Most Inspirational Moment
Undoubtedly getting to the summit as dawn was breaking was the highlight of the trip, but there were many memorable sights and moments along the way. The leaving ceremony (which includes the distribution of tips) on the last day on the mountain, with the majestic backdrop of Kili, and the songs and smiles on all the faces will also remain a very long time with us.
Thoughts on Group Leader
Our Group Leader (Makeke) was great - he managed all the logistics (for 8 trekkers, we had him plus 3 assistant guides, a chef and 32 porters), gave good briefings (sufficient information for the following day, but without so much detail that it worried us), was patient when required, and lifted the spirits when we were tired and needed it.
Advice for Potential Travellers
Neither of us had done any trekking before, but we did go on a guided practice trek in Surrey, did a number of long walks together with full kit and backpack (including 3-4 litres of water) and tried to get tips and advice from as many people as possible who had done it before. We both did some fitness work and ensured that we had the right kit. Some people say that you don't need to be very fit to climb Kili. Having done a marathon last year and kept the running going, I considered myself reasonably fit, but it was still tough at times. I would certainly recommend lots of quad exercises (ski fitness perfect), particularly for the way down. Everyone says it, but pole pole (slowly slowly) hydrate and eat are the keys to minimising the affects of altitude sickness (you will be very lucky not to get any impact from AMS) - and listen to your guides - they know what they are talking about. You also need to think early in your planning about your electricity power strategy - being unable to plug in any devices for 8 days requires some thinking, but with portable batteries etc, it is definitely manageable, getting to the top and running out of power in your camera/smartphone would be upsetting!