5 days kilimanjaro climb via umbwe route
5 days umbwe route trekking
Kilimanjaro Climb Days 1–5
- Climb Mount Kilimanjaro via the scenic Umbwe.
- Pass through rainforest, moorland, and alpine desert.
- Acclimatize gradually for a higher summit success rate.
- Reach Uhuru Peak, Africa’s highest point.
- Enjoy spectacular sunrise views from the summit.
- Descend through beautiful mountain landscapes.
Day 1
Umbwe Gate (1,800m) to Umbwe Cave Camp (2,850m)
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After breakfast, depart from Moshi or Arusha and drive to Umbwe Gate for registration and a briefing from your mountain guides. The trek begins through a lush tropical rainforest filled with giant trees, colorful vegetation, and diverse wildlife. The route climbs steadily and can be quite steep in certain sections. As you gain altitude, enjoy the peaceful surroundings and pristine wilderness before arriving at Umbwe Cave Camp for dinner and overnight.
Distance: 11 km (6.8 mi)
Approximate Hiking Time: 5–7 Hours
Camping site; Umbwe Cave Camp (2,850m)
Meal Plan: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
“Barranco Valley contains giant groundsel plants that are unique to East African high altitude environments.”
Acclimatization Status
(2,850 m / 9,350 ft)
Good Start
The first camp is reached after a steep climb through the rainforest. Most climbers adapt well at this altitude, but the rapid elevation gain marks the beginning of the route’s challenging profile.
Day 2
Umbwe Cave Camp (2,850m) to Barranco Camp (3,950m)
Following breakfast, continue your ascent through increasingly dramatic landscapes. The forest gradually gives way to giant heathers and rocky ridges. Today’s route offers magnificent views of deep valleys and surrounding peaks. As you climb higher, the terrain becomes steeper and more rugged, providing an exciting trekking experience. Arrive at Barranco Camp in the afternoon where you can relax and enjoy stunning views of the famous Barranco Wall and Kibo Peak.
Distance: 6 km (3.7 mi)
Approximate Hiking Time: 4–6 Hours
Camping site; Barranco Camp (3,950m)
Meal Plan: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
“Barranco Valley contains giant groundsel plants that are unique to East African high-altitude environments.”
Acclimatization Status
(3,960 m / 12,992 ft)
Moderate to Challenging
The route gains altitude quickly, and some climbers may begin experiencing mild altitude symptoms such as headaches, fatigue, or shortness of breath. Proper hydration and a slow pace are important.
Day 3
Barranco Camp (3,950m) to Karanga Camp (4,035m)
After breakfast, begin the day by climbing the impressive Barranco Wall. Despite its intimidating appearance, the climb is safe and offers some of the most spectacular views on Kilimanjaro. Once at the top, continue across ridges and valleys while enjoying panoramic views of glaciers and volcanic formations. The trek is relatively short, allowing plenty of time to rest and acclimatize upon arrival at Karanga Camp
Distance: 5 km (3.1 mi)
Approximate Hiking Time: 4–5 Hours
Camping site; Karanga Camp (4,035m)
Meal Plan: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
Acclimatization Status
(4,035 m / 13,238 ft)
Challenging
After crossing the famous Barranco Wall, climbers reach Karanga Camp. The body continues adapting to thinner air, and the extra time spent at this altitude helps improve acclimatization before higher camps.
Day 4
Karanga Camp (4,035m) to Barafu Camp (4,640m)
Today you continue toward Barafu Camp, the final base camp before the summit attempt. The route passes through a rugged alpine desert environment with stunning views of Kibo Peak and the surrounding mountain landscape. Upon arrival at camp, enjoy lunch and spend the remainder of the afternoon resting and preparing your equipment. Your guides will provide a detailed briefing about the summit climb before an early dinner and rest.
Distance: 4 km (2.5 mi)
Approximate Hiking Time: 3–4 Hours
Camping site; Barafu Camp (4,640m)
Meal Plan: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
INTERESTING FACT…!
“Barafu” means “ice” in Swahili, reflecting the cold conditions found at this altitude.
Acclimatization Status
(4,673 m / 15,331 ft)
Very Challenging
This is the summit base camp. Oxygen levels are significantly reduced, and symptoms such as headache, loss of appetite, and difficulty sleeping are common. Climbers rest briefly before the midnight summit push.
Day 5
Barafu Camp (4,640m) – Uhuru Peak (5,895m) – Mweka Camp (3,100m)
Shortly before midnight, begin your summit attempt under the stars. This challenging climb leads to Stella Point on the crater rim before continuing to Uhuru Peak, the highest point in Africa. Witness a breathtaking sunrise illuminating the glaciers and surrounding landscape. After celebrating your achievement and taking photographs, descend to Barafu Camp for a brief rest before continuing down to Mweka Camp. The long day ends with a well-earned dinner and overnight stay.
Distance: 17 km (10.6 mi)
Approximate Hiking Time: 10–14 Hours
Camping site; Mweka Camp (3,100m)
Meal Plan: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
Acclimatization Status
(5,895 m / 19,341 ft)
Extreme Altitude
At the summit of Mount Kilimanjaro, oxygen levels are approximately half of those at sea level. Even experienced trekkers may experience fatigue, breathlessness, and reduced energy.
Day 6
Mweka Camp (3,100m) to Mweka Gate (1,640m)
After breakfast, begin your final descent through Kilimanjaro’s beautiful rainforest zone. The trail is rich with birdlife, unique plant species, and lush vegetation. Upon reaching Mweka Gate, complete the exit formalities and receive your official summit certificate. Celebrate your achievement with your guides and porters before transferring back to Moshi or Arusha for a well-deserved rest and memorable end to your Kilimanjaro adventure.
Distance: 10 km (6.2 mi)
Approximate Hiking Time: 3–5 Hours
Camping site; Not Included
Meal Plan: Breakfast & Lunch
Acclimatization Status
(3,100 m / 10,170 ft)
Recovery
After descending from the summit, oxygen availability increases significantly. Most altitude-related symptoms begin to improve, and climbers generally feel stronger.
Items included:
- All national park entry fees and conservation fees
- Professional, experienced mountain guides
- Dedicated mountain cook and support crew
- Porters for carrying camping equipment and supplies
- Quality mountain tents and camping equipment
- Sleeping mattresses
- Three freshly prepared meals per day during the climb
- Tea, coffee, hot chocolate, and drinking water on the mountain
- Round trip transfers between Kilimanjaro Airport and the hotel
- Accommodation before and after the climb (if applicable)
- Daily health monitoring and basic first-aid support
- Emergency oxygen cylinder
- Emergency evacuation arrangements
- Kilimanjaro summit certificate
- Government taxes and VAT
Items not included:
- International and domestic flights
- Tanzania visa fees
- Travel and mountain rescue insurance
- Laundry services
- Alcoholic beverages and soft drinks
- Personal expenses and souvenirs
- Telephone calls and internet charge