The Umbwe route is a challenging and less frequented way to climb Mount Kilimanjaro, the highest peak in Africa. Despite being the most direct route to the summit, it is also the steepest and shortest, requiring exceptional physical fitness and prior experience in high-altitude trekking. The route begins at the Umbwe gate, south of the mountain, and quickly ascends through dense rainforest before traversing heath and moorland terrain. Climbers must ascend the Barranco Wall, a steep rock face that demands hands-and-feet scrambling, before joining the Machame route and continuing through an alpine desert to the summit. The entire route is roughly 50 kilometers in length, and the climb typically takes 6-7 days to complete.
The Umbwe route offers stunning views and a sense of adventure that can’t be matched by other, more popular routes up Kilimanjaro. However, it is not recommended for beginners or inexperienced climbers due to the steepness and technical climbing demands of the Barranco Wall. Climbers who are fit and skilled enough to take on this challenging route will be rewarded with a unique experience that includes some of the most scenic and remote sections of the mountain.
How Does The Umbwe Trail Stand Out From Other Mount Kilimanjaro Climbing Routes?
- The route is best suited for experienced mountaineers and offers exceptional performance.
- The absence of crowds makes for a peaceful and secluded climb.
- The route is characterized by its wild and rugged terrain.
- The climb is relatively time-efficient.
- The route boasts a summit success rate of 60%.
List Of Highest Mountain Peaks Of Africa & The Seven Summits
| 7 World Summits Ranked | 7 African Peaks Ranked |
| 🇳🇵 #1. Mt Everest 8,850m/29,035ft | 🇹🇿 #1. Mt Kilimanjaro 5,895m/19,340ft |
| 🇦🇷 #2. Mt Aconcagua 6,962m/22,829ft | 🇰🇪 #2. Mt Kenya 5,196m/17,047ft |
| 🇺🇸 #3. Mt Denali 6,190m/20,320ft | 🇺🇬 #3. Mt Stanley 5,119m/16,794ft |
| 🇹🇿 #4. Mt Kilimanjaro 5,895m/19,340ft | 🇺🇬 #4. Mt Speke 4,890m/16,043ft |
| 🇷🇺 #5. Mt Elbrus 5,642m/18,510ft | 🇺🇬 #5. Mt Baker 4,844m/15,892ft |
| 🏳 #6. Mt Vinson 4,892m/16,067ft | 🇨🇩 #6. Mt Emin 4,798m/15,741ft |
| 🇵🇬 #7. Mt Carstensz 4,884m/16,023ft | 🇺🇬 #7. Mt Gessi 4,715m/15,469ft |
1. The Risk Of Altitude Sickness On This Long-Distance Trail Is Very High
To prevent altitude sickness, which include Altitude Mountain Sickness (AMS), High Altitude Pulmonary Edema (HAPE), and High Altitude Cerebral Edema (HACE), it is advisable to limit altitude gain to 400 meters or less per day. Common symptoms of altitude sickness include dizziness, nausea, lethargy, and other discomforts. A helpful technique for acclimatizing to high altitudes is to ascend during the day and then descend to lower altitudes for sleeping. This process encourages red blood cell adaptation, enabling them to transport more oxygen to the muscles and brain, in order to maintain normal bodily functions. Additionally, it is crucial to consume ample fluids such as water, soup, or tea, at a rate of 4-6 liters per day, due to the arid climate at high altitudes.
Cumulative Elevation Gains On Machame:
With an elevation gain of 748.75m, spread over six days of hiking, the Umbwe route is characterized by a rapid ascent to the summit, making it a favorite among Kilimanjaro’s record breakers and experienced mountaineers. However, due to the route’s steepness and poorly maintained trails, acclimatization opportunities are limited and many first-time hikers find the trek challenging. As a result, the route is generally quiet and secluded throughout the year.
Acclimatization Landscapes On The Umbwe Trai:
Throughout the trek, on the Umbwe route, the landscapes for acclimatization are inadequate. Due to the absence of a descent in elevation before reaching the summit, hikers are unable to acclimate properly. When attempting to ascend to high altitudes, a descent beforehand is crucial in conditioning the body to anticipate and cope with low levels of atmospheric oxygen. This process aids in the adaptation of red blood cells, which enhances their capacity to effectively transport oxygen to the muscles and brain.
