Are You Umbwe Enough? Conquer Kilimanjaro’s Toughest Route in 6 Days
Are you ready to conquer Umbwe?
The most demanding route in just 6 days
Guaranteed departures for all calendar dates
The Umbwe Route is renowned for its steep, relentless ascents and challenging descents, making it the most physically demanding trail to conquer Mount Kilimanjaro. Its reputation attracts adventurers seeking an intense and exclusive trekking experience. If you push past Karanga Camp without acclimatization struggles, your chances of reaching Uhuru Peak increase significantly.
Think you’re tough enough? Push your limits on the hardest Kilimanjaro route and do it in just 6 days! This itinerary skips an acclimatization day, making it even more challenging.
At Babul Adventure, we prioritize your success and experience. Our 6-day Umbwe Route package includes:
- Transfers to and from the airport
- Professional, certified local guides and porters
- Nutritious meals and snacks
- Comfortable accommodation in tents
- All necessary trekking permits and equipment
Why Choose Babul Adventure?
At Babul Adventure, we take pride in caring for our staff, respecting local communities, and ensuring your safety at every step. Our certified guides and porters are experienced and dedicated. No hidden costs, no cutting corners—just real, rewarding adventure. Uhuru means Freedom, and with us, you’ll feel it every step of the way.
HERE IS FULL ITENERARY
Day 1: Umbwe Gate (1,800m/5,905ft) to Cave Bivouac Camp (2,850m/9,350ft)
Duration: 5:50 h
Distance: 9.1 km
Ascent: 1,260 m
Descent: 100 m
Your adventure begins at 8:00 AM with a transfer from Moshi to Umbwe Gate, where you’ll meet the Babul Adventure team of porters, guides, and cooks. This dedicated crew will accompany you on your six-day journey to Uhuru Peak, the highest point in Africa.
Upon arrival at the gate, our team will register your climb and finalize preparations for the trek. Your destination for today is Cave Bivouac Camp, a challenging 6-hour hike from the gate. The trail is steep and can be slippery in sections, but it offers stunning scenery as you traverse Kilimanjaro’s cloud forest, adorned with moss-covered trees.
As the forest begins to thin, you’ll encounter vibrant heathers, tall grasses, and colorful wildflowers that hint at the higher altitudes ahead. Our porters and cooks will hike ahead to ensure the camp is set up and ready to welcome you upon arrival.
Overnight at Cave Bivouac Camp
Day 2: Cave Bivouac Camp (2,850m/9,350ft) to Barranco Camp (3,950m/12,960ft)
Duration: 4:05 h
Distance: 4.92 km
Ascent: 1,110 m
Descent: 10 m
After a hearty breakfast at Cave Bivouac Camp, your trek continues along the ridge, offering breathtaking views as you ascend. Leaving behind the lush forest, the trail leads you into the striking open moorlands, where the landscape transforms into a rugged and dramatic high-altitude environment.
Your destination today is Barranco Camp, widely regarded as the most picturesque campsite on the Umbwe Route. Surrounded by towering giant senecios and lobelias, this campsite offers a surreal and serene atmosphere. Nestled in a valley, Barranco Camp boasts a unique charm but enjoys later sunrises due to its position—a magical sight worth waking up for.
Overnight at Barranco Camp
Day 3: Barranco Camp (3,950m) to Karanga Camp (3,930m)
Duration: 2:40 h
Distance: 4.45 km
Ascent: 350 m
Descent: 270 m
The day begins with an exhilarating challenge: conquering the famous Barranco Wall. While parts of the climb may require the use of your hands for better grip, no technical climbing skills are necessary. Your Babul Adventure guide will be by your side, ensuring your safety and boosting your confidence through every step. Trust us—it’s not as intimidating as it might seem!
After scaling the Barranco Wall, the route transitions into a series of ascents and descents, providing an excellent opportunity for acclimatization. As you trek along the mountain ridge, soak in the breathtaking contrasts between barren desert landscapes and resilient patches of vegetation.
