Day 6 | 20.2.21

20 February 2021 

Karanga Camp to Barafu Camp 

Elevation (ft) 13,100ft to 15,300ft 

Distance 3 mi 

Hiking Time 4-5 hours 

Habitat Alpine Desert

After breakfast, we leave Karanga and hit the junction, which connects with the Mweka Trail. We continue up to the Barafu Hut. At this point, you have completed the South Circuit, which offers views of the summit from many different angles. Here we make camp, rest, enjoy dinner, and prepare for the summit day. The two peaks of Mawenzi and Kibo are to be seen from this position. *c/o Embark Exploration, Co.

My diamox dreams left me uneasy again. My brain just doesn’t want to rest.

I was finally warm last night. All drawstrings and chords have been discovered! I am very underprepared for these temps. Each night has been well below freezing while the days warm into the 40s & 50s. This is an alpine desert but I hadn’t factored the 40 degree swing at night. I am making due with layers but the summit is daunting. There are not enough layers to match the down coats that the others have brought. I remind myself that discomfort is temporary. It only takes one foot in front of the other to see a new dawn. 

Today we head to Barafu Hut, Base Camp. I’ve been surprised by how comfortable this experience has been. I expected the journey to be harder and then I am reminded of the time put in before seeking this continent. And the summit becomes daunting once again. 

Suddenly time becomes very linear to me and I am overwhelmed. My abstract goal beckons even as I crane my neck. “Kili, I see you.” 

It’s almost time. Here I am, asking for salvation, seeking a moment of truth, searching for accountability among the stars.

I am keenly aware of the other side. Of the footsteps that meet mine. We are not blood but rather ancestors bent on task. To live is to walk on; slowly… so slowly. Those who have gone before me manifest in the cairn forest that litters our path. Each stone an intention. In another setting I might recoil from the audacity but here I sense a purity of purpose. I slip a piece of onyx into my pocket. I too am made of stardust. 

They have put my tent on the slope above the others. I am alone and exactly where I want to be. I gladly close my eyes to the afternoon and drift off in the warmth of my solitude. My mind is quiet now. 

On cue we are woken for vitals, dinner and gear check. 

I drift along in a dream. Who has made this decision for us? I assure my charges that we are all going to the stars… together. The integration I seek is only a few moments away. I understand now that there will be other sides. There will be before and after. I have been here before. To be here now, THIS moment, this is my gift of choice. I must remain perfectly present and I will arrive soon enough.