September 19, 2024
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- Machame Camp (Max Bond)
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- Trekking up through the giant heather bushes to Shira Plateau (Max Bond)
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- On the way to Shira Camp (Max Bond)
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- The whole group at Shira Camp 12,500′ (Max Bond)
Max Bond reports the team had another beautiful day for their climb from Machame Camp up to the Shira Plateau (about 12,500ft). This expansive flat area extends to the west of Kilimanjaro and is actually the remnant of one of the ancient volcanos (as is the peak of Mawenzi to the east of Kili) that comprise the Kilimanjaro massif. Departing the forest zone immediately above Machame Camp the team ascended into a forest of giant heather bushes. Higher up they hit the first of the giant groundsel and lobelia plants that are only found at high altitudes near the equator. Now the entire team (climbers, guides, porters, cooks, camp staff, etc) are all together at the Shira Camp.