Most Inspirational Moment
Climbing the Barranco wall on the day 5. This was the highlight of the trip. Barranco camp situated right next to the wall is an amazing camp site. Once is surrounded by stream, clouds with views of Moshi once the clouds lift, at the foothills of Kilimanjaro and surrounded by the eccentric looking plants. The wall next day looks intimidating but is fun to climb and guides help you through out the climb. The views are amazing from the top. This day brought smiles on everyones face and made us mentally stronger to tackle the last climb two days later.
Thoughts on Group Leader
Charles Teete was a perfect group leader who personally use to chat with everyone every morning to make sure we were well. He had hand on everybody's pulse so to speak through out the journey. His leadership skills, especially on the summit night were fantastic and he kept a tab on all of us (we all walked up together from day 1 to last day). Very accommodating especially he made sure that we get a refill of water on the longest day (day 4) where we walked to Lava tower).
Advice for Potential Travellers
July-August is a good time as we had no rain. Windproof jacket must as some days it is too hot with fleece and too cold with T-shirt. Breathable jacket takes care of that well. Food is excellent and hence bring along only nutrition bars and chocolates. Walking poles are useful on descend and are a must. Knee support for those with painful knees especially for last two days of descent. Please get Nalgene bottle with insulation cover (Nalgene Bottle Carrier Insulated for 32 Oz bottles, Gray). I got his for $16 from amazon but was the only bottle which did not freeze).