Day 7: Climb to Barafu

Today, things started to feel quiteee real. As we made our way from Karanga to Kosovo Camp, we all nervously joked, “Okay… this actually isn’t funny anymore.” Our goal was to push past Barafu and settle at the higher camp, Kosovo - and by the time we arrived, we all agreed it was the best decision we could have made.

The section between Barafu and Kosovo was steep and incredibly exposed - making you feel very vulnerable. Definitely not how you’d want to begin summit night, especially in the dark…. Having the privilege of camping at Kosovo, a spot not many companies have access to, felt like a luxury we couldn’t be more grateful for.

Upon arrival, we tried to keep warm with a little dance party with Edward, laughing together despite the noticeable drop in temperature. Dinner came early, and so did bedtime - knock knock tea at midnight awaits! Nerves and excitement were high, but we kept the mood light, careful not to overthink the challenge ahead: Summit! 

MOUNTAIN ROUTE OVERVIEW

As our climbers near the summit, they have another short day for acclimatization today. After breakfast, climbers leave Karanga Camp and make their way across moraine with a view of Mawenzi and Kibo to Barafu. The alpine desert terrain is full of boulders with lichen and moss. Upon reaching camp, climbers will spend the afternoon resting before packing for the summit and having an early dinner in preparation for their ascent to the summit to start at midnight. Summit begins at 5 PM EST!

MOUNTAIN ROUTE STATS

Starting elevation 13,300 feet

Ending elevation 16,000 feet

Elevation gain 2,700 feet

Distance hiked 3.5 miles

Average hiking time 4 to 5 hours