Hydration Opportunities On The Umbwe Trail:
Throughout the trek, on the Umbwe route, the landscapes for acclimatization are inadequate. Due to the absence of a descent in elevation before reaching the summit, hikers are unable to acclimate properly. When attempting to ascend to high altitudes, a descent beforehand is crucial in conditioning the body to anticipate and cope with low levels of atmospheric oxygen. This process aids in the adaptation of red blood cells, which enhances their capacity to effectively transport oxygen to the muscles and brain.
Acetazolamide:
Diamox, or Acetazolamide, is a medication that can be utilized to prevent altitude sickness during a Kilimanjaro climb. Although not directly related to the Umbwe route, it can offer additional security during the expedition. If considered, it is advisable to test your body’s reaction to the medication, under your doctor’s supervision.
Mount Meru, Tanzania:
Mount Meru is situated in proximity to Mount Kilimanjaro and has an elevation of 4,566m. Those who decide to climb Mount Meru first and then take on the Umbwe route on Mount Kilimanjaro usually perform exceptionally well during their ascent. This is because they are adequately prepared for the environment and have adapted to the altitude in advance.
2. Trekking Adventures On The Umbwe Route Offer Abundant Wildlife Encounters, Cultural Immersion with Chaga People, and Scenic Viewpoints
The Umbwe route is renowned for its stunning natural scenery and is regarded as one of the most rugged routes for ascending Mount Kilimanjaro. The path leads through a verdant rainforest in the initial phases of the ascent, with the journey culminating at the glacier-covered peak. Throughout the hike, you will come across the chaga people, as well as a diverse range of wildlife, including the blue monkey, black-and-white Colobus, and white-necked Raven. Furthermore, the Umbwe route offers a distinctive hiking experience as you traverse heath and moorland, affording magnificent panoramic vistas of Mount Kilimanjaro and its various ecosystems. The scenic vantage points on this trail promise a unique experience that is certain to leave a lasting impression on your mind.
Chaga People:
The Chaga people, also known as the Wachaga, are an indigenous Bantu-speaking ethnic group residing on the slopes of Mount Kilimanjaro and eastern Mount Meru. Thanks to their native agricultural practices like terracing, extensive irrigation systems, and organic fertilization, they have achieved considerable economic prosperity, primarily due to the fertile soil of Mount Kilimanjaro. In modern times, many Chaga people have abandoned their customary lifestyle in order to become entrepreneurs in the tourism industry centered around the Kilimanjaro and Arusha regions.
Rainforest:
As you begin your journey on the Umbwe route, you will be welcomed by a flourishing and verdant rainforest. The thick woodland houses tall trees with gnarled trunks covered in moss, along with a dense layer of underbrush, vines, and babbling streams. The forest’s elevation is abundant with a diverse range of floral species, with the Kilimanjaro impatiens being particularly noteworthy. This remarkable flower boasts red and yellow petals and can only be found on Mount Kilimanjaro, making it a truly distinct and captivating sight.
Blue Monkeys:
The Diademed Monkey, commonly referred to as the Blue Monkey, inhabits tall trees that serve as a source of food and protection. Its diet consists mainly of fruits and figs, but it also consumes other items such as leaves, twigs, flowers, and insects. These primates are typically located on the lower slopes of Umbwe, along with the Black-And-White Colobus.
Black-And-White Colobus Monkey:
The black-and-white colobus monkey, which is native to Tanzania, can be seen on the lower slopes of the Umbwe route. It typically lives in family units within rainforests and, if you happen to come across one of these primates, it’s likely that its sibling is nearby, perched on a tree. Keep an eye out for their unique black and white tails.
Heath & Moorland:
While trekking along the Umbwe trail, you’ll eventually reach a section characterized by heath and moorland. Although this area may not exhibit as much biodiversity as the forested portions, it showcases distinct and exceptional vegetation. This challenging terrain, situated above the forest canopy, flaunts stunning grasses, towering heathers, striking red-hot pokers, and dazzling yellow proteas. It’s noteworthy that this elevation signifies the spot where you’ll encounter the towering giant groundsels, also known as tree senecios, which can reach up to 5 meters in height and have small yellow flowers at their top. In addition, you’ll discover giant lobelias, each adorned with a remarkably large and plump inflorescence or ‘column’ emerging from a spiky rosette base.
Strongylopus Kilimanjaro:
The species of frog belonging to the Pyxicephalidae family is called Strongylopus kilimanjaro. This frog is unique to Tanzania and is restricted to a limited alpine area on the middle slopes of Mount Kilimanjaro.
