The Umbwe Route is the shortest and steepest of all the Kilimanjaro routes. Known for its direct approach, it is one of the least crowded paths but also one of the most difficult due to its rapid ascent. The route is ideal for experienced trekkers who are confident in their acclimatization abilities and want a quick, challenging path to the summit. After conquering Kilimanjaro, unwind with a 1-day safari in the beautiful Ngorongoro Crater.
Arrive in Moshi and meet your guide for a pre-trek briefing and equipment check. Overnight at a hotel in Moshi.
Drive: Transfer from Moshi to Umbwe Gate for registration and to begin the trek. Trek: Hike through lush rainforest with steep and narrow paths that gradually open to heathlands. Ascent: Gain 1,250 meters in elevation over 4-6 hours. Meals: Lunch and dinner provided. Overnight: Umbwe Cave Camp (tented accommodation).
Trek: Ascend along a ridge between two valleys, offering dramatic views of Kilimanjaro’s southern face. Ascent: Gain 1,050 meters in elevation over 5-6 hours. Meals: Breakfast, lunch, and dinner provided. Overnight: Barranco Camp (tented accommodation).
Trek: Start the day with the famous Barranco Wall, a steep but non-technical climb. Continue through undulating terrain to Karanga Camp. Acclimatization: This day provides excellent acclimatization due to the gradual altitude gain. Ascent: Gain 135 meters over 4-5 hours. Meals: Breakfast, lunch, and dinner provided. Overnight: Karanga Camp (tented accommodation).
Trek: Continue upward to Barafu Camp, the final stop before the summit. Summit Preparation: Spend the afternoon resting and preparing for your midnight summit attempt. Ascent: Gain 605 meters over 4-5 hours. Meals: Breakfast, lunch, and dinner provided. Overnight: Barafu Camp (tented accommodation).
Summit Attempt: Begin your final ascent at midnight, trekking through the darkness to Stella Point (5,756m), then continuing to Uhuru Peak. Uhuru Peak: Celebrate reaching the top of Africa and enjoy breathtaking sunrise views. Descent: After summiting, descend back to Barafu Camp for a short rest before continuing down to Mweka Camp. Total Trek Time: 12-14 hours. Meals: Breakfast, lunch, and dinner provided. Overnight: Mweka Camp (tented accommodation).
Descent: After breakfast, trek through the rainforest down to Mweka Gate. Certificate: Receive your summit certificate at the gate. Return: Transfer back to Moshi for a celebratory lunch. Meals: Breakfast and lunch provided. Overnight: Optional hotel stay in Moshi (not included in the package).
Transfer: Early morning departure from Moshi to Ngorongoro Crater. Game Drive: Descend into the crater for a full day of wildlife viewing. The Ngorongoro Crater is known for its dense concentration of animals, including lions, elephants, rhinos, and flamingos. Meals: Picnic lunch provided in the crater. Return: After the game drive, return to Moshi or Arusha. Meals: Breakfast and lunch provided.
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