Master Kilimanjaro’s Hardest Climb
Umbwe Route
The Umbwe Route is known as the most challenging path on Mount Kilimanjaro, demanding great endurance from climbers. It rises steeply and rapidly, offering less time for hikers to acclimatize. This route is less crowded but demands a strong fitness level due to its quick ascent to higher altitudes.
How glorious a greeting the sun gives the mountains!
KILI VIKINGS
Starting from the south, the Umbwe Route provides a direct and steep journey to the mountain’s upper reaches. After reaching the Barranco Camp, the route shifts east, traversing beneath Kilimanjaro’s Southern Ice Field and aiming for the summit from Barafu. The return journey descends via the Mweka route, known for its scenic views.
Key highlights of the Umbwe Route:
- Short, direct climb with steep paths.
- Scenic traverse beneath the Southern Ice Field.
- Descent via the picturesque Mweka route.
Opt for Kili Vikings’ Umbwe Route 6-day climbing package to tackle this rigorous trail and test your limits on Kilimanjaro’s toughest route.
Summit With Experts
Pick Your Kilimanjaro Package
Overview
Umbwe Route Map
The Umbwe Route is positioned on the southern slopes of Mount Kilimanjaro and is easily accessible, yet it's known as one of the toughest paths up the mountain.
Starting from the south base of Kilimanjaro, it heads straight up towards the Southern Ice Field, ending at Barafu Camp for the final push to the summit. This route does not pass through Crater Camp.
Known for its sharp, steep climb, the Umbwe Route meets the Barranco Wall where it joins paths with the Shira, Lemosho, and Machame routes. This meeting point puts together different climbing experiences and offers climbers a variety of scenes and challenges as they ascend.
Highlights
Trip Highlights
- Allow extra time for acclimatization to help mitigate altitude sickness symptoms.
- Wear the right hiking boots with additional insoles and socks to prevent blisters.
- Trekking poles are useful; ensure you know how to use them before your hike.
- Drink plenty of water to reduce the effects of altitude sickness.
At A Glance
Umbwe Route
- The total distance of the Umbwe Route is 53 km or 33 miles.
- The difficulty level of the route is high, making it extremely challenging.
- The ascent typically takes 4-6 days, with a total of 5-7 days including descent.
- The success rate for reaching Uhuru Peak on this route is low.
Climb Kilimanjaro’s Exciting and Scenic Routes
Choose from several unique paths, each displaying amazing views, diverse challenges, and a thrilling climb to the top.
Frequently Asked Questions About The Umbwe Route
Find answers to common queries about this Kilimanjaro climbing route here.
How tough is the Umbwe Route?
The Umbwe Route is the toughest way to climb Mount Kilimanjaro. It goes up very fast and doesn't give much time to get used to the high altitude. This makes it a path for very strong hikers. It's beautiful but tough, with fewer people choosing this way.
What is the distance of the Umbwe Route and how long does it take?
The Umbwe Route is 53 km or 32 miles long. The quickest climb takes 5 days, but with travel days, it can last up to 10 days. Because it's steep and direct, being well-prepared is key to doing well.
What is the summit success rate of the Umbwe Route?
About 70% of climbers reach the top on this route, but it can be higher, over 90%, with good planning and preparation. It's tough because you climb quickly and don't have much time to adjust to the altitude.
What does the scenery look like on the Umbwe Route?
Starting with forests and moving up through steep areas like the Western Breach, the Umbwe Route has a lot of variety. You can see special places like the Reusch Crater and Furtwangler Glacier, which are rare sights.
When is the best time to climb the Umbwe Route?
The best time to go is from July to September when the weather is stable and dry. You can climb any time of the year but try to avoid the rainy months of April, May, and November.
How should I prepare for the Umbwe Route?
To prepare for the Umbwe Route, you should focus on getting fit. Whether you want to reach the very top or just hike some of it, doing a lot of walking, running, and strength exercises will help you handle the tough climb.
Kilimanjaro Travel Guide For Every Climber
Explore Kilimanjaro with our essential guide, designed to educate and prepare you for the climb
Testimonials
In Our Reviews, see the authentic feedback and testimonials from our satisfied travelers, providing valuable perspectives on our quality, value, and professionalism.
Great experience with Kilimanjaro Vikings, amazing flexibility and professionality
Me and my girlfriend wanted to combine climbing Kilimanjaro with the Migration Safari. I contacted few different companies to have an idea of what possibilities i could chose from, Charlie was very fast responding and he took the time to answer all my questions and clarify all my doubts.
Federico F
Adventure of a lifetime
Amazing adventure, everything was organized perfectly, from airport pickoff to drop off. Communication before and after was 10/10, guides, cook and porters beyond words and expectations. Highly recommended
Nikola Z
WOW!! Amazing experience!
We did a 5 day safari trip and a 5 day cultural tribal tour. The Safari was great, we saw every animal we wanted to see and the itinerary was well planned. The cultural and tribal tour was awesome! It’s an experience I would recommend to everyone! We got to know the local villages and different activities with the tribes!
Massimo B
Unforgettable Kilimanjaro Climb & 5 day Safari
We combined a 7-day Kilimanjaro Climb with a 5-day camping safari afterwards. Charlie answered all our questions fast and made a very reasonable offer. The organization was all over very good.Our guides on Kilimanjaro Michael and Protas are the very best! Caring, motivating, and just great people! Also, our cook Thomas and the porters were just amazing and so nice. The food was fantastic and fresh every day. We couldn’t have a better Kilimanjaro experience 🙂
Aline
8 days Kilimanjaro Lemosho route
We were a group of 8 friends from Germany and we did 8 days Lemosho route with Kili Vikings. It was absolutely amazing! All of us successfully reached the top, but we wouldn’t have made it without the whole team around our guides Michael, Juma and Protas.
Isabelle
As Seen In
Kili vikings
Kili Vikings is led by skilled guides who take you on exciting mountain treks and safaris.
Contact Info
© Copyright Kili Vikings 2024-25