Umbwe, Kilimanjaro

The Umbwe route is probably the most beautiful route by which to ascend Mt. Kilimanjaro.

Kilimanjaro, situated south of the equator in Tanzania at 5895m is Africa’s highest mountain and the highest “free standing” mountain in the world, where huge permanent glaciers flow down from the summit. Spectacular views and beautiful ice formations are the reward for the successful trekker, as well as the satisfaction of ‘topping out’ this mighty peak of Africa. This trek is a “once in a lifetime” challenge and must not be taken lightly. We ensure that all our climbers have all the facts – medical list, equipment list, etc, long before they travel – possibly the reason for our success rate. Any reasonably fit person who enjoys walking can reach the summit of Kilimanjaro. The youngest to make it was nine years old, and the oldest seventy-nine.

The main problems encountered can be altitude sickness, which may be countered by use of medicines and good basic acclimatisation. The standard route is a hike – no climbing as such. It can be very cold, so correct kit is a must and we can advise you on what to take, or arrange for hire of some items. Once you have booked, we also have a recommended training programme that we can forward to you. Your base hotel is located in Moshi and is one of the best hotels in town. It has a swimming pool, indoor bar and garden area, patio, and restaurant. The rooms are a little old fashioned, but are clean and comfortable. Showers are en-suite with hot/cold water. The staff are very friendly and ‘nothing is too much trouble’.

We utilise tents, which we supply, as well as lightweight camping mattresses. All your supplies and camping equipment are portered up for you (tents, 25mm mattresses, awnings, stools, lights, etc), and your meals are prepared. Your personal baggage limit is 12kg for the climb. The guides employed are excellent (some have climbed Kili over 120 times!) and look after all our clients who attempt the climb. Each trip is led by a senior guide, with other guides in a ratio of approximately one guide per 2 or 3 climbers – if you are a bit slower than the rest, a guide will always be with you. Food served on the mountain is generally plain and wholesome, including carbohydrates and fresh vegetables. Vegetarians can be catered for, please just let us know at time of booking. Did you know that of the 36,000 people that set out to trek to the summit of Kilimanjaro each year, 40% of them fail to reach the summit? Each of us has a unique physiology, and consequently our bodies adjust or change to environments and increased heights at a different rate. Traditionally the key to success has been to take more time. By trekking shorter days and gaining altitude at a slower rate the chances of greatly increased. However, what can you do if your time is limited?

At high altitude, climbers increase their oxygen intake by taking it with them, so why not do the same whilst trekking? We’ve taken the same simple, lightweight cannula O2 system, which immediately increases the flow of oxygen into the body, and are now offering it to our trekkers. Please contact us for more information.