6 Days Kilimanjaro Climb - Marangu Route
Kilimanjaro Climbing
Take on the ultimate challenge with Incredible Africa Adventures on our 7-Day Mount Kilimanjaro Climb via the Umbwe Route. Known as Kilimanjaro’s most demanding and direct route, the Umbwe Route is ideal for experienced and determined climbers seeking a thrilling, steep ascent to the summit. This southward approach is both rewarding and intense, offering an exhilarating adventure from start to finish.
Starting with a steep ascent, the Umbwe Route leads you directly through dense rainforest and up dramatic ridges, quickly gaining altitude and revealing spectacular views along the way. By the time you reach Barranco Camp, you’ll join the Southern Circuit, known for its breathtaking vistas and iconic features such as the Lava Tower and the stunning Barranco Wall. The summit is approached via the Southern Circuit to Barafu Camp, with descent completed on the Mweka Route.
The Umbwe Route’s quick altitude gain requires hikers to have excellent fitness levels and the ability to acclimatize quickly, as the fast ascent allows minimal time for gradual altitude adaptation. Despite the low traffic on this route, the challenges of steep inclines and high altitudes make this trek ideal for confident, strong hikers seeking a unique Kilimanjaro experience. While the route can be completed in six days, we recommend seven days to improve your summit success rate and provide a more balanced acclimatization.
Embark on this unforgettable journey with Incredible Africa Adventures and test your endurance on Kilimanjaro’s most exhilarating path to Uhuru Peak. Our expert guides, dedicated support team, and commitment to safety will ensure you have an extraordinary and well-supported climb on this challenging route. Join us to conquer Kilimanjaro’s Umbwe Route and experience the adventure of a lifetime.
ARRIVAL DAY: WELCOME TO TANZANIA
Upon arrival at Kilimanjaro International Airport, our team will warmly welcome you and transfer you to your hotel in Moshi. You will meet your experienced mountain guide for a full briefing on your upcoming Kilimanjaro trek and an equipment check to ensure you’re well-prepared. Any missing gear can be rented on this day, so you’re all set for the adventure of a lifetime.
DAY 1: UMBWE GATE – UMBWE CAMP
We then transfer through villages and coffee and banana plantations to Umbwe Gate. The trail ascends sharply on a forestry track which winds up the dense rain forest. The path narrows and steepens as we climb the ridge between two rivers surrounded by huge trees. Umbwe Camp is perched between trees and thick undergrowth.
Elevation: 5,249 ft to 9,514 ft
Distance: 11 km
Hiking Time:5-7 hours
Habitat: Heath
Meal Plan: Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner
Accommodation: Camping at Umbwe Camp
DAY 2: UMBWE CAMP – BARRANCO CAMP
The second day of the trek follows rockier terrain with sparse undergrowth and straggly, moss-covered trees. As we gain elevation, glimpses of Kilimanjaro can be seen. The path flattens as we approach Barranco Valley. From Umbwe ridge, the route descends to Barranco Camp through the strange but beautiful Senecio Forest.
Elevation: 9,514 ft to 13,044 ft
Distance: 6 km
Hiking Time: 4-5 hours
Habitat: Heath
Meal Plan: Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner
Accommodation: Camping at Barranco Camp
DAY 3: BARRANCO CAMP
Extra Day for Acclimatization. Adding this day will ease your effort, and amplify your acclimatization.
Meal Plan: Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner
Accommodation: Camping at Barranco Camp
DAY 4: BARRANCO CAMP- KARANGA CAMP
We begin the day by descending into a ravine to the base of the Great Barranco Wall. Then we climb the non-technical but steep, nearly 900 ft cliff. From the top of the Barranco Wall we cross a series of hills and valleys until we descend sharply into Karanga Valley. One more steep climb up leads us to Karanga Camp.
Elevation: 13,044 ft to 13,106 ft
Distance: 5 km
Hiking Time: 4-5 hours
Habitat: Alpine Desert
Meal Plan: Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner
Accommodation: Camping at Karanga Camp
DAY 5: KARANGA CAMP - BARAFU CAMP
We leave Karanga and hit the junction which connects with the Mweka Trail. We continue up to the rocky section to Barafu Hut. At this point, you have completed the Southern Circuit, which offers views of the summit from many different angles. Here we make camp, rest and enjoy an early dinner to prepare for the summit day. The two peaks of Mawenzi and Kibo are viewable from this position.
Elevation: 13,106 ft to 15,331 ft
Distance: 4 km
Hiking Time: 4-5 hours
Habitat: Alpine Desert
Meal Plan: Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner
Accommodation: Camping at Barafu Camp
DAY 6: BARAFU CAMP TO UHURU PEAK TO MWEKA CAMP
Very early in the morning (around midnight), we begin our push to the summit. This is the most mentally and physically challenging portion of the trek. The wind and cold at this elevation and time of day can be extreme. We ascend in the darkness for several hours while taking frequent, but short, breaks. Near Stella Point (18,900 ft), you will be rewarded with the most magnificent sunrise you are ever likely to see coming over Mawenzi Peak. Finally, we arrive at Uhuru Peak- the highest point on Mount Kilimanjaro and the continent of Africa.
