Umbwe Route
The Umbwe Route is the most direct and demanding path to the summit of Mount Kilimanjaro, offering breathtaking scenery and a true wilderness experience. Trekkers pass through pristine rainforest, rugged moorland, and dramatic alpine landscapes, with spectacular views of the Southern Icefields and the mountain's iconic giant senecio plants.
Known for its steep and relentless ascent, the Umbwe Route is the shortest and most challenging route during the first two days of the climb. With an average gradient of approximately 21.5%, it provides less time for acclimatization than other routes, making it best suited for experienced hikers or those seeking a more physically demanding adventure.
One of the route's greatest attractions is its solitude. During the first two days, groups often encounter very few other climbers before joining the Machame and Lemosho Routes near Barranco Camp on the evening of the second day.
The seven-day itinerary includes an additional acclimatization day at Barranco Camp, significantly improving summit success. Average success rates are approximately 50% for the six-day itinerary and 70% for the seven-day itinerary. For most climbers, the seven-day option is strongly recommended to allow for better acclimatization and increase the likelihood of reaching the summit.
The Umbwe Route covers approximately 32–33 miles (53 km) from Umbwe Gate to Uhuru Peak. The climb begins at an elevation of 5,250 ft (1,600 m) and gains approximately 15,026 ft (4,580 m) before reaching Africa's highest point at 19,341 ft (5,895 m).
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6 Days Umbwe Route
Day 1: Arrival Day​
Our representative will pick you up at the airport and transfer you to Moshi for the overnight preparation of climbing the following day.
Estimate
$1800
Day 2: Drive from your hotel to Umbwe Gate to Cave Bivouac Camp ​
Depart Moshi at approximately 8:00 a.m. for the drive to Umbwe Gate, where you will meet your mountain crew, including your guides, porters, and cooks. They will accompany and support you throughout your trek to Uhuru Peak, the highest point in Africa.
Upon arrival at the gate, your guide will complete the required park registration while the porters and crew make their final preparations. Once everything is ready, your adventure begins.
Today's destination is Cave Bivouac Camp, a challenging trek of approximately 6 hours from Umbwe Gate. The Umbwe Route is the steepest and one of the most demanding routes on Mount Kilimanjaro, with sections of trail that can be steep, muddy, and slippery, particularly after rain.
The hike begins in Kilimanjaro's lush cloud forest, where towering, moss-covered trees create a beautiful and shaded environment. As you gain elevation, the dense forest gradually gives way to heath and moorland, characterized by giant heather, tall grasses, and colorful wildflowers.
Meanwhile, your porters and cooks will hike ahead to set up camp and prepare your meals, ensuring everything is ready for your arrival at Cave Bivouac Camp.
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Drive Time: Approximately 1.5 hours
Elevation: 5,905 ft (1,800 m) to 9,350 ft (2,850 m)
Hiking Distance: 7 miles (11 km)
Hiking Time: 5–7 hours
Habitat: Heath/Moorland Zone
Suggested Gear:
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Dress in layers, including waterproof and windproof outerwear.
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Wear sturdy, well-broken-in hiking boots with good ankle support.
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Bring a headlamp with fresh batteries.
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Pack sun protection, including sunscreen, sunglasses, and a wide-brimmed hat or cap.
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Carry plenty of drinking water to stay well hydrated throughout the hike.
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Day 3: Cave Bivouac to Barranco Camp ​
The trail continues along the ridge before gradually leaving the forest behind and entering the open heath and moorland zone. As you gain elevation, the landscape becomes more expansive, with sweeping views of the mountain and surrounding valleys.
Today's destination is Barranco Camp, widely regarded as one of the most scenic campsites on Mount Kilimanjaro. Surrounded by towering giant senecios and lobelias, the camp offers spectacular scenery and a unique alpine environment. Because Barranco Camp is situated in a valley beneath the Barranco Wall, the sun rises later here than at most other camps along the mountain.
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Elevation: 9,350 ft (2,850 m) to 12,960 ft (3,950 m)
Hiking Distance: Approximately 5 miles (8 km)
Hiking Time: 4–7 hours
Habitat: Heath and moorland with a steep ascent
Suggested Gear:
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Waterproof hiking boots with good traction
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A sturdy daypack (your duffel bag will be carried by porters)
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A headlamp with spare batteries
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A warm hat and insulated gloves for cooler temperatures at higher elevations​
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Day 4: Barranco Camp to Karanga Camp ​
Today begins with one of the most memorable features of the Umbwe Route—the ascent of the Barranco Wall. Although some sections require using your hands for balance and stability, no technical climbing is involved. Your guide will be with you throughout the ascent, offering encouragement and assistance as needed.
