7 Days Mt Kilimanjaro Climbing Umbwe Route

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7 Days Mt Kilimanjaro Climbing Umbwe Route

7 Days

Overview

Embark on an exhilarating 7-day adventure climbing Mount Kilimanjaro via the challenging Umbwe Route. Standing at 5,895 meters (19,340 feet), Mount Kilimanjaro is not only the highest peak in Africa but also the tallest free-standing mountain globally. This route is renowned for its steep ascents and spectacular scenery, offering a thrilling experience for avid trekkers. From dense rainforests to the icy Crater, each day of this trek provides unique landscapes and an unforgettable journey to the summit.

Trip Highlights

Scenic Drive to Umbwe Gate: Start your adventure with a drive through picturesque villages and lush coffee plantations, arriving at the Umbwe Gate. Dense Rainforest Trekking: Experience the thick, moist rainforest as you ascend from Umbwe Gate to the Bivouac Camp, surrounded by towering trees and stunning views. Breathtaking Ridge Views: Enjoy panoramic views of Kilimanjaro as you traverse the narrow, rugged ridge leading to Barranco Camp. Iconic Lava Tower: Hike to the prominent Lava Tower, with stunning vistas of Mt. Meru and the surrounding landscape. Challenging Crater Ascent: Conquer the steep scree and rocky outcrops to reach the Crater Floor, where you’ll witness breathtaking snow and glacier views. Uhuru Peak Summit: Stand at the highest point in Africa, Uhuru Peak, and take in the majestic scenery from 5,896 meters. Descent Through Varied Terrains: Traverse from the summit through the rock and scree paths to the lush moorlands and forested areas of Mweka Camp. Celebratory Return to Moshi: Conclude your trek with a celebratory hot lunch in Mweka Village and a well-deserved stay at Springlands Hotel in Moshi.

Tour Itinerary

Day 1 :

Umbwe Gate to Bivouac (First) Camp

Begin your adventure with a drive to Umbwe Gate at 1,800 meters. As you traverse through villages adorned with lush coffee and banana plantations, you’ll arrive at the park entrance. After registering, start your trek through the dense rainforest. The path, initially muddy and steep, leads you along the ridge between the Lonzo and Umbwe rivers. Enjoy breathtaking views of deep gorges and the towering Kilimanjaro in the distance. Set up camp between massive trees and thick undergrowth for the night.

Day 2 :

Bivouac (First) Camp to Barranco Camp

Depart from camp as the forest thins, giving way to rockier terrain and sparse, moss-covered trees. Follow a narrow ridge with stunning vistas of Kilimanjaro ahead. The trail flattens as you approach Barranco Valley, descending slightly to Barranco Camp, located at the base of the Breach and Great Barranco Wall. Prepare for a memorable sunset and enjoy dinner at camp.

Day 3 :

Barranco Camp to Lava Tower

Start your hike towards Lava Tower, a significant landmark on Kilimanjaro. Navigate a steep, rocky path with views of Mt. Meru peeking through the clouds. From Lava Tower, continue towards the Western Breach, ascending to Arrow Glacier Camp at 4,800 meters. Be prepared for altitude sickness symptoms as the environment becomes increasingly rocky and cold.

Day 4 :

Arrow Glacier to Crater

Climb the steep scree and rocky outcrops from Arrow Glacier to the Crater Floor at 5,700 meters. This challenging section may require an ice axe or ski stick if snow has fallen. Reach the crater rim and marvel at the Northern Ice Fields and the Furtwangler Glacier. Camp at the crater rim, and if time allows, visit the Ash Pit, one of the world’s most perfectly-formed volcanic craters. The campsite is cold, and snow is possible.

Day 5 :

Arrow Glacier to Crater

Day 6 :

Crater to Uhuru Peak to Mweka

Rise early at 04:00 and begin your ascent from the crater floor to Uhuru Peak, the highest point in Africa at 5,896 meters. The journey through snow-covered terrain is demanding, so keep moving to avoid excessive cold and fatigue. After reaching the summit, descend to Barafu Camp for a brief rest before continuing to Millennium Camp at 3,100 meters. Enjoy a well-earned meal and prepare for the descent through moorland and forest.

Day 7 :

Mweka Camp to Mweka Gate

After a hearty breakfast, hike for 5 hours back to the Mweka Gate, where you will sign the register and receive your summit certificate. Climbers who reach Stella Point (5,685 meters) receive green certificates, while those who reach Uhuru Peak receive gold certificates. Descend to Mweka Village for a hot lunch before driving back to Moshi for a celebratory hot shower. Overnight at Springlands Hotel.