Day 1: Arrival day
Day 2–7: To be spent on the mountain
Day 8: Departure day
About Umbwe Route:
The Umbwe Route is one of the shortest, steepest, and most direct routes to the summit of Mount Kilimanjaro. It is known for its demanding terrain and rapid elevation gain, making it one of the more challenging routes on the mountain. Because the ascent is so quick, there is limited time for gradual altitude acclimatization, which can make the climb particularly demanding. The route usually takes a minimum of 6 days, although a 7-day itinerary provides more time for acclimatization and preparation for the summit. Due to its steep profile and challenging conditions, Umbwe is best suited to experienced and physically strong trekkers who are comfortable with high-altitude hiking and demanding mountain terrain.
Despite being less crowded, the Umbwe Route offers a more rugged and adventurous trekking experience, with steep forest trails and dramatic mountain scenery as the route progresses toward the southern side of Kilimanjaro. Trekkers should be prepared for a challenging ascent and changing conditions throughout the journey. For those with suitable experience, fitness, and confidence at altitude, Umbwe provides a demanding and memorable approach to the summit of Mount Kilimanjaro.
| Group Size | Price Per Person (USD) |
|---|---|
| 1 Person | $2,100 |
| 2 Persons | $2,000 |
| 5 Persons | $1,950 |
| 10 Persons | $1,900 |
Upon arrival at Kilimanjaro International Airport, you will be welcomed by our team and transferred to your hotel in Moshi. Later, you will meet your mountain guide for a detailed briefing about the upcoming trek, followed by an equipment check to ensure you have all the essential gear. Any missing equipment can be rented before the climb.
In the evening, you will enjoy dinner and relax at the hotel as you prepare for your Kilimanjaro adventure. Overnight at your hotel in Moshi.
After breakfast, you will depart from Moshi at around 8:00 AM and drive to Umbwe Gate, where you will meet your mountain crew of guides, porters, and cooks. While the climbing permits and registration are completed, the team will organize the equipment and supplies for the trek. Once ready, you will begin the climb toward Cave Bivouac Camp, following a steep trail through the lush rainforest. The path can be slippery in certain sections, so careful walking is required. As you gain altitude, the dense forest gradually opens into an area of heather, tall grasses, and wildflowers. Your crew will move ahead to prepare the campsite before your arrival.
Elevation Gain: 1,050 meters, 3,445 feet | Hiking time: 4 to 6 hours
After breakfast, you will continue along the mountain ridge, gradually leaving the forest behind as the trail enters the open moorland zone. The route continues upward toward Barranco Camp, surrounded by spectacular mountain scenery and unique vegetation. The campsite is known for its giant senecios and lobelias and is located in a scenic valley, where the surrounding cliffs create an impressive atmosphere. You will arrive at camp with time to rest and enjoy the beautiful surroundings.
Total Elevation Gain: 1,100 meters, 3,610 feet | Hiking time: 5 to 7 hours
After breakfast, you will leave Barranco Camp and begin the climb toward Karanga Valley. The day starts with the famous Barranco Wall, which takes approximately 1.5 hrs to climb. Some sections are steep and may require the use of your hands, making this the most challenging part of the day. Once you reach the top, the trail becomes more moderate before descending briefly into the green Karanga River Valley. The surrounding scenery provides excellent views and a rewarding experience as you approach the next campsite.
Elevation Gain: 250 meters, 820 feet | Distance: 7 Kilometers | Hiking time: 3 to 5 hours
After breakfast, you will continue your ascent toward Barafu Camp, passing through the high-altitude alpine desert. Along the route, you will have views of several glaciers on Kibo and pass the junction connecting the Mweka descent route with the Machame trail. The landscape becomes increasingly barren as vegetation becomes scarce, but the views of Kibo and Mawenzi Peaks remain spectacular. Once you reach Barafu Camp, you will have time to eat, rest, and prepare for the summit attempt. Dinner will be served early before you get some sleep ahead of the midnight ascent.
