Up early and packing up to leave the lodge with everyone – excited and nervous not knowing what the day would hold. An amazing drive around Kili shrouded in clouds to get to the entry gate at the north. Driving through villages, waving smiling children, poverty and kindness. People actually let us use their loos in their houses and didn’t expect anything.

Driving through the gate and into almost jungle terrain everyone got really excited. We started our first day trek slowly with our wonderful guides White and Julio, with Mike and Christine of course. Today is extra special with Hils and Clare with us also. Clare lead the way and we got into our rhythm. Insect sounds, the smell of jungle and a fleeting glance of a jumping monkey high in the trees! My best part of today was arriving at an unexpected clearing with a beautiful view of Kenya. We got to camp just before the rains came and managed to get everything in our tents before we all got soaking. We are in awe of the porters who have carried all of the camp up here. We were treated to snacks before a meal of spaghetti. There had been some highs and lows in the group. We shared our thoughts and there was some laughter and some tears. The altitude can already be felt by most and it’s only day one. Lessons were learned on the days packs and clothing. Some hurt more than others. We are all overjoyed that Hils and Clare could be a part of this amazing first day of our amazing African adventure!