Kilimanjaro Trekking
Umbwe Route
Approaching the mountain from the perspective of mountaineers, rather than tourism agents, Team Kilimanjaro have an understandably unique way of looking at the mountain and are frankly critical of some of the methods that were employed in the original route selection of the six KINAPA-sanctioned trails.
As one of the most challenging route, This route can be recommended for only experienced climber to reach the summit. This is because the chances of reaching the summit via umbwe route is very low. But if you are capable, this route is a life changing experience.
Day 1: Arrive in Marangu
slopes of Mount Kilimanjaro and is a perfect place to prepare you for adventure. We will gather in the evening at 5:30 pm for a pre-climb briefing and an equipment check. We will also confirm you have the appropriate mandatory medical coverage and travel insurance.
Day 2: Rongai Camp
The climb begins from the attractive wooden village of Nale Moru (1,950 m.) on a small path that wind through fields of maize and potatoes before entering pine forest. The track then starts to climb consistently, but gently through attractive forest that shelters a variety of wildlife, including the beautiful Kilimanjaro Colobus monkey. These monkeys are black with a long ‘cape’ of white hair and a flowing white tail. The forest begins to thin out and Rongai One Camp is at the edge of the moorland zone (2,600 m.) with extensive views over the Kenyan plains. [3-4 hours walking]
Day 3: Rongai Third Caves
The morning walk is a steady ascend up to the ‘Third Cave’ (3,450 m) with superb views of Kibo and the Eastern ice-fields on the crater rim. After lunch, we continue up to Third Cave (3,900 m)[5-6 hours walking]
Day 4: Rongai School Hut
The steady ascend continues, soon reaching the lunar desert of the ‘Saddle’ between Mawenzi and Kibo. We should reach School Hut Campsite (4,750 m.) at the bottom of the Kibo Crater wall by midday. The remainder of the day is spent resting in preparation for the final ascent before a very early night! [4-5 hours walking]
Day 5: Summit and down Horrombo Hut
We will start the final, and by far the steepest and most demanding, part of the climb by torchlight around 1 a.m. We plod very slowly in the darkness on a switchback trail through loose volcanic scree to reach the crater rim at Gillman’s Point (5,685 m.) We will rest there for a short time to enjoy the spectacular sunrise over Mawenzi. Those who are still feeling strong can make the three hour round trip to Uhuru Peak (5,896 m.), passing close to the spectacular glaciers and ice cliffs that still occupy most of the summit area. The descent to School (4,700 m.) is surprisingly fast and, after some refreshment, we continue the descent to reach our final campsite at Horombo (3,720 m.). [11-15 hours walking]
Day 6: Horrombo down Marangu gate
A steady descent takes us down through moorland to Mandara Hut (2,700m.), the first stopping place at the Marangu route. We then continue descending through lovely lush forest on a good path to the National Park gate at Marangu (1,830 m.). [5-6 hours walking]
Day 7: Departure day
After saying bye to our team in operation then you need a Private departure transfer which is included from Marangu to Kilimanjaro International Airport (JRO) for your flight ,unless you have an option to have Safari or any other option we will discuss
- Private safari guide
- Private 4 x 4 safari jeep with pop up roof for game viewing
- Transfers in both directions between the International Airport
- Park fees
- Crater fees
- Airport Arrival/Departure Meet and Greets at the airport
- On safari - Vehicles equipped with ice chest with mineral water, wildlife guidebook.
- Government taxes, VAT and service charges relating to accommodation and included meals
- Tanzania Visa: $50 per person on arrival, USA and CANADA passport holders USD.100
- Personal Expenses (e.g. laundry, telephone, beverages, etc.)
- Meals not listed above
- Optional Tours (balloon rides USD. 500 per person etc)
- Tips and any items of personal nature.
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“Climbing Mount Kilimanjaro”– the highest peak of Africa is on the bucket of most adventure enthusiasts. Climbing Kilimanjaro gives a truly unique wilderness experience as you ascend to the peak of the world’s highest free-standing mountain.
The hike along the gradually ascending slopes of Mount Kilimanjaro offers the chance to marvel at its views and unique vegetation away from the hustle and bustle of civilization.
The options are limitless, Email us for a quote or give us a call to discuss your perfect safari booking today.