7 Days Umbwe Route

Tanzania
7 days

Overview

The Umbwe Route is renowned for its demanding ascent, involving a rapid climb through thick rainforest, often utilizing tree roots as natural steps. Due to safety concerns at Arrow Glacier and the Western Breach, our standard Umbwe treks merge with the Machame route after the initial night. However, for those seeking a more adventurous summit via the Western Breach and Arrow Glacier, we offer specialized premium packages, including an overnight stay at Crater Camp, at an additional cost. The key distinction between the 6-day and 7-day Umbwe itineraries is the inclusion of an extra day for acclimatization at Barranco camp.

Duration

7 days

Places to Visit

Stunning view of Gilman's Point, Mount Kilimanjaro showcasing rugged landscapes and rocky peaks.

Mt. Kilimanjaro

Day by Day Itinerary

You will be picked up by the staff of African Traits from Kilimanjaro International Airport (JRO) and driven to your accommodation in Arusha. Participants will be given a short briefing for the climb the next day. Kits and the necessary equipment will be checked as well.

Accommodation: Sg Resort
Meals: Dinner

Hiking time: 6 Hours
Distance: Approximately 10.3 km
Habitat: Forest (Montane)

After breakfast, you will be driven to the Machame gate where registration formalities will be completed. From there, we proceed to the Umbwe Gate (1641m), passing through villages with coffee and banana plantations. The air is thick with moisture and the path is usually muddy. The route initially follows a forestry track winding up through the natural rain forest. It then narrows and steepens to climb the ridge between the Lonzo and Umbwe rivers, with huge trees surrounding you. The path offers some spectacular views of deep gorges and if you are lucky, glimpse of Kilimanjaro towering above you in the distance. The camp is perched between huge trees and thick undergrowth.

Accommodation: Umbwe Cave Camp
Meals: Breakfast Lunch andDinner

Hiking time: 6 hours
Distance: Approximately 6.3 km
Habitat: Moorland

Shortly after leaving the camp the forest starts thinning and is replaced by rockier terrain, sparser undergrowth and straggly, moss-covered trees. The path continues along a narrow, but spectacular ridge. As you gain higher altitude, you will have sightings of Kilimanjaro rising majestically ahead of you – etched against the blue sky. The path flattens as you approach Barranco Valley. From Umbwe ridge, the route descends slightly to the Barranco camp. The camp is situated in the valley below the Breach and Great Barranco Wall, which should provide you with a memorable sunset while your dinner is being prepared.

Accommodation: Barranco Camp
Meals: Breakfast Lunch andDinner

Hiking time: 6 hours
Distance: Approximately 6 km
Habitat: Moorland / Semi desert

After spending a night at the great Barranco Wall, we make our way up this awesome looking obstacle, which in the end normally turns out to be easier than anticipated. Topping out just below the Heim Glacier, you will now appreciate just how beautiful Kilimanjaro really is. The route then heads down through the Karanga Valley over intervening ridges and valleys, and then joins up with the Mweka route. The last water stop on the route is the Karanga Valley, as there is no water available at Barafu camp.

Accommodation: Karanga Camp
Meals: Breakfast Lunch and Dinner

Hiking time: 4 hours
Distance: Approximately 3.4km
Habitat: Alpine desert

After breakfast, we turn left up the ridge and the route ascends 640m towards Barafu Camp. Barafu is the Swahili word for “ice” and it is a bleak and inhospitable camping area to spend the night. Totally exposed to the ever-present gales, the tents are pitched on a narrow, stony, and dangerous ridge. Make sure that you familiarize yourself with the terrain before dark to avoid any accidents.

The summit is now a further 1214m higher and you will commence with your final ascent attempt, the same night. Prepare your equipment, hiking poles and thermal clothing for your summit attempt. This should include the replacement of your headlamp and camera batteries and make sure you have a spare set available as well. To prevent freezing it will be wise to carry your water in a thermal flask.

Accommodation: Barafu Camp
Meals: Breakfast Lunch andDinner

Barafu camp (4681m)-Uhuru Peak (5895m)-Mweka (3090m)
Hiking time: 7 to 8 hours to reach Uhuru Peak | 6 to 8 hours to descend to Mweka Camp
Distance: Approximately 4.5 km ascent and 10.8 km descent
Habitat: Stone scree and ice-capped summit

You will get up around 23h20, and after some tea and biscuits you shuffle off into the night. You will head northwest and ascend through heavy scree towards Stella Point on the crater rim. Most climbers find the 6-hour walk to Stella point as the most mentally and physically challenging.

