Barranco Wall on Mount Kilimanjaro

Mountaineering is an activity enjoyed by many people across the world. Some mountaineers prefer to stick to traditional climbing and hiking paths, while others seek the thrill of summiting the world’s tallest mountains. If you have ever heard of or climbed Mount Kilimanjaro, you are likely familiar with the Barranco Wall, also known as the Barranco Breakfast Wall.

How High is the Barranco Wall?

The Barranco Wall elevation is 257 meters (843 feet) high, located on the side of Mount Kilimanjaro. The Barranco Wall is considered a scramble, meaning it does not require technical mountain climbing skills to traverse the area.

Where is the Barranco Wall Located?

The Barranco Wall is situated on the southern base of Kibo, which is part of Mount Kilimanjaro. It can be reached by specific paths that ascend the mountain. The four routes that travel this direction are:

• Shira Route
• Lemosho Route
• Umbwe Route
• Machame Route

How Was the Barranco Wall Formed?

The Barranco Wall was formed by volcanic activity and landslides between 150,000 and 200,000 years ago when Mount Kilimanjaro went dormant. The mountain is so high that it is difficult to see the top from the bottom, making it a bucket-list climb for many mountaineers. Despite its dormancy for centuries, the last recorded activity of the volcano was 200 years ago .

The Kissing Rock on Barranco Wall

One section of the trail is referred to as the kissing wall or hugging wall due to the narrowness of the trail at this point. Climbers need to flatten themselves against the wall to avoid falling off a steep drop. While not difficult, it can be intimidating, and many climbers kiss the wall as they pass through.

Health Requirements

To climb Mount Kilimanjaro or any mountain, you need to be in good health. While the Barranco Wall does not require the near-perfect health conditions needed to climb to the summit, it can be challenging for those with a fear of heights or cramped spaces.

How Long Does It Take to Climb Barranco Wall?

Hiking on one of the trails that pass through the Barranco Wall typically takes about four days to reach the wall. Once on the path to the wall, expect to spend 1-2 hours climbing through the pass. The trail is so narrow it can only accommodate climbers in a single file line.

What Can You See from the Barranco Wall?

Although the Barranco Wall is not near the summit of Mount Kilimanjaro, climbers are treated to a spectacular view of the Barranco Valley during the ascent. The valley, reminiscent of the Grand Canyon but at a higher altitude and composed primarily of sand and foliage, offers a stunning vista that makes the climb worth it and provides a beautiful location to rest before continuing the ascent.

By tackling the Barranco Wall, climbers experience a unique and thrilling part of the Mount Kilimanjaro climb, adding to the overall adventure and sense of accomplishment.