January 28, 1010

Eben Record and Ang Jangbu called from the middle of the Serengeti to report that all’s well with their team.  After descending to Moshi, the team enjoyed a celebration BBQ dinner back at the hotel, then flew the next day to Seronera (middle of the Serengeti) for several days of prime wildlife viewing. They’ve already seen two large prides of lions – close to 20 lions in total – and they still have a couple more days ahead of them, with two days/nights in the Serengeti and Lake Ndutu area, then a final day/night at Ngorongoro Crater.  What a great way to wrap up a memorable trip!

Eric Simonson

January 25, 2010

Add a Kilimanjaro Summit to the list of successes over the past few days!
IMG guides Eben Reckord and Ang Jangbu called to say the team had a nice climb, with everyone making the summit and descending back down to Mweka Camp.  Sounds like the weather was pretty good.  Tomorrow they will descend back to the trailhead, and then back down to Moshi for celebration.  Congratulations, gang!

Off on Safari they go!

Eric Simonson

January 22, 2010

Eben Reckord and Ang Jangbu called on the sat phone from Shira Plateau, a bit over 12,000 feet, to say that the group moved up to the Shira Camp yesterday, and are doing well.  This expansive volcanic plateau on the southwest side of Kilimanjaro is a dramatic feature with big views, weird plants, and a feeling that the summit is finally getting within reach.

Today, the group will climb to 14,500 feet near Lava Tower, then drop down to Barancco Camp (about 13,000 feet).  It is nice hiking above timberline, and great acclimatization for the higher altitudes ahead!

Eric Simonson

January 20, 2010

IMG guides Eben Reckord and Ang Jangbu called down from Machame Camp at 10,000 feet, and reported that the group did well today.  Starting at the Hotel in Moshi, they traveled to the Machame Gate by jeep, at about 6,000 feet.

After their check in with the Kili Park rangers, they started the climb, ascending through the thick jungle of the lower slopes until they broke out of the forest at the camp, just in time to avoid an afternoon rain shower.  So far so good!

Eric Simonson