In the Crater

Africa Photo Album

In the Crater

The Breach took us 7 hours. Our hiking ensemble of sun glasses, dirty clothes, and day packs is enhanced by the addition of fashionable blue helmets to protect us against falling rocks. We take no pictures of the actual scramble because we are too busy clinging to rocks with both hands and hoping we do not fall over the edge and die.

At the top of the Breach is the crater (18,700 feet). Our porters, have already scrambled up here, with the usual 50-70 pound loads and without helmets, and set up camp. As we climb into the crater they are lined up singing us a song of congratulations.

Crater Camp

After arriving in the crater, Mark, Justin, John and Josh hike to the volcanic ashpit. The reward is great views, biting wind, numb toes, and the sweet smell of sulpher. Scott and Tanya nap. Scott and Tanya chose wisely.

The looking out the front of our tents. As recently as 2 years ago, the entire crater floor was covered with ice. None of the 6 of us is wearing less than 5 layers of clothes, knit hats, gloves. We have been wearing the same layers day and night for several days now. Nighttime bathroom calls are dreaded not only because of the cold, but because the act of unzipping one's sleeping bag and tent is exhausting in the thin air.

The view from our tents