Umbwe Route – 6-Day Kilimanjaro Trek

Day by Day Itinerary

The Umbwe Route is acknowledged as the most challenging path to the summit of Mount Kilimanjaro. Characterized by its steep and direct approach, this route is ideal for experienced climbers who are comfortable with rapid altitude gain and more demanding hiking conditions. The Umbwe Route offers a secluded and less crowded journey, making it an attractive option for climbers seeking a more solitary experience. However, due to its rapid ascent, proper acclimatization is crucial, and climbers should be well-prepared for the physical demands of this route.

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You're just one step away from realizing your dream of conquering Africa's highest peak. Immerse yourself in these expertly curated Kilimanjaro trekking itineraries crafted by our team of specialists, and embark on the journey of a lifetime. Whether you seek the thrill of the summit or the beauty of the journey, let us guide you to the roof of Africa.

Day by Day Itinerary

Day 1: Umbwe Gate to Umbwe Cave Camp

Altitude: 1,600m to 2,850m
Hiking Time: 5-6 hours

Begin your trek at the Umbwe Gate. The first day involves a challenging hike through dense rainforest, with a steep and continuous ascent. The path leads to the Umbwe Cave Camp, nestled among giant fig trees and lush foliage.

Day 2: Umbwe Cave Camp to Barranco Camp

Altitude: 2,850m to 3,950m
Hiking Time: 6-7 hours

Ascend through the rainforest before transitioning into the heather and moorland zone. This segment of the trek offers stunning views of the mountains and valleys below. The path converges with the Machame Route at Barranco Camp, a scenic spot beneath the towering Barranco Wall.

Day 3: Barranco Camp to Karanga Camp

Altitude: 3,950m to 3,995m
Hiking Time: 4-5 hours

Tackle the Great Barranco Wall, an exhilarating climb that requires some scrambling but is generally manageable. After the climb, the trail descends into the Karanga Valley before ascending again to the Karanga Camp. This day is crucial for acclimatization.

Day 4: Karanga Camp to Barafu Camp

Altitude: 3,995m to 4,673m
Hiking Time: 4-5 hours

Continue ascending over rocky ridges to the Barafu Camp. The landscape becomes more rugged and desolate, with views of the Mawenzi and Kibo peaks. Prepare for your summit attempt with an early night at Barafu Camp.

Day 5: Barafu Camp to Uhuru Peak, Down to Mweka Camp

Summit Altitude: 4,673m to 5,895m
Descent to Mweka: 5,895m to 3,100m
Total Time: 11-14 hours

On the most challenging day, begin your ascent to Uhuru Peak around midnight. The path is steep and arduous, leading to Stella Point and finally to Uhuru Peak, the summit. After celebrating at the summit, descend to Mweka Camp for rest.

Day 6: Mweka Camp to Mweka Gate

Descent: 3,100m to 1,640m
Hiking Time: 3-4 hours

The final day involves a descent through the rainforest to the Mweka Gate. Collect your summit certificates and say goodbye to your trekking team. Reflect on your incredible achievement as you leave the mountain.

Packing and Preparation Tips

Prior high-altitude trekking experience is recommended.
Physical fitness is crucial due to the route’s steepness and rapid ascent.
Pack appropriately for varying weather conditions, including warm layers and rain gear.
Acclimatization is key; listen to your body and communicate with your guide.
Hydration and proper nutrition are vital throughout the trek.

Price and Customization

The cost for the Umbwe Route trek typically ranges from approximately $1,800 to $2,500 per person. This variation in price is influenced by several factors, including:

Season (peak vs. off-peak times).
The level of service and quality of amenities provided during the trek.
The size of the trekking group, with private treks generally being more expensive.
Additional services and experiences are included in the package.

What's Included in the Price:

Park fees, camping/hut fees, and rescue fees for Kilimanjaro National Park.
Services of a professional mountain guide, porters, and cook.
All meals and water during the trek.
Accommodation in tents or huts along the route.
Transfers to and from the starting/ending point of the trek.

Additional Costs to Consider

Airfare to and from Tanzania.
Pre- and post-trek accommodation and meals in Arusha or Moshi.
Personal trekking gear and equipment (some items can be rented).
Tips for guides, porters, and other trek staff.
Travel insurance that covers high altitude trekking.

Customization Options

Trek Duration: Extend the standard 6-day trek to allow more time for acclimatization.
Accommodation Upgrades: Opt for higher-end accommodation before and after the trek.
Private vs Group Trek: Choose a private trek for a more personalized experience or join a group trek.
Add-on Experiences: Combine the trek with a safari in Tanzania’s national parks or a beach holiday in Zanzibar.
Specialized Guides: Request guides with specific expertise, such as environmental conservation or photography.

Customization for Specific Needs

Fitness Preparation: Tailored training plans can be arranged.
Dietary Requirements: Specific dietary needs can be accommodated with prior notice.
Age and Experience: Customization based on the age and experience levels of the trekkers.

Booking and Planning

Advance Booking: It is advisable to book several months in advance, especially during peak seasons.
Expert Consultation: Many trekking companies offer pre-trip consultations to help tailor the trek to your needs and expectations.

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Kilimanjaro Packages

Trekking packages vary depending on the route, duration, and level of comfort. Most packages include park fees, accommodation (tents or huts), meals during the trek, guides, porters, and transport to and from the mountain. Customized packages can also include add-ons like safari trips or cultural tours.

