16 February 2021 

Mti Mkubwa to Shira Camp 1 

Elevation (ft) 9,000ft to 11,500ft 

Distance 5mi 

Hiking Time 5-6 hours 

Habitat Moorland

We continue on the trail leading out of the forest and into a savannah of tall grasses, heather, volcanic rock draped with lichen beards. Ascending through the lush rolling hills and cross several streams, we reach the Shira Ridge before dropping gently down to Shira 1 camp. The view of Kibo from across the plateau is amazing. *c/o Embark Exploration, Co.

We were walking by 8am. Pole pole for six miles. We watched the rainforest transition into Moorland. The plants are familiar and strange. Wild sage & mint. Protea drying in the sun. The climate was beautiful/awesome and tough. I feel dehydrated and burned despite my efforts. I will be more careful tomorrow. UP UP UP and then left.

 Finally Kilimanjaro showed herself. All blue sky, snow caps and miles to go. 

We arrived at camp much earlier. And I am colder than expected.

I hope that I can stand it.

I have to stand it.

I want to stand it.

I will stand it.