Summit Day

Day 5

We were woken just before midnight so that we could pack up out gear and start our hike towards the summit. As we walked out to meet our guide it was pitch black; we had only the moon and our headlamps to guide us. We started to zigzag up the side of the mountain at a very slow pace. 

After a few long hours we finally arrived at Gilman’s point just in time for the sunrise.  The view was incredible.  We stopped for a quick rest and some photos, and then continued along the rocky path to Uhuru Peak. 

Two hours later we were finally at the highest point of Africa.  We looked around at the giant crater and endless display of glaciers.  All of our months of hard work and training had truly paid off. 

After taking in the view we began our hike back down the mountain.  When we walked down Gilman’s point re realized in the day light just how steep it was.  After a quick stop at Kibo to grab our gear; we hiked all the way back to Horumbo Hut.