Day 5: Climb to Shira Camp
MOUNTAIN ROUTE OVERVIEW
Today is a shorter day that starts with climbing up a steep ridge to a small cliff named Picnic Rock. Climbers will start in the moorland zone which is above the rainforest and clouds. As our climbers hike up the steep ridge, they’ll be rewarded with a sweeping view of Machame Camp and Machame Village. The air will become increasingly thin as they reach the halfway point and vegetation will slowly give way to black lava and sand. The trail continues up and up pst small mountain streams, rocky walls, and deep ravines. Shira Camp is in the middle of the Shira Plateau. Climbers will have views of Mount Meru and Kibo from camp is the weather is good!!
MOUNTAIN ROUTE STATS
Starting elevation 9,900 feet
Ending elevation 12,500 feet
Elevation gain 2,600 feet
Distance hiked 5 miles
Average hiking time 5 to 7 hours
Today was our first day waking up on the mountain. We were each woken up with “knock knock” tea and coffee from the porters that we were able to enjoy in our tents while packing for the day. After that, we made our way to the mess tent for a delicious breakfast of eggs, toast, porridge, bacon, and papaya to fuel up for the day. We then set out on a long uphill hike above the clouds. Looking back from the trail and seeing a blanket of clouds behind us was incredible. While the morning was long, the conversations and laughs we shared with one another helped pass them time. When we made it to our lunch spot at 12,800 ft., I think we were all shocked to see our entire mess tent and bathrooms waiting for us. We took time to refuel, followed by a much needed 30 minute nap. The hike after lunch was much shorter and less steep which was greatly appreciated by all of us! We are now taking time to relax and clean up (as best as possible) at camp before dinner. All of us are doing well, having fun, and taking in the beauty of the mountain. It has been so much fun getting to know the porters and guides who are working hard to make this journey possible for all of us. They are some of the best people I’ve ever met, and none of us would be able to do this without them!
Daniella Manchester