Drive to Umbwe Gate, Hike to Umbwe Cave Camp
Umbwe Trail - Elevation: 1660m To 2850m | Distance: 11km/7mi | Hiking Time: 5-6 Hours
Drive from Moshi to the Umbwe Gate (about 1 hour). Commence the climb through the rain forest with packed lunch on route.
- Qualified mountain guide, assistant guides, porters and cook
- Salaries for mountain crew as per guidelines set by Kilimanjaro National Park
- Basic first aid kit for emergencies
- Lunch
- Fresh and warm water for drinking and washing up daily
- Emergency oxygen for emergencies only
- Hotel accommodation before and after the climb, with meals included
- Dinner
- Breakfast
- All fees and/or taxes
- Camping equipment including tents, chairs, tables, and sleeping mattress
- Return transfers between Kilimanjaro airport and Moshi
- Visas, Flights, Health & Travel Insurances
- Gratuities
- Items of personal Nature
- Personal hiking/trekking gear – we can rent some of the gear from our equipment store in Tanzania
- Optional but highly recommended Portable toilet
- Snacks, personal medicine and water purifying tablets
- Meals & drinks not specified and snacks
The Umbwe Route is the most infrequently travelled and least crowded path on the mountain, primarily because it presents the greatest challenges. As the steepest route on the climb, Umbwe is a relentless, continuous ascension to the summit.
Climbers largely steer clear of this route due to its fast ascent profile leaving them with little time for acclimatizing to the high altitudes, leading to a significantly lower success rate.
A minimum of six days is required to complete the route, though seven days is the recommended duration. The descent involves proceeding down Mweka, situated on the mountain’s south-eastern side. In terms of scenic diversity, Umbwe cannot compete with the likes of Machame, Lemosho and Shira because the upward and downward trails are in close proximity.
The Umbwe is most suitable for individuals seeking a demanding climb and are sure of their capability to traverse consistently steep inclines. It is also ideal for experienced climbers accustomed to high altitudes, confident that the gruelling climb won’t affect their acclimatization. Furthermore, Umbwe is perfect for those who prefer a more private hike.
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
