Day 8: Climb to Kosovo Camp

MOUNTAIN ROUTE OVERVIEW

Today will be another short trek and day of acclimatization as our climbers are near the mountain’s peak. Today’s hike is four to five hours to Kosovo Camp. After breakfast, we leave Karanga and hit the junction, which connects with the Mweka Trail. The scenic climb to Barafu is mostly on a moraine with a view of Mawenzi peak towering majestically to the right, and overhead, Kibo peak seemingly just out of reach.  The alpine desert terrain encountered at this point is mostly a mineral environment with few lichens and mosses.

Upon reaching the camp, you’re encouraged to spend the afternoon resting before packing for the summit and an early dinner resting in preparation for the final ascent to begin around midnight.

CLIMB DATA

 Begin ~ 13,300 Feet / 4,055 Meters

 End ~ 15,400 Feet / 4,660 Meters

 Elevation Gain 2,100 Feet

 Time Average 4-5 Hours

 Distance Hiked 3 Miles / 5 Km

CLIMBER BLOG ENTRY

Summit day is approaching as we trek from Karanga Camp, it is still an uphill battle but with the anticipation of being at Kosovo Camp, our spirits are lively. It’s another cold morning but we have many layers on to keep us warm and we hit the ol’ dusty trail. We start our hike and maybe only a few hours later we are passing through Barafu Camp. This camp was very busy and seemed like there were a lot of porters getting that particular sight ready for the next group. We had a snack and conversed with one another  and started our trek to Kosovo Camp.

Kosovo Camp was a windy one when we got there and to be honest, the wind did not let up, but in my opinion the wind was soothing and a little bit of a change for me. We had dinner together and went over our gear for the long tomorrow.

I for one had butterflies in my stomach knowing this was our last stop before summating night. We all had minor fears that were discussed at dinner but Drew Voyles was very informative on what we should expect and what to prepare for.

When my dad said there was an opportunity for me to be apart of a Kilimanjaro adventure with Beyond I was more than excited at the idea. The reality of this trip had been more than what I could have ever expected. It has tested me in ways I would have never known and I am incredibly grateful for the experience so far. 

Pamoja Pamoja

-Morgan Ashburn