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| The first view of Mawenzi |
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| First peek of Kilimajaro |
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| Me & Kilimanjaro |
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| Richard, Joshua, Frank - Guy, Kim, Louise, Donna, Al |
Once we rousted ourselves out of the tent we were greeted by a crystal clear blue sky, very Colorado like. A warm satisfying breakfast provided fuel for our first long day of hiking. As we stepped on the trail our destination for the day sat right in front of us, Mawenzi Peak. Unlike Kili, Mawenzi is jagged and rugged looking.
The highlight of the day came just minutes on the trail with a full view of Kilimanjaro. So majestic and magical rising from the brush. It looked like we could touch it. That simple view provided a surge of energy in the group. Frank kept us in check by setting a "pole pole" pace, the key to success. Just as quickly as the mountain appeared it was taken away by the famous clouds, a typical weather pattern.
The group kept a good steady pace and enjoyed lunch at Second Cave once again bathed in sunshine. As our hike continued through the brush the clouds came and went though the weather remained warm and comfortable. Along the route we stopped off to visit other caves and take advantage of photo ops. All in all the day was extremely enjoyable as we hiked together and shared good conversation and poking fun.
As we arrived at camp today we could see the clouds below us like you reached heaven. I can honestly say I've never experienced that and the feeling is one of true joy and accomplishment. Though this camp sits at 11.780 ft., lower that I've been training back home it has an amazing feel. As the sun went down tonight, Kilimanjaro sat clear as a bell to the west, Mawenzi sat the the south, the clouds sat below us to east and the trail we'd just completed lie to the north.
It feels like a strong team . . . Fun hikers, great guides and 5 crew members for each person. Team Kilimanjaro does everything they can to ensure success and we are well on our way!
Cheers,
Donna
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