The Umbwe Route VIP is Kilimanjaro’s steepest and most direct ascent, designed for experienced trekkers seeking adventure. With extra acclimatization and DKE’s premium support, this program balances safety, challenge, and comfort, offering a unique climb through dense forests, ridges, and breathtaking alpine landscapes.
Arrive at JRO airport and meet your DKE representative. Transfer to Gran Meliá Arusha for rest, climb briefing, and equipment check.
Accommodation: Gran Meliá Arusha
Full-day acclimatization trek with scenic views of Mount Meru, Momela Lakes, and Ngurdoto Crater. Wildlife encounters and picnic lunch included.
Accommodation: Gran Meliá Arusha
Zones: Rainforest • Special: Steep ridge trail, lush vegetation, valley views with Umbwe River below.
Distance: ~11 km • Time: 5–6 hrs • Gain: ↑ 1,300 m
Accommodation: Umbwe Cave Camp
Zones: Rainforest → Moorland • Special: Rocky ridges, panoramic views of Kibo, arrival below towering Barranco Wall.
Distance: ~7 km • Time: 5–6 hrs • Gain: ↑ 1,060 m
Accommodation: Barranco Camp
Zones: Moorland → Alpine desert • Special: Climb Great Barranco Wall, traverse valleys before camping in Karanga Valley.
Distance: ~6 km • Time: 3–4 hrs • Gain: ↑ 75 m
Accommodation: Karanga Camp
Zones: Alpine desert • Special: Short but steep climb to high camp. Afternoon summit preparation and early rest.
Distance: ~4 km • Time: 3–4 hrs • Gain: ↑ 605 m
Accommodation: Barafu Camp
Zones: Arctic summit zone → Rainforest • Special: Midnight summit attempt via Stella Point; breathtaking sunrise, long descent to Mweka.
Distance: ~17–18 km • Time: 12–14 hrs • Elevation: ↑ 1,255 m to summit, ↓ 2,795 m to camp
Accommodation: Mweka Camp
Zones: Montane rainforest • Special: Final descent through lush jungle. Collect certificates at Mweka Gate. Transfer to Arusha.
Distance: ~10 km • Time: 3–4 hrs • Loss: ↓ 1,460 m
Accommodation: Gran Meliá Arusha (day use or overnight)
Luxury Kilimanjaro treks, African safaris, and relaxing Zanzibar getaways