After reaching the top of the wall, the trail continues with a series of gradual ascents and descents, providing an excellent opportunity for acclimatization before joining the mountain ridge. Along the way, you'll enjoy spectacular views of Kilimanjaro's dramatic landscape, where rugged alpine desert contrasts with pockets of hardy mountain vegetation.
By afternoon, you will arrive at Karanga Camp, located at 13,240 ft (4,035 m). Often shrouded in mist, the camp offers a peaceful setting beneath the towering slopes of Kibo, while Uhuru Peak seems ever closer, building anticipation for the summit attempt ahead.
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Elevation: 9,350 ft (2,850 m) to 12,960 ft (3,950 m)
Hiking Distance: Approximately 5 miles (8 km)
Hiking Time: 4–7 hours
Habitat: Heath and moorland with a steep ascent
Suggested Gear:
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Waterproof hiking boots with good traction
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A sturdy daypack (your duffel bag will be carried by porters)
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A headlamp with spare batteries
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A warm hat and insulated gloves for cooler temperatures at higher elevations
Day 5: Karanga Camp to Barafu Camp
​Another spectacular day unfolds on the slopes of Mount Kilimanjaro as your acclimatization efforts continue to prepare you for the summit push ahead. By maintaining a steady "Pole Pole" (slowly, slowly) pace and following your guide's advice, you will conserve energy and allow your body to adjust to the increasing altitude.
Today's short but important trek takes you through the stark beauty of the alpine desert, with the massive slopes of Kibo rising prominently to your left. Although the distance is relatively short, the higher elevation makes this section more challenging, and you may begin to feel the effects of the altitude.
Continue at a comfortable pace, stay hydrated, and communicate openly with your guides about how you are feeling. Upon reaching Barafu Camp, you will rest, prepare your gear for the summit attempt, and enjoy an early dinner before an early bedtime. Tomorrow begins the most demanding and rewarding part of your journey—the final ascent to Uhuru Peak.
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Elevation: 12,960 ft (3,950 m) to 13,240 ft (4,035 m)
Hiking Distance: 3.1–4.3 miles (5–7 km)
Hiking Time: 3–5 hours
Habitat: Alpine desert
Suggested Gear:
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Layered, weather-appropriate clothing, including moisture-wicking base layers and a waterproof/windproof outer shell
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Plenty of drinking water
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High-energy snacks
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Sunscreen, sunglasses, and a sun hat
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A small personal first-aid kit
Day 6: Barafu Camp to Summit (Midnight Start) descent to Mweka Camp ​
Your guide will wake you in the middle of the night for the final and most challenging stage of your Kilimanjaro adventure. A light breakfast and a warm beverage will be waiting to help prepare you for the summit attempt ahead.
How do you feel? At this altitude, many climbers find that their bodies are responding differently. The effects of elevation can be challenging, but proper hydration, nutrition, and a steady pace will help you conserve energy for the climb ahead.
Under the glow of the moon and the light from your headlamp, you will begin the ascent toward Stella Point (18,652 ft / 5,685 m) on the crater rim. This demanding climb typically takes 5–7 hours and involves a slow, steady ascent over steep, rocky terrain.
From Stella Point, continue along the crater rim for another 1–2 hours to reach Uhuru Peak (19,341 ft / 5,895 m), the highest point in Africa and one of the world’s Seven Summits. These final hours can feel longer than expected, as the altitude and fatigue become increasingly noticeable. However, standing at the summit as the sun rises over Africa is an unforgettable reward for your determination and preparation.
After celebrating your achievement and capturing photos of this incredible moment, begin your descent along the same route back to Barafu Camp, where your team will be waiting with snacks and refreshments. After a short rest, continue down to Mweka Camp for your final night on the mountain.
This is a tremendous day of achievement. Looking back up at Kibo from Mweka Camp, you will realize that only hours earlier you were standing at the summit at 19,341 feet. Enjoy your final dinner on the mountain and take time to recognize the incredible accomplishment you have achieved.
This evening is also an opportunity to thank your guides, porters, and support team for their dedication throughout the journey. Many groups hold a tipping ceremony at this time as a way to express appreciation. While you do not need to provide monetary tips immediately, this is a good opportunity to discuss your gratitude with your guide and let the crew know how much their efforts have meant to you.
