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The Umbwe route is the most demanding route on Kilimanjaro due to the direct approach. This less climbed route begins at Umbwe Gate and ascends the Western side of the mountain until it reaches Barranco Camp.
From there it joins the Southern Circuit and the summit ascent is via the Barafu Hut route. Descent is via the Mweka route. This is the most physically demanding of all the routes and should be attempted in no less than 6 days.
6 Days Umbwe Route
Umbwe Gate to Umbwe Camp
Elevation: 5,249 ft to 9,514 ft
Distance: 11 km/7 miles
Hiking Time: 5-7 hours
Habitat: Heath
The day begins with a 50 minute drive to Machame Gate where registration formalities will be completed. We then transfer through villages and coffee and banana plantations to Umbwe Gate. The trail ascends sharply on a forestry track which winds up the dense rain forest. The path narrows and steepens as we climb the ridge between two rivers surrounded by huge trees. Umbwe Camp is perched between trees and thick undergrowth.
