Kilimanjaro Trekking via Umbwe Route 5 days

The most difficult route up Kilimanjaro

The Umbwe route has a well-deserved reputation of being the most challenging route on Mount Kilimanjaro. Due to the fast ascent to high altitude, this route does not provide the necessary stages for acclimatization. Although the number of people on this trail is very low, the chances of success are also low. Umbwe is considered to be very difficult, taxing route – one that should only be attempted by strong hikers who are confident in their ability to acclimatize quickly to altitude.

Approaching from the south, the Umbwe route is a short, steep and direct climb. After reaching Barranco Camp, the trail turns east and traverses underneath Kilimanjaro’s Southern Ice Field on a path known as the Southern Circuit before summiting from Barafu. Descent is made via the Mweka route.

Highlights:

1. Most scenic route at Kilimanjaro 
2. Climbing passage in the Barranco Wall, sure-footedness required 
3. Ascent over Umbwe route and descent over the Mweka route 
4. Height profile does no positive effect on acclimatisation 

Single accommodation is not possible on this tour, as the overnight stays take place in mountain huts with multiple occupancy.