9-day trip: climbing Kilimanjaro via the steep 6-day Umbwe Route
Umbwe route is the shortest of all routes in terms of the distance you travel to the top of Kilimanjaro. Therefore the increase in altitude per day is very high. You hike steep through the valley and directly up to the summit. Because this route is so extreme and demands a lot from your body, it is also known as the “Double Whiskey Route”. The Umbwe route is only suitable for climbers who have already been at a comparable altitude and know how their body reacts to such an extreme increase in altitude.
If you want to add an additional day to the Umbwe route, this is of course possible and even recommended. An extra day gives your body more time to get used to the altitude and increases the chance that you will reach the top of Kilimanjaro without suffering from altitude sickness.
Tanzania Specialist offers a unique service throughout the climb
Climbing Kilimanjaro is the ultimate challenge! Little details can make a world of difference, which is why with us, you climb with professional guides, porters, and a cook. They take care of you during your ascent via the Umbwe route, by checking your health twice a day and serving you delicious food. Sounds like a bit much? Not if you want to reach the top! Because we know that altitude sickness can creep up on you unnoticed and that proper nutrition* is essential to keep you going during a strenuous climb.
Besides, we offer a comprehensive information package to help you prepare for your climb via the Umbwe route. It gives information about Tanzania and Mount Kilimanjaro, how to best prepare and what materials to buy or rent. And did we mention that we are a partner of the Kilimanjaro Responsible Travel Organisation (KRTO)? That means we take care of our crew and the mountain during our climb, making sure you can climb with a clear conscience. Are you ready for an unforgettable experience?
*If you would like to see the menu, we can send it in advance.
How fit do you need to be to climb Kilimanjaro via the Umbwe Route?
Climbing Kilimanjaro is a real challenge due to the altitude, rate of ascent and different temperatures. During an average climbing day you will walk six to seven hours per day. If you are healthy and fit it is absolutely within reach. There are many things you can do to increase your chances to reach the summit and to make sure you enjoy the trek.
- It’s important you take your time. Don’t hike too fast so your body has time to adapt and acclimatize.
- Prepare. Being in good shape also makes the climb much easier. Go hiking a few months before the climb, especially multiple day hikes are excellent training. But also running and aerobic exercise are a good preparation.
- Add an extra day. It is always difficult to predict who will be affected by altitude sickness. By adding one extra day to your climb, you will reduce this risk. Since you spread the climb over more days and your body gets more time to get used to the higher altitude. We do really advice to do this to increase the chance of making it to the top.
If you like advice on how to prepare yourself for climbing Kilimanjaro, you can always contact us or read our blog How to prepare for climbing Kilimanjaro?
