Internationale groepsreis Kilimanjaro Climb Rongai Route

Excellent adventure

The Rongai route six day ascent and descent of Kilimanjaro felt like a hit and run trip to me but overall very well run and conducted by skilled professional people. Rongai is frequently touted as being a quiter route, unfortunately simply due to the luck of the draw our group was roughly mirroring the progress of at least two other groups on the same route and we frequently came into contact with each other on the trail and obviously at the camp sites. Perceptions of how easy or hard something is will obviously depend upon the individual, I personally found the first three days of this route to be easy to moderate hiking, enjoyable and certainly not challenging. At the end of the third day, at Mawenzi Tarn camp I got my only significant symptoms of altitude sickness for the entire trip, a very obvious headache that would come and go. After a night's "sleep" it had gone and never came back. Poor quality sleep is a real issue for everyone, guides as well. The high altitude affects your ability to sleep properly, frequently waking in the night was common amongst nearly everyone in the group as was the feeling we hadn't really slept at all but we'd comment that about remembering our dreams so must have been asleep at some point. That third night at Mawenzi Tarn is likely to be the last sleep you get before attempting the summit on the night of the fourth day. Virtually no one sleeps at Kibo Camp at 4700M, it's just too high up and of course you're trying to rest and sleep while it's still daylight and the noise of numerous climbing parties goes on outside. Once the night comes and you prepare for the summit climb the air is electric with nervous excitement and you may see the light trails of groups already making their climb. Within minutes of setting off both myself and another member of our group had taken our gloves off. With all those layers on we were getting hot, very hot. At the first rest stop I ended up stripping off my second pair of thermal leggings and took my down body warmer off too. It's surprising how hard work that is approaching 5000metres up. We read how it can be up to -20C on the summit but the reality that night was -7C, still cold but a fair way from -20C. Incidentally you don't need a super high spec head torch that will turn night into day for the night climb, all it needs to do is light up the ground immediately in front of you as far as the heels of the person in front of you, that's all you need to see. I GPS tracked our summit attempt at 0.7 km/h, 700 metres per hour!!! That is how slow you go, painfully slow, in more ways than one but there are many times when even that felt too quick. Despite a number of rest stops they never seem to be enough and the feeling of really pushing your limits in the thin air are ever present. Eventually the ridge does start to get closer and you emerge onto Gillman's Point to immense relief and elation at finishing the main climb and knowing you made it to the summit crater. Sadly at this point we had to leave one of our group behind as we headed on for Uhuru peak via Stella point. We watched the sun rise from Stella Point which was beautiful and put a smile back on our faces despite being very tired now. A short time later we arrived at Uhuru Peak, miussion accomplished. All that was missing was football stadium style turnstiles, there was quite a crowd there but we got our photos and after only fifteen minutes or so were on a our way back down... no one complained. We did however complain about the speed of descent. We were very sore and tired but felt we were being relentlessly marched down with no regard for that and so started taking our own rest stops. For the only time on the trip there might have been a little tension between the conflicting wishes of the guides and the clients. Anyway the descent continued and we got over it. A short rest stop at Kibo Huts. The crew had made a big brunch for us but we barely touched it we were that exhausted... sorry guys, it was then a sustained descent for the next day and a half until we finally emerged at marangu gate. Fantastic!

What was the most inspirational moment of your trip?

Experiencing the working life of the porters. It was inspiring and humbling to see people work so hard to better their lives and those of their children in a country which presents them with a tiny fraction of the opportunities of our own. Their backbreaking hard work is absolutely essential to your success. They make the climb work, I described them as life support.

What did you think of your group leader?

Our group leader was Mussa. He was a star and quite comical at times but at the same time one could really appreciate his experience and knowledge of the mountain. His frequently referring to climbing Kilimanjaro as a piece of cake made us grin and groan at the same time. It also made us laugh that he lied to us. Reaching the summit is not a piece of cake at all but the object of his light hearted approach was to stop us dwelling on things and deal with one step at a time. Of equal importace and worthy of mention to me were the assistant guides, John, Raphael and Diglan since we spent more time walking with and being guided by them than Mussa himself who lead the summit attempt. All three men were an absolute credit to themselves, I have an immense amount of respect for them, I learnt a lot about general life in Tanzania from them too.

