(6 Days)
This is the route for mountain enthusiasts! Some steep sections on this trail will meet the expectations of seasoned mountaineers however, no rock–climbing skills are required. The first two days' trail is rarely used and takes you through unspoilt wilderness. In the evening of the second day you will reach Barranco Camp and meet with climbers hiking on Machame and Lemosho routes.
We must point out that this route is one with lower success rates and we only recommend it for well–trained hikers.
Umbwe route is a fully catered camping tour. A guide, a cook and porters will provide you with everything you need.  

From your hotel we transfer you to Umbwe Gate (5410 ft / 1650 m), where you will meet your team. You have to register and your luggage will be handed over to the porters. Your guide will assist you with final preparations and you will start your hiking tour.
In the first section, which takes you through lush rainforest, you will see green plants of all kinds and may even catch a glimpse of blue monkeys. Your guide will direct your attention to the pecularities of wildlife. He will also remind you to drink enough, which is important for your health.
After 5–6 hrs, you will reach Umbwe Cave Camp at 9350 ft / 2850 m, wich is idyllically located in the rainforest. Now you can rest and enjoy a delicous meal.

Today's trail features a few steep spots - climb slowly in order to give your body time to acclimatize. Little by little you leave the rainforest and enter the section of heathers and moorland. Here you may find colorful vegetation and the huge Senecia Kilimanjari. Packed lunches will be provided. In the afternoon you will catch first glimpses of Kibo rising majestically ahead of you.
Later you will reach Barranco Camp at 12930 ft / 3940 m. Here you may feel some headache or breathlessness, first slight symptoms of altitude sickness. Talk to your guide and take his advice, he is familiar with these issues. Today's hiking time is about 5-6 hours.

After breakfast you climb up Great Barranco Wall, which usually at first sight looks more difficult than it is. At the top you will be rewarded with marvellous vistas down to Barranco and Karanga valleys. As we continue, our trail leads us through scenic areas down to Karanga Camp at 12960 ft / 3950 m, where we will spend the third night on the mountain.
Going up and down follows the climber's motto: “Climb high, sleep low“, which helps altitude acclimatization and increases your chance of success.
Today's total hiking time is only 4–5 hours.

We walk through Karanga Valley and later the stony path leads us up into the zone of the alpine desert, a rocky area with scarce vegetation. By this time, almost everyone experiences some symptoms of altitude sickness, however those typically go away soon. Walk slowly and keep yourself hydrated. Your guide will assist you if headache or other discomforts become severe. As yesterday, we only walk 4–5 hours, after reaching Barafu Camp (15320 ft / 4670 m) you will have plenty of time to rest.
On this day you should go to bed soon after dinner and try to get as much sleep as possible.

At 11pm your team will wake you up and help you to get ready for the summit attempt. After a light breakfast of tea and biscuits, you will set off to this most challenging part of your tour. The steep path on frozen scree, cold temperatures and fatigue are very demanding. There will be several chances to rest and drink some tea. After 5–6 hrs you reach Stella Point at 18884 ft / 5756 m, your first goal. From there, the path is less steep but covered with snow. 1–2 hrs later you will reach the summit. Standing on Uhuru Peak at 19340 ft / 5895 m, the feeling of success is exhilarating. Enjoy the morning sun and fantastic views from Africa's highest point!
Soon, you will descend again back to Barafu hut, where you will get a warm meal and sufficient time for a rest in your tent.
Later, you will head down to Mweka Camp at 10040 ft / 3060 m, which you will reach in the late afternoon. This section of the trail is not difficult and takes you back through the moorland into the forest. After hiking for 12–14 hrs on this day, you will be very tired and enjoy some well-earned sleep.

That morning after breakfast your team will gather for the traditional farewell ceremony. On this occasion you can express your gratitude for the excellent service or any concerns you may have. If you want to show your appreciation by tipping your team, this would be the right moment.
Then you head off to the last section of your tour, a scenic walk down to Mweka Gate, which will take you 3–4 hrs.
While you wait for your climbing certificate to be issued, you can take a look at the various souvenirs offered here.
Lastly you will be taken back to your hotel.