Saddle Hut – 18th February
Having woken up in time to witness a majestic sunrise with Kilimanjaro in all its splendour and tucking into a “gourmet” breakfast it was soon time to crack on.
Kilimanjaro sunrise from Miriakamba Hut
As I looked up to the ridge rising high above I don’t mind admitting I was a little apprehensive setting out for today’s climb to the Saddle Hut.
Although shorter it is significantly steeper and takes us up to 3,500m, which is well into the realm of mountain sickness.
The trail follows a seemingly endless series of steps winding their way up through the forest and whilst you never forgot that we were making our way up a mountain the “Pole Pole” pace set by Vitus, made sure it was never uncomfortable.
Step, step and step again!
"Pole, pole" Ranger Vitus followed by Vreni & Reto
Moving ever onwards (and ever upwards) the transition between the rainforest and the heath/moorland became apparent. The trees grew shorter and more sparse allowing the plants and flowers these mountains are famous for to bloom (pun intended).
Of course this provided ample opportunity for a quick photo breaks which combined with a game of hikers leapfrog (you pass a group resting, they pass you whilst you rest) meant that despite the considerable effort I never really felt close to the limit so perhaps all the training’s paying off after all!
Climbing out of the rainforest with the summit of Little Meru ahead
Of course this provided ample opportunity for a quick photo breaks which combined with a game of hikers leapfrog (you pass a group resting, they pass you whilst you rest) meant that despite the considerable effort I never really felt close to the limit so perhaps all the training’s paying off after all!
Hikers leapfrog in action!
Arguably the mornings highlight was the discovery of a small Chameleon perched on a stick beside the track resulting in (another) photo frenzy!
A small Chameleon, perched on a stick (does exactly what it says on the tin)!
Feeling good and strong after a cracking mornings walk, as we closed in on the Saddle Hut, I allowed my eyes to wander once more to the summit and find myself beginning to believe that I’m going to make it!
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