Tanzania · Trekking

6-Day Kilimanjaro Hike via Umbwe Route to Uhuru Peak from Arusha

6 Days Round trip from Arusha Moderate pace

The journey

Trip highlights

01 Trek the less-travelled Umbwe Route with beautiful panoramas
02 Summit at Uhuru Peak, the highest point in Africa
03 Climb through rainforest, moorland, alpine desert, glaciers, and snow-capped terrain
04 Take in breathtaking summit views from the South Circuit approach

Sign up for an adventurous voyage to summit Mount Kilimanjaro via the Umbwe Route, a less-travelled trail with beautiful panoramas. Enjoy stunning views on this steep, constantly rewarding climb to the top. Reach Uhuru Peak and experience the incomparable natural beauty and breathtaking landscape vistas of Africa's highest mountain.

Congratulations - one step at a time, you have now reached Uhuru Peak, the highest point on Mount Kilimanjaro and the entire continent of Africa!

From the itinerary

At a glance

What this trip includes

Duration 6 Days

Tour type Shared

Activity level Moderate

Accommodation Not included

Transport Included

Wheelchair access No

Cities Arusha, Moshi, Mount Kilimanjaro

Languages English

Day by day

The itinerary

Day 01

Umbwe Gate to Umbwe Cave through Rainforest

Depart from Arusha and drive to the Kilimanjaro National Park Gate.
Wait patiently for the permits to be issued while watching the hustle and bustle of operations as many crews prepare for the journey ahead.
Enjoy the beautiful rainforest scenery and windy trails while your guide tells you about the local flora, fauna, and natural wildlife.
At these lower elevations, the trail can be muddy and quite slippery. We highly recommend gaiters and trekking poles here. The path follows a ridge between two deep valleys up through the dense montane forest. The camp is perched between huge trees and thick undergrowth.

Elevation: 1651m/5417ft to 2944m/9659ft
Altitude gained: 1293m

Day 02

Umbwe Cave to Barranco Camp

After a good night's sleep and a hearty breakfast, we emerge from the rainforest.
Continue on a steeply ascending path along the Umbwe Ridge as it descends slightly to Barranco Camp, situated in the valley.

Temperatures begin to drop.

Elevation: 2944m/9659ft to 3986m/13,077ft
Altitude gained: 1042m

Day 03

Barranco Wall to Karanga Camp

After breakfast, continue on a steep ridge up the adventurous Barranco Wall to the Karanga Valley and the junction that connects with the Mweka Trail. This is one of the most impressive days to witness the power, agility, and strength of your crew as they zip over this wall with what appears to be such ease.

Overnight at Karanga Camp.

Elevation: 3986m/13,077ft to 4034m/13,235ft
Altitude gained: 48m

Day 04

Karanga Camp to Barafu Camp

Continue up toward Barafu Camp.
Once there, you will have completed the South Circuit, which offers a variety of breathtaking views of the summit from many different angles.
Enjoy an early dinner and rest as you prepare for summit night.

Overnight at Barafu Camp.

Elevation: 4034m/13,235ft to 4662m/15,295ft
Altitude gained: 628m

Day 05

Summit Uhuru Peak and Descend to Mweka Camp

Excitement builds as morning comes with an early start between midnight and 2 a.m. This is the most mentally and physically challenging portion of the trek.

Continue to the summit between the Rebmann and Ratzel glaciers, trying to stay warm and focused on the amazing sense of accomplishment that lies ahead.
With a switchback motion in a northwesterly direction, ascend through heavy scree toward Stella Point on the crater rim.
Be rewarded with the most magnificent sunrise during your short rest here. Faster hikers may view the sunrise from the summit. From here, begin the ascent to Uhuru Peak; you are likely to encounter snow all the way.
Congratulations - one step at a time, you have now reached Uhuru Peak, the highest point on Mount Kilimanjaro and the entire continent of Africa!
After photos, celebrations, and maybe a few tears of joy, take a few moments to enjoy this incredible accomplishment.
Begin the steep descent down to Mweka Camp, stopping at Barafu for lunch and a very brief rest. We strongly recommend gaiters and trekking poles for the loose gravel and volcanic ash terrain. A well-deserved rest awaits you to enjoy your last evening on the mountain.

Overnight at Mweka Camp.

Elevation: 4662m/15,295ft to 5895m/19,341ft
Altitude gain: 1233m
Descent to 3106m/10,190ft
Altitude lost: 2789m

Day 06

Mweka Camp to Mweka Gate and Return to Moshi

After breakfast and a heartfelt ceremony of appreciation and team bonding with your crew, it is time to say goodbye.
Continue the descent down to the Mweka Park Gate to receive your summit certificates. As the weather is drastically warmer, the terrain is wet, muddy, and steep, and we highly recommend gaiters and trekking poles.
From the gate, a vehicle will meet you at Mweka Village and drive you back to your hotel in Moshi, about 30 minutes away.
Enjoy a long-overdue hot shower, dinner, and celebrations!

