The Umbwe Route is the steepest and most direct way up Mount Kilimanjaro, and the most demanding. It is best suited to experienced trekkers who are comfortable on steep ground and want a quieter, tougher climb. From Umbwe Gate the trail climbs sharply through rainforest along a narrow ridge to Umbwe Cave Camp. It then rises quickly to Barranco Camp, where it joins the southern circuit.

From Barranco you scale the Barranco Wall to Karanga Camp and cross the alpine desert to Barafu Camp. The summit push goes via Stella Point to Uhuru Peak (5,895 m), and you descend by way of Millennium Camp to Mweka Gate. Because the route gains height so quickly, acclimatisation is the main challenge. Foot Slopes quote a summit success rate of around 60%.

The climb is led by licensed, English-speaking local mountain guides with a chef and porters. Park and rescue fees, camping equipment, meals and mineral water on the mountain, airport transfers, and a hotel night before and after the climb are included.

What's included

Airport pick-up and drop-off, and all transport; All Kilimanjaro park entrance fees; Rescue fees; Professional English-speaking mountain guide and chef; Porterage; 5 nights on the mountain; Meals according to the itinerary; Mineral water every day; Camping equipment (tent, mess table and chairs); 2 nights' accommodation before and after the climb; Government taxes and 18% VAT; Summit certificate at Mweka Gate

What's not included

International and internal flights; Travel insurance; Visa fees; Personal items and souvenirs; Personal climbing equipment; Tips for the crew (suggested from USD 20 per person per day for the guide, USD 10 for a porter and USD 15 for the chef)