White-Necked Raven:
As one ascends the Umbwe trail, the presence of wildlife or signs of it gradually diminishes as a result of the decreasing vegetation and less favorable climate. Nevertheless, there is a creature that thrives in the high-altitude environment – the White-Necked Raven. This remarkable bird boasts a unique white feather collar around its neck and can be spotted near high-altitude campsites. As an omnivore, ravens will eat anything they can get their beaks on, including human food. Thus, it is crucial to monitor your snacks and ensure they are not left unattended, even if they are kept in a container. This intelligent bird is known to develop tactics to open packages or snatch a bag of chips and fly away to consume it atop a nearby tree.
Arrow Glacier:
Situated on the western slope of the peak, Arrow Glacier is a small remainder of an icecap that once adorned the summit of Mount Kilimanjaro. Its location is at an altitude ranging from 5,300 to 5,470 meters (17,390 to 17,950 ft).
Furtwängler Glacier:
The Furtwängler Glacier, situated close to the summit of Mount Kilimanjaro, is the sole surviving portion of the former vast ice cap that enveloped the mountain top. Although it holds great historical importance, the glacier has significantly reduced in size and is presently relatively small.
Northern Ice Field:
The Northern Ice Field, situated close to the peak of Mount Kilimanjaro, is the largest ice mass present on the mountain. Its splendor is awe-inspiring, but climate change has had a profound impact on it, causing it to shrink rapidly in recent years. It is predicted that the ice cover on Kilimanjaro will vanish entirely in the coming decades. This would have severe repercussions not only for the mountain’s natural grandeur but also for the local ecosystems and communities that are dependent on it for their water supplies.
3. A Complete Set Of Hiking Equipment Can Lead To A Great Mount Kilimanjaro Trekking Experience
Preparing and packing the appropriate gear is a crucial element of ensuring a safe and successful climb up Kilimanjaro’s Umbwe trail. The trek presents varying weather conditions and terrains that require hikers to be well-equipped to withstand them. As you embark on the trail, you will encounter a dramatic shift in climate, starting with the hot and humid rainforest, and eventually, entering a frigid world of ice and glaciers. To tackle this challenging terrain, hikers must pack the right gear that can withstand the varying weather conditions and offer adequate protection against the elements.
Backpacks For The Umbwe Trail:
A suitable backpack is necessary for carrying your daily necessities during the hike on the Umbwe Route. It is essential to choose a backpack that matches the length of the trail and can hold frequently used items such as snacks, water, camera, and extra layers of clothing. To ensure comfort during the hike, it is advisable to select a high-quality backpack with an internal frame, padded shoulder and hip straps, and sternum straps. Also, it should have a suspended mesh back that allows for proper ventilation, especially on warm days lower down the Umbwe Route.
Hiking boots For The Umbwe Trail:
It’s important to prioritize comfortable and well-fitted hiking boots when preparing for a Kilimanjaro trek, as inappropriate footwear can hinder the climb. With various options available in the market, it’s crucial to choose hiking boots that are suitable for Kilimanjaro trails. Ideally, 4-season hiking boots that offer breathability would be the best choice for the Umbwe trail, as they can help prevent blisters in the varying climate conditions of Kilimanjaro. The Salomon Quests GTX are a good example of such boots as they are not only durable and comfortable but also easy to maintain.
Trail Running Shoes Or Sneakers For Campsites:
When you finish a tough hiking session, there’s nothing better than removing your boots and relaxing. However, the weather can become extremely cold at higher altitudes, and the undeveloped campsites on the Umbwe trail can increase the risk of infections. That’s why it’s recommended to pack a pair of comfortable, closed sneakers or trail running shoes to wear around the campsite while climbing Kilimanjaro.
Flashlight Or Head Torch:
It’s crucial to have a flashlight or a headlamp while staying at the Umbwe campsites during a Kilimanjaro climb because of the darkness at night. These items are especially useful for navigating around the campsite, and during summit day when you begin your hike at midnight and trek for several hours in the dark.
Trekking Poles For Descents:
When descending the Mweka trail, after completing the Umbwe route, appropriate trekking poles are recommended to prevent injuries and minimize the impact on the lower body. Despite the gradual slope of the Umbwe trail, the descent on the Mweka trail can be challenging. Using trekking poles can help distribute the load more evenly across the body, reducing the accumulated stress on the feet, legs, knees, and back. This is especially important when carrying a heavy backpack for an extended period of time, as studies have shown the benefits of using trekking poles for hiking.
