Day 6: Climb to Karanga Camp

MOUNTAIN ROUTE OVERVIEW

After breakfast, one of the biggest challenges for our climbers begins. They’ll climb up and over the Great Barranco Wall. Getting to the top of it will take 1 to 2 hours. After the wall, climbers will cross a barren and rocky plateau with views of Kibo and three glaciers before descending into Karanga Camp. As they cross the plateau on a trail of gravel and sand, climbers will pass streams and giant boulders for 2 to 3 hours. As they walk into camp, they have a good view of tomorrow’s route. They’ll get to camp by lunch. But this short day is planned for resting which helps with acclimatization.

MOUNTAIN ROUTE STATS

Starting elevation 12,900 feet

Ending elevation 13,300 feet

Elevation gain 400 feet

Distance hiked 3 miles

Average hiking time 4 to 6 hours

It was a gift this morning to get a bit of a later start. We woke up to frost on our tents and the bright sunshine. It was such a good reminder that God’s mercies are new every day. As we got ready for the day, we began to see hikers and porters heading up Barranco Wall. Looking up, it was pretty intimidating, and we knew we were going to climb up and over it! As we carefully stepped, climbed, and at times, held on for dear life, our guides knew to anticipate just what each of us would need. It was such a sense of accomplishment for all of us to reach the top, some a little more gracefully than others! After a short rest, we headed back into the valley. Seeing two of our porters, Dennis and Ahimidiwe, waiting for us to refill our water bottles was just another reminder that we are not alone on this journey.  Our days of hiking are long, but the conversations, laughter, songs, jokes, encouragement and camaraderie of our team get us there step by step. Our early arrival into camp brought time for much needed rest, conversation, and a breathtaking sunset. We are hopeful for a good night’s sleep in anticipation of what tomorrow will bring. Thank you for your prayers from home— we feel them!

~ Laura Jensen