Western Breach Route
The Western Breach is the steepest, but shortest, of all the non-technical final ascents of Kibo, and should not be lightly undertaken. It can be approached from the Machame, Umbwe, Shira/Lemosho or northern circuit routes.
Any ascent of the Breach will involve a descent to the Mweka campsite and Mweka gate.
Following a rock fall some years ago on the Western Breach in which a number of climbers were killed, the Kilimanjaro National Park closed the Western Breach route.
It has now been reopened, but is subject to strict pre-conditions laid down by the park. For further information about ascent route, please contact us.
Gallery
Itinerary
Day 1: Approach to Western Breach
Begin your approach to the Western Breach from your chosen route—Machame, Umbwe, Shira/Lemosho or the Northern Circuit. Climb steadily to a high camp such as Arrow Glacier or Crater Camp positioned below the Breach wall. This day allows you to acclimatise and prepares you for the steep scramble up the Western Breach the following morning.
Day 2: Western Breach Ascent and Descent via Mweka
Before dawn, embark on the steep climb up the Western Breach wall, scrambling over lava flows and loose scree to reach the crater rim near Uhuru Peak. After taking in the awe‑inspiring views and, if you haven’t already, summiting Uhuru, begin your descent. Return via Barafu and follow the Mweka Route past Millennium Camp, descending through alpine desert and lush montane forest to Mweka Camp or directly to Mweka Gate, where vehicles await to take you back to the hotel.
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