Do you have any advice for potential travellers?

Be aware that you are going to be entering a dusty and mucky environment and just live with it for a few days. I took a bag full of energy bars and munchies with me and returned with half of them. With the exception of summit attempt the hiking is just not that intense enough to require masses of super duper sports supplements and as is often remarked upon, we are very well catered for on the mountain and on reflection I need not have taken as much as I did. You will not need any Tanzanian Shillings, everything you come into contact with as a tourist is priced or can be priced in American dollars. Euros are sometimes accepted as an alternative but British pounds are useless. I'd recommend $350 as a minimum to safely cover tipping the mountain crew, miscelaneous tips, meals and drinks at the hotel and a selection of small souvenirs. While some places do accept credit/debit cards the network connection for the card reader is very unreliable and a couple of times I was unable to complete a transaction with my cards. Cash is king in Tanzania. 500ml bottle of Coca Cola $1, bottle of water $1 - $3. If you wear glasses consider taking some anti fog lens cleaning soloution. The humidity of the forest and indeed your own body heat and sweat can leave glasses and normal sunglasses prone to misting. Take one of the new ultra compact and concentrated bottles of Vimto or Oasis, the flavouring makes drinking large quantities of water much easier.

Is there anything else you would like to add?

If you hire some equipment through Exodus check that it's right for you before you start the climb. I hired some walking poles. The local rep was not aware of this on arrival but having viewed my invoice confirming I'd paid for some poles he brought some to the hotel the next day as we were loading up the bus to set off. I took the poles from him and just attached them to my back pack. I only intended to use them on the descent as many others have advised. It was only when I was ready for some scree skiing on the way down that I got the poles and attemped to extend them only to find the were way too short for me (I'm a tall bloke) and didn't reach the ground rendering them useless. I reattached them to my backpack where they basically spent the entire climb as dead weight.

KILIMANJARO CLIMB - RONGAI ROUTE

The trip was very well organised, with a great group (of staff and holiday makers), great food and stunning location.  I always felt confident that the staff had the expertise to ensure a safe trip and they helped make it a very memorable trip.

What was the most inspirational moment of your trip?

The sunrise at Gilman's Point was incredible given that it was my birthday and followed 7 hours of the toughest walking I ever expect to do.

What did you think of your group leader?

The group leader was very good on the mountain, with regular information updates and always willing to answer any questions raised by the group.

Do you have any advice for potential travellers?

If it always something you've wanted to do, book it!  Make sure you drink lots of water though!

Is there anything else you would like to add?

The flights out with Ethiopian Airlines were very cramped and uncomfortable in what appeared to be quite old planes.  Addis Ababa airport was also not the easiest to negotiate and so I would recommend that the Nairobi route is the one preferred where possible.

KILIMANJARO CLIMB - RONGAI ROUTE

An awesome, amazing once in a lifetime trip that will stay with me for a very long time.

What was the most inspirational moment of your trip?

It's difficult to pick one moment that was inspirational, there was reaching the summit, walking above the clouds and seeing for miles upon miles, but I think for me it was the determination and hard work of the group that I was lucky enough to be with that really inspired me. The never say die attitude, the laughs, and the the determination and stubbornness that we were going to get to the top.

What did you think of your group leader?

Abraham, our group leader, made the trip fun, was always there to provide practical advice and for a laugh and a smile, made it all the more worthwhile having a leader like that.

Do you have any advice for potential travellers?

Whilst it sounds a cliche, but enjoy it. Sure there are going to be times when it's not so easy, but appreciate the times that are good and that altitude isn't affecting you to appreciate where you are and how lucky you are. Don't forget to put on suncream, as even in the 'winter' months it can still be warm. To enjoy the time that you're spending with your fellow travellers, whether you know them before the start of the holiday or not. 

