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Climb for the Conservancy:
Mt. Kilimanjaro Challenge

The Adventure of a Lifetime

The Mt. Kilimanjaro Challenge: An epic adventure and unique opportunity to support the San Dieguito River Valley Conservancy.

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In February 2025, the Mt. Kilimanjaro Challenge will test a small group to reach the top of Africa's tallest peak. Led by experienced guide and Conservancy Board Member Cindy Outlaw, the journey includes a program for participants to raise funds to support conservation in the San Dieguito River Valley.

 

From February 6-18, 2025, hikers will climb Kilimanjaro by way of the Lemosho route. The 8-day hike begins in a lush rainforest before traversing the Afro-alpine moorland, high desert and snowy slopes of the summit. 

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After the climb, some hikers have opted to join a four-day safari to visit the wildlife-rich Tarangire National Park and explore the Nogorongoro Crater, which at 12 miles wide is the world's largest extinct, volcanic caldera.

 

To inquire about the next Kilimanjaro Challenge, email sdrvc@sdrvc.org​

Journey Updates

February 16, 2025 - SUMMIT DAY

Day 7: Conquering the Peak: A 12-Hour Journey to the Summit!

At 8:15 AM on February 16, the team reached the summit, standing triumphantly at the top after an incredible effort! With staggered arrival times, not everyone made it into the photo, but members pushed through and achieved their goal.

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After an exhausting 12-hour trek, they are now settled into their tents for one final night on the mountain. Sore but accomplished, they reflect on the journey—breathtaking views, tough climbs, and unforgettable moments. Tomorrow, they begin the descent, carrying memories of this incredible adventure with them.

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February 15, 2025 

Day 6: The Final Push to the Summit

The team has completed Day 6 at Sky Camp, resting at 16,000 feet. In just nine hours, they will begin their final ascent to the summit of Kilimanjaro. After days of acclimatization and preparation, they are ready for the challenging eight-hour climb ahead.

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Tonight, the team will have dinner at 5 PM before attempting to rest until midnight. At 1 AM, following a light breakfast, they will embark on their summit push under the night sky.

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If conditions allow, they will check in from the top of Africa. Stay tuned for the next update!

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February 14, 2025 

Day 5: Climbing the Barranco Wall on Valentine's Day

Day 5 on Kilimanjaro began with a sweet surprise as the team enjoyed Valentine's Day candy at breakfast. The candy provided just the right amount of energy to tackle the Barranco Wall, a 1,000-foot climb. It looks scary from the bottom but everyone loved the rock scrambling adventure.

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The day's trek continued, leading the group to Karanga Camp at 13,000 feet. At Karanga Camp, the team received a detailed briefing on what to wear and how to prepare for the final push to the top. 

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Happy Valentine's Day from Karanga Camp! The summit is just around the corner.

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February 13, 2025

Day 4: From Moir Camp to Barranco Camp

Day 4 of the team’s Kilimanjaro expedition began at Moir Camp, with a 7.5-hour trek to Barranco Camp at 13,000 feet.

At tea time they had a Swahili lesson!

 

Other highlights included passing a lava tower and a well-earned lunch at 15,200 feet.

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The team continues to acclimate to the increasing altitude, preparing both mentally and physically for the final push to the summit on Sunday, February 16. 

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February 12, 2025

Day 3: Six More Miles, Up to 13,800 Feet

Day 3 is in the books! The team has climbed to an altitude of 13,800 feet, covering six miles. Everyone did well. Wi-Fi permitting, Cindy will be able to share some photos tomorrow. Stay tuned!

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February 11, 2025

Day 2: High Spirits at 11,500 Feet

The team has conquered Day 2 and has ascended to 11,500 feet! The journey so far has been incredible. The team is doing great and enjoying their time on Kili. Every step brings them closer to the summit, and they are soaking in every moment of this adventure. 

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​Day 2 photos feature the first glimpses of Kili, the Day 2 campsite with its sign, the team in front of the Shira Plateau, and the group gathered in front of a lava cave.

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