Everything was organised extremely well, from being met at the airport for our overnight stay at Kia Lodge before the other group members arrived the following day to having our own toilet tent in the camp sites! I still can't believe that one of the porters carried that all the way up and down the mountain. All the porters who helped around the campsite were friendly and well trained. The food was varied and plentiful.
- What was the most inspirational moment of your trip?
Reaching Gilman Point and knowing that we would make it to Uhuru Peak.
Seeing the sun rise from the top
The guides singing hymns in Swahili as we neared the summit.
The first shower after the climb!
The ethos of Rhotia Valley tented camp where we stayed for our extension safari afterwards.
- What did you think of your group leader?
Wilfred was great - quiet chap but competent and reassuring. I felt completely safe with him all the way. He was really helpful when I had some tummy problems along the way. I would highly recommend him for further trips.
The assistant guide was Justice - a much more exuberant character and big Bob Marley fan. He was great fun and will also be an excellent leader.
Our guide for the safari was Ally. He had good knowledge of the geography of the areas he took us to and was good at spotting animals but could do with studying his birds a bit more.
- Do you have any advice for potential travellers?
Apart from summit night and the big descent immediately afterwards, the walking is not that hard. Being so out of breath is interesting but not alarming. I really enjoyed the views from the northern side of the mountain - you see way out over the Kenyan plains which you wouldn't see from other routes.
Get a really warm sleeping bag. I was a bit cold at night until I remembered I had an aluminium safety blanket in my pack and then I was toasty. Hiring the sleeping mats is essential.
It's hard to keep things clean. No-one else in the group had tummy problems so I am sure that the water and food were totally safe.
You will need small denomination dollar bills for tips at the end so persevere will your money changer and get these.
- Is there anything else you would like to add?
Summit night was the hardest walking thing I have ever done but I made it so just about anyone else should be able to as well. Just turn your brain off and follow the guide.
The guides believed that we didn't need anti-malarial tablets in the mountain as we were not then in a mosquito area. This is not correct so please don't stop your meds.
from 13 reviews.
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