Overview of the 6 Days Umbwe Route Kilimanjaro Climb
The 6 Days Umbwe Route Kilimanjaro climbing is known as the most challenging route on Mount Kilimanjaro. The fast ascent to high altitude means less acclimatization time, resulting in low success rates. This route is recommended for experienced hikers who can acclimatize quickly. Approaching from the south, the Umbwe route is steep and direct. After reaching Barranco Camp, the trail traverses Kilimanjaro's Southern Ice Field before summiting from Barafu. Descent is via the Mweka route. KITANO TOURS AND SAFARIS CO L.T.D offers Umbwe as a six or seven-day private climb.
TOUR ITINERARY
>>> The day begins with a 50 minute drive to umbwe Gate where registration formalities will be completed. We then transfer through villages and coffee and banana plantations to Umbwe Gate. The trail ascends sharply on a forestry track which winds up the dense rain forest. The path narrows and steepens as we climb the ridge between two rivers surrounded by huge trees. Umbwe Camp is perched between trees and thick undergrowth..
>>> The trail becomes rockier with sparse undergrowth and moss-covered trees. As elevation increases, Kilimanjaro's peaks become visible. The path flattens as it approaches Barranco Valley and descends to Barranco Camp through the Senecio Forest.
>>> Descending into a ravine, we climb the Great Barranco Wall, cross hills and valleys, and finally descend into Karanga Valley. A steep climb up leads to Karanga Camp. This shorter day aids in acclimatization.
>>> Leaving Karanga, we hit the Mweka Trail junction and continue to Barafu Hut. Completing the Southern Circuit, we enjoy views of the summit from various angles. Here we rest and prepare for the summit day.
Uhuru Peak to Mweka CampElevation: 19,341 ft to 10,065 ftDistance: 12 km/7 milesHiking Time: 4-6 hoursHabitat: Rain Forest
Starting around midnight, we push to the summit, battling wind and cold in the dark. Near Stella Point, a magnificent sunrise over Mawenzi Peak awaits. After reaching Uhuru Peak, we descend to Mweka Hut, stopping at Barafu for lunch.
>>> We continue descending to Mweka Gate, where we collect summit certificates. The trail can be wet and muddy. From Mweka Village, a vehicle will drive us back to the hotel in Moshi.
