Kilimanjaro Umbwe Route 7 Days Itinerary

Kilimanjaro Umbwe Route 7 Days Itinerary

The Umbwe Route is a spectacular and challenging climb on Kilimanjaro, offering some of the most dramatic scenery and a less crowded trail. This 7-day itinerary adds an extra day for better acclimatization and a more gradual ascent, improving your chances for a successful summit while still enjoying the rugged beauty of this southern approach.

Tour Highlights

• ✓ Challenging and scenic Umbwe Route, less crowded
• ✓ Extra day for acclimatization to reduce altitude sickness risk
• ✓ Stunning views of Kilimanjaro’s glaciers and alpine landscapes
• ✓ Summit attempt via the Western Breach or standard route
• ✓ Experienced guides and support staff
• ✓ Overnight stays in tents at scenic campsites

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Itinerary – Kilimanjaro Umbwe Route 7 Days

Day 1 – Arrival & Transfer to Umbwe Gate (1,800 m) and Trek to Umbwe Camp (2,850 m)

Arrive in Moshi or Arusha and transfer to Umbwe Gate for registration. Begin the trek through dense rainforest, ascending steeply to Umbwe Camp. The hike takes about 4-5 hours. Overnight in tents.

Day 2 – Umbwe Camp to Barranco Camp (3,900 m)

Continue the challenging ascent from the forest into moorlands with breathtaking views. Trek for about 6-7 hours to Barranco Camp, located beneath the imposing Barranco Wall. Rest and prepare for the climb tomorrow.

Day 3 – Acclimatization Day at Barranco Camp

Spend a day acclimatizing with an optional hike up the Barranco Wall and surrounding areas. This helps your body adjust to the altitude, increasing your chances of summit success. Enjoy stunning views and relax at camp in the afternoon.

Day 4 – Barranco Camp to Karanga Camp (4,035 m)

Trek over the Barranco Wall, cross the Karanga Valley, and arrive at Karanga Camp. This day’s hike is shorter (about 4-5 hours) but remains steep. Overnight at Karanga Camp to continue acclimatization.

Day 5 – Karanga Camp to Barafu Camp (4,600 m)

Enter the alpine desert zone and trek for 4-5 hours to Barafu Camp, the final camp before the summit. Prepare your gear and rest early for the late-night summit push.

Day 6 – Summit Day: Barafu Camp to Uhuru Peak (5,895 m) and Descent to Mweka Camp (3,100 m)

Start the climb around midnight. The steep, strenuous ascent takes 6-7 hours. Witness sunrise at the summit and enjoy panoramic views of the African plains below. Descend to Barafu Camp for a short rest and continue down to Mweka Camp through the forest. Overnight at Mweka Camp.

Day 7 – Mweka Camp to Mweka Gate and Transfer Back to Moshi/Arusha

Descend for about 3-4 hours through the rainforest to Mweka Gate. Celebrate your achievement with guides and porters before transferring back to Moshi or Arusha for rest and departure.