The Umbwe Route is one of the shortest and steepest routes to Mount Kilimanjaro’s summit. Known for its challenging terrain and low traffic, it is best suited for experienced and physically fit climbers.
Hiking time: 6 hours
Distance: Approximately 10.3 km
Habitat: Forest (Montane)
After breakfast, you’ll be driven to Machame Gate for registration, then transferred to Umbwe Gate (1641m). The journey takes you through villages with lush coffee and banana plantations, and the air is thick with moisture, making the path often muddy. The route starts on a forestry track, winding through the rainforest, before narrowing and steepening as it climbs the ridge between the Lonzo and Umbwe Rivers. Towering trees surround you, offering occasional views of Kilimanjaro in the distance. The camp is nestled between large trees and dense undergrowth. Enjoy dinner and overnight at Umbwe Cave Camp (2850m).
Hiking time: 6 hours
Distance: Approximately 6.3 km
Habitat: Moorland
After leaving camp, the forest begins to thin, replaced by rockier terrain, moss-covered trees, and sparse undergrowth. The trail follows a narrow ridge with spectacular views, and as you gain elevation, Kilimanjaro looms ahead. The route flattens as you approach Barranco Valley, where the trail descends slightly to Barranco Camp, located below the Breach and Great Barranco Wall. The setting provides a stunning sunset while dinner is prepared.
Hiking time: 6 hours
Distance: Approximately 6 km
Habitat: Moorland / Semi-desert
After a night near the Barranco Wall, a daunting sight at first, you’ll begin your ascent, which often turns out to be easier than expected. After reaching just below the Heim Glacier, you’ll enjoy breathtaking views of Kilimanjaro. The route then descends through Karanga Valley, crossing ridges and valleys, before joining the Mweka Route, which is often used for descending after summiting. The last water stop on this route is at Karanga Valley, as there is no water at Barafu Camp. Dinner and overnight at Karanga Camp.
Hiking time: 4 hours
Distance: Approximately 3.4 km
Habitat: Alpine Desert
After breakfast, you’ll begin your ascent to Barafu Camp, climbing 640m. Barafu, meaning “ice” in Swahili, is a harsh and exposed campsite, situated on a narrow, stony ridge with strong winds. It’s important to familiarize yourself with the terrain before nightfall to avoid accidents. With the summit 1214m higher, you’ll prepare for the final ascent, ensuring all equipment, trekking poles, and thermal clothing are ready. Remember to replace camera and headlamp batteries, carry a thermal flask with water, and rest as much as possible before the summit attempt.
Hiking time: 7 to 8 hours to summit, 6 to 8 hours to descend to Mweka Camp
Distance: 4.5 km ascent, 10.8 km descent
Habitat: Stone scree and ice-capped summit
You’ll wake up around 23:20 and head out into the night. Ascending through heavy scree, you’ll make your way toward Stella Point on the crater rim. For many climbers, this 6-hour section is the most mentally and physically challenging. At Stella Point (5739m), a short rest will reward you with a spectacular sunrise. From Stella Point, snow can be encountered as you continue your 2-hour climb to Uhuru Peak, the highest point in Africa. The time spent at the summit depends on weather conditions, so be mindful of the cold and fatigue. Afterward, descend to Barafu (around 3 hours), take a short rest, and continue to Mweka Camp (3090m). The descent takes you through rock and scree paths into moorland and forest. The camp is in the upper forest, where mist and rain are common in the afternoon. Dinner and washing water will be provided.
Hiking time: 4 to 6 hours
Habitat: Forest
Distance: Approximately 8.5 km
After a well-deserved breakfast, the hike back to Mweka Gate begins, taking 4 to 6 hours. Some hikers may experience knee issues, making the descent longer. It’s important to wait to tip your porters until all your gear has safely reached the gate. At Mweka Gate, sign the register and receive your summit certificate. Those who reach Stella Point (5739m) receive green certificates, while those who summit Uhuru Peak (5895m) receive gold certificates. From the gate, you’ll descend into Mweka Village, a 3 km (1 hour) walk, where a delicious hot lunch awaits. Afterward, a vehicle will transport you back to Moshi or Arusha for a much-needed shower, dinner, and celebration!
Fullmoon Safaris is a locally owned tour operator based in Moshi, Kilimanjaro. They’re registered and managing their own packages, including safaris (Serengeti, Ngorongoro, Manyara, Tarangire) and Kilimanjaro treks, with a local foundation receiving 10% of income.
Founded by Emmanuel Teshaa, the company has been operating since around 2011 with a team of 26–50 employees TanzaPages+1.
A Traveller (Thibaut & Florie) described a 6‑day climb via Machame route as “unbelievable and unforgettable,” praising the guides, cook and cheerful porters. They felt safe and well-supported at all times Tripadvisor.
Another reviewer (Faith Makaza Maipisi, Dec 2022) recounted a 7‑day Lemosho route with Fullmoon Safaris: “guides gave us ample time… the cooks were amazing… hot ginger water… celebration cake… brilliant stuff”—highlighting top-tier service and care Tripadvisor+1.
Returning client Sid (July 2023) booked a 3‑day safari and a coffee/waterfalls day trip with Emmanuel, and praised the accommodation, guide knowledge, and overall seamless experience. “You can be 100% confident…” he wrote Tripadvisor.
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