At Stella Point (5739m), you will stop for a short rest and will be rewarded with the most magnificent sunrise (weather permitting). From Stella Point, you will normally encounter snow all the way on your 2-hour ascent to Uhuru Peak. The time you will spend on the summit will depend on the weather conditions but it’s best not to stop for too long as it will be extremely difficult to get going again due to cold and fatigue.

The walk back to Barafu from the summit takes about 3 hours. Here you will have a short rest before heading down to Mweka hut (3090m). The route is not difficult and will take you down the rock and scree path into the moorland and eventually into the forest. The camp is situated in the upper forest and mist or rain can be expected in the late afternoon.

Accommodation: Barafu Camp
Meals: Breakfast Lunch andDinner

Hiking time: 4 to 6 hours
Habitat: Forest
Distance: Approximately 8.5 km

It will be a short 4 to 6 hour scenic hike back to the Park gate. Some hikers do experience knee problems, which could make the descent longer than planned. At Mweka gate, successful climbers receive their summit certificates. Those climbers who reached Stella Point (5739m) are issued with green certificates and those who reached Uhuru Peak (5895m) receive gold certificates.

From the Mweka Gate you will continue down into the Mweka village, normally a muddy 3 km (1 hour) hike. In the Mweka village, you will be served a delicious hot lunch. Afterwards, we drive back to Arusha for a long overdue hot shower, dinner and celebration.

Accommodation: Sg Resort
Meals: Breakfast Lunch and Dinner

Inclusions

Full board accommodation whilst on safari in the above-mentioned Public Camps
Private safari guide
Maasai Experience tour
Extended Toyota Land Cruiser
Private 4 x 4 safari jeep with pop-up roof for game viewing
Transfers in both directions between the International Airport and Moshi.
All entrance Park fees
Ngorongoro Crater fees
18% VAT to our entrance fees.
All meals while on safari.

Exclusions

Tanzania Visa: $50 per person on arrival, USA and CANADA passport holders USD 100
Personal Expenses (e.g. laundry, telephone, beverages, etc.)
Meals not listed above
Optional Tours (balloon rides USD. 540 per person)
Tips and any items of personal nature

Frequently Asked Questions

What’s Included and Excluded in Every Tour?

The inclusions and exclusions vary by tour. Each tour has its specific set of inclusions and exclusions. Please refer to the individual tour page to see what is specifically included in that tour.

What Are Your Cancellation Terms?

Our cancellation terms are standard within the industry. For more information on our cancellation policy, please visit the designated page.

What Vaccines and Health Requirements Are Needed?

The requirements vary depending on the country and nationality. For the most accurate information, please visit the page specific to your destination and consult the corresponding embassy page for the latest information.

Can I Choose Other Accommodation Than What’s Specified?

Yes, if you have a special preference, let us know, and we will offer alternatives from our vast network of company-owned and partner accommodations. Booking with us allows you to enjoy discounted rates as we have special agreements with our partners.

Will My Mobile/Cellular Phone Work During the Tour?

Yes, though signal strength may vary in different areas.

What Activities Can My Kids Do While on a Safari?

A safari offers an enriching experience for children, allowing them to observe animals in their natural habitat. Some camps and lodges offer amenities for children, such as playrooms and pools, though these are not universally available. We suggest bringing activities that your children enjoy.

What Payment Methods Do You Accept?

We accept various payment methods, including card payments. For more information on acceptable payment methods, please visit our payment information page.

What If I Have Special Needs or Requirements?

We strive to cater to all requirements, such as providing wheelchair-friendly accommodation or rooms on the first floor if stairs are a challenge. Please communicate with us in advance about your needs.

What Are the Road Conditions Like?

Most safari parks have bumpy but manageable roads, with some roads being paved. Generally, guests do not view this as a problem.

Is Electricity Available 24 Hours in the Lodges and Camps?

Most standard camps and lodges are equipped with generators, so electricity is generally available 24 hours. However, some interruptions may occur but are typically not a significant concern for guests.

What About My Special Diet and Food Preferences?

We cater to all diets, including vegan, vegetarian, and gluten-free options, among others. Please inform us in advance about your dietary preferences.

Is Tipping Required?

Tipping is not required but is recommended. The amount varies by country, but you should tip according to what you feel is appropriate.