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 2023-10-21
 
 
  Excellent service, Since the beginning Henry was so firendly and responsible with all details, food in tours very good..
Excellent service, makes you feel good. Safe and confidentd, The safari experience is very proffesional and you will be able to ser what you look for
  
 
       
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 2023-10-11
 
 
  Amazing destination and service!
This tour was incredible. Henry did an amazing job of being meticulous, reliable, extremely pleasant, and interested in us and our trip. I contacted him from back home over WhatsApp, and he planned everything exactly according to my request. He was punctual and professional. Everything he promised, he carried out and was incredibly reliable. Not to mention the fact that the tour itself was beautiful. The Serengeti and the Ngorongoro crater were amazing and the animal experience is unlike any other anywhere else. We saw the “Big Five” plus many many more. A++++ . Would definitely recommend.!
  
 
       
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 2023-07-03
 
 
  Excellent trip to Tanzania
Dear Travelers, Lovers of Africa and African Expeditions! I would like to recommend you Northern Masailand Safaris. The office has been successfully operating on the tourism market in Tanzania for many years. The owner – Olanana - a young, ambitious man, open to people and perfectly understanding the needs of tourists. Why is it worth it? First of all, from the beginning, the Office was extremely helpful in planning trips, places to stay, excursion routes, flights, car transfers, etc. Internet or telephone communication, it has always been up to the task. Therefore, it was possible to transparently choose my first Tanzania itinerary. Starting from the arrival to Dar El Salaam, transfer by ferry to the island of Zanzibar, selection of comfortable hotel facilities, to the further trip to the Safari, everything was done to the proverbial "last button". Thanks to this, being a traveler individually implementing individual points of this trip, I had no problems with security, plane tickets, care of guides. There were also no problems with private off-road trips and overnight stays on a few-day Safari. All these images, videos from the trip and photos will remain in my memory, and I recommend you to realize and fulfill your own dreams with the Northern Masailand Safaris. You will not be disappointed! Tomasz Salata Poland
  
 
       
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 2022-08-27
 
 
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Nous avons organisé un Safari de 3j de dernière minute avec Northern Masailand au parc de Tarenguire, Ngorongoro Cratere et Lac Manyara. Nous avions un petit budget. Le contact avec Henry a été excellent tout au long des trois jours. Il a été transparent sur les méthodes de paiements. Le programme a été respecté avec des adaptations car nous avions des impératifs au niveau des vols. Je ne peux que recommander cette agence pour vos voyages à Arusha ! Merci Henry et à une prochaine fois 😊😊😊
  
 
       
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 2022-08-01
 
 
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Me and my husband took a trip to Tanzania and I, by chance, found Henry on the net. He has been very very responsive from the begining and tailored the whole 8 days based on our wishes and budget. He assigned us a great guide, Mashek, who definitely has eagle eyes and great sense of humour. We went on a limited budget yet everything was fine and well organized. We also had 1.5 days in Zanzibar- due to tide- we could not enjoy blue waters as in pictures yet had very different experience walking on the sea at 6.00 am to watch fisherman and walk with ladies on the sea for catching crabs. We definitely suggest Henry and Mashek (our guide) for your trip to Tanzania and thank them. (We took some child clothes and toys, the children were happy to receive them, so why not some joy to local kids!)
  
 
       
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 2022-07-26
 
 
  AMAZING EXPERIENCE - Machame Route to Kilimanjaro
THIS TRIP WAS AMAZING! It's the best experience I've had in my life! I did a 6 day Machame route to Kilimanjaro, and Henry helped me create a tailored plan for achieving this dream. The tour exceeded my expectations, making it private and luxurious even in camping conditions. My guide Leo and porter Denis made the best team, taught me a lot, and made this trip unforgettable. The team is very friendly and experienced, which makes going to the top a once in a lifetime experience. Northern Masailand Safaris is definitely the best company for doing your Kilimanjaro trip.
  
 
       
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 2022-07-26
 
 
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 2022-07-07
 
 
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Henry put together this great trip for us. It was a private 14 day Safari for my wife and I. We had a great time and really enjoyed the whole safari. One of the highlights of our trip was the reception and stay at the Boma at the Osigilai Maasai lodge. The elder was a wonderful man and very informative about the Maasai culture. All the people were wonderful and treated us like royalty. We got to see all of the animals in the Serengeti and it was really fun to watch the many groups of wildebeest and zebras as they began their trip in the great migration. The lodges and tents exceeded our expectations.and our guides, Edward and Benjamin, were terrific. We enjoyed spending time with them. We love Tanzania and hope to visit again.
  
 
       
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 2022-03-19
 
 
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 2022-01-25
 
 
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Our 5 days Safari in Tanzania through Northern Masailand Safaris had been with highly appreciated, Henry arranged us from beginning to the end of our Safari, We saw the bi five in Serengeti National with the Wildebeest Migration Safari. Our accommodation to the entire Safari was perfect, we had Swahili food at African Kitchen in Arusha before starting our safari, African Kitchen provides an excellent food Africa test, If you go Tanzania, Arusha you should as Northern Masailand Safaris team to take you at African Kitchen. I can recommend this company to everyone.