Is there anything else you would like to add?

This was a truly fantastic experience, and the more and more I look back on it since I've returned home the more and more lucky and proud I feel, both of the group and myself. Yeah it is physically and mentally challenging, surely the most demanding thing I've ever done, but I certainly wouldn't change it as it was such an amazing experience that'll provide you with so many memories. As Nike say, Just do it. 

KILIMANJARO CLIMB - RONGAI ROUTE

Exodus provided a trip of a lifetime and one I wouldn't hesitate to recommend to friends.  They made the process easy and stress free before travelling then ensured we all had a great time whilst on our trip.

What was the most inspirational moment of your trip?

Too many to mention.  Arriving at our hotel on the first night after experiencing some of the roads. Reaching the summit. On return to the hotel afterwards hearing that a couple became engaged! Staying in the tented villages after seeing all the 'big 5' on safari. 

What did you think of your group leader?

Our group leader was fantastic! He (Meke) was patient with the slower members of the group but allowed the quicker members to go on with a guide.  On summit day, we all started out together until the gradient became more pronounced before he split the group up.  Meke made time for all the individuals in the group and  whilst on the walk and whilst in camp.  He also delivered a breifing each evening after dinner keeping us all informed and he did this with good humour.

Do you have any advice for potential travellers?

It was a pain getting the tourist visa at Kilimanjaro airport.  If you have an opportunity to do this before it would help.  Also, make sure you do get the vaccination for yellow fever as it was only recommended but it was required on entry at the airport.

Is there anything else you would like to add?

We completed our trip with a safari.  I though Kilimanjaro was an amazing experience but I was blown away by the whole tour.  We visited a different national park for each of the three days with a very knowledgable guide and stayeed at amazing tented camps - more like a hotel than a camp!

KILIMANJARO CLIMB - RONGAI ROUTE

I wish I had made this trek when I was younger but never theless it was a remarkable and awesome experience. The group I travelled with were all a great bunch of people, fully supportive of each other and without whom the trip would not have been the same.

What was the most inspirational moment of your trip?

To wake up in the morning, and on opening the tent flap to find a panorama of clouds beneath you, like a white sea underneath a changing sky, as the sun rose slowly from behind the clouds.

What did you think of your group leader?

He did a fantastic job, and deserves every single dollar that he is paid; and much more. His constant vigilance and encouragement made it possible to stretch oneself to the limit without incurring any risk.

Do you have any advice for potential travellers?

Preparation is the key to the sucess in reaching the summit, and to have a thoroughly enjoyable time. Make sure you have all the kit as per the list.

Is there anything else you would like to add?

The food was surprisingly lot better then I expected, and it is humbling to see so many people working so hard for their living, just to ensure that we had a fantastic time. All the porters, guides and kitchen staff deserve medals.

KILIMANJARO CLIMB - RONGAI ROUTE

An amazing experience brilliantly orchestrated.

What was the most inspirational moment of your trip?

Reaching the summit of Kilimanjaro was a once in a lifetime high, only made possible by the expertise of the team that helped us at every stage.

What did you think of your group leader?

Out group leader was friendly, professional, patient and knowledgable. It was refreshing to travel with people who erform over and above expectations and really live their job. 

Do you have any advice for potential travellers?

Take it easy, stop, drink it in, smell the flowers and enjoy the trip of a lifetime.

Is there anything else you would like to add?

Hakuna Matata!

KILIMANJARO CLIMB - RONGAI ROUTE

An amazing trip on a pretty epic mountain. Good people, good food, good organisation and good views!

What was the most inspirational moment of your trip?

Watching the sunrise every morning from above the clouds was fantastic. Climbing out of the tent at night in freezing temperatures to go to the toliet was not so great.

What did you think of your group leader?

