December 23, 2013
Sunset from Shira Camp with the Plateau and Cathedral Peaks in the background (Eric Simonson)
IMG guide Max Bunce called on the sat phone to report that the team had a nice hike today up from Machame Camp (about 10,000 feet) to the Shira Camp (about 12,500 feet). They are now well above treeline, with expansive views out to the west across Shira Plateau towards the Cathedral Peaks. Sounds like everyone is feeling pretty good, the weather is cooperating, and they were getting ready to crawl into their sleeping bags for a good snooze. Tomorrow the plan is to ascend to near Lava Tower (about 14,500 feet) then drop down to the Barranco Camp (at about 13,000 feet). Climb high, sleep low is the old adage, and it works great on Kilimanjaro. The team now has three nights in a row at intermediate altitude (12-13K) with plenty of up and down hiking each day. It’s a great way to get prepared for the summit day!
Eric Simonson