Most Inspirational Moment
Most inspirational moment has to be reaching Stella Point. The feeling of elation, the relief that you're finally at the summit produced tears for us all. Also loved climbing Barranca Wall. Also the climb down and up to Kerranga camp was tough but a huge relief when we finally arrived up at camp. Knowing that I could easily achieve these challenges gave me a huge confidence boost.
Thoughts on Group Leader
Makeke was a good leader. He gave concise, clear briefings on the day ahead's challenge; but he was occassionally economic with the timings. But the trip notes were the same. Ie. it says on day one that you will enjoy a 2 - 3 hour gentle walk through woodland. It took us 5 hours due to heavy rainfall causing the path to be like a quagmire. When the guides set off you may think that you are going far too slowly but trust in your leader that he knows what he is doing. Conserve your energy and you will have a more enjoyable experience.Makeke was a good communicator and his words will always ring in my ears: "The weather in Kili is unpredictable".
Advice for Potential Travellers
Don't take a shewee. It doesn't work. Do take a pack of cards for when you arrive in camp and you're all in the mess tent drinking tea. Our guides loved playing Cheat! Always listen to your guides and be truthful with how you're feeling. Don't be macho and think you'll be alright! They will do what they can to get you up to the top but you need to be honest if they're going to help you. Do take lots of snacks, especially chocolate. If you have any left over (make sure you do), the porters love it. Don't go thinking you'll have food like you're used to at home. The porridge tastes different but it is excellent fuel so mask the taste if you don't like it with either Cadbury's drinking chocolate (supplied), brown sugar (supplied) or honey (supplied). DRINK LOADS!! Can't emphasise that enough. It will help with altitude sickness. Also in addition to your platypus/camelbak have 2 extra water bottles. On summit night your tube from your water will freeze but you need to keep drinking. Use Nuun rehydration tablets (or similar) and put them in both extra water bottles. Place these upside down on the outside of you backpack. The top of the bottle will freeze first so you will be able to drink from the upside down end. Ladies take lots of tissues (and hand sanitiser) and have them as easily accessible as they can be; I used a bumbag.