Kilimanjaro Expedition Dispatch
February 13, 2014 – From Umbwe Cave Camp to Barranco We Go!
Bharath called into the office this morning after the team had finished their breakfast. He said that yesterday the team hiked from the Umbwe Gate to the Umbwe Cave Camp where they spent the night. Today the team will make their way to Barranco Camp, which is right below the breach wall and where the views of Kilimanjaro towering above are both humbling and exciting.
Bharath reported that yesterday’s hike was a little tough, which is not uncommon for climbers to experience on their first day on Kilimanjaro. The first two days along the trail are long and at times can be tiring but once the team arrives at Barranco Base Camp they will be able to relax for a few days and let their bodies acclimatize before they continue on their ascent of the mountain.
Fredy called and left a message with the office once the team had arrived at Barranco camp:
This is Fredy with Bharath, Sheila and Douglas. Today we have done our second day on the mountain and we completed 7 hours of trekking. All of the team is doing great, especially Bharath! He is quick and we are very proud of him. He is just a bit tired but we made it! The whole team and crew are doing good!
Here is Sheila:
Hi this is Sheila! We are at the end of our second day and so far it has been a fantastic, amazing hike. Bharath is doing very well. He has had his fair share of hard work but he always has a smile on his face and he is staying positive! He is looking forward to making it to the top. He just keeps looking at the mountain and saying “we are going to be up there!” So it’s exciting and we are having a great time!
Listen to Fredy and Sheila's call
Up we go to Barranco Camp!
After we climb above the forest we reach the moorland life zone of Kili, with its beautiful Senecios.
Kilimanjaro gets bigger and more majestic as we approach camp.
Arriving at Barranco Base Camp below the breach wall of Kilimanjaro
The sights and sounds of this great mountain from Barranco Base camp are invigorating!