Kilimanjaro Climb

Monday 11th January.  Thanks to those who turned out to find out more and thanks to John for sharing some of the thinking behind the work in Tanzania.  The time was spent discussing the logistics of the trip, some of the work that will go on alongside it and cost implications.  The result was daunted excitement.  

The trip is planned for the end of October 2010, around about half term.  Departure is tentatively set for 16th October with a two week trip planned.  Three days will be spent either side of the climb on mission work.  We plan to fly from Cardiff via Amsterdam into Kilimanjaro Airport (not the mountain itself as Deb quite quickly pointed out! ) which is closer to the Arusha base than Dar ar Salaam.  The mission work will involve whatever is needed at the time but focus largely around the orphanage, school work and practical aid in the villages in the surrounding area.

The climb itself should take around 6 days.  The longest part will be the ascent with the needs to acclimatise to the altitude.  As John pointed out, the height of the summit means that the conditions will be a stark contrast with those at the Arusha base.  The presence of glaciers on the peak is a good indication of what those who make it can expect.  John was keen to point out that this is going to be an arduous physical challenge for those who choose to go.  

Those going will need to provide appropriate kit, travel insurance and finance.  They will also need to obtain appropriate injections and immunisations.  For those who choose to climb Kilimanjaro the trip will cost £1900 (GBP) approximately.  For those going for the mission work the trip will cost £1100 (GBP) approximately.  Costs are provisional since no bookings have been made at the present time.

For those choosing to raise sponsorship for the trip, there will be a requirement to split any money raised 50:50 with at least half going to support the mission work in Tanzania.  John agreed that it would be possible to specify what aspect of the work the money went to so if people want to raise money for work at the orphanage or micro-business support, or for the provision of general aid in the surrounding villages then that would be possible.

If anyone is still interested then please talk to John or Deb.  A final decision on whether to go needs to be made by January 31st.  Details about payment schedules, training and other issues will be made available at a later date but in time for arrangements to be made.