Kilimanjaro: Hahn and Team Enjoy the Night Sky from Barranco Camp
Heather and Brian saw the Lunar Eclipse last night, just before midnight. A few of us ventured out between 2 AM and four, but it was a done deal. Nothing to see except a big moon and stars and planets and a mountainside full of glaciers and snowfields glowing in the dark. The light show continued when we met for coffee at 6:30 with the last of the moon in the West and the first bit of sun in the East turning Kibo’s cloudcap orange.
We got walking at 8 AM in excellent cool and clear conditions. The terrain was easier on this day, and the path was plenty wide as we gradually gained altitude. We kept track of the changing vegetation as we climbed, going from sage-like brush mixed with juniper in the heather and moorland zone to the sparse and spare grasses and mosses of the alpine desert zone. Philip led the team past their previous high points to set a bunch of new altitude records at the 15,200 ft lava tower. There, after a leisurely lunch right up close under Kibo’s steep cliffs and ice fields, we began our descent-ultimately into the extraordinary gardens of the Barranco Valley. Clouds overtook us for a time, but as we pressed onward and downward we earned clearing skies again and striking views of the giant mountain, the giant senecios, and the giant lobelias. Our staff treated the team to a rousing rendition of the beloved Jambo song as we came into our 13,000 ft camp. After seven hours on the trail it was time for some comfortable afternoon lounging in the tents. Chef Bruno cooked up yet another amazing mountain dinner and we ate like kings. We all stood still for a few minutes coming out of the dining tent to ooh and ahhh in the dark. The planets and stars were joined tonight by the lights from the town of Moshi, twinkling down below.
Best Regards
RMI Guide Dave Hahn
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Comments (5)
Hey, Kevin! Karie just let me in on your awesome adventure!!! Be safe and enjoy every amazing moment.
Prayers,
Judy
Posted by: Judy Papanek on
Kevin
We are really enjoying following you on your adventure. Enjoy and stay safe.
Posted by: Dick and Kay Seubert on
I’m happy to hear that the climb is going well. Very cool that Heather & Brian witnessed the lunar eclipse. Doesn’t surprise me! Continued support and prayers as you climb.
Posted by: Lori Orman on
Not at all surprised that Heather & Brian saw the eclipse! Very cool, I am, sure given where you guys are at!! Continued thoughts and prayers to everyone as you move forward on your journey!
Posted by: Jean Lebo on
Glad Brian and Heather got to see the lunar eclipse. Go Hokies!!!!!!!! Continued success to the team.
Posted by: Ken and Julie VandenBroek on