7 Days Kilimanjaro Expedition Tackling the Umbwe Route

As the sun kissed the horizon, our day began with the promise of adventure. After a hearty breakfast, we embarked on our journey by driving to the Machame gate, where the formalities of registration awaited us. From there, our path led us to the Umbwe Gate at 1641 meters, taking us through picturesque villages adorned with lush coffee and banana plantations. Depending on the season, the air around us was laden with moisture, and the trail often led us through muddy terrain. The initial part of our trek followed a winding forestry track, meandering through the enchanting natural rainforest. As we ventured deeper, the path gradually narrowed and steepened, leading us up the ridge nestled between the Lonzo and Umbwe rivers. Towering trees surrounded us, creating a magical ambiance. Along the way, we were treated to awe-inspiring views of deep gorges, and if luck favored us, a distant glimpse of Kilimanjaro gracing the horizon.

Destination: Umbwe Gate To Umbwe Cave Camp

Accommodation: Umbwe Cave Campsite

  public camp site

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Meals & Drinks: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner, Drinking water

With the dawn of a new day, our journey continued. Leaving behind the forest, we found ourselves amidst rocky terrain, sparse undergrowth, and moss-covered trees. As we ascended to higher altitudes, the magnificent silhouette of Kilimanjaro gradually revealed itself against the backdrop of the azure sky. The path guided us along a narrow but breathtaking ridge, eventually leading us to the Barranco Valley. Descending slightly from the Umbwe ridge, we arrived at Barranco camp, nestled in the embrace of the Breach and Great Barranco Wall. Here, we savored a memorable sunset, sipping coffee outside as dinner preparations unfolded.

Destination: Umbwe Cave Camp To Barranco Camp

Accommodation: Barranco Campsite

  public camp site

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Meals & Drinks: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner, Drinking water

Today, we dedicated our time to acclimatization. After a leisurely breakfast, we embarked on a hike from Barranco to Lava Tower, ascending to a higher point before descending to sleep at a lower altitude. A 3-4-hour walk took us to Lava Tower, and we returned to Barranco for a late hot lunch. The rest of the day was spent in contemplation of our journey thus far.

Destination: Shira Cave To Lava Tower To Barranco Camp

Accommodation: Barranco Campsite

  public camp site

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Meals & Drinks: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner, Drinking water

Having spent a night near the imposing Barranco Wall, we approached this formidable obstacle with determination. Surprisingly, it proved more manageable than anticipated. As we ascended, we reached just below the Heim Glacier, gaining a profound appreciation for the beauty of Kilimanjaro. Our route then led us through the Karanga Valley, weaving through ridges and valleys before merging with the Mweka route. Karanga Valley marked our last opportunity to replenish water before Barafu camp, where water sources would be scarce.

Destination: Barranco Camp To Karanga Camp

Accommodation: Karanga Campsite

  public camp site

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Meals & Drinks: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner, Drinking water

After breakfast, we turned left and ascended 640 meters towards Barafu Camp. "Barafu" translates to "ice" in Swahili, and this camp presented a stark, exposed, and challenging terrain. Tents were pitched on a narrow, stony ridge, susceptible to the ever-present gusty winds. As the day waned, we familiarized ourselves with the landscape to navigate safely after nightfall. With the summit now 1214 meters higher, we readied ourselves for the final ascent, commencing that very night. Our equipment, hiking poles, and thermal clothing were prepared, and we ensured our headlamps and camera batteries were in working order. To prevent water from freezing, we carried it in thermal flasks.

Destination: Karanga Camp To Barafu Camp

Accommodation: Barafu Campsite

  public camp site

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Meals & Drinks: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner, Drinking water

Around 23:20, our day began with tea and biscuits, and we ventured into the inky darkness. Heading northwest, we ascended through scree towards Stella Point on the crater rim. For most, the 6-hour journey to Stella Point was the ultimate test of mental and physical endurance. At Stella Point (5739 meters), we paused to rest and were greeted by a breathtaking sunrise, weather permitting. From there, we encountered snow on our 1-hour ascent to Uhuru Peak. Our time at the summit was contingent on weather conditions, as lingering too long in the extreme cold and fatigue could be challenging. Descending from the summit to Barafu took about 3 hours, providing us with a moment's respite. From there, we descended to Mweka hut (3090 meters), navigating rock and scree paths, transitioning into moorland, and finally, the forest. Mweka Camp awaited us in the upper forest, where mist or rain might greet us in the late evening.

Destination: Barafu Camp To Uhuru Peak To Mweka Camp

Accommodation: Mweka Campsite

  public camp site

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Meals & Drinks: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner, Drinking water

Our final day on this remarkable journey began with a short 3 to 4-hour hike back to the Mweka Gate. Some of us may have experienced knee discomfort, potentially extending the descent. At Mweka Gate, successful climbers received their summit certificates, with different designs distinguishing those who reached Stella Point from those who conquered Uhuru Peak. From the Mweka Gate, our transfer car awaited us, ready to transport our bags. As we bid farewell to this majestic mountain, our guides presented us with certificates, accompanied by Kilimanjaro songs and traditional tunes. A refreshing drink and a delectable hot lunch awaited us, marking the end of our adventure. We then drove back to Moshi, eagerly anticipating a well-deserved hot shower, a hearty dinner, and a night filled with cherished memories

Destination: Mweka Camp To Mweka Gate

Accommodation: Kilimanjaro White House Hotel

  budget 2 star lodge

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Meals & Drinks: Breakfast, Drinking water