Elevation Gain: 400 meters, 1,320 feet | Hiking time: 3 to 5 hours
Your summit attempt begins around midnight, when you will leave Barafu Camp and start climbing under the light of your headlamp. The ascent toward the crater rim is steep and demanding, making this the most challenging section of the trek. After several hours, you will reach Stella Point, located on the crater rim. From here, the trail becomes more gradual as you continue for approximately one hour toward Uhuru Peak (5,895m/19,340ft). At the summit, you will have time to take photos, appreciate the spectacular views, and celebrate your achievement before beginning the descent.
You will then descend toward Barafu Camp, where breakfast and a short rest will be provided. The journey continues downhill toward Mweka Camp, passing through changing mountain landscapes with views of glaciers, clouds, and the surrounding slopes. After a long and demanding day, you will arrive at camp for dinner and overnight rest.
Elevation Gain: 1,295 meters, 4,240 feet | Elevation Loss: 2,795 meters, 9,170 feet | Hiking time: 6 hours to the rim, 1 hour to Uhuru, 3 to 4 hours back to Barafu, 4 hours to Mweka
After breakfast, you will begin the final descent from Mweka Camp through the beautiful montane rainforest toward Mweka Gate. The trail gradually loses elevation as you make your way through the lush vegetation, although some sections can become slippery, especially after rainfall. Upon reaching the gate, you will complete the necessary park formalities and meet your vehicle for the transfer back to Moshi. This marks the end of your Umbwe Route adventure and a well-earned opportunity to relax after the climb.
Elevation Loss: 1,600 meters, 5,250 feet | Hiking time: 4 hours
After completing your Kilimanjaro adventure, you will be transferred to Kilimanjaro International Airport for your onward flight, according to your travel arrangements.
If you wish to extend your stay in Tanzania, we can arrange a cultural experience, a relaxing Zanzibar beach getaway, or an exciting wildlife safari. You can explore iconic destinations such as Tarangire National Park, the Ngorongoro Crater, or Serengeti National Park.
Novella Safaris has been running Tanzanian journeys. Our licensed guides, modern 4×4 Land Cruisers, and 24/7 in-country support make us the trusted choice for over 4,800 travellers to date. Group size is capped so every guest gets personal attention.
All in-destination transport is included: airport pickup, park drives in custom 4×4 vehicles, inter-park transfers. International and domestic flights are not included.
Tanzanian Shilling (TZS) is the local currency. USD is widely accepted at parks, lodges and shops. ATMs are available in Arusha, Moshi, Zanzibar and major hubs. We accept Visa, Mastercard, AMEX and bank wire.
Clothing: Layered, muted colours; light hiking pants, breathable shirts, warm fleece and waterproof shell.
Footwear: Broken-in walking shoes, sandals, warm socks.
Essentials: Sun hat, sunglasses, sunscreen, water bottle, insect repellent, small day pack, binoculars, camera with spare batteries, headlamp.
Documents: Passport (6+ months validity), visa, travel insurance, printed itinerary copies.
First-aid: Personal medication, ibuprofen, malaria prophylaxis, plasters, oral rehydration salts.
Departure: Novella Safaris office, Moshi, Tanzania.
Pickup available from: Kilimanjaro International Airport (JRO), Arusha Airport (ARK), Julius Nyerere International Airport (DAR).
Tipping is customary and appreciated. Guideline: USD 15 per day for driver-guides, USD 10 per day for cooks, USD 5 per day for camp staff. Tips are paid at the end of the trip.
Send us an enquiry — a Tanzania-based trip designer will reply within 24 hours with a tailored proposal, no obligation.
Deposit: 20% at reservation to confirm your booking.
Balance: Due 60 days before departure.
Accepted methods: Visa · Mastercard · AMEX · bank wire.
Documents required: Signed booking form, passport with 6+ months validity, valid visa, travel insurance.
30+ days before departure: 20% of the total trip cost retained.
14–29 days before departure: 50% retained.
Less than 14 days: 100% retained.
If you find a replacement 14+ days before departure, no cancellation fee applies.