June 24th, 2024

Phunuru reports the team had a gorgeous climb to Uhuru Peak, the 19,340 ft tippy top of Kilimanjaro. They started from the 15,000 ft Barafu Camp at about midnight and reached the summit at dawn. After a rapid descent to Barafu, they had time for a nice rest and meal before continuing down to Mweka Camp at the treeline, about 11,000 ft. Everyone stayed strong and they arrived by 3pm. Tomorrow, they will head down through the forest to the Mweka Gate and the waiting vehicles for the ride back to Moshi. Well done team, and congratulations to Phunuru for his 25th Kili ascent!

June 21, 2024

IMG Team at lava Tower (Phunuru)

Barranco Camp with the Breach Wall and Icicle above (Eric Simonson)

Porters approaching the Barranco Camp with the giant groundsel plants (Eric Simonson)

After yesterdays rainstorm, the weather cleared and today was gorgeous for the team.  The old adage for acclimatization is “climb high, sleep low” and the team’s hike today fits that bill perfectly, climbing to a high point at Lava Tower (4600m/15000ft) before descending back to 13000 ft at the Barranco Camp.  From the Barranco Camp the team has a great view of the Breach Wall and Icicle, and their first objective tomorrow, the steep climb out of the Barranco camp as they continue their trek to the Karanga Camp.

June 19, 2024

Machame Camp (Phunuru Sherpa)

Wet day at Machame Camp (Phunuru Sherpa)

Phunuru called to say that the team were safe and sound up at Machame Camp (nearly 10K, at treeline) after a good dinner and under clearing skies.  Earlier today was quite wet for their trip up from Moshi, through the forest.   It was a good reminder for why we take the time to do the gear checks before starting, so we have the right gear to stay comfortable and have fun, even in challenging weather.  Everyone is in good spirits and looking forward to a good sleep tonight.