Crampons Or Microspikes:
Typically, when climbing Kilimanjaro, technical gear like crampons or microspikes is not required. Hikers can complete the trek in trail shoes or boots without any attachments on most routes and at any time. However, during periods of excessive ice formation near the summit, caution is necessary. Ice can accumulate below the crater rim and around the summit, particularly between Gilman’s Point (18,600 feet) and Stella Point (18,885 feet), up to Uhuru Point (19,340 feet). To ensure the safety of all climbers, visitors should bring footwear attachments that provide traction and prevent slipping on ice during these times.
Rock Climbing Gear For The Western Breach:
In order to ensure safe climbing on the Western Breach, it is essential to take precautions against potential rockfall throughout the year. This requires the use of specific equipment, including a climbing helmet, an ice axe for creating steps and providing assistance on icy terrain, and a fixed rope fitted with carabiners.
4. It’s Much Safer Approaching The Summit Via Stella Point Than Mountaineering Through The Western Breach
The Western Breach is considered to be the most convenient route for exploring the Kibo crater and its features, including the Reusch Crater, Ash Pit, and Furtwangler Glacier. However, it is also the most dangerous route compared to other paths. Although it is a less crowded route than the southern slopes of Kibo, the Western Breach has had fatal rockfalls in the past, and there is a possibility of future rockfalls. Due to this, some trekking companies do not offer treks on the Western Breach, while others require trekkers to wear helmets and sign waiver forms. Nevertheless, it is uncertain if these safety measures will be enough to prevent future tragedies.
Scrambling:
The ascent of the Western Breach, which connects Arrow Glacier and Crater Camp, requires climbing 2,800 feet (850 meters) over a distance of about 1.25 miles (2 kilometers). Along the way, there are certain points where scrambling, which involves using both hands and feet to climb, is necessary to navigate the path. Although the route offers stunning views, it is extremely challenging due to its steep and rocky terrain.
Scree:
The ascent of the Western Breach route involves a combination of rock traversing, boulder scrambling, and navigating through snow-covered sections, which can vary in condition depending on the time of year and recent snowfall. After about an hour of scrambling, climbers will need to equip crampons or micro-spikes to traverse through a series of snow crossings and icy rock areas.
5. Camping Accommodations On This Walking Tour Vary Considerably
Accommodation options on the Umbwe route for climbers include camping in tents at public campsites or staying in glamping huts. Meals are served in mess tents, and some groups are provided with a portable toilet that features a zipped tent for ease of use. The zipped tent provides privacy and protection from harsh weather conditions such as rain, snow, and wind. Additionally, the portable toilet is designed to be odorless, much like a hospital restroom.
Camping Tents:
On the Umbwe trail, camping tents come in two main types: dome and tunnel tents. Dome or geodesic tents are freestanding and have a circular base that extends upwards to a central point, allowing for enough headroom. They are more resistant to strong winds and can be pitched on rocky terrain without the need for guylines. In contrast, tunnel tents have a narrower and lower structure than dome tents, but provide more efficient sleeping space. They are more prone to wind gusts and require guylines for support, which makes them unsuitable for rocky or hard terrain.
Glamping Canvases:
On Mount Kilimanjaro, there are glamping canvas accommodations that offer luxurious amenities such as plush mattresses, cozy beds, and comfortable chairs, providing ample space and relaxation during outdoor stays. These accommodations are tailored to meet the needs of individuals seeking a high-end experience and are usually not available for group expeditions. They are commonly reserved for private treks and exclusive groups.
6. Notable People That Have Climbed Kilimanjaro Mountain Using The Umbwe Trail
Every year, approximately 30,000 people climb Mount Kilimanjaro, regardless of their age, physical abilities, or fitness level. This is reassuring for those who are considering climbing the mountain and wondering if they have what it takes. It’s encouraging to know that even children, as young as 7 years old, and experienced climbers in their mid-80s, as well as hundreds of physically challenged individuals, have successfully reached the summit.
Arnold Coster (Mountaineer):
Arnold Coster, a Dutch mountaineer, has successfully led three group expeditions up Mount Kilimanjaro, including one through the challenging Umbwe route. Currently residing in Kathmandu, Nepal, Coster has scaled five of the 14 peaks that are above 8,000 meters.
