Day one of climbing Kilimanjaro and I'm climbing the Machame route. I start at Machame gate about 1800m above sea level and start our 4/5 hour trek through the rainforest to Machame Camp. I started feeling not very well from nerve but as we ascend I was fine and just remembered to walk slowly to acclimatise. Looking around I am probably the most unprepared. I have one fleece and one coat had a litre water bottle and that was it. I was then told I needed to buy another 2 litre bottle as need to drink 3 litres a day. I then decided to split the cost of hiring walking poles but didn't use them today as the walk was fine and I wanted to feel the difference when it becoming steeper. I have a few light pairs of clothing which added together still aren't the recommended amount of layers...oops. As they keep telling me all you need is a positive attitude, finally something I do have. I'm very fortunate to also be hiking with some great people. Some British, Canadian, Norwegian and Australian people.

We had a great dinner when we came into camp and a lovely hot drink to warm us. After visiting the mountain facilities I headed to bed ready for tomorrow to walk to Shira camp.