Climb Mt Kilimanjaro via Umbwe Route

Duration of climb: 6 ~ 7 days

The Umbwe route is known for its caves. The first night you actually sleep at the Umbwe Cave Camp with two more caves that can be visited en route the following day. Because of the high risks involved with sleeping at Arrow Glacier camp and summiting via the Western Breach, all our Umbwe route hikes are re-routed, to join with the Machame route from night 2 on the mountain.

However, on special request we can assist climbers who would like to summit using the Western Breach or the Arrow Glacier path and overnight at the Crater camp. On such cases, our higher quality standard packages apply.

The main itinerary difference between the Umbwe 6 day and 7 day routes is the additional acclimatization day at Barranco camp.

Itinerary

Day 1

Umbwe Gate (1614m) – Umbwe Cave camp (2850m)

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 the Machame gate you will be transferred 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, glimpses of Kilimanjaro towering above you in the distance.

The camp is perched between huge trees and thick undergrowth. Enjoy dinner and overnight at the Umbwe Cave Camp (2850m).

Day 2

Umbwe Cave camp (2850m) – Barranco camp (3985m)

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, catch glimpses of Kilimanjaro rising majestically ahead of you – etched against the blue sky. The path flattens as you approach Barranco Valley.

From the 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.