The mountain is getting smaller.
Shira Ridge To Moir
Hike to Moir Camp (Moir means Bravo), altitude 13,200 ft. Projected hiking time was 5 to 6 hours; I did it in 6. This is the end of the heather zone.
Our porters and our provisions…leaving Shira Ridge Camp.
“My” guide, Sam, is looking at the camera—we traveled many days alone. His knowledge of botany enhanced my experience, and I learned some Tanzanian history. Tanzania was originally a German colony and later came under British rule. It received its independence in 1961. He also talked me into taking extra lenses for the hike, and then he and Bonaventure carried them for me.
My favorite history lesson was about Julius Nyerere:
“We, the people of Tanganyika, would like to light a candle and put it on the top of Mount Kilimanjaro, which would shine beyond our borders, giving hope where there is despair, love where there was hate, and dignity where there was only humiliation.” —Julius Nyerere, 1959
Following independence, the torch was lit on Kilimanjaro. Fifty years later, it was lit again.
Moir Camp
Twice a day we were each supplied with a warm basin of water to wash up with.
Today, years later, I look at that basin of water and remember the comfort I felt when I was on the mountain.
