Adam and Jim Conquer Kili for Africa Now
Thursday 7th September
We landed at Kilimanjaro International Airport.
Friday 8th September
Rest day in Arusha. Met up with the rest of the climb group - there are 11 climbers from England, Ireland, Australia & USA. Setting out at around 8.30am (local time) tomorrow.
Sunday 10th September
Finished Day two of the climb and have reached Shira Camp at 3,850m (12,631ft). Very hot by day and very cold at night. Did six hours walking before lunch today. The views are amazing. Both holding up well. Going higher tomorrow.
Tuesday 12th September
Everything is OK and on schedule. Mobile coverage is patchy - hence the gaps between updates. Now at Lava Tower camp (sleeping in tents) at 4,700m (15,420ft). Jim is suffering a bit with the altitude, but all is OK otherwise. Currently at the bottom of Arrow Glacier.
Wednesday 13th Sepember
Yesterday we walked for over 8 hours and up to 4,860m (15,945ft) - higher than Mont Blanc! We then slept at 4,650m (15,256ft). Am feeling good apart from the odd blister - and my knees and ankles are a little sore after 8 hours a day of climbing and walking over rocks. The summit awaits! Summit attempt will begin at midnight tomorrow (just 32 hours away).
Friday 15th September
(7am UK) Made it all the way to the summit at 5,895m (19,340ft). Mentally and physically it was the toughest day of my life. It took us six hours from midnight to 6am, hard going at that altitude! It is really hard work, however, no words or pictures could describe the sheer delight and satisfaction of getting there and watching the sun come up!