From $2,395 USD per person
Best for experienced trekkers seeking a steep, scenic challenge

Tour Overview

The Umbwe Route is the shortest and steepest route up Mount Kilimanjaro, ideal for experienced climbers seeking a direct ascent. This trail joins the Machame Route at Barranco Camp, offering stunning views and a demanding yet rewarding journey. All climbs are offered as private trips, starting on any day, or as part of select group departures.

Itinerary

Day 1: Arrive at Kilimanjaro Airport – Transfer to Arusha

• Meet your driver at Kilimanjaro International Airport (JRO)

• Drive approx. 45 minutes to Arusha

• Pre-trek briefing with your Kilimanjaro guide and equipment check
  Meals: None
  Accommodation: Lodge (Mid-Range)

Day 2: Umbwe Gate to Umbwe Cave Camp

• Drive to Umbwe Gate (30 min)

• Trek through lush rainforest to Umbwe Cave Camp
  Elevation: 1,660m to 2,850m
  Distance: 11 km / 7 miles
  Time: 5–6 hours
  Habitat: Montane Forest
  Meals: B, L, D
  Accommodation: Umbwe Cave Camp (Budget)

Day 3: Umbwe Cave Camp to Barranco Camp

• Hike through scenic ridges toward Lava Tower and descend to Barranco
  Elevation: 2,850m to 4,000m
  Distance: 6 km / 4 miles
  Time: 4–5 hours
  Habitat: Semi-Desert
  Meals: B, L, D
  Accommodation: Barranco Camp (Budget)

Day 4: Barranco Camp to Karanga Camp

• Climb the Barranco Wall, descend into Karanga Valley
  Elevation: 4,000m to 4,050m
  Distance: 5 km / 3 miles
  Time: 3–4 hours
  Habitat: Alpine Desert
  Meals: B, L, D
  Accommodation: Karanga Camp (Budget)

Day 5: Karanga Camp to Barafu Camp

• Final push to Barafu for summit prep
  Elevation: 4,050m to 4,700m
  Distance: 4 km / 2 miles
  Time: 3–4 hours
  Habitat: Alpine Desert
  Meals: B, L, D
  Accommodation: Barafu Camp (Budget)

Day 6: Summit Day – Barafu to Uhuru Peak, then to Mweka Camp

• Midnight start to summit via Stella Point to Uhuru Peak (5,895m)

• Descend to Mweka Camp
  Elevation: 4,700m to 5,895m, down to 3,090m
  Distance: 18 km / 11 miles
  Time: 5–7 hours up / 5–6 hours down
  Habitat: Arctic summit, then forest
  Meals: B, L, D
  Accommodation: Mweka Camp (Budget)

Day 7: Mweka Camp to Mweka Gate – Transfer to Arusha

• Final descent through rainforest to Mweka Gate

• Receive summit certificates and transfer to Arusha hotel
  Elevation: 3,090m to 1,680m
  Distance: 10 km / 6 miles
  Time: 3–4 hours
  Meals: B
  Accommodation: Lodge (Mid-Range)

Day 8: Departure Day

• Transfer to the airport or begin your safari
  Meals: B

Pricing (Per Person in USD)

Prices valid through December 31, 2025. Based on double/triple occupancy. Single supplements apply.

What’s Included

All accommodations during trek
All meals as per itinerary 
All park entry, camping, and rescue fees
Transfers to/from Arusha and trailhead
Certified English-speaking guides
Crew salaries (porters, cooks)
Group camping equipment (tents, utensils)
Oximeters & emergency oxygen (2L)
Pre-trek briefing and equipment check

What’s Not Included

International/domestic flights
Alcohol & personal drinks
Personal trekking gear (sleeping bags, pads)
Portable toilet (available at extra cost)
Travel insurance & visa fees
Tips for crew (budget $400–$600 per person)
Single tent or room supplement