Up and about by 6:45am, Martin and I took turns to clear our gear away - Martin first whilst I went to answer the call of nature (several times). Packed away, we had breakfast which was the usual fare with porridge (no thanks), then omelette and sausages with toast (yes please).

We left about 8:30 and headed straight up. Jungle gave way to less dense trees as we climbed. It was quite steep and rocky in places. I had elected not to bother with my walking poles which I think was a good idea as they seemed to get in some peoples way rather than assist. After about 45 minutes we ground to a halt as one of our group was really suffering - so much so that the Diamox was administered - bit of a worry at this altitude (only just over 3,000m). Eventually we moved on and were rewarded with views of Meru in the distance - looking much smaller than Kili did from Meru which, of course means that Kili is much bigger!

It is a relentless climb with not much in the way of views, or changes in landscape making it seem even further. Lunchtime was at 3,500m but the cloud had drawn in reducing the view to nothing but our vicinity - shame, I bet it was amazing from there. Lunch over, we set off again. Our previously suffering colleague was obviously feeling much better and resumed her monologue, thus far conspicuous by its absence! It amused me to recall that on our first night at Mirikamba she had complained about the incessant chatter from the Porters in the evening! I did my best to get ahead to enjoy the peace and quiet and was grateful for the steeper ground which had the effect of quietening her. Finally we arrived on flat ground and were told that we would arrive in about 40 minutes and that there was no more uphill (today). This proved to be the case. On the way into the camp we passed a helipad - used for rescues rather than any camp stocking facility.

Baranco Camp is huge with many groups setting up their small villages. There is even a Ranger Hut which looked a good size. We soon located our village and began the process of bed making and washing. After two days I planned to change my socks and pants which I duly did. Tomorrow is clean T-Shirt day - something exciting to look forward to. All that done, there was some serious sitting around to be done. I read, wrote my diary and enjoyed glimpses of Kili as the clouds came and went. I also recharged my camera battery that had complained earlier which seemed to take no time.

I then decided to put the Solar Panels on to see if I could boost the 84% remaining. It would not be a drama if it doesn't, although it would be a waste of money if I can't get African sun to charge it! As a note to myself, I should take enough cables to charge the battery as well as use the battery to charge devices - with the one I have I can either charge the battery or the camera but not both. Not much effect from the charge time so I will try again tomorrow.

The evening got quite cold as the sun went down around 5:30 and I found myself needing my Fjallraven trousers, Stellar Top and windproof plus Rab Jacket and hat. In the mess tent it warmed up with everyone inside so the Rab came off. We had the usual excellent dinner of chicken, rice and veg. 8pm signalled bedtime but as usual my toilet routine was a drama! I went for a pee, got in my bag and immediately felt the need to go again but couldn't be bothered. Another restless night and by 6:30am I was so desperate that I had to go again then as I got back in, needed to go again - I need a pee bottle! I managed another hour dozing then had to get up for two wees and a poo! I mamaged to break the chemical loo but to be honest I don't think I have the leg strength to squat for as long as I need to.