Elevation: 15,331 ft to 19,341 ft
Distance: 5 km
Hiking Time: 7-8 hours
Habitat: Arctic
From the summit, we now make our descent continuing straight down to the Mweka Hut camp site, stopping at Barafu for lunch. The trail is very rocky and can be quite hard on the knees; trekking poles are helpful. Mweka Camp is situated in the upper forest and mist or rain can be expected in the late afternoon. Later in the evening, we enjoy our last dinner on the mountain and a well-earned sleep.
Elevation: 19,341 ft to 10,065 ft
Distance: 12 km
Hiking Time: 4-6 hours
Habitat: Rain Forest
Meal Plan: Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner
Accommodation: Camping at Mweka Camp
DAY 7: MWEKA CAMP – MOSHI
On our last day, we continue the descent to Mweka Gate and collect the summit certificates. At lower elevations, it can be wet and muddy. From the gate, we continue another hour to Mweka Village. A vehicle will meet us at Mweka Village to drive us back to the hotel in Moshi.
Altitude Loss: 10,065 ft to 5,380 ft
Distance: 10 km
Hiking Time: 3-4 hours Habitat: Rain Forest
Meal Plan: Breakfast and Lunch.
Accommodation: Your Hotel
DEPARTURE DAY
Spend the day at leisure in Moshi, recovering from your trek. The day is left free to wind down after the trek before your flight back home. Depending on flight schedule, you may explore Moshi town and grab some souvenirs before heading to the airport.
Wildlife Safari tour, Zanzibar trip and other add-ons are available if you wish to continue exploring Tanzania.
$2500 per person when 1 person travels alone
$2100 per person when 2 – 4 persons travel together
$2000 per person when 5 – 7 persons travel together
$1800 per person when 8 – 15 persons travel together
For a tailored estimate, reach out to us directly to discuss your unique itinerary, group size, and desired comfort level. By understanding your specific needs and budget, we can provide a detailed, customized quote that aligns with your Kilimanjaro adventure goals. Let us help you plan the perfect climb with transparent pricing and options suited just for you!
Airport Transfers: Hassle-free transfers to and from Kilimanjaro International Airport and your accommodation in Moshi for a seamless start and finish.
Comfortable Accommodation: Two nights in Moshi—one night before your climb and one night after—designed for rest and relaxation.
Transportation: Reliable transport to and from the Kilimanjaro National Park gate, ensuring timely access to the trail.
All Necessary Fees: Coverage of Kilimanjaro National Park entry fees, camping fees, and rescue fees for your peace of mind.
High-Quality Gear:
>Four-Season Mountain Tents: Durable and weatherproof tents to keep you safe and comfortable in all conditions.
>Double-Layered Sleeping Mats: Extra comfort and insulation for restful nights on the mountain.
Professional Support Team: Knowledgeable and experienced mountain guides, a skilled cook, and hardworking porters to support your journey.
Daily Hot Meals: Nutritious, freshly prepared hot meals served three times daily to keep you energized.(We are happy to accommodate any dietary restrictions or requests.)
Clean Drinking Water: Unlimited supply of treated and filtered water to keep you hydrated throughout your climb.
Hot Water for Washing: Daily provision of hot water for washing, ensuring you stay refreshed during your adventure.
Ethical Treatment of Crew: We prioritize the fair treatment and proper payment of our guides, cooks, and porters, ensuring a motivated and supportive team.
Enhanced Safety Measures:
>Portable oxygen tanks and an oximeter to monitor your health and oxygen levels during the climb.
>A fully equipped emergency first-aid kit for any unexpected situations.
Private Toilet Facilities: Enjoy a portable flush toilet with its own privacy tent for added convenience on the mountain.
Meals and Drinks at Hotel: Lunches, dinners, and beverages at your hotel before and after the climb are not covered.
Travel Insurance: We recommend purchasing comprehensive travel insurance that covers high-altitude trekking.
Flights: International and domestic flights to and from Kilimanjaro International Airport are not included.
Laundry Services: Laundry facilities are available at your hotel but are not included in the package.
Personal Items and Toiletries: Make sure to bring your own personal essentials, including toiletries and other comfort items.
Tips for Guides, Porters, and Cook: While tipping is not mandatory, it’s a valued tradition to show appreciation for your team’s hard work and dedication, and so highly recommended.
Kilimanjaro Climbing
Kilimanjaro Climbing
Kilimanjaro Climbing
Kilimanjaro Climbing
Kilimanjaro Climbing
Kilimanjaro Climbing
Kilimanjaro Climbing
Kilimanjaro Climbing
Kilimanjaro Climbing
Kilimanjaro Climbing