Xpedition Day Seven: Karanga Camp to Kossovo Camp

Today the team continues on their journey to the summit of Mt. Kilimanjaro by traveling from the Karanga Camp, situated at 3,962 m (12,998 ft), to the Kossovo Camp at 4,877 m (16,000 ft). This leg of the journey takes the team back to the alpine desert biome.

Part of the team stops for a photo

While this biome is found on Mt. Kilimanjaro, it is also found in many other mountain ranges, including but not limited to the Rocky Mountains of North America, the Himalayas of Asia, the Alps of Europe and the Andes of South America. For more information on the alpine desert biome, visit our post from Wednesday, September 26.

Collecting data on Mt. Kilimanjaro

Today’s question asks the bloggers: What has been your most rewarding experience, personally, educationally and/or scientifically of your trek thus far?

Maddy

This expedition has opened my eyes more than I ever expected it to, in each category above and more. The group is so educated and knowledgeable that any question we come up with is answered almost immediately. I’m so lucky to be a part of this team… 5 scientists, 6 teachers and 5 very gifted students. Because of them and our spectacular guides and porters I’ve learned more than I would’ve in school (uh oh!) including some Swahili! (Nina hamu sana… I’m very excited) Scientifically, we really are in a walking classroom. The hydrology protocols are my favorite, and I love being able to observe how data differs as we climb up the mountain. Finally, my personal growth has been priceless. I’ve learned so much about myself… my strengths, weaknesses, when I can help others and when I need to ask for help. Overall, I couldn’t ask for a better expedition, and a million thanks to all those who have made it as spectacular as it is!

John

This expedition has been a very rewarding and growing experience for me on many levels. Personally I have been able to meet some great people and share many good stories. This group is made up of some very talented and experienced folks and it is wonderful to hear their tales of places they have visited, as well as hearing about where they live and work back home. Being here with other teachers is a real pleasure because there is never enough time to sit and share ideas with fellow educators. The other teachers here come from different states and have alternative views on subjects and methods from the classroom. I am always excited about talking to teachers about having students write to each other about their own home climates and experiences. Speaking with the scientists is always a great learning experience for me. They have such a vast store of knowledge about the systems and how things work in areas like Kilimanjaro.

(Remember that Bob has separated from the main group to go on a different approach to the summit.  You can read about his plans here).