By late afternoon, you’ll arrive at Karanga Camp, perched in the mist at 4,035 meters (13,240 ft). Even through the swirling clouds, you’ll catch glimpses of the majestic Kibo peak—your ultimate goal—and feel its silent call urging you onward.
Overnight at Karanga Camp
Day 4: Karanga Camp (3,930m) to Barafu Camp (4,700m)
Duration: 2:25 h
Distance: 3.5 km
Ascent: 570 m
Your Kilimanjaro adventure continues as you ascend further into the high-altitude desert. Every step of your journey so far has prepared you for the challenges ahead. By maintaining a steady “pole pole” (slow and steady) pace, you’re setting yourself up for success on summit day.
Today’s trek takes you across stark, arid terrain, with the striking silhouette of Kibo constantly in view to your left. Though the distance covered is relatively short, the increasing altitude adds to the challenge. Listen to your Babul Adventure guide(s) as they offer valuable tips to navigate the effects of high altitude.
Upon reaching Barafu Camp, perched at 4,700 meters, the excitement is palpable. This is your final stop before the summit push! A hearty meal, some rest, and an early night will prepare you for the defining moment of your Kilimanjaro journey: the climb to Uhuru Peak.
Overnight at Barafu Camp
Day 5: Barafu Camp (4,700m) to Summit (5,895m) (Midnight Start) and Descent to Mweka Camp (3,100m)
Duration: 10:50 h
Distance: 16.6 km
Ascent: 1,220 m
Descent: 2,790 m
The day you’ve been waiting for begins with a pre-dawn wake-up call from your Babul Adventure guide. A light breakfast and a warm drink will help you prepare for the long journey ahead. The altitude may be challenging, but food and water will fuel your determination.
Under the moonlight and the glow of your headlamp, you’ll make your way to Stella Point on the crater rim. This leg of the journey takes about 5–7 hours. From Stella Point, it’s another 1 to 2 hours of steep trekking to Uhuru Peak, the highest point in Africa. While it may feel deceptively close, reaching the summit is an emotional and physically demanding accomplishment.
At Uhuru Peak (5,895m), you’ll stand atop one of the Seven Summits and witness the breathtaking sunrise over the African continent. Take a moment to revel in your achievement—this is the culmination of your efforts, the summit of Mount Kilimanjaro.
After capturing this iconic moment on camera, the descent begins. Retrace your steps to Barafu Camp, where a warm welcome awaits with snacks and refreshments. Refreshed and recharged, continue your journey down to Mweka Camp for your final night on the mountain.
As you settle into camp, reflect on the monumental day you’ve just completed. Looking up at Kibo, you’ll realize you stood at the summit only hours before—a truly surreal experience.
Overnight at Mweka Camp
Tipping Ceremony:
It’s customary to thank your guides and porters for their dedication in helping you achieve this incredible feat. While tipping is not mandatory at this point, it’s a meaningful gesture to acknowledge their hard work. Get in touch with our Kilimanjaro expert to learn more about fair tipping practices and to receive a tipping guideline.
Day 6: Mweka Camp (3,100m) to Mweka Gate (1,800m) to Moshi
Duration: 3:40 h
Distance: 8.7 km
Descent: 1,420 m
The descent begins, and with each step, your body starts to breathe easier. As you descend, your oxygen intake increases, and both body and mind will feel the relief. The realization begins to sink in—you’ve conquered Kilimanjaro!
Trekking through the rainforest once again, you may catch a glimpse of playful colobus monkeys swinging through the trees. In about 2–3 hours, you’ll reach the Mweka Gate, where a sense of accomplishment fills the air.
After completing the necessary paperwork, it’s time to indulge in a well-deserved meal—and maybe even a cold Kilimanjaro beer to celebrate your success. Your guide will present you with your climbing certificate, a tangible reminder of your incredible achievement. Well done!
After your celebratory meal, you’ll be transferred back to your hotel in Moshi. It’s time to rest those well-earned legs. Take a dip in the pool, enjoy some delicious food, and relax as you reflect on your life-changing journey to the roof of Africa.
