Umbwe Gate:
The Umbwe Gate is the starting point of the Umbwe Route. It is situated in the southern part of Kilimanjaro National Park, and reaching it usually involves a drive from Moshi or Arusha. The gate is located at an altitude of approximately 1,800 meters (5,905 feet) above sea level. Here's what you can expect at the Umbwe Gate:
Registration: Climbers need to register at the gate and go through the necessary paperwork, including park fees and permits.
Climb from Umbwe Gate to Umbwe Camp:
The hike from Umbwe Gate to Umbwe Camp is a demanding one, characterized by steep and rugged terrain. Here's a detailed description of this section of the climb:
Distance: The distance from Umbwe Gate to Umbwe Camp is around 11 kilometers (6.8 miles).
Time: Climbers usually take approximately 5-7 hours to reach Umbwe Camp, but this can vary depending on fitness levels.
Terrain: The trail starts in the lush rainforest with thick vegetation, including moss-covered trees and ferns. The path is steep and often muddy, and there are numerous tree roots and rocks to navigate.
Difficulty: This part of the climb is considered strenuous due to the steepness of the trail and the challenges posed by the dense forest. It requires a good level of fitness and agility.
Trailhead: The trailhead starts at the gate, and the route immediately begins to ascend into the dense rainforest.