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Elevation: 15,419 ft (4,700 m) to 19,341 ft (5,895 m) to 10,171 ft (3,100 m)
Hiking Distance: Approximately 3.1 miles (5 km) to Uhuru Peak, followed by approximately 8.9 miles (14.3 km) to Mweka Camp
Hiking Time:
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5–7 hours to reach Uhuru Peak
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6–8 hours from Uhuru Peak to Mweka Camp
Habitat: Alpine desert, arctic conditions at the summit, transitioning to rainforest during descent
Suggested Gear:
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Headlamp with extra batteries
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Warm insulating layers
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Hydration system or water bottles
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Down or synthetic insulated jacket
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Fleece layer
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Waterproof and windproof outer shell
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Warm hat and gloves
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High-energy snacks
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Day 7: Mweka Camp to Mweka Gate to Moshi​
As you continue your descent from Mweka Camp, the decreasing elevation brings noticeable relief. With each step downward, oxygen levels increase, and your body and mind begin to recover from the demands of the climb.
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The trail winds through the lush rainforest, offering another opportunity to spot Kilimanjaro’s wildlife, including the playful colobus monkeys that inhabit the forest. After approximately 2–3 hours of hiking, you will arrive at Mweka Gate, where you will complete the required park exit formalities.
A final celebratory meal awaits you at the gate. Refreshments, including bottled beverages, are available for purchase while you relax and reflect on your accomplishment. Your guide will also present your official climbing certificate, recognizing your successful Kilimanjaro summit.
This is the traditional time to express your appreciation to your mountain crew by presenting tips to your guides, porters, and support staff. Their dedication and assistance played an important role in helping you reach your goal.
Congratulations—you did it!
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After celebrating with your team, you will be transported back to your hotel in Moshi, where you can enjoy a well-deserved rest, a refreshing shower, a swim in the pool, or simply some much-needed relaxation after an unforgettable journey.
Elevation: 10,171 ft (3,100 m) to 5,905 ft (1,800 m)
Hiking Distance: 5.4 miles (8.7 km)
Hiking Time: 3–4 hours
Habitat: Rainforest
Suggested Gear:
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Rain jacket or waterproof outer layer
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Trekking poles for stability on the descent
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Gaiters to keep mud and debris out of your boots
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Day 8: Departure
Enjoy a leisurely morning at your hotel and take time to relax after your Kilimanjaro adventure. At the scheduled time, you will be transferred to the airport for your onward flight or continue on to other adventures.
We wish you a safe journey home and hope to welcome you back for another adventure in the future.
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7 Days Umbwe Route
Estimate
$2200
The itinerary is the same, except you will be spending an extra night at Barranco Camp for a day of acclimatization and rest. Because the Umbwe route ascends exceptionally fast, this rest prevents altitude sickness. You'll stay put to let your body adjust.
On this extra day, you won't just sit in your tent. You will typically:
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"Hike high, sleep low": Your guide will take you on a short, steep acclimatization hike up the Great Barranco Wall (sometimes as far as the Karanga Valley ridgeline).
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Acclimatize: You'll gain a few hundred meters of elevation to force your body to produce more red blood cells and adapt to lower oxygen levels.
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Descend to sleep: You’ll return to Barranco Camp (3,950m) to sleep, as staying at the lower altitude allows your body to recover properly before the final summit push.
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Rest: You'll spend the rest of the afternoon eating, hydrating, and relaxing around the stunning gorge, surrounded by giant groundsels and views of the Heim Glacier.
Day 1: Arrival Day​
Day :2 Umbwe Gate to Umbwe Camp​​​
Day 3: Umbwe Camp to Barranco Camp
Day 4: Acclimatization Day to Barranco Camp
Today is a well-deserved rest and acclimatization day at one of the most spectacular campsites on Mount Kilimanjaro—Barranco Camp. Surrounded by dramatic volcanic landscapes, towering cliffs, and the beautiful Dendrosenecio (giant groundsel) valley, this scenic location provides the perfect environment to relax, recover, and prepare for the next stage of your climb.
After several days of challenging trekking, this slower-paced day gives your body valuable time to adjust to the high altitude. Proper acclimatization is one of the most important factors for a successful Kilimanjaro summit attempt, and spending additional time at elevation helps improve your readiness for the days ahead.
Take the opportunity to enjoy the incredible views from camp, photograph the unique high-altitude vegetation, and admire the impressive Barranco Wall—your next day's exciting challenge. Although the wall appears dramatic from below, it is a rewarding and manageable section of the route that adds to the adventure of climbing Kilimanjaro.
To support your acclimatization, your mountain guide will lead an optional hike to a higher elevation before returning to Barranco Camp. This follows the proven "climb high, sleep low" method, allowing your body to experience a higher altitude while returning to a lower elevation to rest.
Enjoy this peaceful day on the mountain, recharge your energy, and take in the unforgettable beauty of Kilimanjaro before continuing toward the summit.
