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Day 6 | Mount Kilimanjaro: Karanga to Kosovo Camp

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Day 6 | Climb to Kosovo Camp 

The night a Karanga Camp was when the winds began to kick up.  As Day 5 came to an end and we were all resting in our tents, the winds began to increase in intensity.  A few of the taller camps with the other tour companies had come down.  I heard what sounded like pot being flown about, along with other miscellaneous items.  In the morning, we woke to only one bathroom tent (one had been blown down), and the porters were attempting to reassemble our ‘mess hall’ tent.  That was a sign of things to come.
Speaking of the ‘Mess Hall’, I realize I haven’t given you a glimpse of our dining experience.  Each morning we had breakfast at approximately 0730.  Depending on the distance of our trek for that day, lunch was served between 1200-1600 hours.  Dinner was generally around 1930 hours.    We became accustomed to Poridge, eggs & crepes for breakfast.   Dinner was often soup (the soups were very good) fried chicken, pasta, watermelon, french fries, and other surprises.  One night, to our surprise, we had popcorn.  Here are some highlights: 
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The winds followed us up the mountain.  There were portions of the trek, for example, when we were literally on the face of a rock wall, at a 45-degree angle, being pelted by sleet while being pushed off our path by the wind, that was scary and gave us reason to pause. These events had us focused with no room for distractions.  We B-lined it to Kosovo Camp.

Once we reached Kosovo Camp we were forced to take cover close to the rock wall.  Because of the gale force winds, our porters had been unable to put the tents.  We were cold & had worked up a mild sweat from the climb to the camp.  Yet, no tents!
The porters fought the wind and worked in teams of 10 to get the tents up.  We were cold and I was worried.  Finally, we were summoned to run and get into a tent.  However, I found out later that two team members were still waiting for their tents!  Eventually, we were all inside.
This was SUMMIT NIGHT!  We were to rest until 11pm, then get dressed for the climb to the summit.  Within an hour we had our bags.  I set up my sleeping bag, found my warm gear for summit night, and prepared to get some rest.  We only had four hours to rest.  I was out.  But the time came, and I heard and saw nothing.
The wind was so loud, that I stayed tuned in to hear somebody, anybody outside.  I was dressed and ready but heard no movement.  It was an eerie feeling.  I thought we may have gotten left behind.
Finally, Julius, our guide, made his way from tent to tent to relay we would wait until morning.  With the wind it was too dangerous to attempt this trek at night.  However, the next morning, it was still the same.  The decision was made to head back down to safe conditions.  Because of the wind, there was no helicopter and we were unable to get supplies.  I was sad.
Once back at the hotel we heard of another group behind us who continued up to the peak.  They tried to get there, but had to turn around.  It was a dangerous situation and we decided our lives mattered more.
Still, this was quite the journey and we ALL made it up to Kosovo camp 16,000 feet.  I was an amazing adventure and would do it again.  Well, we’re already planning the return trip!

2 Responses

  1. Aw man. Safety first! Your lives matter. I’m glad there are plans for a return trip. CONGRATS on making it to Kosovo Camp!!!! What an experience!! Thanks again for sharing and showing me what’s possible. Foot issues? What foot issues?? ANYTHING IS POSSIBLE and you live to hike another day!!!

    Reply

    1. I know right. Safety first. The wheels are already turning though! It was an AMAZING JOURNEY! Nobody but those who have been could fully understand. I wish the pictures could relay this more!

      Reply

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