The morning started as usual with a a cheery wake up from David and hot tea. Early on the trail we had spectacular views of both peaks. Since we were going our standard pole pole pace there was a lot of time spent taking photos both directions.
The majority of the saddle between Mawenzi and Kilimanjaro is dry and sparse of vegetation. Our luck with the weather has been exceptional as the saddle is usually windy and cold. Today it is calm and somewhat warm so we only have the comity us dust t deal with, a fair trade. In the middle of the saddle sits the remnants of a plane crash from 2009; an illegal photographic safari from Kenya. The parts and pieces provide a welcomed diversion along the route.
Later in the morning we veer off the many trek and head toward Scholll Hut Camp. Another short elevation gain through rocky terrain and we reach camp for a late lunch. School Hut Camp is more rocky with limited flat tent spots than others we've used on the route. Being an experienced guide, Joshua has sent a porter early this morning to get us the best spots. Once again I praise Team Kilimanjaro and renamed them Team Awesome!
After lunch we head out on another short acclimatization climb. The path we took is the same trail we'll take to the summit. It makes the climb seem more real you can sense some anxiety as our goal is so close. Joshua tells us our pace is good and actually faster than what they usually allocate. The group seems pleased though we all are wondering if that is good or bad. The descent is full of excitement as we play and maneuver in the scree to prepare for tomorrow. In no time at all we Are back at camp and preparing for dinner.
As usual we gather in our dining tent and refill our hydration bags forth summit run. Everyone's spirits seem good and light hearted. Our biggest challenge came with dinner. Everyone says that you lose your appetite at altitude and you must force yourself to eat for energy. The pre-summit meal consisted of spaghetti and vegetables in peanut sauce. Keep in mind that the food gets cold very quickly and the peanut butter starts to harden. The joking and laughter surrounding our struggle to eat what we knew was an important meal made the challenge more entertaining.
Flooding dinner the preparation for the summit run was finalized. Layers laid out for quick retrieval and packs ready with everything we needed on the ascent.
Early to bed and early to rise . . . We settled down in our sleeping bags dreaming off the summit so very close and waiting for the 3 AM wake up call.
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