Our group leader was experienced (he had been a guide on the mountain for more than 12 years), friendly, calm, funny and helped the trip run smoothly. 

Do you have any advice for potential travellers?

Most people in our group found the walking most days to be relatively easy and we were lucky with the weather as it didn't rain once. However, don't let the fact this walk is so accessible deceive you as you ascend fairly rapidly and people in our group were starting to feel the effects of altitude by the second and third day - me included. Others were completely fine however. Listen to your guides advice, who will also be on hand to offer medicine, but ultimately it is your decision on whether you continue. If you've never been to altitude before and you have the time and money I would probably recommend opting for a longer 7 day route. On a completely separate note, the food is fantastic and there's plenty of it so don't worry about going hungry on this trip!

Is there anything else you would like to add?

I wish I had time to enjoy a safari too! Will hopefully go back one day.

KILIMANJARO CLIMB - RONGAI ROUTE

The trip was an awesome life experience. Although exhausting, it brings a great sense of achievement and provides amazing memories.

What was the most inspirational moment of your trip?

Walking up the summit on the final ascent, at 3 o'clock in the night, watching the stars above our heads and listening to a quiet yet very powerful song sang by a tour guide and hearing my own heart biting to the rhythm.

What did you think of your group leader?

Abraham was simply stunning - very friendly yet extremaly professional, he immediately gained deep genuine respect and fondness of the whole group.

Do you have any advice for potential travellers?

While preparing for the trip, I would recommend focusing not only on general fitness and improving your stamina, but also on increasing the lungs capacity and possibly trying some breathing exercises, to minimalize the problems with luck of oxygen.

Is there anything else you would like to add?

Enjoy! :)

KILIMANJARO CLIMB - RONGAI ROUTE

Climbing Kilimanjaro was an adventure for me. i wasn't sure what to expect, but found that the trip exceeded my expectations! We were all so well looked after and the whole experince was fantastic. Getting to the top of Kilimanjaro is not guarenteed, but as a group we all made it, which is a real testimony to how well we were looked after and supported on the trip. 

What was the most inspirational moment of your trip?

Standing on the top of Kilimanjaro with my friend - we had been planning it for a year and had trained and prepared together for it all. We raised £4600 for charity in taking on the challenge, and the sense of acheivement and fulfilment standing at the top of the mountain together was amazing - I will never forget it!

What did you think of your group leader?

So well qualified for his role. A man full of wisdom and understanding for the job he had to do - I felt we were in very safe hands.

Do you have any advice for potential travellers?

Be well prepared for the trip - kit, training, medical advice etc - the better prepared you are the more likely you are to suceed and the more you will enjoy it!

Is there anything else you would like to add?

Thank you!

Kilimanjaro Climb Rongai Route

Excellent climb but maybe less diverse scenery of other routes.

What was the most inspirational moment of your trip?

Reaching the summit, Uhuru Peak of Kilimanjaro

What did you think of your group leader?

Excellent, english and humour

Do you have any advice for potential travellers?

Get Fit

Is there anything else you would like to add?

Wine Rooney

A very hard and very rewarding trek to a place beyond the clouds. A once in a lifetime experience. Great group and guides, always positive. Thankyou.

What was the most inspirational moment of your trip?

Reaching summit and seeing sun arriving also as if to welcome us at the top of Africa. Stunning.

What did you think of your group leader?

Charles. Legend. All the other guides were fantastic and a special thanks to all the porters also who helped me get my backside to the top. Without them, no way.

Do you have any advice for potential travellers?

Be as fit as you can. See it as a challenge and dont leave it too late in life. Dig deep and achieve.

Is there anything else you would like to add?

Make sure your boots fit well. It is a big, big walk. Loved it. Feel proud to have made it. Just before my 50th phew! Literally.

KILIMANJARO CLIMB - RONGAI ROUTE

Any trip, no matter what the purpose, can really be make or breaked by the people you are travelling with. I cannot speak highly enough of the other 5 guys on the trip, everyone got on really well. This just made the trekking even more enjoyable.

