2nd Cave Camp Site (Day 2)

The following pictures and videos depict our trek up to 2^nd Cave, our next camp site at elevation 3,450 meters or 11,143 feet.

In this picture we are packing in preparation to start the day’s climb to our next camp site, 2^nd Cave. We typically would wake up at about 6:30am, start packing our tent, roll up our sleeping bag and air mattress and take out what we need from our duffel bag for the day’s hike. We would take out any extra clothing for layering purposes, gloves for the cold if we think we need it. Once packed, our porters would carry our duffel bag to the next camp site and we would not see it until we reached the camp site. Thus, it became paramount that we took out the necessary clothing and equipment out of our duffel bag for the day’s trek. It would not do to be caught in the quick changing weather system of the mountain without proper weather gear and the weather can change in a matter of minutes up high on the mountain. We were instructed to always keep our rain jacket and rain pants in our day pack at all times in case rain started while in mid-trail to the next camp. Our day’s trek would begin around 8:30 am - 9:00am depending on when breakfast was finished.

We are on our way, hikers and guides, along the trail to 2^nd Cave. Beautiful landscape along the way. (At least, that’s what the climb team told me. Is it true?)

 

We’re at the campsite and the mountain view was breathtaking. Check out the video as I do my daily report at 2^nd Cave.

Throughout the entire trek up the mountain we had not seen much wildlife. We saw many small birds. We were surprised to find a fairly large bird walking around 2^nd Cave and managed to capture it on camera before it flew away. Unfortunately, we do not know this bird’s name or species. Anyone out there know?

2^nd Cave would not be 2^nd Cave without a cave and sure enough there is a cave and Salim and Safiya are in it. Apparently, years ago, Kili climbers would pitch their tents inside the cave but this is no longer allowed given human erosion of this natural formation. I can see why people would be tempted to setup camp inside the cave as its wall protects the climbers from the wind and rain and cold.

Spencer and I keeping out of the wind in the cave.

A phenomenal sunset at 2^nd Cave.

Follow us on to Day 3 as we trek to our 3^rd camp site, Kikelelwa Camp.