Umbwe Route Overview
Learn more about the Umbwe route in Kilimanjaro.
Umbwe Route stands out as one of the shortest paths leading to the Southern Glaciers and the Western Breach on Mount Kilimanjaro. Regarded as the most challenging route, it offers a strenuous yet highly rewarding trekking experience.
Ideal for adventurers seeking an authentic climbing challenge, the Umbwe Route remains a less-traveled trail, far from the typical crowd-filled paths. While it’s a non-technical climb, this route demands steep ascents, requiring trekkers to navigate rocky terrains and tree roots. Widely considered the most direct and toughest ascent, it includes exposed ridges, suiting seasoned mountaineers.
Due to its challenging nature, the success rate on the Umbwe Route tends to be lower compared to other routes. To conquer this climb, trekkers are advised to be in peak physical condition. Unlike other routes offering gradual ascents or acclimatization aids, Umbwe involves a relentless uphill journey during the initial days.
Yet, the Umbwe Route compensates for its intensity with breathtaking panoramas. Throughout the trek, trekkers are treated to awe-inspiring views, both on the left and right sides of the trail. The early sections of this path arguably offer the most spectacular vistas on the mountain, rivaling even the summit itself.
Moreover, the Umbwe Route boasts a notably low footfall, making it one of the quieter passages up Mount Kilimanjaro. Its reputation for difficulty keeps visitor numbers low, preserving its untouched wilderness feel. However, the trail converges with the Machame Route near Barranco Camp, eventually joining the Southern Circuit, leading to Barafu Camp and then ascending towards the summit before descending via the Mweka Route.
For those seeking unparalleled views on their Kilimanjaro ascent and relish wilderness challenges, the Umbwe Route promises an unparalleled adventure, akin to a true mountaineering expedition on the mountain.
Golden Kit Tours and Safaris offer the Umbwe Route as a 6 or 7-day group or private climb. The seven-day variation includes an acclimatization day at Barranco Camp on day 3.
6 Day Umbwe Route Itinerary Overview:
Starting from Umbwe Gate to the summit and concluding at Mweka Gate
Day 1: Umbwe Gate to Umbwe Cave Camp
Elevation: 1600m to 2900m, Distance: 11km, Time: 6 hours, Habitat: Montane Forest.
Commence the trek after registering at Umbwe Park Gate. Ascend through rainforest along the Umbwe river. Overnight at Umbwe Cave Camp at approximately 2,900m altitude.
Day 2: Umbwe Camp to Barranco Camp
Elevation: 2940m to 3970m, Distance: 6km, Time: 4-5 hours, Habitat: Montane Forest.
Trek through the forest until it ends, witnessing the Western Breach’s sheer wall and the Great Barranco in the afternoon mist. Camp at Barranco camp.
Day 3: Barranco Camp to Karanga Camp
Elevation: 3950m to 3930m, Distance: 7 km, Hiking Time: 4 hours, Habitat: Alpine Desert.
Embark on a scramble up the Great Barranco Wall, then traverse scree to Karanga Valley beneath icefalls. Overnight at Karanga campsite.
Day 4: Karanga Camp to Barafu Camp
Elevation: 3930m to 4600m, Distance: 6kms, Hiking Time: 3 hours, Habitat: Alpine Desert.
Proceed to the junction connecting with the Mweka descent Trail and ascend to Barafu Hut. Enjoy views of Mawenzi and Kibo peaks. Rest and prepare for summit day.
Day 5: Barafu Camp to Summit to Mweka Hut
Elevation: 4600m to 5895m (and down to 3100m), Distance: 7km ascent / 23km descent, Time: 6-8 hours ascent / 7-8 hours descent, Habitat: Stone scree and ice-capped summit.
Commence the summit trek at midnight towards Stella Point, then Uhuru Peak for a magnificent sunrise. Descend to Mweka Hut via Barafu for lunch and rest.
Day 6: Mweka Camp to Hotel
Elevation: 3100m to 1800m, Distance: 8 km, Time: 3-4 hours, Habitat: Montane Forest.
Descend to Mweka Park Gate for summit certificates. Expect wet and muddy conditions at lower elevations. Depart for a well-deserved rest.
Frequently Asked Questions:
How difficult is the Umbwe Route?
The Umbwe route is short, steep, and direct, offering a challenging trek. It requires a high level of fitness due to its fast ascent to higher altitudes. Though it’s highly scenic, the lack of acclimatization stages and low traffic impact success rates.
What is the distance and duration of the Umbwe Route?
Covering a distance of 53km or 32 miles, the shortest required duration for the Umbwe Route is 5 days. However, due to its steepness, it’s recommended to be well-prepared, potentially taking up to 9 or 10 days for the entire trip.
What is the Umbwe Route Summit Success Rate?
The Umbwe Route’s success rate averages around 70%, owing to its steepness and limited acclimatization. However, some operators boast a success rate of over 90%.
What is the scenery like on the Umbwe Route?
The trek encompasses tree plantations, lush rainforests, the steep Western Breach, Arrow’s Glacier path, and the Reusch Crater, offering a unique and rewarding experience.
When is the best time to trek the Umbwe Route?
July-September, with stable weather and less rain, is recommended. However, being close to the equator, Kilimanjaro can be climbed year-round, with April-May best avoided due to rainfall.
