Prepare yourself for an extraordinary 9-day expedition with Unique Tanzania Voyages, as you take on the famous Umbwe Route to summit Mount Kilimanjaro. Known for its steep ascents and beautiful, remote landscapes, this route is perfect for climbers looking for a challenging and less crowded experience. Starting from the vibrant town of Arusha, the journey will guide you through lush forests, alpine deserts, and glacial landscapes, all leading up to Uhuru Peak—the highest point in Africa. While the Umbwe Route demands physical endurance, the rewards are immense, offering breathtaking vistas, diverse ecosystems, and an overwhelming sense of achievement at the summit. With a focus on proper acclimatization, this itinerary ensures that climbers with prior hiking experience can take on the challenge and make their way to the roof of Africa.

DAY 1: ARRIVAL IN ARUSHA
Arrive at Kilimanjaro International Airport where you will be warmly welcomed by a representative from Unique Tanzania Voyages. After introductions, you’ll be transferred to your accommodation in Arusha, a vibrant town at the base of Mount Meru. Here, you can relax and prepare for your climb. Use this time to check your gear, meet your climbing team, and go over the adventure ahead. Arusha offers a chance to explore local markets or visit the Cultural Heritage Center.

• Accommodation Options:
  Budget: Meru House Inn
  Midrange: Mount Meru Hotel
  Luxury: Arusha Coffee Lodge
• Meal Plan: Dinner at the accommodation.
• Extra Activities: Explore Arusha’s local markets or visit a café for some relaxation.

DAY 2: ARUSHA TO UMBWE GATE, HIKE TO UMBWE CAVE CAMP

• Altitude: 1,600m (5,249ft) to 2,850m (9,350ft)
• Distance: 11 km (6.8 miles)
• Hiking Time: 5-7 hours
• Habitat: Montane Forest
  After breakfast, you will travel by road to the Umbwe Gate, marking the start of your ascent. The steep path through dense forests will immerse you in the natural beauty of Kilimanjaro’s lower slopes. The route is solitary, providing an intimate experience with the surroundings. The day ends at Umbwe Cave Camp, where you will set up camp for a restful night.
• Accommodation: Umbwe Cave Camp (Camping)
• Meal Plan: Breakfast at the accommodation, lunch on the trail, and dinner at the camp.
• Extra Activities: Stargazing and photography of the forest.

DAY 3: UMBWE CAVE CAMP TO BARRANCO CAMP

• Altitude: 2,850m (9,350ft) to 3,950m (12,960ft)
• Distance: 6 km (3.7 miles)
• Hiking Time: 4-6 hours
• Habitat: Heath and Moorland
  Leaving the dense forest, the trail opens up to the heath and moorland zone. The hike is challenging, but the views are rewarding, with glimpses of glaciers and the valleys below. As you approach Barranco Camp, the Barranco Wall looms ahead.
• Accommodation: Barranco Camp (Camping)
• Meal Plan: Breakfast at the camp, lunch en route, and dinner at the camp.
• Extra Activities: Photography of the Southern Icefields, exploration around Barranco Camp.

DAY 4: BARRANCO CAMP TO KARANGA CAMP

• Altitude: 3,950m (12,960ft) to 4,035m (13,238ft)
• Distance: 5 km (3.1 miles)
• Hiking Time: 4-5 hours
• Habitat: Alpine Desert
  The day begins with the ascent of the Barranco Wall, a steep and thrilling section of the climb that requires scrambling. After reaching the top, enjoy incredible views of Kibo Peak and the surrounding landscape. The trail then descends into the Karanga Valley before rising again to Karanga Camp.
• Accommodation: Karanga Camp (Camping)
• Meal Plan: Breakfast at the camp, lunch on the trail, and dinner at the camp.
• Extra Activities: Short acclimatization hikes around Karanga Camp, photography of Mawenzi Peak.

DAY 5: KARANGA CAMP TO BARAFU CAMP

• Altitude: 4,035m (13,238ft) to 4,640m (15,223ft)
• Distance: 4 km (2.5 miles)
• Hiking Time: 3-4 hours
• Habitat: Alpine Desert
  Today’s hike takes you through an alpine desert, where you will approach Barafu Camp, the final stop before the summit attempt. The landscape is barren, offering dramatic views of the surrounding area. At Barafu Camp, rest and prepare for the summit attempt that will start early tomorrow.
• Accommodation: Barafu Camp (Camping)
• Meal Plan: Breakfast at the camp, lunch on the trail, and dinner at the camp.
• Extra Activities: Rest and mental preparation for the summit.

DAY 6: BARAFU CAMP TO UHURU PEAK, DESCEND TO MILLENNIUM CAMP

• Altitude: 4,640m (15,223ft) to 5,895m (19,341ft) then descend to 3,820m (12,530ft)
• Distance: 15 km (9.3 miles)
• Hiking Time: 10-14 hours
• Habitat: Arctic summit to Moorland
  Your summit attempt begins in the early hours. After a strenuous climb in the dark, you will reach Uhuru Peak for a moment of triumph and reflection. After taking in the view, descend to Millennium Camp for a well-deserved rest.
• Accommodation: Millennium Camp (Camping)
• Meal Plan: Light snack before the summit, breakfast at Barafu Camp, lunch en route, and dinner at Millennium Camp.
• Extra Activities: Photos at the summit, celebratory moments with your team.

DAY 7: MILLENNIUM CAMP TO MWEKA GATE, TRANSFER TO ARUSHA

• Altitude: 3,820m (12,530ft) to 1,640m (5,380ft)
• Distance: 12 km (7.5 miles)
• Hiking Time: 4-6 hours
• Habitat: Montane Forest
  Today, you descend through the lush montane forest to Mweka Gate. Once you’ve completed the hike, you will receive your summit certificates. Afterward, transfer back to Arusha for a restful evening.
• Accommodation: Meru House Inn (Budget), Mount Meru Hotel (Midrange), Arusha Coffee Lodge (Luxury)
• Meal Plan: Breakfast at the camp, lunch en route, and dinner at the accommodation.
• Extra Activities: Relaxation at the hotel or shopping for souvenirs.

DAY 8: DEPARTURE
After breakfast, depending on your flight schedule, you may have some free time to explore Arusha or relax at your accommodation before being transferred to Kilimanjaro International Airport for your departure.

• Meal Plan: Breakfast at the accommodation.
• Extra Activities: Optional cultural tour or last-minute shopping in Arusha.

Inclusions

• Accommodation: 2 nights in Arusha (before and after the climb), 6 nights camping on Kilimanjaro
• Meals: All meals as outlined in the itinerary
• Transportation: Airport transfers and transfers to/from Kilimanjaro National Park
• Guides: Professional mountain guides, porters, and cooks
• Permits: Park fees, permits, and taxes
• Safety Equipment: Oxygen, first aid kit, portable stretcher
• Other: Summit certificate, camping equipment (excluding personal items)

Exclusions

• International flights to and from Tanzania
• Visa fees for Tanzania
• Travel and medical insurance
• Personal gear (sleeping bags, trekking poles, etc.)
• Tips for guides and porters
• Optional activities in Arusha or en route