The Umbwe Route is an exhilarating and demanding pathway to the summit of Mount Kilimanjaro, known for its rugged wilderness and extreme ascent. This trail is often chosen by trekkers seeking the ultimate adventure and are prepared for the physical challenges it presents. Here, we explore the remarkable aspects of the Umbwe Route.
Overview of the Umbwe Route
The Umbwe Route is celebrated for its direct and challenging ascent. Trekkers start on the southern side of Kilimanjaro and embark on a physically demanding journey.
Core Information:
Distance: 35 kilometers (22 miles)
Elevation gain: 5,249 to 19,341 feet (1,599 to 5,895 meters)
Duration: 6-7 days
Acclimatization: Good
Terrain: Varied, including rainforest, moorland, alpine desert, and artic
Challenge: Difficult
Features:
Offers expansive panoramic views
Provides a rigorous challenge suited for experienced climbers
Typically uncrowded, allowing for a more solitary experience
Considerations:
Allows for a shorter period of acclimatization, which can be a drawback
Generally associated with a lower summit success rate
Offers a less varied scenic experience compared to other routes
Presents a more difficult climb due to its steepness and terrain
How long does it take to climb the Umbwe Route?
Trekkers on the Umbwe Route should be prepared for an intense climb lasting between six and seven days, depending on the chosen itinerary. The route is designed for experienced adventurers capable of handling the strenuous demands of the ascent.
How physically demanding is the Umbwe Route?
The Umbwe Route on Mount Kilimanjaro is recognized as one of the most physically challenging paths. Its steep slopes provide a constant, strenuous ascent with rapid altitude gain, making acclimatization difficult. This route is less crowded and offers a direct climb with fewer campsites. It is recommended for climbers with good stamina and prior high-altitude experience. The demands of the Umbwe Route are significant, but it is manageable with proper preparation and physical readiness.
What is the summit success rate for the Umbwe Route?
The Umbwe Route has a summit success rate of approximately 75%, which is a testament to the challenging nature of this path. While not the highest success rate among Kilimanjaro routes, it is still commendable given the route's difficulty and direct ascent.
How much time is required for acclimatization on the Umbwe Route?
The Umbwe Route offers less time for acclimatization than some other routes due to its rapid ascent profile. Trekkers should be aware of the potential effects of altitude sickness and thoroughly prepare before embarking on this challenging path.
What are the advantages and disadvantages of the Umbwe Route?
The Umbwe Route offers the advantage of a direct and challenging ascent for trekkers who crave the ultimate adventure. It is ideal for those well-prepared physically and mentally for the rigors of high-altitude trekking. Additionally, the Umbwe Route is less crowded than some other options, allowing trekkers to enjoy a greater sense of isolation.
However, the route's extreme and direct ascent can disadvantage those without extensive high-altitude experience. Trekkers must be well-prepared and understand the physical demands that this route presents. The risk of altitude sickness is also higher due to the rapid elevation gain.
What camps are on the Umbwe Route?
Umbwe Camp
Barranco Camp
Karanga Camp
Barafu camp
Mweka Camp
Is there Hut accommodation on the Umbwe Route?
No, the Umbwe Route involves tent camping.
What kind of scenic views can you expect on the Umbwe Route?
While the Umbwe Route is renowned for its direct ascent and physical challenges, it also offers trekkers some stunning scenery. From lush rainforests to rugged high-alpine deserts, trekkers will witness diverse landscapes as they make their way to the summit. The breathtaking views from Uhuru Peak, with its expansive glaciers, are a well-earned reward for those who complete this demanding route.
Our Opinion
The Umbwe Route is a formidable choice for trekkers who seek a direct and physically demanding ascent to Kilimanjaro's summit. While it may not be suitable for beginners or those without extensive high-altitude experience, the route offers a unique adventure for experienced adventurers who relish the challenge and solitude of the untamed wilderness. Be prepared for the demanding journey, and you'll be rewarded with a sense of accomplishment and breathtaking vistas from Africa's highest point.
