UMBWE ROUTE – OVERVIEW
Umbwe route is the steepest with the shortest and most direct routes to the Southern Glaciers, Western Breach, and Uhuru Peak. It is probably the most scenic, non-technical route on Kilimanjaro. However, it is quite taxing, primarily due to the relatively fast ascent to higher altitudes, but the rewards are plentiful. Very steep route best suited to experienced trekkers.
DAY 0: ARRIVAL KILIMANJARO AIRPORT
Upon arrival at Kilimanjaro International Airport, you will be met with an Alpine Chat Adventure representative and transferred to your hotel in Moshi. The hotel will provide all the essentials for a comfortable stay: cozy rooms, hot water, polite staff, a swimming pool, and Internet access. In the evening there will be a briefing with our Professional Mountain guide, who will also make sure you are ready to begin the climb.
DAY 1: UMBWE GATE – UMBWE CAVE
The journey begins with a drive from Moshi to the Kilimanjaro National Park Gate, where you’ll wait for permits while observing the busy preparations of various crews. As you start the trek, enjoy the scenic rainforest and winding trails while your guide shares insights about the local flora, fauna, and wildlife. The lower elevation trails can be muddy and slippery, so gaiters and trekking poles are recommended. The path ascends along a ridge between two deep valleys through dense montane forest, leading to a camp nestled among large trees and thick undergrowth.
9.6km/6mi | 6-8hrs | Moorland
Elevation: 1651m/5417ft to 2944m/9659ft
Altitude gained: 1293m
DAY 2: UMBWE CAVE – BARRANCO CAMP
After a good night’s sleep and a hearty breakfast, we emerge from the rain forest and continue on a steep ascending path, along the Umbwe ridge as it descends slightly to Barranco camp situated in the valley. Temperatures begin to drop.
4.75km/3mi | 4-6hrs | Moorland
Elevation: 2944m/9659ft to 3986m/13,077ft
Altitude gained: 1042m
DAY 3: BARRANCO CAMP - KARANGA CAMP - BARAFU CAMP
After breakfast, we continue on a steep ridge up the adventurous Barranco Wall to the Karanga Valley and the junction, which connects, with the Mweka Trail. This is one of the most impressive days to see the power, agility, and strength of your crew zip over this wall with what appears such ease. We continue up toward Barafu Camp, and once reached you have now completed the South Circuit, which offers a variety of breathtaking views of the summit from many different angles. An early dinner and rest as we prepare for summit night. Overnight at Barafu Camp.
4.75km/3mi | 4-6hrs | Moorland
Elevation: 2944m/9659ft to 3986m/13,077ft
Altitude gained: 1042m
DAY 4: BARAFU CAMP – SUMMIT- MWEKA CAMP
The most challenging part of the trek begins between midnight and 2 a.m., as you head towards the summit between the Rebmann and Ratzel glaciers. After navigating switchbacks through heavy scree, you’re rewarded with a magnificent sunrise at Stella Point. The final ascent to Uhuru Peak, the highest point on Kilimanjaro and in Africa, is often snow-covered, leading to moments of celebration at the summit. The day ends with a steep descent to Mweka Camp, where a well-deserved rest awaits.
4.86km /3mi up | 5-7hrs |
11.5km /7.1mi down | 5-6hrs | Glaciers, Snow Capped Summit
Elevation: 4662m/15,295ft to 5895m/19,341ft
Altitude gain: 1233m
Descent to 3106m/10,190ft
Altitude lost: 2789m
DAY 5: MWEKA CAMP - MWEKA GATE – MOSHI
After breakfast and a farewell ceremony with your crew, you begin the descent to the Mweka Park Gate to receive your summit certificates. The terrain is wet, muddy, and steep, so gaiters and trekking poles are recommended. From the gate, a vehicle will take you back to your hotel in Moshi, where you can enjoy a hot shower, dinner, and celebrations at Chanya Lodge. You’ll then prepare for your next adventure, whether it’s heading home, going on a safari, or relaxing in Zanzibar.
9.1km/5.7mi |3-4hrs | Rainforest
Elevation: 3106m/10,190ft to 1633m/5358ft
Altitude lost: 1473m
DAY 0: DEPARTURE
Today marks the bittersweet culmination of your extraordinary journey with us. If you wish to extend your adventure, we offer enriching day trips before your departure, tailored to your interests. As you depart for Kilimanjaro International Airport, carry with you the indelible moments and triumphs of conquering Kilimanjaro. It has been our privilege to guide you, and we sincerely thank you for choosing Alpine Chat Adventure. Safe travels and warm wishes until we meet again!
Low Season (April 1st – May 19th)
| Type of Accommodation | 2 persons | 4 persons | 6+ persons |
|---|---|---|---|
| SILVER | $3,048.00 USD* | $2,469.00 USD* | $2,275.00 USD* |
| GOLD | $3,615.00 USD* | $3,006.00 USD* | $2,803.00 USD* |
| PLATINUM | $4,300.00 USD* | $3,701.00 USD* | $3,501.00 USD* |
* Indicative costs per person, excluding international airline tickets
Mid Season (The Rest of the Year)
| Type of Accommodation | 2 persons | 4 persons | 6+ persons |
|---|---|---|---|
| SILVER | $3,245.00 USD* | $2,599.00 USD* | $2,384.00 USD* |
| GOLD | $3,971.00 USD* | $3,294.00 USD* | $3,069.00 USD* |
| PLATINUM | $4,699.00 USD* | $4,033.00 USD* | $3,811.00 USD* |
* Indicative costs per person, excluding international airline tickets
MAKE YOUR DREAM TRIP COME TRUE WITH ALPINE CHAT ADVENTURE
At Alpine Chat Adventure, you can customize your trip. Our sample itineraries are adjustable to your preferences. Our specialists work together with you to create your dream journey!
