Q: What is the Umbwe Route on Mount Kilimanjaro?

A: The Umbwe Route is one of the shorter and more challenging routes to summit Mount Kilimanjaro. It is known for its steep ascent and beautiful scenery, offering a more secluded and adventurous experience.

Q: How long does the Kilimanjaro hiking expedition via the Umbwe Route take?

A: The Kilimanjaro hiking expedition via the Umbwe Route typically takes 6 days to complete. This duration allows for proper acclimatization and maximizes the chances of reaching the summit successfully.

Q: Is prior hiking experience necessary for the Umbwe Route?

A: While prior hiking experience is beneficial, it is not mandatory. However, participants should be physically fit and mentally prepared for challenging terrains and altitude changes.

Q: What is the best time of the year to undertake the Umbwe Route expedition?

A: The best time to hike the Umbwe Route is during the dry seasons, which are generally January to March and June to October. These months offer more stable weather conditions and clearer views.

Q: How cold does it get during the Kilimanjaro expedition?

A: As you ascend higher, the temperature drops significantly. At higher altitudes, nighttime temperatures can reach well below freezing, so it's crucial to bring appropriate cold-weather gear.

Q: Do I need to hire a guide for the Umbwe Route hike?

A: Yes, hiring a licensed guide is mandatory for all Kilimanjaro hiking expeditions, including the Umbwe Route. A guide ensures your safety, provides valuable information, and enhances the overall experience.

Q: Are there any age restrictions for the Umbwe Route hike?

A: The minimum age requirement to hike the Umbwe Route is 15 years old. However, individuals under 18 must be accompanied by a parent or legal guardian.

Q: What kind of physical fitness is required for the Umbwe Route?

A: The Umbwe Route demands a good level of physical fitness, as it involves steep ascents and descents. Regular cardiovascular and strength training exercises in the months leading up to the expedition are recommended.

Q: Are there any altitude-related risks during the hike?

A: Yes, altitude sickness is a concern when hiking Kilimanjaro. The Umbwe Route involves rapid altitude gain, so it's crucial to take proper acclimatization days, stay hydrated, and be aware of any symptoms of altitude sickness.

Q: What permits and paperwork are needed for the Umbwe Route hike?

A: You will need to obtain a Kilimanjaro hiking permit from the Tanzanian authorities and arrange for all necessary travel documents, including a valid passport and relevant visas. Hiring a reputable tour operator can assist with these preparations.

6 Days Mt Kilimanjaro Hiking Expedition via Umbwe Route

Price $1459 pp

Book this tour

6 Days MT KILIMANJARO HIKING EXPEDITION VIA UMBWE ROUTE PACKAGE

Begin on an unforgettable Kilimanjaro hiking expedition via the challenging Umbwe Route, a thrilling 6 days journey that promises to push your limits and reward you with breathtaking vistas. Set foot on the highest peak in Africa, Mount Kilimanjaro, as you conquer this iconic mountain with experienced guides and a supportive team. The adventure begins with anticipation and excitement as you gather at the base of Kilimanjaro, ready to take on the Umbwe Route.

Tour highlights

Day 1 : STARTING HIKING UMBWE GATE TO UMBWE CAMP
Day 2 : CONTINUE HIKING UMBWE CAVE KILIMANJARO TO BARRANCO CAMPSITE
Day 3 : BARRANCO CAMPSITE TO KARANGA CAMPSITE UP TO SUMMIT MT KILIMANJARO
Day 4 : CONTINUE KARANGA CAMPSITE TO BARAFU CAMP
Day 5 : BARAFU CAMP TO UHURU PEAK TO MWEKA CAMP
Day 6 : FINALIZE MWEKA CAMP TO MWEKA GATE BACK TO MOSHI

Day 1 : STARTING HIKING UMBWE GATE TO UMBWE CAMP

Starting on your Kilimanjaro adventure, the first day starts with a drive from your hotel to the Umbwe gate where the excitement builds as you register for the journey ahead. The trek commences through an enchanting rainforest, a verdant world alive with the sounds of nature. The air is filled with the earthy scent of damp foliage and the songs of tropical birds. The path winds its way amidst towering trees, creating a sense of entering a secret realm. After a satisfying hike, you arrive at the Umbwe cave campsite, where the team has set up tents nestled within this lush wilderness. As the sun sets, a delicious dinner awaits, bringing a perfect end to a day of discovery.

