August 25, 2014
Illimani BC (Greg Vernovage)
A very happy IMG Guide Luke Reilly called to check in from Illimani Base Camp. “This is the best day we have had in Bolivia so far!â€
Luke was just finishing up a BBQ at Illimani Base Camp. He reports that the team was taking a siesta after they finished up lunch which consisted of a grilled meat, chorizo and vegetables at about 15,000 ft. Starting the grill can be no easy task at this elevation. Between our great cook staff and a few mountain guides, I am sure there was some great arguing about the best way to get it hot enough to cook.
The team decided to use another day down low to insure they were strong enough for the next two days. Tomorrow, they will leave Base Camp and trek across to the ridge leading to High Camp at 18,000 ft. It is the first of two strenuous days of climbing.
Base Camp is simply gorgeous. They will take a short hike to stretch their legs and organize their gear for the summit push.
The team is happy, full and tired…the perfect lead in to a summit attempt!
Greg Vernovage