Day 4 | 18.2.21

18 February 2021 

Shira Camp Two to Barranco Camp 

Elevation (ft) 12,630ft to 13,000ft 

Distance 9 mi 

Hiking Time 6-8 hours 

Habitat Semi Desert

From the Shira Plateau, we continue to the east up a ridge, passing the junction towards the peak of Kibo. As we continue, our direction changes to the South East towards the Lava Tower, called the "Shark's Tooth." Shortly after the tower, we come to the second junction, which brings us up to the Arrow Glacier at an altitude of 16,000ft. We now continue down to the Barranco Hut at an altitude of 13,000ft. Here we rest, enjoy dinner, and overnight. Although you end the day at almost the same elevation as when you started, this day is very important for acclimatization and will help your body prepare for summit day. *c/o Embark Exploration, Co.

The nights bring such strange dreams. Last night was all about…

As present as I try to be, these days are evaporating. Beautiful weather again today. I am sitting in a camp chair enjoying the sunshine on my cheek, comfortable in Peter’s fleece, watching the clouds roll up and over. It’s tea time but the team are all making calls to loved ones.

I am really missing you today. I feel socially awkward and alone. Brief connection turns into the familiar distance. I just don’t relate. 

I wish you were here to hold my hand and laugh at my awkwardness. I miss you so much. Life was easier with you. I am so lost.

This waiting, this wanting. I thought I would feel you. If I just ran far enough… after all, anywhere you were was home. This could be home as easily as the next. Come to me. No expectations. Only love. 

 Today was the longest day yet. Nine miles for acclimatization. We started out in the cold morning with gradual uphill from 13,000’ to 15,000’. The scenery was stunning. Kili our backdrop gets closer with each step. We went from Moorland to Alpine desert and back. Lava tower for lunch. 

The altitude brings some confusion. Grasping for words, lava tower becomes “Chimney Rock” or “Fraggle Rock”.

I am amazed at the effort that our porters put in for us. They walk the same route with our dreams on their backs as I struggle to breathe. I’ve become accustomed to the service and look forward to seeing Godlisten each morning with my “plain” coffee.

They prepared a gourmet lunch for us again at lava tower. A simple / far from simple gesture designed for acclimatization at 15,000 feet. Who are these super humans taking care of us? An entire country waiting for this work; this is so far from my experience. 

And I struggled. My lungs recoiled at the last 1,000 feet and I took the lead knowing that if I didn’t focus on his footsteps... that mine would leave me behind. I don’t understand how some can speak so freely when words are a luxury. The earth, the air conspire for silence and I gladly indulge.