Tanzania · Trekking

8-Day Kilimanjaro Trek via Umbwe Route to Uhuru Peak

8 Days Round trip from Mt Kilimanjaro Challenging pace

The journey

Trip highlights

01 Trek through lush rainforests and steep ridges on the Umbwe Route
02 Climb to scenic campsites such as Umbwe Cave Camp and Barranco Camp
03 Scramble over the Great Barranco Wall with stunning views of the gorge below
04 Summit Uhuru Peak just after midnight for breathtaking sunrise views
05 Descend through beautiful forest trails to Mweka Gate

Embark on an unforgettable 8-day Kilimanjaro trekking adventure via the scenic Umbwe Route. Journey through dense rainforests, steep ridges, and dramatic glaciers as you ascend Africa's highest peak, Uhuru Peak. Benefit from expert support with private transfers, a thorough pre-climb briefing, and careful acclimatization. Experience breathtaking views, challenging climbs, and rewarding moments on this carefully planned expedition from arrival in Moshi to your departure.

Journey through dense rainforests, steep ridges, and dramatic glaciers as you ascend Africa's highest peak, Uhuru Peak.

From the itinerary

At a glance

What this trip includes

Duration 8 Days

Tour type Private

Activity level Challenging

Accommodation Included · Budget

Transport Included

Wheelchair access No

Cities Moshi, Mount Kilimanjaro

Languages English

Day by day

The itinerary

Day 01

Arrival at Kilimanjaro Airport and Transfer to Moshi

Arrive at Kilimanjaro International Airport (JRO) at any time.
Arrange a private transfer from the airport to your hotel in Moshi.
Gather for a pre-climb briefing and equipment check at the hotel.
Confirm mandatory medical coverage and travel insurance.

Rest and prepare for the trek starting from Moshi.

Day 02

Umbwe Gate Trek to Umbwe Cave Camp

Transfer to Umbwe Gate (1,800m).
Begin trekking through the natural rainforest along a forestry track.
Climb the steep and narrow forested ridge to Umbwe Cave Camp at 2,940m.
Rest and acclimatize at camp.
Expect 5 to 6 hours of trekking.

Day 03

Umbwe Cave Camp to Barranco Camp

Leave the forest behind and follow a spectacular ridge trail.
Enjoy superb views of the Breach Wall and the Great Barranco Gorge.
Reach Barranco Camp near Barranco Hut at 3,950m.
Prepare for the challenging terrain ahead.
Expect 5 to 6 hours of trekking.

Day 04

Barranco Wall to Karanga Camp

Scramble to the top of the Great Barranco Wall.
Traverse screes and ridges towards Karanga Valley.
Set camp at Karanga Camp, located at 3,937m beneath the Southern Glaciers.
Expect approximately 3 hours of trekking.

Day 05

Karanga Camp to Barafu Camp

Ascend a ridge leading to Barafu Camp at 4,600m.

Rest and prepare for the summit attempt.

Enjoy panoramic views from this high-altitude campsite.
Expect approximately 3 hours of trekking.

Day 06

Summit Day to Uhuru Peak and Descent to Mweka Camp

Start trekking just after midnight for the final ascent.
Climb screes to Stella Point at 5,732m (approximately 6 hours).
Continue for 40 minutes to reach Uhuru Peak, the highest point at 5,895m.
Descend to Barafu Hut for rest and brunch.
Continue descending to Mweka Camp at 3,100m.
Rest after a long day of trekking.
Expect 11 to 13 hours of walking.

Day 07

Mweka Camp Descent and Return to Moshi

Descend through beautiful forest for 3 to 4 hours to Mweka Gate (1,640m).
Receive your summit certificates at the gate.
Transfer back to Moshi for rest and celebration.

Day 08

Departure from Moshi

Depart Moshi for your next destination.
Arrange a transfer to Kilimanjaro International Airport for your flight to safari, Zanzibar, or return home.

Where this trip takes you

Umbwe Cave Camp, Great Barranco Wall and Great Barranco Gorge, Barafu Camp, Uhuru Peak

The route

Where you'll travel

Tour route map — Round trip from Mt Kilimanjaro 2 cities · 8 Days

The fine print

Trip details

What's Included

Private transportation to and from your selected route.
Airport pick-up service.
Quality, waterproof, four-season private mountain sleeping tents for the camp route.
Certified, experienced, English-speaking mountain guides.
All Kilimanjaro National Park fees.
Government climbing taxes.
All hot meals prepared by a cook while on the mountain.
Salaries for guides, porters, and cooks.
Enough porters to carry your luggage.
A personal summit certificate signed by the National Park and your guide.

What's Not Included

Personal items and toiletries are not included.
Accommodation before and after the trek is not included (hotel available as an optional add-on).
Transfers are not included (available as an optional add-on).
Personal trekking equipment such as sleeping bags, hiking boots, and clothes is not included (available for rent).
Tips for guides, porters, and cook are not included.
International airfares and departure taxes are not included.
All personal expenses such as telephone calls, fax, and emails are not included.
Alcoholic and non-alcoholic drinks are not included.
Visa fees and international flight ticket fees are not included.

What to bring

Bring sturdy hiking boots suitable for rough and steep terrain.
Pack layers of clothing to adjust to changing temperatures.
Include a waterproof jacket for protection against rain and wind.
Carry a warm sleeping bag rated for cold mountain conditions.
Bring essential accessories such as a headlamp, gloves, and sunglasses.
Prepare a daypack with essentials including water and snacks.
Pack sunscreen to protect against strong UV rays at high altitude.
Include bug repellent to guard against insects.
Consider your chosen route and prepare for potential altitude sickness.

Know before you go

Understand the challenges involved in climbing Kilimanjaro.
Choose the right route based on your fitness and experience.
Acclimatize properly to reduce the risk of altitude sickness.
Pack essential gear suited for varying weather and terrain.
Be aware of the risks and symptoms of altitude sickness.
Prepare physically and mentally for the demanding trek.
Other language-speaking guides (French, Spanish, German, etc.) are available upon request with a $25 per day supplement, subject to availability.

Logistics