Accommodation for day 1

Umbwe Cave Campsite

Included meals and drinks

Breakfast

Dinner

Drinking water

Lunch

Day 2 : CONTINUE HIKING UMBWE CAVE KILIMANJARO TO BARRANCO CAMPSITE

Rising to a new day's adventure, the journey leads from the Umbwe cave campsite towards the Barranco hut campsite. The trail leads you through the shifting landscapes of the Montana forest, where shafts of sunlight filter through leaves, casting dappled patterns on the ground. The view opens up to reveal the awe-inspiring Barranco valleys, with their sweeping vistas that seem to stretch forever. As you hike further, the path winds its way through heather-clad terrain, where the air feels crisper, hinting at the altitude you're gaining. After an invigorating day of trekking, you arrive at the Barranco hut campsite.

Accommodation for day 2

Barranco Campsite

Included meals and drinks

Breakfast

Dinner

Drinking water

Lunch

Day 3 : BARRANCO CAMPSITE TO KARANGA CAMPSITE UP TO SUMMIT MT KILIMANJARO

The day's journey takes you from the Barranco campsite to the Karanga campsite. As you ascend the formidable Barranco wall, a sense of accomplishment and anticipation fills the air. The landscape transforms once more as you reach an altitude of 4200 meters, a pause for acclimatization. The Moorland habitat unveils its unique beauty, offering a serene backdrop for a leisurely stroll. The Karanga campsite at 3900 meters becomes your haven, nestled amidst this high-altitude landscape. The day's hike is a testament to your progress and determination, covering 6 kilometers and taking 4-5 hours.

Accommodation for day 3

Karanga Campsite

Included meals and drinks

Breakfast

Dinner

Drinking water

Lunch

Day 4 : CONTINUE KARANGA CAMPSITE TO BARAFU CAMP

Facing the challenge of high altitude, you set out from Karanga campsite toward Barafu campsite, located at an elevation of 4620 meters. The path ahead is steep and demanding, requiring a measured pace to mitigate the effects of altitude and fatigue. The landscape evolves into an Alpine Desert, a stark yet captivating environment defined by its rugged terrain and a lack of vegetation. The cold winds here are bracing, a constant reminder of the altitude's grip. This segment covers a distance of 5 kilometers, a 3-4 hour hike that tests your resilience. Your reward is being closer to the majestic Kibo glaciers, a sight that fuels your determination. As the day draws to a close, you prepare both physically and mentally for the final ascent to the summit.

Accommodation for day 4

Barafu Campsite

Included meals and drinks

Breakfast

Dinner

Drinking water

Lunch

Day 5 : BARAFU CAMP TO UHURU PEAK TO MWEKA CAMP

The midnight air is crisp and laden with anticipation as you begin your summit ascent from Barafu campsite. A light breakfast fuels your determination, and under the cover of darkness, you start the trek towards Uhuru Peak. Stella Point on the crater rim, reached in the early morning hours, offers a breathtaking panorama of the crater and its icy expanse. As dawn breaks, you continue along the Kibo crater rim, a path that leads to the crown jewel of Kilimanjaro – Uhuru Peak. The culmination of your journey is marked by a sense of accomplishment and awe, standing at an elevation of 5895 meters. Photos capture this monumental moment before you descend to Barafu Huts campsite for well-deserved sustenance and rest.

