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Entries By brent okita


Kilimanjaro: Okita and Team Scale the Barranco Wall

What a day!  At 13,070' it was still rather chilly in the shade as we began our climb of the Barranco Wall. Looking ahead the route was already busy with climbers and porters negotiating the steep terrain. Behind us camp was finally lit up with the early morning sun, looking warm and inviting. But our attention was focused on the steady footwork that would take us safely up this cool wall. 

Much of the climb we snaked through weaknesses in the rock that allowed us to walk upright on the well-trodden path. The fun came dealing with those places that demanded more precise footwork and the use of handholds on the rock. At a couple of places, we'd 'spot' these moves to maximize safety, but the team moved like the savvy climbers they are, or have become. After one and a half hours we were rewarded with a huge flat area at the top of the Wall where we refueled. The scenery here opened up dramatically to the steep cliffs and glaciers leading to the summit. Our route, thankfully, skirts these precipitous faces, traversing east to Karanga Camp, and eventually the route to the summit. 

Getting to Karanga demanded we climb up and down through a couple of valleys, but the views and scenery were so nice that nobody complained of the need to reascend precious altitude gained earlier...

It was nice getting into camp by 1:00 to enjoy the warm, beautiful weather up here. Tosha had an incredible paella whipped up for lunch after we had the chance to settle into our tents and wash up after the dusty trail.

How spoiled we are!

Tomorrow: High Camp - Barafu.

Leave a Comment For the Team (2)

George, I pray for your safety and that of the team. I envy the view you are rewarded with for your efforts of climbing!!!

Posted by: Michael Belt on 7/22/2022 at 7:55 pm

Glen and Thomas…We are mentally negotiating these paths with you and can feel the excitement building as you get closer to the goal.  Now to rest up for Saturday’s trek to high camp. Amazing stuff!  Thanks Brent for these updates

Posted by: Ginee Philippy on 7/22/2022 at 10:48 am


Kilimanjaro: Team Climbs to Barranco Camp

Barranco Camp!

Following a lazy afternoon at Shira Camp relaxing, enjoying tent time and playing cards, we were again treated to another incredible dinner by Tosha, our world class chef. This set is up for for today's trek up the Shira Plateau to Lava Tower 15,200' where we enjoyed a leisurely lunch in perfect weather. From here our descent through the giant groundsels, lobelias and senecios of this unique and beautiful valley was easy and fun. Climbing under the steep, western side of this mountain with the remains of its glaciers was impressive, and soon brought us to Camp at 13,070'. With its dramatic beauty and views down valley to the city of Mosha this is surely the most picturesque Camp on the route. Plus, we see our next challenge right in front of us: the Barranco Wall. Our local guides are impressed with the team, commenting on the strength of everyone. An insight I've shared since the first day.

RMI Guide Brent Okita & Team

Leave a Comment For the Team (2)

Best of luck to eyeryone!  Way to go, George!  We can’t wait to hear about your adventure…. The Luther family in Cincinnati is cheering you on!

Posted by: Phil and Sally Luther on 7/22/2022 at 9:38 am

So fun to follow all of you!  I’m praying for an amazing adventure for you all!!!

Posted by: Andrea Murphy on 7/21/2022 at 1:51 pm


Kilimanjaro: Okita & Team Ascend to Shira Camp

Day 1 -

We're all excited to have finally gotten our climb going. After months, and in some cases years, of anticipation of this adventure, day 1 is almost over. 

Driving through the lush agricultural zone low on the flanks of Kilimanjaro we finally arrived at the start of our climb, the Machame Gate. Light rain was falling as we debarked the bus that brought us here, but stopped by the time we started hiking. Five hours later we arrived, the group showing strong form on this first day. 

Camp had been set up and awaited our arrival, a stark change to what many of us are used to. Following this, tea time and popcorn then a great dinner. 

The highlight so far was the wonderful cake that was so carefully brought to camp to recognize Thomas's 20th birthday, accompanied by the excellent singing of our guides as they presented this special recognition of a special person. Thanks Naiman, Tosha, Alfred and the rest of the crew

We're looking forward to going higher tomorrow. To Shira Camp!!!

Day 2 -

Shira Camp!

We walked out of the light clouds and drizzle of Machame Camp forward to gaining some elevation and rising above the rain forest. Although it took a little while we finally broke out of the clouds and into the sunshine we've been missing since arriving to Tanzania.

Everyone crushed our 5 hour hike to camp. The last hour we were treated to our first view of Kibo, Kilimanjaro’s summit area. The Western Breach was impressive and allowed us to see the general direction we’ll be climbing over the next few days,

We’re looking forward to tomorrow where we’ll reach a high point of 15,000’ before descending down to Barranco Camp at 13,000’. A perfect day for acclimatizing.

We’ll talk soon from Barranco Camp!

