| ACCOMMODATION TYPE | 1 PERSON (PER PERSON) | 2 PERSONS (PP) | 4 PERSONS (PP) | 6 PERSONS (PP) |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| STANDARD CAMPING | $1900 | $1710 | $1550 | $1385 |
Trip Overview
Number of days: 6
Difficulty: difficult – best in top physically trained condition
Total distance: 53 km / 32 mi
Average trek time per day: 7 hours
The Umbwe Route is the shortest route to the Southern Glaciers and the Western Breach. It is much less traveled, beautifully scenic, but requires excellent health as a day is spent near the crater summit. This route is excellent for those looking for a challenging and rewarding mountain climbing experience.
Quick Facts
- A difficult but unparalleled experience on Kilimanjaro. Recommended for more experienced climbers, geology and geography enthusiasts.
- Spectacular views of the Southern Glaciers and the ash cone at the peak.
- High difficulty. Shorter route, faster ascent, steeper trails, and an extra day spent at high altitudes should be reserved for those who have had high-altitude training or experience.
- Distance Traveled: 53 km / 32 mi
- Average walking time per day: 7 hours
- Average ascent altitude change per day: 850m (over 1000m on some days)
Itinerary
| DAY | DESCRIPTION |
|---|---|
| Day 1 | Drive from the hotel to Umbwe Gate (1800 m). Pass through lush hills of Kilimanjaro villages, and coffee and banana farms. The path begins up a forest trail toward Umbwe River. The trail offers spectacular views of deep gorges and the peak of Kilimanjaro in the distance. Camp in the forest at the Umbwe Cave campsite (2940 m). Hike through montane forests. Expect 5 hours of hiking time. |
| Day 2 | Umbwe Cave Camp to Barranco Camp (3950m). The forest thins and is replaced by rockier terrain, sparse undergrowth, and scraggly moss-covered trees. As you gain higher altitudes, catch glimpses of Kilimanjaro straight ahead. Make camp in the valley below the Great Barranco Wall. Trek through mountane forest and moorlands. Expect 6 hours of hiking time. |
| Day 3 | Barranco Camp to Arrow Glacier Camp (4800 m). Hike toward the landmark Lava Tower. The trail here turns steep and rocky. From the Tower heat toward the Western Breach, and finish at the scenic Arrow Glacier Camp. Trek through moorland into alpine semi-desert. Higher altitudes can be taxing, expect rest time during hikes. |
| Day 4 | Arrow Glacier to Crater Camp (5700 m). Expect 5 hours of hiking time. Traverse through the alpine desert into snow fields. Be astonished by the vast expanse of snow and ice at the crater rim. The Crater Camp offers unbeatable sights at the peak of Kilimanjaro, but it is at an extremely high altitude, and requires that climbers are of optimal health. |
| Day 5 | Ascent to Summit – descent to Mweka Camp (3100 m). Begin the ascent before dawn to reach Uhuru Peak. After resting for breakfast, descend to Mweka camp at lower altitudes. |
| Day 6 | Check out at Mweka Gate – to hotel. Finish your journey by a relaxing descent to the Mweka Gate to receive certification. |