Experience the thrilling ascent of Mount Kilimanjaro via the Umbwe Route with MJ Tours and Safaris. Situated on the southern side of the mountain, the Umbwe Route offers an exhilarating and challenging trekking experience, renowned for its steep trails and breathtaking scenery.
The Umbwe Route entices adventurers with its rugged terrain, dense forests, and dramatic vistas. As one of the shortest and steepest routes to the summit, it presents a formidable challenge for climbers seeking an adrenaline-fueled adventure. Trekkers are treated to panoramic views of the surrounding landscapes, including glimpses of the Great Rift Valley and Mount Meru in the distance.
Despite its steep ascent, the Umbwe Route rewards climbers with unparalleled solitude and serenity. Away from the crowds of more popular routes, such as the Machame or Marangu, trekkers can immerse themselves fully in the raw beauty of Kilimanjaro’s southern slopes. This sense of isolation adds to the allure of the journey, creating a truly unforgettable experience for those seeking a wilderness adventure.
With its rapid elevation gain, the Umbwe Route requires careful acclimatization and physical preparation. Our experienced guides at MJ Tours and Safaris are dedicated to ensuring the safety and well-being of our climbers throughout the expedition. With their expertise and support, you can tackle the challenges of the Umbwe Route with confidence and determination.
At MJ Tours and Safaris, we provide comprehensive support and amenities to ensure a comfortable and successful trek along the Umbwe Route. From comfortable accommodations to delicious meals prepared by our skilled chefs, we strive to make your Kilimanjaro adventure unforgettable.
Embark on the ultimate wilderness expedition and conquer Mount Kilimanjaro via the Umbwe Route with MJ Tours and Safaris by your side. Experience the thrill of adventure and the beauty of Tanzania’s highest peak on this extraordinary journey to the summit.
To make your trip as easy as possible, we can offer accommodation in Moshi before and after the Mount Kilimanjaro climb. Or if you’d prefer, you can stay at a hostel/hotel of your choice. We can also offer airport transfers to and from if required.A pre- Mount Kilimanjaro climb briefing will be arranged with one of our mountain guides to ensure that you have all the correct mountain climbing gear. We’ll also talk you through what will be expected during the climb and share all our best secrets for conquering the highest point of Africa "Uhuru Peak"
Elevation Gain: 1,600 metres / 5,200 feet
Hiking Time: 5 to 6 hours
Habitat: Rainforest
After breakfast, you’ll get picked up from your hostel/hotel in Moshi and driven to the starting point at Umbwe Gate (approximately 1 hour). After registration, you will begin your journey to the summit of Mt. Kilimanjaro using a well-maintained trail through Montane Forest. On the way, you’ll walk through dense rainforest and coffee plantations as your guide talks you through some of the local flora and fauna. Here you will also get a very good chance of witnessing Black and White Colobus monkeys, as well as many different species of brightly-coloured birds. The climb is steady and gradual incline to Umbwe Camp.
Elevation Gain: 800 metres / 2,850 feet
Hiking Time: 4 to 5 hours
Habitat: Heath
The route now takes you into semi-desert and rocky landscapes. You may even have occasional glimpses of Kibo, the imposing summit cone of Mount Kilimanjaro. You may find this trek a little tougher than the previous days as some hikers usually start to experience symptoms of altitude sickness. Closer to camp the trail begins to flatten out finally descending into Barranco Camp, which lies below the imposing Barranco Wall in a beautiful, sheltered valley.
Elevation Gain: 145 meters / 456 feet
Hiking Time: Approximately 4 to 5 hours
Habitat: Alpine desert
This will be a short day of hiking to allow for acclimatization. After breakfast, you will begin to ascend the Barranco Wall and hike glacial valleys – but don’t worry, it is easier than it looks! From the top of the wall, you will then cross a series of hills and valleys before descending into Karanga Valley. After one more steep climb, you’ll reach Karanga Camp where you will relax for the afternoon before dinner and an overnight rest.
Elevation Gain: 605 metres / 1,994 feet
Hiking Time: Approximately 3 to 4 hours
Habitat: Alpine desert
After breakfast, you will leave Karanga and hit the junction which connects to the famous Mweka Trail. You will then continue along the rocky ridge for 1 to 2 hours before reaching Barafu Camp, which offers stunning views of Mt. Kilimanjaro’s summit from various angles. Your tents will be pitched along a narrow and rocky ridge with high winds. It’s therefore worth taking some time to familiarize yourself with your surroundings before it gets dark. Rest for the night at Barafu Camp and prepare for the upcoming hike to the summit.
Elevation Gain: 1,295 metres / 4,200 feet
Elevation Loss: 2,785 metres / 9,100 feet
Hiking time: 6 to 7 hours to Uhuru Peak; 7 to 8 hours to Mweka Camp
Habitat: Arctic conditions
This is where the going gets really tough! Just before midnight, you will venture into the night and begin your final ascent to the summit of Mt. Kilimanjaro. head northwest through the heavy stone scree following multiple switchbacks between Ratzel and Rebmann glaciers until you reach Stella Point (5,756m). This section is probably the most challenging part of the route, and will require great physical and mental effort. Continue to move slowly, always listening to your guide. After a short rest at Stella Point, you will hike along the crater rim for another hour before reaching your ultimate goal – Uhuru Peak! Congratulations! You have now made it to the “Roof of Africa”. Weather conditions on the summit will determine how long you will be able to spend there, but it is important to start your descent within good time to ensure you get enough rest back at Barafu Camp. After your rest, you’ll gather the rest of your belongings and descend to Mweka Camp (3,100m) where you’ll enjoy dinner and a well-earned sleep!
Elevation Loss: 1,280 metres / 4,220 feet
Hiking time: Approximately 3 to 4 hours
Habitat: Rainforest
After eating breakfast, you will begin the easiest part of your adventure on Mount Kilimanjaro via a scenic path through the forest to Mweka Gate. Successful hikers who made it to Stella Point and Uhuru Peak will be awarded their certificates at the gate. Then it’s time to drive back to your hotel to enjoy a shower, dinner and celebrations with a Kilimanjaro beer!
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