Trip Reports

Kilimanjaro Lemosho Glades - 18 to 27 August '12

The southern icefields on the traverse round to Karanga Camp

Written by Leader Andrew Chapman, September 2012

After a long flight to Tanzania via Amsterdam the team met at Kilimanjaro airport. The group had an age range of 50 years; Hannah being 16 and Richard, 66 however from the start, the team gelled well. Unfortunately two team members’ bags were lost by KLM, but they were quickly reunited two days later at Shira 2 camp.

The next day, we boarded the land cruisers for a 3 hour journey to the Londorossi Gate and after the check in formalities, we continued on our way to Big Tree Camp. Despite a long first day, the team quickly became used to life on Kilimanjaro and the days flew by! Shira 1 camp was a windy but pleasant place with views of Kilimanjaro’s west flank. We went onwards to Shira 2 for the second night and then the first major climb to the Lava Tower and descent found us at the great Baranco Camp. The next day, a scrambling climb up the Baranco Wall and on to yet another surprisingly windy night’s camp at Karanga Camp.

On Friday, after a short 3 hrs walk to Barafu Camp 4,600m, the team settled down to some well-earned rest before summit day scheduled for midnight. At 11 pm, we awoke and had porridge and took on plenty of fluids. All members were going to attempt the 7 hours climb to Africa’s highest mountain, despite a couple of team members feeling rough the night before. A few hours sleep can make all the difference in preparation for summit day.

The teams set off with our experienced and friendly head guide Limo, assisted by deputy guides Charles and Roger. We began the climb, walking 45 minutes and then a few minutes rest. Despite being only 300 miles south of the equator in the early hours of the morning, it was exceptionally cold although not as windy as I have experienced it before. Sadly, after 2 hours Damian could not go any further and was very ably assisted back to Barafu camp by Tanzania guide Roger; an outstanding effort by Damian.

The remaining members of the team of the team remaind mostly together to Stella Point arriving at 6 am. After some drink and food, we could clearly see in the east the glow of the sun arriving. Steady and slowly, we continued along the crater rim towards the summit of Africa arriving at around 7 am; a spectacular view and feeling for all team members. After 30 minutes or so, we started the long and gradual descent to Barafu and on down of the mountain to a well earned shower and rest at the Keys hotel the next day.

A successful and enjoyable week was had by all members on a journey to the roof of Africa and I am sure future expeditions will follow for all members of the group. Well done everyone. « Previous report | Next report »

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