Embark on the Adventure of a Lifetime: 7 Days Mount Kilimanjaro Climbing on the Umbwe Route with KCTE
Welcome to the Kilimanjaro Centre for Trekking and Ecotourism (KCTE), your premier guide to conquering the legendary Mount Kilimanjaro. Are you ready to challenge yourself and experience one of the world's most iconic summits? Our 7-day itinerary on the less-traveled Umbwe Route promises not just a climb, but a journey through diverse landscapes, breathtaking views, and unique ecological zones.
Day 0: Arrival in Tanzania
Upon your arrival at Kilimanjaro International Airport, our friendly KCTE team will warmly welcome you and transport you to your selected hotel in Moshi. Check our accommodation recommendations here. Rest, relax, and enjoy the local atmosphere in preparation for the adventure ahead.
Day 1: Moshi – Umbwe Gate – Umbwe Cave Camp
- Elevation: 1,600m to 2,850m
- Distance: 11km
- Hiking Time: 5-7 hours
- Vegetation: Rainforest
Your journey begins with a transfer from Moshi to the Umbwe Gate. After handling park formalities, step into the lush rainforest where colobus monkeys and vibrant birdlife thrive. The trail is steep, challenging yet rewarding with its rich canopy and earthy scents. Tonight, you'll camp at Umbwe Cave amidst the dense forest, under the starlit African sky.
Day 2: Umbwe Cave Camp – Barranco Camp
- Elevation: 2,850m to 3,950m
- Distance: 6km
- Hiking Time: 4-5 hours
- Vegetation: Heath and Moorland
As the forest thins, enter the fascinating world of heath and moorland. The path grows steeper and offers spectacular views of the valley and the jagged peaks of Kilimanjaro. Barranco Camp awaits at an altitude that promises a stunning sunset over the mountain's rugged landscapes.
Day 3: Barranco Camp – Karanga Camp
- Elevation: 3,950m to 3,995m
- Distance: 5km
- Hiking Time: 4-5 hours
- Features: Great Barranco Wall
Today's challenge is the Great Barranco Wall, an imposing yet climbable obstacle, affectionately known as the ‘Breakfast'. Reaching the top, the rest of the day's hike is less demanding, crossing valleys and streams before arriving at Karanga Camp. This is your acclimatization day, critical for a successful summit push.
Day 4: Karanga Camp – Barafu Camp
- Elevation: 3,995m to 4,673m
- Distance: 4km
- Hiking Time: 4-5 hours
- Vegetation: Alpine Desert
The landscape shifts dramatically to alpine desert. Sparse vegetation and rugged terrain dominate as you approach Barafu Camp. Preparing for the summit night, rest and replenish your energy. The excitement builds as you're now on the cusp of reaching the peak.
Day 5: Barafu Camp – Uhuru Peak – Mweka Camp
- Elevation: 4,673m to 5,895m (and down to 3,100m)
- Distance: 5km ascent / 12km descent
- Hiking Time: 7-8 hours ascent / 4-6 hours descent
- Vegetation: Arctic
Summon your strength for an early night ascent. Traverse the stark, moonlit landscape to reach Stella Point by dawn. The real reward is just an hour away at Uhuru Peak, Africa's highest point. After embracing this life-changing moment, descend to Mweka Camp for a well-deserved rest.
Day 6: Mweka Camp – Mweka Gate – Moshi
- Elevation: 3,100m to 1,640m
- Distance: 10km
- Hiking Time: 3-4 hours
- Vegetation: Rainforest
The final day of trekking returns you through the humid rainforest. Wildlife greets you as you complete your descent. At Mweka Gate, our KCTE vehicle awaits to take you back to your hotel in Moshi, where a comfortable bed and perhaps a celebratory drink mark the perfect end to your epic journey.
Day 7: Departure Day
As you prepare to leave, reflect on your incredible achievement and the lasting memories you've made. KCTE will ensure your transfer from the hotel to Kilimanjaro International Airport, bidding you Kwaheri (farewell) until next time.
What's Included:
- Airport transfers and return
- Full board accommodation during the trek
- Professional mountain guides, porters, and cook
- Kilimanjaro National Park fees, camping/hut fees
- Rescue fees
- Clean, purified drinking water
- Celebration dinner after the climb
What's Not Included:
- Flights to/from Tanzania
- Visa fees
- Personal hiking equipment
- Tips for guides and porters
- Personal expenses
- Travel insurance
Embark on this incredible 7-day Kilimanjaro climb with KCTE and leave with stories to tell and memories to cherish. Customize this itinerary to meet your specific needs or contact us to explore other routes and adventures. Reach out at info@mt-kilimanjaro.com or call us at +255 753 700 700. Conquer your dreams with KCTE – Where every step counts!
