From:
$1,800
/Person
6 days
Umbwe Gate (1,800 m / 5,904 f)
About
Highlights
Steepest and most direct route to the summit
Wild, scenic rainforest trail
Minimal foot traffic — least crowded route
Most challenging standard route (physically and mentally)
Best suited for experienced or high-altitude trekkers
Description
The Umbwe Route is for confident, fit climbers seeking a direct and quiet ascent. It’s the steepest non-technical route on Kilimanjaro — starting with rapid elevation gain through dense rainforest, and joining the southern circuit near Barranco.
While beautiful and uncrowded, it’s also less forgiving in terms of acclimatisation. Most people opt for longer, more gradual routes. But for the right trekker, Umbwe offers a raw and unforgettable Kilimanjaro experience.
The Umbwe Route begins just south of the mountain and immediately climbs steep ridgelines through thick, mossy forest. The first two days are physically intense, often compared to stair-stepping up a jungle cliff.
After reaching Barranco Camp, the route merges with the more gradual southern circuit and follows the same summit path as Lemosho and Machame. This gives you time to recover and adjust slightly before the final ascent.
“Umbwe is not for everyone. It’s steep, intense, and fast. But for fit climbers who want a bold, quiet path, it’s unforgettable. We go slowly and take great care — because the mountain always deserves respect.”
Pricing Breakdown
Pricing Packages
Group Size | Price per Person (pax) |
|---|---|
1-2 pax | $2,100 |
3-4 pax | $2,000 |
5-10 pax | $1,900 |
10+ pax | $1,800 |
Price Includes
Airport transfers (to/from Kilimanjaro International Airport)
2 nights at a hotel in Arusha (before and after the trek)
Kilimanjaro National Park entry fees and permits
All meals and purified drinking water during the trek
Private toilet tent for groups of 4+
Professional English-speaking guide(s)
Experienced local porters (fair pay and reasonable loads)
Cook and kitchen staff
Four-season mountain tents (2 climbers per tent)
Sleeping mats
Emergency oxygen and first-aid kit
Daily health checks with pulse oximeter
Rescue fees (where applicable)
Price Doesn't Include
Flights and visa
Tips for guides, porters, and cook
Travel insurance (mandatory)
Personal trekking gear (rental available)
Meals in Arusha (lunch and dinner)
Extra hotel nights before or after the trek
Daily Itinerary
Day 1: Arrival in Arusha
Pickup at Kilimanjaro Airport and transfer to your hotel. Meet your guide, review equipment, and get briefed for the climb.
Day 2: Umbwe Gate (1,600m) – Umbwe Cave Camp (2,850m)
Drive to the southern gate (about 2 hrs). Begin the trek through steep rainforest. The trail climbs sharply along a forested ridge with limited switchbacks. Wildlife sightings and misty jungle atmosphere throughout.
Distance: 10 km
Hiking Time: 5–7 hrs
Day 3: Umbwe Cave – Barranco Camp (3,960m)
Climb out of the forest into heather and alpine moorland. The path narrows and becomes rockier as you rise to Barranco Camp — one of the most scenic spots on the mountain.
Distance: 6 km
Hiking Time: 4–5 hrs
Day 4: Barranco – Karanga Camp (4,035m)
Start with a steep scramble up the Barranco Wall. Continue along ridges and valleys with sweeping views. Karanga is your last camp before base camp.
Distance: 6 km
Hiking Time: 4–5 hrs
Day 5: Karanga – Barafu Camp (4,640m)
A short but high-altitude trek to Barafu, your base for the summit push. The trail is open and rocky. Eat early, rest, and prepare for the midnight ascent.
Distance: 4 km
Hiking Time: 3–4 hrs
Day 6: Summit Day – Uhuru Peak (5,895m) – Mweka Camp (3,100m)
Begin at midnight. Reach Stella Point around sunrise, then continue to Uhuru Peak. Descend back to Barafu for a break, then all the way down to Mweka Camp.
Distance: 17 km
Hiking Time: 12–14 hrs
Day 7: Mweka Camp – Mweka Gate (1,640m) – Return to Arusha
Final descent through forest. Receive your certificate and return to Arusha for celebration and rest.
Distance: 10 km
Hiking Time: 3–4 hrs
