Moshi and the "Whiskey Route" up Kili

The flight to Kilimanjaro was a little sketch, but we made it safely.

Day 1
From Machame Gate through the Kili rain forest and alpine desert, pole pole (slowly slowly) was the theme of the trek. The light mist and rain reminded me of a early winter day in Seattle.

Day 2
A clear morning, spectacular views through the clouds and an afternoon downpour (so glad I rented rain gear) led to Shira Camp.

Day 3
Rolling valleys, temporary acclimation at 4,630 m via the Lava Tower, the first site of snow, and eventually Barranco Camp to end the night.

Day 4
Bouldering up the Barranco Wall, jumping off a cliff for a picture that never developed (and almost halted my ascent), and an afternoon hail led to Barafu, the final camp before the summit.

Day 4/5
After a short and restless nap we began the final ascent at midnight. 4 layers on bottom (LJ's, sweats, trousers, and rain pants) plus 4 layers up top (shirt, sweatshirt, windbreaker, and down jacket), not to mention the several layers of socks and gloves kept me at a bearable temperature. A physical and mental challenge could describe the 7 hour ascent to 5895 m and Uhuru Peak. Music on the IPhone was key to my success. Capped the day off with 6 hours of descent down to 2,800 m. Exhausting day.

Day 6
Best 11 hour sleep of my life, helped to alleviate the effects of the mild altitude sickness. Then a lazy victory hike down to Mweka Village to end the unforgettable journey of the unpredictable Mt. Kilimanjaro.