Accommodation for day 5

Mweka Campsite

Included meals and drinks

Breakfast

Dinner

Drinking water

Lunch

Day 6 : FINALIZE MWEKA CAMP TO MWEKA GATE BACK TO MOSHI

The final leg of your Kilimanjaro adventure begins with a descent from Mweka camp, guiding you through the Montane Forest. The air is laden with the fragrance of damp earth and vegetation, a fond farewell to the heights you've conquered. As you make your way to the Mweka park gate, the sounds of the forest bid you farewell, and a sense of accomplishment and nostalgia intertwine. The descent covers a distance of 9 kilometers, a 3-4 hour journey that brings you full circle. Signing out at the gate, you prepare to return to civilization, taking with you not only memories but the spirit of the mountain. The transfer back to Moshi becomes a time of reflection, a chance to relive the triumphs and challenges of your Kilimanjaro expedition.

Accommodation for day 6

Included meals and drinks

Breakfast

Drinking water

Costs for 6 Days Mt Kilimanjaro Hiking Expedition via Umbwe Route

1 pax	2 pax	3 pax	4 pax	5 pax	6 pax	7 pax	8 pax	9 pax	10 pax
$ 1534	$ 1509	$ 1509	$ 1509	$ 1484	$ 1484	$ 1484	$ 1484	$ 1484	$ 1459

Tour activities

Game drive tours

Getting around/Walking

Hotel resting

Photographs

Tour features and style

Private tour
You can do safari privately for solo, couple, family, or in group.

Group tour
Join a group with your fellow tourists through this tour.

Budget tour
You can compute the price for budget for the whole tour

Customizable
You can customize the itinerary, price inclusions, accommodations, and also the price.

First aid/Rescue
First aid and rescue during the tour is assured.

Price inclusions

Sleeping bag or bed linen

Rescue fee

Meals (as specified in the day-by-day description)

All accommodation mentioned (unless clearly labeled as optional upgrade)

Camping equipment (only sleeping bag/bed linen may be listed as excluded)

All transportation mentioned (unless clearly labeled as optional)

All Taxes/VAT

Price exclusions

International flights to/from the start/end of the tour

Additional accommodation before and at the end of the tour

Tips: tipping guideline

Personal items

Government imposed increase of taxes and/or park fees

TANZANIA BIG 5 EXPEDITION

1032 reviews | Moshi, Tanzania |

Website https://www.tanzaniabig5expedition.com

TANZANIA BIG 5 EXPEDITION CO L.T.D Is a local, family-owned tour operator specializing in adventure travel in Tanzania. We specialize wildlife game drive and hiking tour, cultural tours as well as wildlife safaris, holidays tour. Our mission is to provide the best adventure experiences at fair and competitive prices while ensuring we leave a positive mark on the local community and environment.

Tour offered

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Frequently Asked Questions

Can I bring my own telescope for wildlife viewing during guided sessions?

Bringing your telescope for wildlife viewing during guided sessions is possible. Consider portability.

What's the policy on interacting with local communities during guided cultural visits?

Guided cultural visits prioritize respectful interactions with local communities to learn and exchange experiences.

Can I request a specific location for a wildlife painting session?

Some operators offer customizable wildlife painting session locations. Inquire about possibilities.

Can I bring my own art supplies for wildlife painting during guided sessions?

Bringing your art supplies for wildlife painting during guided sessions can enhance your artistic experiences.

How are medical supplies handled during guided fishing activities?

Guides often carry basic medical supplies during guided fishing activities for minor incidents.

Can I bring my own fishing equipment for guided fishing activities?

While fishing equipment might be provided, you can inquire if you can bring your own for guided fishing activities.

What's the policy on interacting with marine life during snorkeling trips?

Snorkeling trips prioritize observing marine life while minimizing disturbance to their natural environment.

Can I request a specific location for a marine photography session?

Some operators offer customizable marine photography session locations. Inquire about possibilities.

Can I bring my own camera equipment for photography during snorkeling trips?

Bringing your camera equipment for photography during snorkeling trips can enhance your underwater photography.

How are medical supplies handled during snorkeling trips?

Basic medical supplies might be available during snorkeling trips to address minor incidents.

Can I bring my own snorkeling gear for the trips?

While snorkeling gear might be provided, bringing your own well-fitting gear can enhance your comfort and experience.