The Ultimate Adventure: Conquering Mount Kilimanjaro on the Challenging Umbwe Route

A Detailed Guide to a 7-Day Journey to the Summit of Mount Kilimanjaro via the Umbwe Route

Mount Kilimanjaro, standing tall at 5,895 meters (19,341 feet), is Africa’s highest peak and a dream destination for adventure seekers and nature enthusiasts. Embarking on a climb to its summit is an experience that will test your physical and mental strength, as well as reward you with breathtaking views and a sense of accomplishment. If you are up for the challenge, the Umbwe Route offers a thrilling and demanding path to the top. Here is a day-by-day itinerary of a 7-day journey organized by Sunset Africa Safari.

Day 1: Arrival in Moshi
Upon your arrival at Kilimanjaro International Airport, you will be greeted by a representative from Sunset Africa Safari who will transfer you to your hotel in Moshi. Take this day to rest, acclimatize to the altitude, and meet your guide who will provide a detailed briefing about the climb.

Day 2: Umbwe Gate to Umbwe Cave Camp
After an early breakfast, you will be driven to the Umbwe Gate (1,800 meters/5,905 feet) where your trek begins. The first day of hiking takes you through dense rainforests, where you might spot monkeys and various bird species. The trail is steep and challenging, but the sense of adventure keeps you going. You will reach the Umbwe Cave Camp (2,850 meters/9,350 feet) in approximately 5-6 hours, where you will spend the night.

Day 3: Umbwe Cave Camp to Barranco Camp
Today’s trek is a mix of steep ascents and descents as you continue through the moorland zone. The trail offers stunning panoramic views of the surrounding landscape, including the Shira Plateau and the peak of Mount Kilimanjaro. After approximately 6-7 hours of hiking, you will reach Barranco Camp (3,950 meters/12,960 feet), where you will rest and spend the night.

Day 4: Barranco Camp to Karanga Camp
The fourth day involves tackling the famous Barranco Wall, a challenging section that requires some scrambling. As you conquer this obstacle, you will be rewarded with magnificent views of the Kibo Summit and the Heim Glacier. The trail then leads to Karanga Camp (4,035 meters/13,200 feet), where you will spend the night after a trek of around 4-5 hours.

Day 5: Karanga Camp to Barafu Camp
On this day, you will continue your ascent towards the Barafu Camp (4,640 meters/15,223 feet), the base camp for the summit attempt. The trail becomes steeper and the air thinner, making it crucial to pace yourself and listen to your body. After approximately 4-5 hours of hiking, you will reach Barafu Camp, where you will rest and prepare for the summit push.

Day 6: Barafu Camp to Uhuru Peak to Mweka Camp
The most challenging and rewarding day awaits as you embark on the final ascent to the summit of Mount Kilimanjaro. You will start in the early hours of the morning, braving the cold and darkness, to reach Uhuru Peak (5,895 meters/19,341 feet) at sunrise. Standing on the roof of Africa, you will be greeted by a breathtaking sunrise and a sense of accomplishment like no other. After celebrating your achievement, you will descend to Mweka Camp (3,100 meters/10,170 feet) for a well-deserved rest.

Day 7: Mweka Camp to Mweka Gate
The final day of your journey takes you through the lush rainforest, where you will enjoy the sights and sounds of nature one last time. After around 3-4 hours of descending, you will reach Mweka Gate (1,640 meters/5,380 feet), where you will receive your summit certificates and bid farewell to your guides and porters. You will then be transferred back to your hotel in Moshi to celebrate your accomplishment.

Included:

• Airport transfers
• Accommodation in Moshi before and after the climb
• Professional mountain guide and porters
• All camping equipment
• National Park fees
• Meals during the climb
• Drinking water on the mountain

Not included:

• International flights
• Visa fees
• Travel insurance
• Personal hiking gear
• Tips for guides and porters

For booking requests or further information, please contact Sunset Africa Safari at info@sunsetafricasafari.com.