Mount Kilimanjaro Trek – Umbwe Route (7 Day Package)

Upon arrival at Kilimanjaro International Airport, you’ll be met and transferred to The Maridadi Hotel (B&B) in Moshi.
Your head guide will conduct a briefing, gear check, and help with any equipment rentals that are needed.

Distance: 9.6 km / 6 mi | Time: 6–8 hrs | Zone: Rainforest → Moorland
Elevation: 1,651m → 2,944m | Gain: +1,293m

Drive from Moshi to Kilimanjaro National Park Gate. After permits are issued, begin trekking through lush rainforest along a ridge between two deep valleys.
The trail can be muddy and slippery - gaiters and trekking poles are highly recommended.
Camp at Umbwe Cave, surrounded by towering trees and dense undergrowth.

Distance: 4.75 km / 3 mi | Time: 4–6 hrs | Zone: Moorland
Elevation: 2,944m → 3,986m | Gain: +1,042m

Continue on a steep path along the Umbwe Ridge before descending slightly into Barranco Valley. The vegetation thins and temperatures drop as you approach camp.

Distance: 5.2 km / 3 mi | Time: 3–4 hrs | Zone: Alpine Desert
Elevation: 3,986m → 4,034m | Gain: +48m

Climb the Barranco Wall, one of the most exhilarating sections of the trek, then descend into the Karanga Valley.
Enjoy stunning views and witness the crew’s impressive agility as they navigate this steep section. Overnight at Karanga Camp.

Distance: 3.3 km / 2 mi | Time: 3–4 hrs | Zone: Alpine Desert
Elevation: 4,034m → 4,662m | Gain: +628m

Ascend steadily toward Barafu Camp, completing the Southern Circuit, which offers breathtaking summit views from multiple angles.
Dinner and early rest to prepare for the summit push. Overnight at Barafu Camp.

Ascent: 4.86 km / 3 mi | 5–7 hrs
Descent: 11.5 km / 7.1 mi | 5–6 hrs
Zone: Glaciers & Snowfields
Elevation: 4,662m → 5,895m (Uhuru Peak) → 3,106m
Gain: +1,233m | Loss: -2,789m

Begin your summit attempt between midnight and 2 a.m.
Ascend through scree fields toward Stella Point, where you’ll be rewarded with a spectacular African sunrise. Continue to Uhuru Peak, the highest point in Africa.

After celebration and photos, descend to Mweka Camp, stopping at Barafu for lunch and rest.
Expect loose gravel and volcanic ash terrain - gaiters and trekking poles essential.

Distance: 9.1 km / 5.7 mi | Time: 3–4 hrs | Zone: Rainforest
Elevation: 3,106m → 1,633m | Loss: -1,473m

Descend through lush rainforest to Mweka Gate for certificate distribution.
Return to Moshi for a well-deserved hot shower, dinner, and celebration.
Overnight at The Maridadi Hotel (B&B)