6 Days Kilimanjaro Climb Umbwe Route

Arrive at Kilimanjaro International Airport, where our representative meets you and transfers you to your lodge in Moshi. The day is reserved for rest and preparation. Your lead guide will meet you for a full briefing, equipment check, and introduction to the crew. Spend the evening relaxing, enjoying the peaceful atmosphere, and preparing for the climb ahead. Dinner and overnight in Moshi.

After breakfast in Moshi, drive for about an hour to Umbwe Gate, passing through coffee and banana plantations. After registration, begin your trek through the dense rainforest, following a narrow, steep trail along the Umbwe River Gorge. The climb is direct and physically demanding, surrounded by towering trees and tangled vines. You’ll arrive at Umbwe Cave Camp by late afternoon, set deep within the forest. Dinner and overnight at camp.

Trek time: 5–6 hours

Today’s trail continues to climb steeply, leaving the rainforest behind and entering the moorland zone. The path follows a sharp ridge, offering stunning views back toward Moshi and across to the distant plains. By midday, the vegetation thins and giant senecios and lobelias begin to appear. You’ll reach Barranco Camp by afternoon, where the trail joins the Machame Route. The towering Barranco Wall stands before you, illuminated by the afternoon sun. Dinner and overnight at camp.

Trek time: 6–7 hours

After breakfast, begin with the exciting climb up the Barranco Wall, a non-technical but steep scramble with incredible views from the top. The trail then weaves through valleys and rocky slopes before reaching Karanga Camp, set on a high ridge with panoramic views of Kibo Peak. The afternoon is perfect for rest and acclimatization, with short hikes around the camp to keep your body adjusted. Dinner and overnight at Karanga Camp.

Trek time: 4–5 hours

Today’s climb takes you into the alpine desert, where the air is thin and vegetation sparse. The path ascends gradually over rocky terrain to Barafu Camp, your base for the summit attempt. The camp sits on a narrow ridge overlooking Mawenzi Peak. Arrive by afternoon, rest, and prepare your gear for the midnight summit push. After an early dinner, head to bed for a few hours of rest before the final climb.

Trek time: 3–4 hours

Start your summit push around midnight, guided by headlamps under a sky filled with stars. The path to Stella Point (5,739 m) is steep and slow, but reaching Uhuru Peak at sunrise is an unforgettable moment. Celebrate at the summit before descending to Barafu for a short rest and continuing to Mweka Camp for your final night on the mountain.

Trek time: 10–12 hours

After breakfast, descend through the lush rainforest to Mweka Gate, where your climb officially ends. Receive your summit certificate and bid farewell to your mountain crew. Transfer back to Moshi for a hot shower, relaxation, and celebration dinner. Overnight in Moshi.

Trek time: 3–4 hours