Summit day!
Posted by: Fluge Support on August 27th, 2007Awake at midnight and prepared for the ascent, the teams’ headlamps guided them, until the predawn light reflected off the African plains. Following a distinct ridge, the team approached the crater’s rim, and then traversed northwest along the rim to the main summit at 19,340’, the Uhuru Peak (Mt Kilimanjaro in western terminology). From the peak’s view, the team could see the Bismarck Towers, rock pinnacles along the rim and the hanging Rebman Glaciers.
As the sun rose over Africa, the group indulged in the panorama of incredible views. To the north, with its unique twin summits, stands the second highest mountain on the continent, Mt. Kenya (17,056’/5199m). The southern exposure reveals the sprawling plains of Tanzania, East Africa, and the Mawenzi Peak.
After enjoying the view from top, the team descended Barafu, packed up camp, and began the traverse down the Mweka route on the southern side of the mountain.
The next morning was unlike any other. The team awoke below the towering mountain as the sky promised them another exquisite sunrise. The group descended through the lush green landscape of the Mweka route into the thickest jungle they had yet encountered. The team found themselves trekking through primordial environments, with towering 20 foot-tall fern trees that gave it an eerie prehistoric feel.
After reaching the Mweka Gate, the FGA and AA team drove back to Arusha. After reaching the capitol, the group commemorated their victory over Kilimanjaro with a celebratory dinner.