So Kilimanjaro…

It’s a mountain right…and a rather large one. However, even after seeing the trek I literally signed up without any further investigation.  So sit back and relax as we take a whirlwind tour of Kilimanjaro.

Kilimanjaro Top 5 Facts:;

Red dot = my mountain!

1. Kilimanjaro is Africa’s largest freestanding mountain in Africa and the 4th highest of the seven summits

2. Location - north eastern Tanzania (very close to Kenyan border)

3. It has three volcanic cones, Kibo, Mawenzi, and Shira
4. Its classed as an inactive stratovolcano
5. There are 6 established routes to climb Kilimanjaro depending on experience level

So now we know the basic facts, what about the trip itself.  Well, I depart London early September, flying direct into Kilimanjaro airport, I have a day to locate and acclimatise before the trek starts on day 2.  The complete duration of the trip is 10 days and by day 10 I’ll be down the mountain having climbed 19,342ft exploring Marangu in the afternoon before my flight back to London. Sounds so easy when you type it up like that doesn’t it.

Preparation is the key!
So apart from wanting to be in good (at least) physical fitness, there are the topics that we all think about in terms of diet, drinks, alcohol and exercise – but these now take on a new meaning for me.  These simple four words guide pretty much each decision I make, so for example the other week I had a great week in the gym and walking on the weekend, but then two not so fantastic meal choices meant I gained 1 1/2lb… I was not a happy bunny I can tell you.

So focus and choices…that’s what’s keeping me going and the ever-present memory of Andy.