To More Inquiry
Our Destinations
The Umbwe route has a well-deserved reputation of being the most challenging route on Mount Kilimanjaro. Due to the fast ascent to high altitude, this route does not provide the necessary stages for acclimatization. Although the number of people on this trail is very low, the chances of success are also low. Umbwe is considered to be very difficult, taxing route
- one that should only be attempted by strong hikers who are confident in their ability to acclimatize quickly to altitude.
Itinerary
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 1hr 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.
Elevation: 9,514 ft to 13,044 ft Distance: 6 km/4 miles Hiking Time: 4-5 hours Habitat: Heath The second day of the trek follows rockier terrain with sparse undergrowth and straggly, moss-covered trees. As we gain elevation, glimpses of Kilimanjaro can be seen. The path flattens as we approach Barranco Valley. From Umbwe ridge, the route descends to Barranco Camp through the strange but beautiful Senecio Forest.
Elevation: 13,044 ft to 13,106 ft Distance: 5 km/3 miles Hiking Time: 4-5 hours Habitat: Alpine Desert We begin the day by descending into a ravine to the base of the Great Barranco Wall. Then we climb the non-technical but steep, nearly 900 ft cliff. From the top of the Barranco Wall we cross a series of hills and valleys until we descend sharply into Karanga Valley. One steeper climb up leads us to Karanga Camp. This is a shorter day meant for acclimatization.
Elevation: 13,106 ft to 15,331 ft Distance: 4 km/2 miles Hiking Time: 4-5 hours Habitat: Alpine Desert We leave Karanga and hit the junction which connects with the Mweka Trail. We continue up to the rocky section to Barafu Hut. At this point, you have completed the Southern Circuit, which offers views of the summit from many different angles. Here we make camp, rest and enjoy an early dinner to prepare for the summit day. The two peaks of Mawenzi and Kibo are viewable from this position.
Elevation: 15,331 ft to 19,341 ft Distance: 19 km Hiking Time: 9-10 hours Habitat: Arctic Very early in the morning (around midnight), we begin our push to the summit. This is the most mentally and physically challenging portion of the trek. The wind and cold at this elevation and time of day can be extreme. We ascend in the darkness for several hours while taking frequent, but short, breaks. Near Stella Point (18,900 ft), you will be rewarded with the most magnificent sunrise you are ever likely to see coming over Mawenzi Peak. Finally, we arrive at Uhuru Peak- the highest point on Mount Kilimanjaro and the continent of Africa. From the summit, we now make our descent continuing straight down to the Mweka Hut camp site, stopping at Barafu for lunch. The trail is very rocky and can be quite hard on the knees; trekking poles are helpful. Mweka Camp is situated in the upper forest and mist or rain can be expected in the late afternoon. Later in the evening, we enjoy our last dinner on the mountain and a well-earned sleep.
Elevation: 10,065 ft to 5,380 ft Distance: 9 km/6 miles Hiking Time: 3-4 hours Habitat: Rain Forest On our last day, we continue the descent to Mweka Gate and collect the summit certificates. At lower elevations, it can be wet and muddy. A vehicle will meet us at Mweka gate to drive us back to the hotel in Moshi.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
We offer trekking tours on Mount Kilimanjaro, Africa's highest peak, and Mount Meru, as well as safaris in several iconic Tanzanian national parks, including:
Serengeti National Park (known for its incredible wildlife and the Great Migration)
Ngorongoro Crater (home to one of the richest concentrations of wildlife on Earth)
Tarangire National Park (famous for its large elephant herds)
Lake Manyara National Park (known for its tree-climbing lions and diverse birdlife)
Ruinsori and Gombe Stream for trekking and chimpanzee safaris.
We offer several trekking routes to the summit of Mount Kilimanjaro, including:
Marangu Route (the “Coca-Cola” route, the most popular for beginners)
Machame Route (also known as the "Whiskey" route, for those looking for a more challenging trek)
Lemosho Route (offers a quieter experience with beautiful scenery)
Rongai Route (the only route that approaches from the north)
Shira Route (a less-crowded, scenic route)
Umbwe Route (the most challenging and direct route)
The best times to trek Mount Kilimanjaro are during the dry seasons, which are typically from:
June to October (the long dry season)
January to March (the short dry season) These periods offer the best weather conditions for climbing. However, trekking is possible year-round, though it can be more challenging during the rainy season (March to May).
The duration of the trek depends on the route you choose. Typically, climbing Kilimanjaro takes:
5-7 days for most routes (such as Machame or Marangu)
8-9 days for longer, more scenic routes like Lemosho, which increases your chances of summit success.
The success rate for summiting Mount Kilimanjaro can vary depending on the route, duration of the trek, and your physical fitness. On average, climbers who follow longer routes with proper acclimatization (7+ days) have a higher success rate—usually around 60-70%.
You should bring:
Clothing: Layered clothing (base layer, mid-layer, waterproof jacket, and warm gear)
Footwear: Sturdy trekking boots, comfortable socks
Other essentials: Sleeping bag, trekking poles, hat, gloves, sunscreen, sunglasses, a water bottle or hydration system, camera
Personal items: Passport, visa (if required), and other personal items for the trek
Shayo Trekking provides a gear list and can rent out some equipment if needed.
Our safari packages typically include:
Transport: Safari vehicle with an experienced driver-guide
Accommodation: Depending on the package, stays in luxury lodges, tented camps, or budget accommodations
Park fees: Entrance fees to national parks and reserves
Meals: Full board during safari days (breakfast, lunch, and dinner)
Guides: Expert driver-guide with knowledge of the wildlife and the area
Our safaris can range from 2-day to 10-day packages, depending on your preferences and the number of parks you wish to visit. The most common safaris last around 5-7 days, allowing you to explore multiple parks like Serengeti and Ngorongoro Crater.
We use specially equipped 4x4 safari vehicles, designed for comfort and optimal wildlife viewing. These vehicles are roof-top pop-up vehicles, allowing you to stand up and get a better view of the wildlife. All vehicles are well-maintained to handle off-road conditions in national parks.
You can book your trip through our website by filling out the booking form or contacting us directly via email or phone. We’ll discuss your preferences, provide detailed itineraries, and assist with any travel planning needs.
Both options are available. We offer private tours for those who prefer a more personalized experience, as well as group tours for those looking to join others and share the experience.
Tanzania is generally considered safe for tourists. However, like any destination, it’s important to follow basic safety precautions. We recommend working with a reputable tour operator, staying in secure accommodations, and taking proper health precautions (e.g., vaccinations, malaria prophylaxis). Shayo Trekking and Safaris ensures all safety standards are met for your peace of mind.
Yes! In addition to trekking and safaris, we also offer:
Cultural tours to visit Maasai villages or experience local traditions
Day trips to various parks or Zanzibar
Chimpanzee trekking in Gombe or Mahale Mountains
Beach holidays on the shores of Zanzibar or Pemba Island
Book Your Tour
Reserve your ideal trip early for a hassle-free trip; secure comfort and convenience!