What was the most inspirational moment of your trip?

I suppose the vast majority climbers would say reaching the top, be it Gillmans Point, Stella Point or the Uhuru Peak. But for me, it was waking up every morning to stunning sunrise above the clouds. Though, a honourable mention must to go flying from Nairobi to Kilimanjaro on Precision Air and flying past Kilimanjaro, your first view and an awesome sight.

What did you think of your group leader?

Our group leader was Abraham, and he was fantastic in every sense of the word. Always willing to talk to us, whether it was on the trail, in the campsite or around the mess tent. Infact, I was lucky enough to have him personally guide me upto Gillmans Point, due to others moving ahead and others unfortunately having to desend. He always made sure that everything was as it should be, right down to the missing Ginger Tea at breakfast one morning. Tip : although you might not like it beforehand, Ginger Tea is excellent whilst on the trek, then you'll probably go straight back off it again when you finish.

Do you have any advice for potential travellers?

For the trip upto Kibo Huts, just remember to take it slowly to help avoid altitude sickness also eat alot, even if you feel sick. I woke up a couple of times in the morning feeling sick, but as soon as I had some breakfast I was fine. For the Summit Night, as much as it's hard not to try not to look up, as you will lights way above you and it immediately demoralises you. It really is a test of mental strength as well as Physical, don't worry if you go slowly and fall behind, just keep going planting firm steps (so not to slip on the scree too much). Finally, the guides do have a medical kit but have a comprehensive one of your own. I struggled with a cold/cough most of the week and I could have really done with some lemsip and beneylin. The guides only had strepsils, which were ok but only temporarily helped.  

Is there anything else you would like to add?

(i) Make sure you are on the left hand side of the Precision Air flight from Nairobi to Kilimanjaro to see the mountain. The check in attendant did me a massive favour there. (ii) Drink Serengetti lager - it's the best of them all. (iii) Enjoy every second of the trek, because believe me it is over all too quickly. (iv) Take plenty of memory cards for your camera, and you can never take too many photos or video footage. (v) The Arusha National Park Safari is good end to the week, otherwise you will just be sitting around the hotel (vi) The Kilimanjaro Mountain Resort is excellent, and the staff are really helpful. (vii) Go out on a village trek in afternoon of your arrival and see the waterfalls. (viii) Everyone I met who was doing the Rongai Route was really friendly, and there was sense that everyone was in it together and no one wanted to anyone not make it. And no matter where you got on the crater rim, everyone was pleased for you becuase we all knew how much everyone had put into it. (ix) This was first Exodus trip, and I'm looking at couple next year.

For me : A very special achievement!

Well for detailed summery of my trip you better check the reviews of my two fellow travellers (Garry Ward and Julia Porter). I have been intending to write this review since my return in August 2014 but as you see although it stayed on my mind i haven't managed to get it down till today (25.02.2015)!

What was the most inspirational moment of your trip?

The most inspirational moment was for me managing the last bit, my hands were frozen, I was absolutely exhausted, but thinking even if my body is going to give up I will make sure that my soul reaches the summit (Uhuro Peak)!

What did you think of your group leader?

Our chief group leader Mussa is an exceptional human being, he is intelligent, psychologically minded, very funny mit lots of positive energy. He figured out very fast what our group needs, pushed us smartly towards it and supported us all through. The assistant leader John I am personally grateful to, if it wouldn't him encouraging my frozen body and brain to carry on towards the Gilman's point, I would have never had manage it to the end. The assistant leader Raphael supported us all through with his warmth and holy smile. Assistant leader Diglan was rather proud and quite but did a good job.

Do you have any advice for potential travellers?

Yes ! take the advice on the trip notes regarding appropriate clothing seriously! I really regretted my own ignorance though. By the time of the trip I was working in Germany, having had a very cold and long winter 2012/2013 behind me with -25 degrees, I didn't take the info of the temperatures of -8 as serious threat! My hands were completely frozen with the gloves i took with me! Hence -8 C in Kilimanjaro>>>>>>-25C in Germany don't forget!

