Tackling the renowned Umbwe Route on Mount Kilimanjaro is no small feat. This 6-day trek promises an exhilarating journey for experienced hikers, traversing through diverse landscapes from lush rainforests to barren alpine deserts. With expert guides and essential gear provided, trekkers can focus on the challenging trails and significant elevation gain leading to the majestic Uhuru Peak. However, the trek’s demands require a high degree of physical fitness, ensuring only the most determined adventurers reach Africa’s highest point. Those seeking an immersive Kilimanjaro experience may find the Umbwe Route’s rugged terrain and breathtaking vistas worth the considerable effort.
Key Points
- The Umbwe Route is a 6-day trek to summit Mount Kilimanjaro, the highest point in Africa, reaching an elevation of 5,895 meters (19,341 feet).
- The trek starts at Umbwe Gate in Moshi, Tanzania, and covers a scenic route through rainforest and alpine desert terrain.
- The package includes round-trip transfers, qualified mountain crew, camping gear, and all meals, but excludes visas, flights, and personal expenses.
- Strong physical fitness is required for this challenging trail, with daily hikes of 6-8 hours and significant elevation gain necessitating proper training and acclimatization.
- Booking confirmation and a 5.0-star rating based on 4 reviews indicate a well-regarded and trustworthy excursion for prospective hikers.
Overview and Location
The Mt Kilimanjaro Trek via the Umbwe Route is a challenging 6-day journey that takes adventurous trekkers to the summit of Africa’s highest mountain.
Located in Moshi, Tanzania, this private tour allows only your group to participate. The trek starts at the Umbwe Gate and follows a scenic, steep route through dense rainforest and alpine desert terrain.
Reaching the summit at 5,895 meters (19,341 feet) requires a high level of physical fitness and endurance.
With experienced mountain guides leading the way, trekkers can expect an unforgettable experience as they conquer one of the world’s most iconic peaks.
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Inclusions and Amenities
All fees and taxes are included in the price of the Mt Kilimanjaro Trek via the Umbwe Route.
Travelers will enjoy round-trip transfers between Kilimanjaro airport and Moshi, as well as hotel accommodations before and after the climb, including dinner and breakfast.
A qualified mountain guide, assistant guides, porters, and cook are provided, along with their salaries as per Kilimanjaro National Park guidelines.
Camping equipment, fresh drinking water, warm water for washing, and emergency supplies are also included.
Meals during the trek – 5 breakfasts, 6 lunches, and 5 dinners – are covered as well.
- Qualified mountain crew
- Camping equipment and supplies
- Meals and drinking water
- Transfers and accommodations
Exclusions and Additional Costs
Visas, flights, health, and travel insurances aren’t included in the price of the Mt Kilimanjaro Trek via the Umbwe Route. Gratuities for the mountain crew are also not covered.
Hikers must bring their own personal trekking gear, though some items may be available for rent. It’s highly recommended to bring a portable toilet, as well as personal medicine and water purifying tablets.
Any personal snacks and items not specified in the inclusions are additional costs. While the overall package provides comprehensive support, hikers should factor in these extra expenses when budgeting for their Kilimanjaro adventure.
Meeting and Pickup Details
Hikers will meet their guide at the Umbwe Gate, located in Umbwe, Tanzania. The guide will be waiting at the entrance gate with the hiker’s name on a paper. This is the starting point of the 6-day Mt Kilimanjaro trek via the Umbwe Route.
Once assembled, the group will begin their ascent to the summit. The activity ends back at the same meeting point, the Umbwe Gate, after the successful completion of the trek.
To ensure a smooth experience, hikers should:
- Arrive at the meeting point on time
- Provide any necessary personal information to the guide
- Familiarize themselves with the route and plan ahead
- Follow the guide’s instructions throughout the trek
Booking and Reviews
Confirmation of the booking is received at the time of reservation.
The Mt Kilimanjaro Trek – Umbwe Route isn’t wheelchair accessible, and participants must have strong physical fitness. Priced from €2,181.24, the tour offers free cancellation up to 24 hours before the experience starts.
The trek boasts an impressive 5.0-star rating based on 4 reviews, with no ratings below 5 stars. This suggests the tour provider delivers a high-quality experience that meets or exceeds customer expectations.
Prospective hikers can book with confidence, knowing they’re joining a well-regarded excursion up one of the world’s most iconic mountains.
Physical Fitness Requirements
For this Mt Kilimanjaro trek via the Umbwe Route, participants must possess strong physical fitness. This challenging trail covers a significant distance and elevation gain over six days, requiring extensive stamina and endurance.
Climbers should be prepared for:
- Steep, rugged terrain with rocky sections
- Lengthy hiking days spanning 6-8 hours
- Ascending to high altitudes of over 5,895 meters (19,340 feet)
- Dealing with the effects of altitude, including fatigue, headaches, and shortness of breath
Prospective trekkers must ensure they meet the fitness criteria to safely complete this Kilimanjaro adventure.
Proper training and preparation are essential for a successful, memorable journey to the summit.
Trek Duration and Route
Spanning six days, this challenging Mt Kilimanjaro trek via the Umbwe Route covers a significant distance and substantial elevation gain.
Starting at the Umbwe Gate, the route ascends through dense rainforest before reaching the Barranco Camp at an altitude of over 13,000 feet.
From there, the trail climbs the steep Barranco Wall, a renowned section that requires basic scrambling skills.
Traversing the Karanga Valley, the route then ascends to Barafu Camp, the final basecamp before the summit push.
The trek culminates with an early morning summit attempt to Uhuru Peak, the highest point in Africa at 19,341 feet.
With its demanding nature, the Umbwe Route is considered one of Kilimanjaro’s most strenuous yet rewarding routes.
Recap
The Umbwe Route trek up Mt. Kilimanjaro offers an exhilarating and challenging adventure for experienced hikers. Trekkers will be rewarded with breathtaking views, reaching the summit of Africa’s highest peak. With expert guides, quality camping gear, and hearty meals provided, it’s an unforgettable experience for those physically fit enough to tackle the steep ascent and high altitudes. For adventurous climbers, the Umbwe Route is a scenic and rewarding way to conquer Kilimanjaro.
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