Trip Update so far

This is a pre-prepared update, as proper communication from the mountain is difficult. More detailed reports will follow upon return.

Feb 10, 11^th: Kilimanjaro  stay at Ndarakwai Lodge (4200 ft) , situated in the foothills of Kilimanjaro, an eco-friendly permanent tented lodge.  Great views and wildlife on the property.  The lodge is set under the spreading branches of the Acacia tortillis, near an extinct volcanic cone with superb views.

Feb 12^th:  Enter through the Londorossi Gate and through the dense rain forest which is home to the colobus monkey, blue monkey and a vibrant array of exoctic birds.  Lunch at the Morum Barrier gate trailhead. Then descend to the camp (11499 ft).  Views of Kibo, one of the volcanic cones of Mt. Kilimanjaro across the Shira Plateau are breath taking.

Feb 13^th:  Full day exploration of the Shira plateau.  Trek Eastward towards Kibo’s glaciated peak.  Arrive at Shira 2 camp (Fischer’s camp) (12795 ft).  Shira is one of the highest plateaus in the world at  an average of 12,500 ft.

Feb 14^th:   Proceed steadily upward through the heather an on to the barren high altitude desert towards the “Shark’s Tooth” to Moir camp, an isolated and seldom used camp.  The views as usual are great.

Feb 15^th:  We set out on the Northern Circuit route leaving the moorland and into the stark highland desert on a steep ridge off the main trail.  Pofu camp (13200 ft)

Feb 16^th:  Trek through the desert to Kikelewa Caves camp.  We have all that mountain wilderness to ourselves!!  (11810 ft)

Feb 17^th:  Trek towards to a placid mountain lake at the foot of the steeply rising ridges of Mawenzi, Kilimanjaro’s second highest volcano.  The camp here is nestled along the banks of the lake in a protected alcove.  Mawenzi Tarn camp(14210 ft)

Feb 18^th:  Trek across the impressive saddle between Mawenzi and Kibo.  The landscape is spectacularly stark.  The temperature turns cold as we reach the foot of Kibo. At Outward Bound camp today. Early night tonight as tomorrow is the big push.