7 Days Umbwe Route – Kilimanjaro Climb
7 Days & 6 Nights
Short itinerary
- Day 1: Arusha to Machame Gate – Trek to Machame Camp
- Day 2: Trek from Machame Camp to Shira Camp
- Day 3: Trek from Shira Camp to Lava Tower & Descend to Barranco Camp
- Day 4: Climb Barranco Wall & Trek to Karanga Camp
- Day 5: Trek from Karanga Camp to Barafu Camp
- Day 6: Midnight Ascent to Uhuru Peak & Descend to Mweka Camp
- Day 7: Trek to Mweka Gate & Return to Arusha
Itinerary
Day 1: Umbwe Gate to Umbwe Camp
The adventure begins with a scenic drive from Arusha to the Machame Gate for registration, followed by a journey to Umbwe Gate. From there, you’ll embark on a steep ascent through dense rainforest, navigating a narrow forest path flanked by towering trees and lush vegetation. After approximately 5-7 hours of trekking, you’ll reach Umbwe Camp, nestled within the forest at an elevation of 9,514 ft.
Day 2: Umbwe Camp to Barranco Camp
As you continue, the trail becomes rockier with sparse undergrowth and moss-covered trees. Gaining altitude, you’ll start to catch glimpses of Kilimanjaro’s impressive peak. The day concludes with a descent into Barranco Valley, passing through the unique Senecio Forest before reaching Barranco Camp at 13,044 ft, after 4-5 hours of trekking.
Day 3: Barranco Camp to Karanga Camp
The morning begins with a descent into a ravine leading to the Great Barranco Wall. After a challenging climb, you’ll reach the top of the wall, greeted by incredible views. The trail then takes you over hills and valleys to Karanga Camp at 13,106 ft, with a trekking time of 4-5 hours. This shorter trek is excellent for acclimatization.
Day 4: Karanga Camp to Barafu Camp
Following the Southern Circuit, you’ll reach Barafu Hut, situated at 15,331 ft. Here, you have 360-degree views of Kilimanjaro’s peaks. The camp serves as the base for the summit attempt, allowing climbers to relax, dine early, and prepare for the ascent. The trek takes approximately 4-5 hours.
Day 5: Barafu Camp to Uhuru Peak to Barafu Camp
An early ascent brings you to the summit. Around 16,500 ft, you’ll witness the sunrise—a truly unforgettable sight as the first rays of light reveal Kilimanjaro’s stunning landscape. You’ll continue toward Stella Point (18,900 ft) before the final stretch to Uhuru Peak, Africa’s highest point at 19,341 ft. After capturing the moment at the summit, you’ll return to Barafu Camp for a second night, allowing climbers to rest and descend more gradually. The total trekking time is 10-12 hours.
Day 6: Barafu Camp to Mweka Camp
Following a restful night at Barafu, you’ll begin your descent to Mweka Camp, located at 10,000 ft. Upon arrival, you’ll celebrate your achievement together with the entire team. The descent takes approximately 4 hours.
Day 7: Mweka Camp to Mweka Gate
The final descent through the rainforest leads to Mweka Gate at 6,000 ft, where climbers receive certificates of achievement. Afterward, you’ll celebrate with lunch in Mweka Village and return to Arusha, marking the end of your Kilimanjaro adventure. The descent takes 3-4 hours.
Summary
Duration: 7 Days / 6 Night
The 7 Days Umbwe Route is renowned for its steep and direct path to Mount Kilimanjaro’s summit, making it one of the more challenging routes. This itinerary is tailored for experienced climbers seeking a less crowded trail and a unique daytime summit approach, allowing for breathtaking views and a more comfortable ascent.