Hardest Route for Kilimanjaro Hiking – There are seven established routes for climbing to Mount Kilimanjaro’s summit, each offering unique experiences for hikers. The number of days required for the trek depends on the chosen route. The seven Mount Kilimanjaro routes are: Machame Route, Lemosho Route, Shira Route, Northern Circuit Route, Marangu Route, Rongai Route and Umbwe Route.
Hardest Route for Kilimanjaro Hiking – Umbwe Route
The Umbwe Route is considered the hardest yet shortest route to Mount Kilimanjaro’s summit. It is highly demanding and is recommended for trekkers with prior mountaineering experience, although it does not require technical climbing skills.
Advantages of the Umbwe Route
- The trail offers some of the most amazing views of Mount Kilimanjaro.
- It is less crowded compared to other routes, providing a more solitary experience.
Challenges of the Umbwe Route
- The route is very steep and direct, with sections requiring trekkers to cling to tree branches and rocks.
- It is physically demanding and suitable only for those in excellent physical condition.
- The short duration and steep ascent limit acclimatization, leading to a lower summit success rate.
Daily Itinerary
Day 1:
- Start at Umbwe Gate (1,600 meters) and ascend through the Umbwe River and montane rainforests.
- End the day at Umbwe Cave Camp (2,900 meters).
- Distance: 11 kilometers.
- Time: Approximately 6 hours.
Day 2:
- Climb from 2,900 meters to Barranco Camp (3,930 meters).
- Pass through the remaining montane forests, the western breach, and the Great Barranco.
- Distance: 6 kilometers.
- Time: 4 to 5 hours.
Day 3:
- Scramble up the Great Barranco Wall and hike to Karanga Valley beneath the Kersten, Decken, and Heim glaciers.
- Traverse the alpine desert and camp at Karanga Camp for acclimatization.
- Distance: 4 kilometers.
- Time: Approximately 4 hours.
Day 4:
- Trek to the junction of the Mweka Trail and continue to Barafu Hut.
- Enjoy views of the summit.
- Eat an early dinner and rest to prepare for the summit hike starting at 11 pm.
- Distance: 4 kilometers.
- Time: 4 to 5 hours.
Day 5:
- Begin the summit hike at midnight.
- Ascend to Stella Point and then to Uhuru Peak, Africa’s highest point.
- Witness the sunrise at Stella Point and enjoy views at Uhuru Peak.
- Descend to Barafu Hut for lunch and continue to Mweka Hut for the night.
- Summit hike: 7 to 8 hours.
- Descent: 4 to 6 hours.
Day 6:
- Descend from Mweka Hut to Mweka Gate.
- Distance: 10 kilometers.
- Time: 3 to 4 hours.
- At Mweka Gate, receive summit certificates and celebrate with guides and porters.
- Tip your guides and porters before departing for your hotel or airport.
Key Information
- Total Distance: 53 kilometers.
- Duration: 5 to 6 days (6 days recommended for better acclimatization).
- Summit Success: The 6-day option increases the chances of adapting to the altitude and reaching the summit.
The Umbwe Route offers a challenging but rewarding experience for climbers seeking an intense adventure on Mount Kilimanjaro.
Proper preparation and acclimatization are essential for a successful climb.