7. Getting To The Umbwe Trail Can Be A Bit Tricky
If you’re travelling from overseas, flying into Kilimanjaro International Airport (JRO) is the most common and convenient way to reach Kilimanjaro. The airport is easily accessible from both Moshi and Arusha towns, where most tour operators that run hiking trips up the mountain have their base. This means that you’ll likely spend two nights in either of these towns before and after your hike, but the good news is that both locations are bustling with activity and offer a variety of good lodging options, restaurants, stores, and rentals to explore.
Kilimanjaro International Airport:
Kilimanjaro International Airport is the nearest airport to Mount Kilimanjaro, located about 42km from Moshi town and approximately 50km from Arusha town. For many hikers arriving internationally, it is the most practical option. However, due to possible traffic, the transfer from the airport can take 45 minutes to an hour. Alternatively, hikers can take a connecting flight to Arusha Airport to avoid a long commute from the international airport.
Arusha, Tanzania:
If you plan to go on a wildlife safari tour following your Kilimanjaro hike, Arusha would be an ideal destination. This is because Arusha town is situated near Mount Kilimanjaro and several popular safari destinations such as the Serengeti National Park, Ngorongoro Conservation Area, Lake Manyara National Park, Tarangire National Park, and Arusha National Park. Additionally, the town is located at the base of Mount Meru, which stands at an elevation of 4,566m. This makes it a convenient spot to acclimatize before embarking on your Kilimanjaro trek.
Moshi, Tanzania:
If your sole focus is climbing Mount Kilimanjaro and you don’t plan to embark on any other additional trips, then Moshi town would be the ideal destination for your Kilimanjaro hike. This is due to the fact that Moshi town is located on the lower slopes of Mount Kilimanjaro.
Kilimanjaro National Park:
On the day of the hike, you will be transported to Kilimanjaro National Park from either Arusha or Moshi town, in order to register at the Umbwe Gate. The park encompasses Mount Kilimanjaro above the tree line and the surrounding montane forest belt above 1,820 meters (5,970 feet). Once you have completed the registration at the Umbwe Gate, you will start your ascent to the summit with your guides and support team.
8. Map: The Footpath Along The Umbwe Trail Is Gradual & Easy
The Umbwe route, covering a distance of 62km (37mi), typically takes 6-7 days to complete. Despite the absence of functional huts on the trail, it remains the most popular route up Kilimanjaro. The longer duration of the hike allows for good acclimatization opportunities and ample time for physical recovery. While there are a few challenging sections along the route, the ascent is generally gradual, and the scenery is more spectacular than that of other shorter trails on the mountain.
9. Final Thoughts About The Umbwe Trail And The Overall Kilimanjaro Mountain Climbing Experience
If you’re interested in hiking Mount Kilimanjaro and reaching its summit, there are a few things you need to consider before you start your journey. Mount Kilimanjaro is located in Tanzania and is one of the most famous hiking and climbing destinations in the world, with its summit standing at 5,895 meters (19,341 feet) above sea level.
To find the best route to reach the summit, you need to compare the Northern Circuit, Lemosho and Machame routes, which are considered among the best for hiking Kilimanjaro, with many operators offering guided tours. All three routes run through the Barranco Valley, which offers stunning views of the mountain and its surroundings. If you’re a first-time hiker above 3,000m (10,000ft), you may find it challenging to differentiate between the performance of hiking Mount Kilimanjaro vs Everest Base Camp due to the well-maintained trails on these routes.
The Marangu route is the only trail that offers budget-friendly costs with hut accommodations. However, one major drawback of this route is the low success rate of reaching the summit. Furthermore, you will not have the chance to see special wildlife sightings, such as the blue monkeys found on other routes.
It’s crucial to avoid the Western Breach route as an ascent path as it is well-known for its danger due to random rockfalls that have caused numerous deaths. To successfully complete this climb, you will need technical climbing experience, proper gear and knowledge of how to prepare for the varying terrains and distances of Kilimanjaro’s routes.
It’s important to note that Mount Kilimanjaro is a challenging climb that requires preparation and training. You need to ensure that you have the necessary hiking and climbing experience, as well as proper gear, to ensure your safety during the climb. Additionally, you need to be aware of the elevation gain, which is the increase in altitude between your starting point and the summit. Kilimanjaro’s routes have varying elevation gains, which can affect the difficulty of the climb.
