August 12, 2012
Bolivia – Vernovage checked in. All continues to go well for these guys. They’re set to ascend their first objective: Pequeño Alpamayo.
On the trail to Machu Picchu.
Peru (Machu Picchu) – Peter Anderson called in and was in a great mood! The team enjoyed another perfect day yesterday on the trail. ‘T-shirt weather” he called it. Today they’ve crossed over their 3rd big pass of the trek and are preparing their knees for the 2000ft descent down some big stone steps. Tomorrow they’ll wake up early and head to Machu Picchu.
Russia (Elbrus) – Phil called in to report that all is well. Everybody showed up in St. Petersburg with all their luggage. The forecast calls for some good weather for their tour of St. Petersburg where they will visit the Fortress of Peter and Paul, St. Isaacs Cathedral and take a boat ride through the canals in the afternoon.
Celebration dance.
Tanzania (Kilimanjaro) – Max Bunce reports that the team had a smooth descent from the summit. Last night they were at Mweka Camp, which is at timberline (about 11000 ft). Today they came down through the forest to the Mweka Gate, where they met the land rovers for the drive down to Moshi (at the foot of the mountain). Tonight they have a celebration barbecue dinner at the hotel. Congrats, team. Great job!