Umbwe Route

Climb Mount Kilimanjaro via Umbwe Route with Tanzania Horizon Safaris. The Umbwe Route is the shortest and steepest route to the summit of Kilimanjaro, making it a challenging trek that requires a high level of fitness and endurance. It covers a distance of approximately 48km, and the trek can take anywhere from 6 to 8 days, depending on the trekker’s pace and acclimatization.

The route begins at the Umbwe Gate, which is located on the western side of the mountain, near the town of Moshi. From here, trekkers will hike through the lush rainforests, past waterfalls and rivers, before ascending up to the Barranco Wall, one of the most dramatic and challenging sections of the trek.

The Barranco Wall is a steep and imposing rock face that requires trekkers to use their hands and feet to climb up. The climb is not technically difficult, but it can be intimidating, especially for those who are not used to exposure. Once trekkers reach the top of the Barranco Wall they will pass the Kissing Rock and shortly after they will be rewarded with stunning views of the mountain and the surrounding landscape.

From here, the route follows a circular path around the mountain, passing through the Karanga Valley, Barafu Camp, and finally, the summit. The trek culminates in a midnight summit push, where trekkers will hike for several hours through the darkness to reach Uhuru Peak, the highest point on Kilimanjaro.

The Umbwe Route offers a unique and remote experience that is unmatched by the other routes on Kilimanjaro. The trail is less crowded, with fewer trekkers and porters, which makes it feel more isolated and rugged. The route also offers some of the most spectacular views of the mountain, with sweeping vistas of the Western Breach and the Barranco Wall.

However, the Umbwe Route is not for everyone. It is a challenging trek that requires a high level of fitness and endurance. The steep ascent, combined with the altitude, can be physically and mentally demanding, and trekkers need to be prepared for long days of hiking and camping in the mountains.

Acclimatization is crucial on the Umbwe Route, as the steep ascent can make it difficult for trekkers to acclimatize properly. To minimize the risk of altitude sickness, trekkers should spend several days acclimatizing before the summit push, and consider taking medication to help with altitude sickness.