Its almost time for our climb and the nerves definitely haven't subsided. I keep thinking in the back of my mind that I have plenty of time left to prepare when I am really leaving tonight for Nairobi. I guess it will all become reality when we strap on our packs and head out. I thought it might be of interest to some to have a detailed version of the hike day by day. Our hike officially begins Sunday which corresponds to Day 1 on this schedule. Pictures and memories from the experience to come!
Day 1
Machame Gate (1490m) to Machame Camp (2980m)
Distance: 18 kms
Time: 7 hours
The day starts early with a 45 minute drive from Moshi to the Machame Gate at Kilimanjaro National Park. After registering you will enter the forest almost immediately. Rain is likely and the trails can be very muddy at times. Meals and overnight at the camp.
Day 2 Machame Camp (2980m) to Shira camp (3840m)
Distance: 9kms
Time: 6 hours
You rise early from Machame Camp and climb an hour or two out of the forest. From here you hit moorlands and the route becomes much more gentler. From here you will be able to see east and the glaciers along the Western Breach. Meals and overnight at the camp with temperatures dropping well below freezing.
Day 3 Shira camp (3840m) to Barranco camp (3950m)
Distance: 15kms
Time: 7 hours
The route turns east into semi desert with a rocky landscape. You will hit 4630 m elevation at Lava tower where some climbers will begin to feel the symptoms of altitude. From here you will descend to camp following the climbing motto of climb high sleep low. Expect a beautiful sunset in the valley as you arrive at camp.
Day 4 Barranco camp (3950m) to Barafu camp (4550m)
Distance: 13kms
Time: 7 hours
After spending the night at the Great Barranco wall, you will make you way up this expanse which proves easier than it sounds. At the top of the wall enjoy views of the glaciers. The last stop for water is at the Karranga Valley as Barafu means "ice" in Swahili and there is no water to be found at this campsite. The campsite isn't for the weak of heart as it is situated on an exposed ridge. Be careful to scope out the site before dark to avoid dangerous falls during the night. Bed will be early as the summit attempt begins at midnight.
Day 5 Barafu camp (4550m) to Uhuru peak (5895m) to Mweke camp (3100m)
Distance: 7kms ascent 23 kms descent
Time: 8 hours to Uhuru and 8 hours to Mweke
After waking at midnight you will ascend into heavy screened terrain towards Stella point. From Stella point it is approximately another hour till summit. Depending on weather and conditions you will spend a limited amount of time here. The walk back to Barafu camp takes about 3 hours and you can "ski" down the rock screen if you like. At camp enjoy a short nap and then lunch. After lunch set off to Mweke camp which is located just inside the forest. Expect mist and light rain overnight.
Day 6 Mweke camp (3100m) to Mweke gate (1980m)
Distance: 15ks
Time: 3 hours
Its a short morning hike to the gate followed by a drive to Arusha. At the gate hikers that summit receive a certificate and must sign in the official register. Overnight will be in Arusha followed by a drive to Nairobi the following day.
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