Elevation: 3106m/10,190ft to 1633m/5358ft
Altitude lost: 1473m

Where this trip takes you

Umbwe Gate rainforest ridges, Barranco Wall and Karanga Valley, Uhuru Peak summit sunrise

The route

Where you'll travel

Tour route map — Round trip from Arusha 3 cities · 6 Days

The fine print

Trip details

What's Included

Kilimanjaro trekking according to the itinerary
Professional, English-speaking Wilderness First Responder and CPR-certified guide
Proper ration for the mountain crew (cook and porters)
Drinking water and full-board meals
All National Park and hut fees, crew permits, and VAT
Fair and sustainable crew wages
Gate transfers

What's Not Included

Flights
Visa fees
Travel or medical insurance is required
Gamow Bag
Medication
Tips for porters and mountain crew
Personal spending money for souvenirs, etc.
Energy food and beverages, alcoholic drinks, and soft drinks
Personal hire gear such as trekking poles, sleeping bags, etc.

What to bring

1 Waterproof Jacket, breathable with hood
1 Insulated Jacket, synthetic or down
1 Soft Jacket, fleece or soft-shell
2 Long Sleeve Shirts, lightweight, moisture-wicking fabric
1 Short-Sleeve Shirt, lightweight, moisture-wicking fabric
1 Waterproof Pants, breathable (side zipper recommended)
2 Hiking Pants (convertible to shorts recommended)
1 Fleece Pants
1 Shorts (optional)
1 Long Underwear (moisture-wicking fabric recommended)
3 Underwear briefs (moisture-wicking fabric recommended)
2 Sports Bras (women)
1 Brimmed Hat, for sun protection
1 Knit Hat, for warmth
1 Balaclava, for face coverage (optional)
1 Bandana (optional)
1 Gloves, warm (waterproof recommended)
1 Glove Liners, thin, synthetic, worn under gloves for added warmth (optional)
1 Hiking Boots, warm, waterproof, broken-in, with spare laces
1 Gym Shoes, to wear at camp (optional)
3 Socks, thick, wool or synthetic
3 Sock Liners, tight, thin, synthetic, worn under socks to prevent blisters (optional)
1 Gaiters, waterproof (optional)
1 Sunglasses or Goggles
1 Backpack Cover, waterproof (optional)
1 Poncho, during rainy season (optional)
1 Water Bottle (Nalgene, 32 oz. recommended)
1 Water Bladder, Camelbak type (recommended)
1 Towel, lightweight, quick-dry (optional)
1 Pee Bottle, to avoid leaving the tent at night (recommended)
1 Sleeping Bag, warm, four seasons (recommended)
1 Sleeping Bag Liner, for added warmth (optional)
1 Trekking Poles (recommended)
1 Headlamp, with extra batteries
1 Duffel Bag (waterproof recommended) for porters to carry your equipment
1 Daypack, for you to carry your personal gear
Prescriptions
Sunscreen
Lip Balm
1 Backpack Cover, waterproof (optional)
1 Poncho, during rainy season (optional)
1 Water Bottle (Nalgene, 32 oz. recommended)
1 Water Bladder, Camelbak type (recommended)
1 Towel, lightweight, quick-dry (optional)
1 Pee Bottle, to avoid leaving the tent at night (recommended)
1 Sleeping Bag, warm, four seasons (recommended)
1 Sleeping Bag Liner, for added warmth (optional)
1 Trekking Poles (recommended)
1 Headlamp, with extra batteries
1 Duffel Bag (waterproof recommended) for porters to carry your equipment
1 Daypack, for you to carry your personal gear
Prescriptions
Sunscreen
Lip Balm
Insect Repellent, containing DEET
First Aid Kit
Hand Sanitizer
Toilet Paper
Wet Wipes (recommended)
Snacks, lightweight, high-calorie, high-energy (optional)
Pencil and Notebook, miniature, for trip log (optional)
Camera, with extra batteries (optional)
Trip Receipt
Passport
Visa (available at JRO)
Immunization Papers
Insurance Documents

