The Kilimanjaro Western Breach: History And Safety
The Western Breach is an alternative route that provides a direct and steep ascent to Kilimanjaro's Uhuru Peak from the western snowy slopes. It’s a technically challenging route and often considered risky, which is why many operators avoid it. That said, it’s often popular with experienced mountaineers who want a challenge.
While Skyhook doesn’t offer a Western Breach trek, it can be approached from several routes, including Lemosho and Machame, as well as the Shira and Kilimanjaro Umbwe trails.
Here, we’ll give you an idea of what the Kilimanjaro Western Breach looks like.
About the Western Breach Route: Typical Itinerary
Starting from Umbwe Gate at 1,600 metres elevation, the Western Breach passes through Umbwe Camp and goes on to Barranco Camp at 3,900 metres.
Hikers on other routes would follow the Southern Circuit towards Karanga and thereafter to Barafu at this point.
However, the Western Breach advances north to spend a night at Lava Tower before proceeding to Arrow’s Glacier. This connects to the main Western Breach trail.
Some operators recommend adding an additional night's stay at Lava Tower for acclimatisation on the way up.
The fourth day is usually a steep scramble and challenging climb to the Reutsch Crater, at 5,800 metres. Here, hikers have the opportunity to camp near one of the few remaining glaciers on Kilimanjaro, the Furtwangler Glacier. Staying overnight at Crater Camp is one of the big draw cards for seasoned hikers on the Western Breach.
On the fifth day, it’s a short journey from the Reutsch Crater to Kilimanjaro's highest point, Uhuru Peak, at 5,895 metres.
The descent typically follows the southern slopes of Kibo to Barafu Camp (4,680 metres) and then to Mweka Camp (3,100 metres) for the final night on the mountain.
Overall, a safer itinerary for this route is six or seven days. The longer, the better for acclimatisation.
In 2015, the Western Breach Wall served as the backdrop for Valery Rozov’s remarkable base jump from Kilimanjaro.
Why Do Experienced Mountaineers Choose the Western Breach?
The Kilimanjaro Western Breach route can appeal to mountaineers for several reasons:
Rugged and remote: The route is relatively quiet, offering a remote experience. It's a path less taken, and generally there aren’t too many other hikers on it.
Unfiltered scenery: Some of Kilimanjaro's iconic glaciers, such as the Furtwangler Glacier, come into view on this route. It is framed by dramatic rock formations that create a unique visual spectacle.
Ultimate challenge: The Western Breach demands a higher level of physical fitness and mental resilience than other paths. Steep inclines and thin air test hikers’ mettle, while the technical challenge pushes limits. There are steep inclines, and scrambling is required in some places (Yosemite Decimal System Class 3 and some sections Class 4). Read up on these here.
Want to compare the difficulty with other routes? Here's how difficult it is to climb Kilimanjaro.
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Reported Deaths on the Kilimanjaro Western Breach Route
Since opening, the Western Breach Kilimanjaro has witnessed unfortunate incidents that have resulted in fatalities. While Kilimanjaro is generally considered a safe mountain to climb, the Western Breach is an inherently riskier route, and accidents can and have happened.
In January 2006, a significant rockfall occurred on the Western Breach of Kilimanjaro, leading to three fatalities. The rockfall event was a sudden release of enormous boulders and rocks from the Breach Wall, an area characterised by cliffs and rocky terrain.
While the exact cause of the 2006 rockfall is not entirely clear, experts believe it may have been triggered by a combination of factors, including heavy rainfall that destabilised the rocks and the natural erosion of the area over time. The increased pressure from water buildup in the rocky layers likely played a role.
In response to this tragic incident, authorities and tour operators took swift action to ensure the safety of hikers on the Western Breach. The route was closed for several months to assess and address the risks.
Some safety measures taken when the route reopened include rerouting the trail to minimise exposure to unstable sections of the Breach Wall, reinforcing some areas with metal netting, and introducing the mandatory use of helmets for all hikers.
In September 2015, another rockfall occurred on the Western Breach with another three fatalities and several injuries. The rockfall was again attributed to the extensive ice loss on the Kilimanjaro glaciers and the geological instability of the Breach Wall.
Is the Western Breach Route Kilimanjaro Route Safe?
Compared with the other Kilimanjaro routes, the Western Breach is considered dangerous. Safety on the Western Breach Kilimanjaro Route is a paramount concern and hinges on several crucial factors:
1. Altitude Risks
The Western Breach ascends to high elevations quickly and doesn’t offer a good acclimatisation profile. As a result, altitude-related challenges are a constant reality. Acute Mountain Sickness (AMS) can afflict even the fittest hikers, causing symptoms like headaches, nausea, and fatigue.
2. Weather Whims
Kilimanjaro's weather can be unpredictable, and the Western Breach exposes hikers to the elements, and sudden changes in conditions are not uncommon.
Bitter cold fierce winds, and snowfall can add to the hazards. Appropriate Kilimanjaro gear and the ability to adapt to varying weather are essential.
3. Falling Rocks
The 2006 rockfall event is etched in the Western Breach's history. Although the route has been altered to minimise risks, the potential for falling rocks remains, especially in the Breach Wall Kilimanjaro area. Staying vigilant and wearing a helmet is advisable.
4. Physical Demands
The Western Breach is a demanding route - it tests a person’s physical and mental stamina. Steep inclines, loose scree, and high altitudes push limits. Being adequately fit and prepared is crucial.
5. Quality of Guides
Did you know you need a guide to hike Mount Kilimanjaro - it’s regulation to trek with a licensed company. The competency of the guide and support team can significantly impact a trekker’s safety.
Anyone who does this route needs to choose an experienced, reputable guide or tour company with an understanding of Western Breach's unique challenges.