Is there anything else you would like to add?

I really enjoyed our group. Some how this achievement became as a very important and symbolic experience in my life, on which I get frequently reminded particulary in times I am doubting my strength. So like to say thank you to every one who has been a part of it!

KILIMANJARO CLIMB - RONGAI ROUTE

A truly fantastic trip pushing my mental and physical boundaries to the limit!

What was the most inspirational moment of your trip?

The camaraderie of the group, the helpfulness of the guides and porters and of course finally reaching Uhuru peak after thinking of giving up at Gilman's Point.

What did you think of your group leader?

Justin was a little taciturn and needed to polish up his people skills. He could have been more sympathetic to the age of the group he led up to Uhuru. However, his organisational skills were beyond doubt and everything went off smoothly.

Do you have any advice for potential travellers?

Be prepared for a very tough last couple of days, particularly if the altitude affects you. Listen to the guides when they offer advice.

Is there anything else you would like to add?

Food on the mountain was tip top. The meals in the hotel and the packed lunch on the safari to Arusha were very poor. Maybe they should cook local meals that they know how to prepare. All the assistant guides were great especially Gerard, Evans and Florence.

KILIMANJARO CLIMB - RONGAI ROUTE

An experience of a life time!  Not to be missed - but not for the faint hearted!

What was the most inspirational moment of your trip?

The fantastic support from existing and new friends during the adventure

What did you think of your group leader?

Justin did not really strike up much rapport with the group. On the other hand Gerald was very, very good.  He helped, advised and encouraged us older members of the group enormously.  Also knew his flora and fauna and would point out all of interest.  A great guy.

Do you have any advice for potential travellers?

Prepare mentally and physically.  Take all advice given from the guides - especially 'poli poli'

Is there anything else you would like to add?

What can you say about an adventure that lacked nothing!

KILIMANJARO CLIMB - RONGAI ROUTE

Fantastic trip, the group I was in was really well balanced, a total mix of backgrounds and ages.  This diversity made for interesting conversation and a better overall experience.  The route itself was really good, a lot more interesting and less crowded than Marangu (used for descent).  The food was outstanding, far better than I had expected especially when you consider it all had to be carried all the way up with us day after day.  No promises but I had a bacon sandwich every morning!!

What was the most inspirational moment of your trip?

Reaching the summit was truely breathtaking not only because I was totally exhausted but because the scenery was absolutely spectacular!  The photos, commaradery and the sense of achievement was amazing.  It is definitely something I will remember forever.

What did you think of your group leader?

The group leaders were great, though they only opened up when you spoke with them.  They were very knowledgable and talking with them really helped me understand life in Tanzania a lot more.

Do you have any advice for potential travellers?

The food is great, far better than you might imagine but bring plenty of snacks, not just for the summit night but to keep you going.  Big tip... Mars Bars freeze even under multiple layers of clothes, wine gums and jelly babies have much more calories and just get a little chewier!!!

Is there anything else you would like to add?

I would definitely recommend this route and holiday overall.  Two members of our group attempted the Macheme route the year previous and said the pace of the ascent was much greater, walking for much longer each day, making it much more pysically demanding before the 7 hour summit ascent!! Enjoy, it really is amazing to stand on the top of Africa!!

KILIMANJARO CLIMB - RONGAI ROUTE

Our first trip with Exodus and a super trip, something we will never forget.

What was the most inspirational moment of your trip?

The sunrise and sunset at Mawenzi camp were awesome. The summit night was very hard and very cold but worth every ounce of energy used. The views from the roof of Africa were truly amazing, standing above the cloud in crystal clear skies.

What did you think of your group leader?

The group leader,guides, porters and chef were all very good and helpfull. Any questions asked were answered well. The food all week was excellent and there was plenty of it.

Do you have any advice for potential travellers?

