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

Friday, August 23. Day 2 of our climb. Another amazing day! There was some really climbing today, such a difference from the rainforest. DUSTY! But hot dog was today fun. Everyone killed it! After arriving in camp in the dark day 1, we walked into camp about 30mins after Lisa, Charlie, Steve, Drew & the rest of group. Welcomed in by the porters & the group, singing. It was top 3 coolest things EVER!!! A spectacular sunset, truly mesmerizing. It was awe inspiring. So tonight, I sit in the tent, ready to sleep at 12500 feet under the stars on Mount Kilimanjaro. WILD!

~ Matt Panelli