RMI Guide Brent Okita

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Kilimanjaro: Okita and Team Gather in Tanzania

Our first day got off to a successful and fun start. For one, after 2 1/2 days of flight delays and less than stellar performance by my airline, I finally arrived in Arusha in time for our team meeting and a little breakfast. Our last two teammates got to the hotel just as we were beginning our orientation. Everyone's baggage even made it!

It was fun getting to know everybody and I think we all agree we have a pretty fun group. With equipment checks all done and a great dinner we're excited to get underway and start making our way up this beautiful mountain. 

Sunrise on the mountain from 25,000' this morning has done nothing but pump me up to start our climb of Kilimanjaro. We're ready!!!

--RMI Guide Brent Okita and team

Leave a Comment For the Team (2)

Joe and I are amazed again at you! Have a great trip with Nick!

Posted by: Terry DeCola on 7/21/2022 at 9:46 am

Hi Norm! We are at the Qatar airport in Doha. All is well and everyone is doing fine! We all miss you guys and hope you’re having a wonderful time! We love you! XO Val, Christian, and Jess

Posted by: Valerie Cognetto on 7/21/2022 at 8:04 am


Mt. Rainier: Five Day Climb reaches the Top!

The Five Day Climb led by RMI Guides Brent Okita and Kiira Antenucci took advantage of the calm, and clear skies and climbed to the top of Mt. Rainier on Tuesday, July 12th. Brent reported a beautiful day of climbing. The team spent last night at Camp Muir and departed early this morning for Paradise. 

Congratulations Team! 

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Mt. Rainier: Team Reaches Summit!

The Four Day Climb Led by RMI Guide Brent Okita reached the summit of Mt. Rainier early this morning. Brent reported clear skies above and a great climbing route.

Congratulations team! 

Leave a Comment For the Team (1)

That was Kristian Whittaker’s 25th Birthday - climb.  How cool he summited with his sister, Gabriella and her boyfriend Leif.  I, Erika, was so fortunate to meet up with the kids at Camp Muir and walk back to Paradise with them and with Brent Okita and my good friend, Anne M.  So grateful for this day back on Mt. Rainier with both my kids. :).  Sorry I didn’t get to see any of the RMI office staff when I was at Basecamp.  Maybe next time.

Posted by: Erika Whittaker on 11/17/2022 at 9:36 pm


Mt. Rainier: Fourth of July Summit for Five Day Climbs!

The Five Day Climb led by RMI Guides Brent Okita and Matias Francis reached the summit of Mt. Rainier earlier this morning! The team reported a nice day for this 4th of July holiday. The team on their descent and we expect them back in Ashford this afternoon.

Congratulations climbers!

Leave a Comment For the Team (2)

Congratulations Sarah, Nicole, and Jake on reaching the summit. This is a great accomplishment. We are proud of you! Be safe! Felly, Sam, and Kevin.

Posted by: Sam on 7/5/2022 at 6:33 pm

Congrats David & Stephanie!  Epic!  You two are beasts. Thankfully no 90mph winds this time.  Denali is next.  Love ya and happy for your success.  Mom & Dad

Posted by: Richard on 7/5/2022 at 5:19 pm


Mt. Rainier: Five Day Teams on Top!

The Four Day Climb June 23 - 26 led by RMI Guides Brent Okita and Steve Gately reached the summit of Mt. Rainier this morning.  Brent reported a beautiful day and nice route conditions.  At 7 am, the team was at 13,600' on their descent.  All climbers will return to Camp Muir, pack up and continue the final 4.5 miles down to Paradise.  Their program will conclude this afternoon with a celebration at Rainier BaseCamp.  

Congratulations to today's climbers!

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Mt. Rainier: Five Day Climb Teams Unable to Make Summit Attempt

The Five Day Climb June 18 - 22 led by RMI Guides Brent Okita and Bryan Mazaika enjoyed the sunrise at Ingraham Flats and Muir Peak. Weather this morning was calm and sunny with a few small wind gusts. The teams were unable to climb due to route conditions.  All climbers descended from Camp Muir just after 8 am en route to Paradise.  They will return to Rainier BaseCamp in the early afternoon.

Leave a Comment For the Team (2)

@Dilip my understanding is it is like early spring conditions and the avy conditions are risky.

Posted by: Ryan on 6/23/2022 at 6:28 am

Definitely a bit upsetting to see so many teams not make summit

Posted by: John on 6/22/2022 at 6:24 pm


Mt. Rainier: Five Day Teams Enjoy Good Weather, Avalanche Danger Prevents Summit Attempt

The Five Day Climb June 11 - 15 led by RMI Guides Brent Okita and Dominic Cifelli was unable to make their summit attempt due to avalanche danger.  The teams enjoyed two nights at Camp Muir with some good weather which allowed for training opportunities.

Photos: Dominic Cifelli

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