descent to Mweka Gate, located at an altitude of 1,640 meters. The trail passes through the rainforest zone, and you will see different wildlife species such as monkeys and birds. The descent takes approximately 3-4 hours, and you will have lunch on the way. You will reach Mweka Gate in the afternoon, where you will receive your certificate of achievement and transfer back to your hotel in Moshi or Arusha.

The Umbwe Route is a challenging and demanding route that requires a high level of fitness and experience in high-altitude trekking. Hikers need to be well-prepared and equipped with proper gear and equipment. However, the route offers hikers a unique and remote wilderness experience, away from the crowds of other routes. It is important to hike with a reputable and experienced guide who can ensure your safety and comfort throughout the climb.