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Location: Barranco Camp
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Purpose: Altitude adjustment and recovery
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Activity: Optional acclimatization hike to higher elevation
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Strategy: "Climb high, sleep low"
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Habitat: Alpine desert with giant groundsel vegetation and volcanic landscapes
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Tips for Success
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Use this rest day to recover physically and mentally before the summit push.
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Drink plenty of water and maintain good nutrition.
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Join the acclimatization hike—it is designed to improve your body's adjustment to altitude.
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Avoid unnecessary exertion and save energy for the upcoming climbs.
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Take time to enjoy the scenery and capture the unique beauty of Kilimanjaro's Barranco Valley.
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​​​Day 5: Barranco Camp to Karanga Camp
Your day begins with an early wake-up and a hearty breakfast before taking on one of the most memorable sections of your Mount Kilimanjaro trek—the famous Barranco Wall. An early departure is highly recommended to avoid congestion on the trail and enjoy a smoother, more enjoyable climb.
From Barranco Camp, you'll begin your ascent of this iconic volcanic gorge wall. While its impressive height and steep appearance may seem intimidating, the route is a non-technical scramble that can be completed safely with the support of your experienced mountain guides. The climb takes approximately one hour and rewards you with incredible views from the top, including a fantastic photo opportunity with Kibo Volcano towering in the distance.
After taking time to rest and enjoy the scenery, you'll continue your trek toward Karanga Camp. This section of the route features a series of climbs and descents across Kilimanjaro's rugged alpine terrain. Although the trail can be physically demanding, your guides will carefully manage the pace to match the group's abilities, ensuring proper acclimatization and conserving energy for the summit attempt ahead.
Upon arrival at Karanga Camp, you'll enjoy a warm and nourishing lunch followed by time to relax. Later in the afternoon, your guide will lead an important acclimatization hike toward Barafu Camp, gaining approximately 200 meters (656 feet) in elevation before returning to Karanga Camp for the night.
This additional altitude exposure follows the proven "climb high, sleep low" strategy, helping your body adjust to higher elevations and improving your chances of successfully reaching Uhuru Peak.
After returning to camp, enjoy dinner and a peaceful evening surrounded by the dramatic landscapes of Mount Kilimanjaro.
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Start Elevation: Barranco Camp — 3,950 m (12,959 ft)
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End Elevation: Karanga Camp — 3,995 m (13,106 ft)
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Elevation Gain: 45 m (147 ft)
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Hiking Time: 4–5 hours, plus acclimatization hike
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Distance: Approximately 6 km (3.7 miles)
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Acclimatization Hike: 200 m (656 ft) elevation gain toward Barafu Camp
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Habitat: Alpine desert
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Day 6: Karanga Camp to Barafu Camp
After breakfast at Karanga Camp, you'll begin the final approach to Barafu Summit Camp (4,673 m / 15,331 ft), the starting point for your unforgettable midnight ascent to Uhuru Peak (5,895 m / 19,341 ft)—the highest point on Mount Kilimanjaro and the African continent.
Today's trek is relatively short, but the increasing altitude makes it an important stage of your summit preparation. The trail climbs steadily through the rugged alpine desert zone, offering dramatic views of Kilimanjaro's volcanic landscape as you move closer to the summit.
When you arrive at Barafu Camp, your mountain support team will already have your tents and sleeping arrangements prepared, allowing you to settle in and focus on resting. After lunch and time to recover, your guide will lead an important acclimatization hike toward Kosovo Camp, reaching an elevation of approximately 4,870 m (15,977 ft) before returning to Barafu Camp.
This short altitude hike follows the proven "climb high, sleep low" acclimatization strategy. Spending time at a higher elevation before returning to camp helps your body adjust to the thin mountain air and prepares you for the demanding summit attempt ahead.
After returning to Barafu Camp, enjoy a warm, nourishing dinner and organize your summit gear before getting as much rest as possible. An early bedtime is essential, as you will wake shortly after midnight to begin your climb toward Uhuru Peak.
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Start Elevation: Karanga Camp — 3,995 m (13,106 ft)
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End Elevation: Barafu Camp — 4,673 m (15,331 ft)
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Elevation Gain: 678 m (2,225 ft)
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Distance: Approximately 4 km (2.5 miles)
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Hiking Time: 3–4 hours
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Acclimatization Hike Details
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Starting Point: Barafu Camp — 4,673 m (15,331 ft)
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Highest Point: Kosovo Camp — 4,870 m (15,977 ft)
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Elevation Gain: 197 m (646 ft)
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Distance: 2 km (1.2 miles)
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Hiking Time: 1–2 hours
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Day 7: Barafu Camp to Summit to Mweka Camp​
Day 8: Mweka Camp to Mweka Gate to Moshi​​​​
Day 9: Departure
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