Day 4: 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

JOURNAL ENTRY BY KYLE MACKEY

As we awoke from our not so luxurious slumbers, we packed our day packs and headed to the mess tent for breakfast to fuel our bodies for the long journey that awaited us. We were served porridge, eggs, sausage, potatoes, and fruit. After we ate we refilled our water bottles, checked and double checked our gear, and gathered with our group to pray for a safe and enjoyable trek to our next camp, Shira Cave. With an elevation of 12,620 feet we had a tremendous amount of hiking ahead of us. As our journey began we hiked in silence for the first hour. During this hour we were able to reflect and feel the presence of the Holy Spirit in nature surrounding us. I personally really liked hiking in silence because I was able to listen to what God had to say to me and how He wants me to live my life. This trip will also help me bond with my dad more. Although, today during the hike he jokingly called me expendable...which was a major setback in our relationship (just kidding.) After the silent hour of hiking, we had our first stop for a water break. After a few minutes we continued our long journey ahead of us. Along the way, we were able to see beautiful scenery and occasionally the peak of Kilimanjaro when the clouds allowed us. Samson led us on a casual, leisurely pace to our next stop. Here we refueled on snacks and refilled our water bottles. Unlike yesterday, today was steep the whole way. During our climb we ascended 3,000 feet! Our climb consisted of steep steps, slippery rocks, narrow paths, and lots of laughter. As we made it to camp, we were welcomed with songs sung by the porters and a delicious lunch! We enjoyed an afternoon full of downtime to relax and enjoy each other’s company. For dinner we enjoyed a buffet of pumpkin soup, pasta, beef stroganoff, vegetables, and fruit. Overall, we had an amazing, eventful day full of fun times and we can’t wait for tomorrow!!