We were initially a bit miffed that there was no let up in the schedule. Up at 6.30-7, briefing at 7.30 and off at 8am. We had to pack everything up as ever. But it wasn’t so bad as nobody slept anyway so what is the point of a lie in in a freezing cold tent?! I actually managed a slice of bread with honey this morning – progress! And I absolutely loved the walk today. Only 8-9km gently down with only a few ups. The sunshine and everyone was in good spirits. We walked through the amazing changing landscape, passed some cactus-like plants. All huddled together, the big black ravens seem to follow us wherever we go, and we saw some mice with stripes on their backs. I walked a bit with Keris, chatting about everything. It’s amazing what you don’t know about peoples lives who you have walked with for some time. We do now!

Martin and Christine were still suffering – especially Martin who felt better than peak day but still pretty bad. He has really suffered since stepping inside the Rongai gate. Our route down the Marangu route to the camp was lovely for most of us but not all. Whitey took the decision that it was essential that Martin gets off the mountain today, with Christine to accompany him – non-negotiable from Whitey, and it was the right call. This is one of the four camps that it is possible to get a vehicle up to and so they will leave for Weru Weru Lodge this afternoon.

We have our last dinner tonight and our last night under the canvas. Something that I’m sad about and overjoyed about in equal measure. But it will not be the same without Martin and Christine around the table. Our nightly ritual of filling in our medical forms has stopped. No more checking your oxygen levels and pulse or checking for various signs of altitude sickness – one of Christine’s many duties in looking after us all…

So right now I lie in my tent, wind and sunshine outside across the Tanzanian countryside – and I can hardly believe that it’ll nearly be Christmas when I get home to my family. But look what I’ve done!!!