The climb from Moir Camp to Lava Tower to Barranco Camp on the Lemosho Route is a challenging and crucial section of the Mount Kilimanjaro ascent. This part of the journey takes climbers through diverse landscapes and varying altitudes, providing incredible views and testing their endurance.
Route Description:
From Moir Camp, climbers head towards the Lava Tower, a famous volcanic formation on Kilimanjaro. The trail involves a steady ascent through the alpine desert zone, with the terrain becoming more rocky and rugged. After reaching Lava Tower, climbers then descend to Barranco Camp, passing through the Barranco Wall, which requires some scrambling and sure-footedness.
Time Required:
The hike from Moir Camp to Lava Tower to Barranco Camp typically takes around 7 to 9 hours. This duration can vary depending on the pace of the climbing group, weather conditions, and the climbers' physical fitness.
Amenities:
At both Lava Tower and Barranco Camp, climbers will find basic amenities to meet their needs. These campsites usually offer tents for accommodation, and there are toilet facilities available. However, as you ascend higher and move into more remote areas, the amenities become more basic, and climbers should be prepared for a simpler camping experience.
Weather:
As climbers ascend to higher altitudes, the temperatures become cooler due to the mountain's elevation and the proximity to the glaciers. During the day, temperatures at Lava Tower and Barranco Camp can range from 5°C to 15°C (41°F to 59°F). At night, the temperature drops significantly, and it can get quite cold, with temperatures ranging from -5°C to 5°C (23°F to 41°F).
Altitude and Temperature at Barranco Camp:
Barranco Camp is located at an altitude of approximately 3,976 meters (13,044 feet) above sea level. At this height, climbers are exposed to the effects of altitude, and proper acclimatization becomes increasingly important. The cooler temperatures at this elevation require appropriate clothing and gear to stay warm during the climb.
Flora and Fauna:
As climbers traverse the alpine desert zone, the vegetation becomes sparse and is mainly comprised of hardy plant species adapted to the harsh conditions. The landscape features unique plants like the giant senecios and ground-hugging lobelias. Wildlife sightings become less common at these higher altitudes, but some bird species, such as Ravens and Alpine Chats, can still be spotted.
Difficulty Level:
The climb from Moir Camp to Lava Tower to Barranco Camp is considered to be moderately to challenging. The ascent to Lava Tower involves navigating through rocky terrain, and climbers need to be cautious while descending the Barranco Wall. The scramble on the Barranco Wall can be physically demanding and requires a certain level of fitness and agility. Additionally, the effects of altitude become more pronounced at this stage, making proper acclimatization vital for a successful climb.
In conclusion, the climb from Moir Camp to Lava Tower to Barranco Camp on the Lemosho Route presents climbers with diverse landscapes, ranging from alpine desert to rocky formations. This section of the Kilimanjaro ascent offers incredible views but also demands physical endurance and careful navigation. Climbers should be well-prepared, physically fit, and properly acclimatized to tackle the challenges encountered during this leg of the journey.