Today was short on distance but long on effort and altitude. We left Karanga Camp and made a brief stop at Barafu Camp—where many climbers begin their summit push. But our goal was to press on to the higher Kosovo Camp, and I’m so glad we did.
The climb from Barafu to Kosovo was steep, relentless, and exposed. We trekked 2.5 miles (4 kilometers) from Karanga uphill through a desolate alpine desert, gaining altitude with every step until we reached 16,076 feet (4900 meters). The air was thin, the terrain unforgiving, and the wind howled across the ridges. It took several grueling hours, but reaching Kosovo gave us a critical advantage—an hour’s head start on summit day and fewer crowds on the trail. Is it possible we will attempt the summit in just a few hours?
Kosovo Camp is stark and beautiful. Perched high on the mountain’s shoulder, it felt like standing at the edge of the world. The sky was crystalline. Mawenzi Peak stood far below us, an ancient sentinel beneath the stars. As the sun dipped behind the horizon, temperatures plummeted and the wind sharpened, but the view more than made up for it.
I’m feeling strong all things considered. The Baranco Wall, a major obstacle, is behind me and I am ready to tackle the toughest day yet – summit day.
But tonight, we rest—if you can call a few hours of shivering sleep rest. At midnight, the final push begins. Uhuru Peak awaits.
#Kilimanjaro #ChasingTheLeopard #KosovoCamp #UhuruBound #SummitPush #FARTHERTogether
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