December 27, 2013

The new and “improved” sign at the top of Uhuru Peak (Max Bunce)

IMG leader Max Bunce called on the sat phone to report that the entire IMG team reached Uhuru, the highest point on Kilimanjaro (19,341 ft; 5,895 m).  The weather was cold and clear, so they were glad to have their warm parkas with them.  Up high on the route there was still some snow on the ground from the storm last week, but the trail was kicked in well.  The team are now on the way back down to Mweka Camp, at the treeline (about 11,000 feet).  There is nothing better than a good sleep in the thick air of lower altitude, after a big day up high.  Well done, team!

Eric Simonson

December 26, 2013

Sunrise over Mawenzi peak, on the way to the summit of Kilimanjaro (Eric Simonson)

IMG guide Max Bunce called to say that the team had all made it up to the Barafu Camp (about 15,000 feet) and are doing well.  They had a short day today, moving up from Karanga to high camp in time for lunch, followed by an easy afternoon resting and preparing for the summit climb.  After an early supper they will get some sleep, in preparation for their midnight departure.  Max reports that the weather is good and that while some snow remains on the upper mountain up towards the crater rim, the trail has been well kicked in by climbers over the last few days. The trip to the summit normally takes 6-7 hours, so we will hope to hear from them shortly after sunrise from the top of Africa!

Eric Simonson

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

December 22, 2013

Kilimanjaro (Ken Maclaurin)

December snowstorms in the US made it a bit challenging but the last of our climbers arrived in Tanzania so the team is now together and on their way to the Machame Gate and the start of their Christmas climb. Remember, it’s 11 hours later on Kilimanjaro than here at Mt. Rainier so the team is already at the Machame Camp. We just haven’t heard that update yet. First day is a good one. About a 4,000 ft. gain but through spectacular cloud forests. They’re camping right at the tree line tonight. Max said they woke up this morning to a clear view of a very snow covered Kilimanjaro. Had to be beautiful.

Phil Ershler

December 21, 2013

Anthony and Lisa with the kids.

Climbers are arriving now for our Christmas Kilimanjaro expedition.  Pretty unique way to spend the holidays!  Two of our team, Anthony and Lisa, brought gifts for the kids at the “Center for Street Children”.  It’s a private charity for homeless kids near Moshi.  Toothbrushes, small toys and writing supplies were in Santa’s bag. 

Phil Ershler