Umbwe route is the hardest but most magnificent and shortest way to reach Uhuru Peak. An extra day can be added up a long the route to allow acclimatization by camping in the Karanga valley.
Day 1: After breakfast drive to the Umbwe Park gate to start walking. Hike though the forest through a ridge between Umbwe and Lonzo rivers reaching Bivouac No. 1 otherwise known as Forest Caves at 2850m. Camp for overnight.
Day 2: The Path continues up the ridge, then leaves the forest behind to an open moorland to reach Barranco Hut at 3985m. Camp for overnight.
Day 3: Ascend the steep Ridge out of Barranco valley crossing Karanga Valley for picnic lunch. Ascend the gentle ridge leading to Barafu Hut at 4600m. Camp overnight.
Day 4: Early morning start to reach the crater rim at Stella point 5730m, continue to Uhuru Peak 5896m. Descend to Barafu hut for break fast .Walk further to Mweka Camp for overnight.
Day 5: Descend to mweka park Gates to connect a transfer to the Hotel for an overnight.
What to bring:-warm sleeping bags(preferably -10 degrees),light water-proof boots, warm jacket, fleece jacket, rain gear, wind stoppers, sun glasses, warm gloves, enough pair of cotton socks, inner thermals, head cover, head light, water bottle and other personal items. Tents of aluminium frames due to strong winds.
The cost for the expedition is US$1950 per person
inclusive:-all park fees, camping fees, rescue fees, porter crew, all meals, transport to the mountain and back