Know before you go

Is it safe to travel to Africa? Is it safe to travel to Tanzania?
- Africa is currently safe. Tanzania is very safe, and we are ready to organize your African epic holiday. Despite how safe we are from COVID-19, Tanzania still has standard operating procedures in place to contain COVID-19 and ensure your maximum safety. Some airlines have already resumed international flights, and we can plan the entire trip for you. Tanzania welcomes you again!
Requirements to get into the country: Visa
- Visas are compulsory for all visitors and cost from $50. Visas are obtainable at the airport when you arrive, but it is better to have one before you land, as officials tend to "not have change". Visas are obtainable from the Tanzanian Embassy. Please contact us should you want the Embassy address in your area. You will need 2 passport photos and 2 completed forms. Should you not have the time to organize a visa, please contact us and we will gladly assist you for a small fee.
Yellow Fever inoculation certificate
The inoculation is obtainable from your nearest travel clinic or from your local physician. Staple it into the front of your passport if you are afraid of losing it. Most African countries require this certificate, so do not ever be without it when travelling in Africa.
Malaria Tablets:
- Zanzibar is situated in a malaria zone, so it is recommended that you consult your physician on the prescription right for you. Pregnant women are not allowed to take malaria prevention drugs and are cautioned before entering any malaria area. To set your mind at rest, we stayed in Zanzibar for 2 years and fortunately never contracted malaria. This is not to say you will not get it.
  JUST BE CAREFUL.
Insect/Mosquito repellent
Mosquitoes, like little vampires, favour night conditions. Be sure to take a repellent and cover all exposed areas of your body, such as your neck and arms. We recommend that you wear trousers at night, and long-sleeved shirts if you are outdoors. If the heat is too much and you wear a short-sleeved shirt, make sure you smear or spray your arms with repellent. At night before you go to bed, make sure your mosquito net is either touching the ground or tucked in, and that your exposed areas, especially your ankles, are protected with repellent.
Anti-histamine cream
For those irritating bites.
Currency:
- Traveller's cheques and cash are accepted at hotels and bureau de change offices. US$ are the preferred currency. If you plan on taking cash, make sure you take large bills, such as $50 or $100, as these for some unknown reason always get a better rate. Do not go running to the first bureau you see at the airport, as these, along with the hotels and resorts, normally have the worst exchange rate. If you are planning on taking a taxi into town, rather pay the fare in US$ and go to a bureau in town. There are many all over town. Try to negotiate a better rate - you never know.
- Try to pay for as much as possible in the local currency, Tanzanian Shillings, always bearing in mind the exchange rate. If the locals see you have foreign currency, they will try to relieve you of it. Always haggle or bargain and try to pretend you know what you are doing. Remember to keep some of your home currency for your return, just in case. You will also have to pay a departure tax of $30 when you leave.
Embassies:
- There are a few consulates on the island, but all embassies are situated in Dar Es Salaam.
Do I need vaccinations to travel to Tanzania and Zanzibar?
- The vaccination should be acquired a minimum of 10 days before travel to Tanzania and Zanzibar. A certificate of vaccination for Yellow Fever will be necessary for arrival from Kenya or other neighbouring East African countries, and if you have travelled recently in any other areas at risk of Yellow Fever, including South America and parts of Asia.
Travel insurance:
- It is imperative that you have travel insurance. Even though they do not check any certificates when you enter the airports, for your own peace of mind, make sure that you are adequately covered.
What to pack:
- Light sandals or rubber flip-flops. Some places require you to remove your shoes before entering. Good walking shoes if you plan on doing a lot of sightseeing.
- Raincoat or umbrella if you are travelling in the rainy season. Monsoon rains are heavy.
- Flashlight, for those irritating power cuts. Many hotels do have generator backup systems, though.
- Clothes - these should be light as it is very hot and humid. A jersey or windbreaker is recommended for those winter nights, just in case. Women are frowned upon for wearing revealing clothes. Mini-skirts are a definite no. Try to wear shorts, not hot pants, or a long skirt, and try to keep the shoulders covered.
Communications:
- There are many internet cafes in major towns and at some of the hotels and resorts, so in a non-emergency, this is the best form of communication. Charges range from Tsh1,000 to Tsh5,000 (about $1 to $5) for an hour's connection. The local telephone company TTCL is inadequate, so if you need to phone internationally, it is best to ask at the internet cafe. They usually have facilities, or they will be able to direct you to someone who has. Be careful, as it may be expensive.
Electricity:
- This is the same as in the UK and South Africa, being 220/230 V. Do not leave appliances plugged in all day, as there are many power fluctuations which might destroy them. US citizens will have to get an adapter and a transformer for Zanzibar power. If your plug does not match, then enquire at a local shop; they should be able to assist.
Driving:
- If you are planning on renting a car or motorbike, make sure you have a valid international driver's license. You will be stopped at one of the many roadblocks, and often police are just looking for a bribe. Bribery has become a culture amongst the police, so make sure you have the correct documentation to avoid having to pay a bribe.
- If you plan on driving in Stone Town, make sure you know the roads, as there are many one-way streets and the drivers are reckless. If a police car approaches with a siren hailing, you have to pull over to the side of the road and stop, no matter which way it is going. Once it has passed, you may pull out and continue.
Crime:
- As with all cities, Zanzibar is not free of crime. Unfortunately, it has been on the increase, so make sure you do not take valuables on holiday with you. If you do take expensive jewellery, make sure it is either locked up when you go out or hidden from sight.
- Be careful not to walk the streets at night alone, as this invites trouble. If you are confronted, do not resist, and try to report the matter to the police as soon as possible. The police are sometimes rude and arrogant, but an attempt will be made to recover your property.
The shorter rainy period of October to December often has thunderstorms that pass over the mountain, dropping rain as they go. Typically, the clouds disappear in the evening, leaving the nights and mornings very clear with excellent visibility.
January and February are usually dry, warm, and clear, with brief rain showers that make for good climbing conditions.
Even though one can climb throughout the year, January, February, and September are the best months, with July, August, November, and December also being good.