Good quality gloves/mitts and a good sleeping bag, it gets freezing at night !

Is there anything else you would like to add?

Put it on your list of things to do, its well worth it.

KILIMANJARO CLIMB - RONGAI ROUTE

An amazing experience in an amazing country, the climb up Kili is torture, but a hugely rewarding experience and not something I will ever forget.

What was the most inspirational moment of your trip?

Watching my Dad's face when he realised he had made it to the crater rim.  Standing at the top of Kilimanjaro drinking hot tea before sunrise! Watching the sun rise over the curvature of the earth. Meeting some fantastic people both local and those on the trip.

What did you think of your group leader?

Peter our leader was incredibly good, he was subtle, polite and was a very strong leader who was respected by his team. We were genuinely grateful to him for his huge contribution to the success of our trip, all of the group got to the top of Kilimanjaro and this was down to the incredible support from him and his excellent team.

Do you have any advice for potential travellers?

This is an excellent trip, the Rongai Route in particular is beautiful and peaceful, try and take the extra night at Mawenzi, it helps acclimatisation and is a lovely spot. Get to know your guides and porters, they are great! Sometimes a little shy but once you get to know them they are a fountain of knowledge and lovely people who are very proud of their culture. Don't fall asleep on the safari as we did - well, we had just climbed Kilimanjaro!

Is there anything else you would like to add?

The standard of care we received from the local team was amazing. From the cup of tea brought to our tent each morning to the amazing food that came out of a little green tent every day, and the other aspects that are less glamorous, but somebody has to do (use your imagination - think even smaller tent), everything was excellent.  I have already got other plans for next year in the Alps, but I don't expect to top the experience of this trip, that's how good it was!

KILIMANJARO CLIMB - RONGAI ROUTE

The most physically challenging time of my life!  It was a true life experience, but you need to have not just fit physically, but you also need mentally fit to attempt this.

What was the most inspirational moment of your trip?

I was inspired by the sheer determination of my fellow team members to continue despite their exhaustion.  – It also proved that if you put your mind to it, you can achieve whatever you want – the sky IS your limit.

What did you think of your group leader?

The African Walking Company were brilliant - I can't rate them enough.  Our group leader, Hapson, was very good.

Do you have any advice for potential travellers?

Take aspirin - helps with the headaches! Sleep with your electricals at night, ie, mobile, headlamp, ipod, spare batteries, etc Ear plugs and eye shades Jelly babies for the summit night Duck tape ..... if your sleeping bag refuses to zip up as it did for me!!

Is there anything else you would like to add?

My thoughts on this trip is it is a true test of your will power, physical and mental strength. I think had I realized just how testing the 5 days were going to be, I am not sure I would have been brave enough to do it. The group atmosphere contributed a lot to my success but also the help I had from the guide. For me, it’s a life experience, and in particular when this was my first time camping but I’m glad I did it.

KILIMANJARO CLIMB - RONGAI ROUTE

Hard work - but an incredible experience.Terrain ranging from verdant forest, to desolate scree slopes and a glacier at 19,000ft. Walking soooo slowly - then several days later realising why. The exhilaration of the day after the summit (far too exhausted to appreciate it on the day). Not exactly a relaxing holiday, but certainly one you won't forget.

What was the most inspirational moment of your trip?

The porters and guides were superb - popcorn on arrival at camp each evening came as an welcome surprise (the same camp that overtook us on porters' shoulders in bags whilst we were walking - and was always ready and waiting for us when we arrived). The whole group getting to the summit. That really made the trip.

What did you think of your group leader?

Paul's almost endless supplies of surprisingly frustrating trail games really helped the group gel. As for his particular brand of humour - well it worked for us...

Do you have any advice for potential travellers?

Plan for cold nights - there was always ice on the ground when we woke and -10C is not uncommon. A good sleeping bag and warm jacket are a must. Remember to take toilet paper. Don't run the final 8km back down. No matter how good an idea it seems at the time.

Is there anything else you would like to add?