Barafu Camp, High-altitude campground on Mount Kilimanjaro in Rombo, Tanzania.
Barafu Camp sits at 4,673 meters elevation on Mount Kilimanjaro's southeastern ridge, featuring rocky volcanic terrain with minimal facilities including a ranger's hut and pit latrines for climbers preparing for the final summit ascent.
The campsite has served as a strategic acclimatization point for decades of Kilimanjaro expeditions, marking the transition from high-altitude trekking to the final summit attempt toward Uhuru Peak.
The camp's name derives from the Swahili word meaning 'ice,' reflecting the harsh alpine environment that has challenged mountaineers from around the world seeking to conquer Africa's highest peak.
Climbers must bring sleeping bags rated for temperatures as low as -20°C, carry sufficient water supplies due to scarcity, and depart early morning for the 6-7 hour summit trek.
This exposed campsite offers no vegetation or natural shelter at extreme altitude, providing stargazing opportunities under clear night skies before the final push to Africa's rooftop.
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