Sample 6 Day Itinerary
DAY 1 Umbwe Gate to Umbwe Camp
The day begins with a 50 minute drive to Machame Gate where registration formalities will be completed. We then transfer through villages and coffee and banana plantations to Umbwe Gate. The trail ascends sharply on a forestry track which winds up the dense rain forest. The path narrows and steepens as we climb the ridge between two rivers surrounded by huge trees. Umbwe Camp is perched between trees and thick undergrowth.
Elevation: 5,249 ft to 9,514 ft
Distance: 11 km/7 miles
Hiking Time: 5-7 hours
Habitat: Heath
DAY 2 Umbwe Camp to Barranco Camp
The second day of the trek follows rockier terrain with sparse undergrowth and straggly, moss-covered trees. As we gain elevation, glimpses of Kilimanjaro can be seen. The path flattens as we approach Barranco Valley. From Umbwe ridge, the route descends to Barranco Camp through the strange but beautiful Senecio Forest. Elevation: 9,514 ft to 13,044 ft Distance: 6 km/4 miles Hiking Time: 4-5 hours Habitat: Heath
DAY 3 Barranco Camp to Karanga Camp
We begin the day by descending into a ravine to the base of the Great Barranco Wall. Then we climb the non-technical but steep, nearly 900 ft cliff. From the top of the Barranco Wall we cross a series of hills and valleys until we descend sharply into Karanga Valley. One more steep climb up leads us to Karanga Camp. This is a shorter day meant for acclimatization.
Elevation: 13,044 ft to 13,106 ft
Distance: 5 km/3 miles
Hiking Time: 4-5 hours
Habitat: Alpine Desert
DAY 4 Karanga Camp to Barafu Camp
We leave Karanga and hit the junction which connects with the Mweka Trail. We continue up to the rocky section to Barafu Hut. At this point, you have completed the Southern Circuit, which offers views of the summit from many different angles. Here we make camp, rest and enjoy an early dinner to prepare for the summit day. The two peaks of Mawenzi and Kibo are viewable from this position. Elevation: 13,106 ft to 15,331 ft Distance: 4 km/2 miles Hiking Time: 4-5 hours Habitat: Alpine Desert
DAY 5 Barafu Camp to Uhuru Peak to Mweka Camp
Very early in the morning (around midnight), we begin our push to the summit. This is the most mentally and physically challenging portion of the trek. The wind and cold at this elevation and time of day can be extreme. We ascend in the darkness for several hours while taking frequent, but short, breaks. Near Stella Point (18,900 ft), you will be rewarded with the most magnificent sunrise you are ever likely to see coming over Mawenzi Peak. Finally, we arrive at Uhuru Peak- the highest point on Mount Kilimanjaro and the continent of Africa.
From the summit, we now make our descent continuing straight down to the Mweka Hut camp site, stopping at Barafu for lunch. The trail is very rocky and can be quite hard on the knees; trekking poles are helpful. Mweka Camp is situated in the upper forest and mist or rain can be expected in the late afternoon. Later in the evening, we enjoy our last dinner on the mountain and a well-earned sleep.
Barafu Camp to Uhuru Peak
Elevation: 15,331 ft to 19,341 ft
Distance: 5 km/3 miles
Hiking Time: 7-8 hours
Habitat: Arctic
Uhuru Peak to Mweka Camp
Elevation: 19,341 ft to 10,065 ft
Distance: 12 km/7 miles
Hiking Time: 4-6 hours
Habitat: Rain Forest
DAY 6 Mweka Camp to Mweka Gate
On our last day, we continue the descent to Mweka Gate and collect the summit certificates. At lower elevations, it can be wet and muddy. From the gate, A vehicle will meet us at Mweka gate to drive us back to the hotel.
Elevation: 10,065 ft to 5,380 ft Distance: 10 km/6 miles Hiking Time: 3-4 hours Habitat: Rain Forest
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