Byatangajwe: 22.09.2016
Mt. Bartle Frere is the tallest mountain in Queensland, standing at over 1600 m. We were enthusiastic to climb this mountain. However, since we only arrived at the base of the mountain at noon, we decided to only go as far as the first camp. And by saying 'go', I'm being very kind. In reality, we crossed countless streams, jumped from rock to rock or climbed over tree trunks, balanced on roots, and fought our way through thickets. Right after the first kilometer, we found a memorial picture of a deceased hiker. We could all too well imagine why he died.
With our feet covered in leeches, spiderwebs on our faces, bruises and scrapes from the sharp edges of the rocks and thorns, and sweat drenching our underwear, we did not want to give up. After more than two hours, we arrived at the camp completely exhausted and turned back. Once again, we had overestimated ourselves, because when we arrived back down, there was an information board that, of course, we didn't read beforehand, advising to never go up the mountain without registering at the district building.
Right next to the mountain are the Josephine Falls, which are especially known for the rock slide. After the first round, all the aches and pains we had picked up on the mountain vanished. Since it was a beautiful day, the locals were jumping from the cliff right next to the waterfall, and we actually wanted to join them. But we were at the end of our strength and even the slightest current was sweeping us away from the water slide, so we decided not to. But we will come back!! :D