Just ten years ago or so, there was still permanent snow at Barafu. This is no longer the case today. Nevertheless, its name means snow in Swahili. This eagle's nest perched at an altitude of 4600 m is not escaping the effects of global warming.
When I last traveled to Tanzania, I was lucky enough to be able to spend an afternoon in Barafu. There was no snow on that day, so I pitched my tent on the black rocks. Exhausted by the preceding days' walking, apprehensive about the final ascent, and already short of breath due to the altitude, the only thing I was able to do was admire the splendid views over the Kibo and Mawenzi cones. For anyone reaching this place, the only thing left to do is rest in your tent, sheltered from the glacial wind. Keep your spirits up. You're now not far from your target!