The hike to Uhuru Peak was a very gradual climb on snow along the crater rim . The hike was technically not difficult but at 19,000 feet and in my physical condition I was having severe problems.

Getting enough air was a major problem and I was gasping for breath. I made sure I was going at a slow pace but I was feeling very lousy. There were a few boulders we had to climb over which took quite an effort and at times made me feel a little dizzy. We took several breaks along the way. As the sun rose, the wind slowly began to pick up.

About an hour into the hike, I was feeling awful, exhausted, and cranky, and I was looking for any excuse to turn back. Luckily Brian was there to help encourage me along and I am very grateful he was with me. A few minutes later we ran into Phillipe and Charlie, who were returning from the summit. They looked in pretty good shape.

As we approached the far side of the crater we could see glaciers and lots of snow. Most of the hike was out in the open and the winds were starting to blow fairly hard. The wind was actually helping me now by blowing more air from below. I was breathing a little easier but still feeling horrible.

Finally, after an hour and a half, we made it . There were 2 signs here. One said this spot was Uhuru Peak, the other said it was another hour and a half away. Richard told us that this spot was Uhuru Peak and I was not about to argue. There were also several wood boxes here and possibly some survey equipment. I was in such agony that I told Brian that if he wanted to hike another 90 minutes he was on his own.

I think we spent about 10 minutes maximum at the peak taking photos before heading back. I don't think any of us were having fun. Uhuru peak was a little disappointing because I expected this high point would stand out quite obviously, but it did not. It almost seemed like it was out in the middle of a snow field.