Day 1: Arrival in Moshi
Arrive at Kilimanjaro International Airport (JRO) and transfer to Moshi Town or Arusha. Attend a pre-trek briefing, gear check, and final preparations before an overnight stay in a hotel in Moshi.

Day 2: Umbwe Gate (1,600m) → Umbwe Camp (2,850m)
Distance: 11 km
Hiking Time: 5–7 hours
Elevation Gain: 1,250m
Terrain: Rainforest

After registration at Umbwe Gate, the trek begins with a steep ascent through dense rainforest. The trail is narrow, with roots and rocks, making it one of the most challenging routes on Kilimanjaro. The climb is intense but rewarding, offering stunning views along the way. Arrive at Umbwe Camp, a quiet and remote site.

Day 3: Umbwe Camp (2,850m) → Barranco Camp (3,960m)
Distance: 6 km
Hiking Time: 5–6 hours
Elevation Gain: 1,110m
Terrain: Moorland

The trail gets steeper and more exposed as you leave the rainforest and enter heath and moorland. The views become breathtaking, with Kibo Peak visible in the distance. The route eventually merges with the Machame and Lemosho routes at Barranco Camp, where you will stay overnight.

Day 4: Barranco Camp (3,960m) → Karanga Camp (4,035m)
Distance: 5 km
Hiking Time: 4–5 hours
Elevation Gain: 75m
Terrain: Rocky and Alpine Desert

Start the day by climbing the famous Barranco Wall, a steep but non-technical scramble. The trail then follows an up-and-down path through the Karanga Valley, where you will camp for the night. This short hike helps with acclimatization, increasing your summit chances.

Day 5: Karanga Camp (4,035m) → Barafu Camp (4,680m)
Distance: 4 km
Hiking Time: 3–4 hours
Elevation Gain: 645m
Terrain: Alpine Desert

The trail gradually ascends towards Barafu Camp, your final base before summit night. Arrive early, eat, hydrate, and rest, as you will start your summit attempt at midnight.

Day 6: Barafu Camp (4,680m) → Uhuru Peak (5,895m) → Mweka Camp (3,100m)
Distance: 5 km (ascent) + 12 km (descent)
Hiking Time: 6–8 hours (ascent) + 4–6 hours (descent)
Elevation Gain: 1,215m
Elevation Loss: 2,795m
Terrain: Arctic → Alpine Desert → Moorland

Summit Night begins at midnight. The climb is slow and tough due to steep slopes and high altitude. Pass Stella Point (5,756m) before reaching Uhuru Peak (5,895m), the Roof of Africa. After celebrating at the summit, descend to Barafu Camp for a short rest, then continue down to Mweka Camp.

Day 7: Mweka Camp (3,100m) → Mweka Gate (1,640m) → Moshi
Distance: 10 km
Hiking Time: 4–5 hours
Elevation Loss: 1,460m
Terrain: Rainforest

A final trek through the lush rainforest leads to Mweka Gate, where you will receive your summit certificate. Drive back to Moshi for a celebratory dinner and a night in a hotel.

Day 8: Departure or Optional Activities
Transfer to Kilimanjaro Airport (JRO) or extend your adventure with a safari in Serengeti, Ngorongoro Crater, or a beach getaway in Zanzibar.

Why Choose the Umbwe Route?
The most challenging route, with steep and fast ascents that offer a rewarding experience. It is less crowded, providing a true wilderness adventure with stunning views and dramatic landscapes.