What’s Included:
- Private Transport to and from the Airport:
Enjoy a smooth and stress-free journey from Kilimanjaro International Airport to your hotel. A return transfer to the airport is also included. - Transportation to and from the Start/End Point:
All transportation from your accommodation to the trek start point, and back again at the end, is included in your package. - Four-Season Mountain Tents:
Rest comfortably in our durable, well-maintained four-season tents, set up and ready for you upon arrival at each camp. - Double-Layered Sleeping Mats:
Sleep like a champion with our high-quality double-layered mats, designed to provide a good night’s rest in the mountain’s rugged environment. - Hot Meals Daily:
Enjoy a variety of freshly prepared meals every day, including breakfast, lunch, and dinner. Expect nothing less than a delicious three-course meal, prepared by our expert cook. - Treated and Filtered Water:
Stay hydrated with an abundant supply of clean, filtered water throughout the trek. - Hot Water for Washing:
After a long day’s trek, enjoy hot water for a quick and refreshing wash. - Altitude Sickness & First Aid Kit:
Our guides carry a comprehensive altitude sickness kit, and they monitor your vital signs daily. Emergency oxygen is also available if needed, with all guides being certified Wilderness First Responders. - KINAPA Rescue Fee:
The fees for the Kilimanjaro Rescue Team are included. This essential service is provided by the Kilimanjaro National Park Authority (KINAPA), ensuring a safety net in case of emergencies. - Park Fees, Camping Fees, VAT & Other Taxes:
All necessary park entry fees, camping fees, VAT, and taxes are included in your package. - Fair Compensation for Guides & Porters:
Your package not only covers your essentials but also ensures fair wages, food, accommodation, and insurance for your guides and porters. - Your Personal Team of Guides and Porters:
You’ll have a dedicated team including 1 guide, 1 cook, and 8 porters for every individual trekker. Larger groups will have additional guides and porters to ensure maximum support and a smoother experience.
What’s Not Included:
- Visa for Tanzania:
A visa is required for entry into Tanzania and costs approximately $50. Many nationalities can obtain a visa on arrival, but it’s important to check the requirements with your nearest Tanzanian embassy or consulate. - Flights to and from Moshi:
Flights to Kilimanjaro International Airport (KIA) are not included. You can find airlines serving the region by checking the airport’s website for options. - Personal Expenses:
Personal expenses such as drinks at the bar, laundry services, and other discretionary purchases are not included. - Travel Insurance (Including Repatriation):
It’s essential to arrange travel insurance covering high-altitude trekking. Ensure your policy includes emergency evacuation and repatriation. - Tipping:
Tipping for your guides and porters is not included. You can choose the amount to tip, and we encourage you to read about tipping etiquette when planning your trek. - Portable Flush Toilet:
For an additional USD 70, a portable flush toilet with a tent can be made available throughout the trek. - Accommodation Before and After the Trek:
Accommodation and meals before or after the trek in Moshi or Arusha are not included.
Frequently Asked Questions:
- How Hard is the Umbwe Route?
The Umbwe Route is considered one of the toughest routes on Kilimanjaro, primarily due to its steep ascents and shorter trekking days, which offer less time to acclimatize. This makes it an ideal challenge for experienced trekkers seeking a more demanding adventure. - The Barranco Wall on the Umbwe Route:
The Barranco Wall is a steep section requiring some scrambling but not technical climbing. It’s one of the most thrilling parts of the trek and is tackled with the help of your expert guides. - Best Season for the Umbwe Route:
The best time to trek the Umbwe Route is during Tanzania’s dry seasons, which are from June to October and December to February. These months offer the best weather conditions for trekking.
How to Book:
- Booking:
Simply contact us to start your booking process. Our team will provide all the details and assist with your arrangements. - Availability:
We offer guaranteed departures for every date in the calendar. Choose the date that fits your schedule, and we’ll take care of the rest. - Cancellation Policy:
You can cancel your booking up to eight weeks before departure without any penalty!
Starting at:
$1,903 per person