The preparations for a charity climb of Mount Kilimanjaro

The preparations for a charity climb of Mount Kilimanjaro, organisational, nutritional and fitness regimes, plans and preparations I (and my team) will be going through in order to successfully complete the charity climb.
I am climbing for my charity – Today and Tomorrow, which is a charity that supports single mothers and their kids. This is a charity that is very close to my heart as I have been at one point in my life, a young mum, living with two young kids. I climbed Ben Nevis last year and that training was tough, but it inspired me to set my goals even higher – to Mount Kilimanjaro. It’s going to be tough and I know that, but raising money for a good cause is even more important. It’s also a great way to keep fit, stay healthy and contribute just a little bit of happiness to the lives of people who need it most.
I wanted to get a great group of people together to help support this cause. As a celebrity therapist based in Mayfair I was able to call on my list of clients to come on board for the climb. They include International Model, Caprice; actress and TV presenter, Sally Farmiloe; Singer and TV presenter; Alexandra Legouix . More people are signing up day by day and I will keep you posted on who joins us
The Kilimanjaro climb takes the Rongai route.

The Rongai Route approaches Kilimanjaro from the north and retains a sense of untouched wilderness lost on the crowded Marangu and Machame trails. The most manageable of all the routes, it has a relatively gentle gradient and short daily stages as it winds its way from the starting point just south of the Kenya-Tanzania border. It passes through farmland and forest, past Alpine moorland to the beautiful summit cone. There are magnificent views throughout, with possibilities for wildlife viewing, and an extra day to aid acclimatisation as the trails climbs beneath the towering spires of Mawenzi. The final ascent is arduous and made in darkness, but the reward is a spectacular dawn view of the glaciers and ice cliffs of the summit, and across the East African plains far below. Descending through lush forest, there is time to relax and recover before the flight home. We are excited to be learning about the culture and surroundings whilst climbing. It’s a once in a lifetime opportunity.

I am really excited about taking this route as it offers the advantage of attempting the climb in relative seclusion compared to the more crowded Marangu and Machame routes. The company we are working with also have high standards in the maintenance and protection of the mountain. They have built a number of standards into the mountain services. All cooking is on gas or kerosene stoves (rather than firewood) and all rubbish is carried off the mountain. Hot washing water in bowls is provided to avoid polluting the streams. Porter welfare is another important part of the staff policy. It all makes a difference.