Day 1 Commence climb to Simba Camp (2600m)

After a few photos we were finally on our way, the start of the trek began at about 11.30am. We were introduced to our main guide who in turn introduced us to the saying 'pole-pole' (pronounced polay-polay and means slowly slowly and the pace was very slow, but I still decided to stay at the back, no rushing ahead for me.

The first half hour was full of innuendo's and laughter however that soon petered out to a strange kind of silence as we walked through a pine plantation. I guess this is part of the group bonding and getting to know each other.

What we weren't expecting was the dust clouds that were being kicked up, I'm glad I bought the buff, and yes Simon, Russ I'm sorry I Didn,t get you one. We soon began to look like the locals covered in red sand.

Surprisingly we ran into the colobus monkey quite early on, about an hour in.

After an hour or so the pine plantation gave way to rainforest and then just before lunch we came across some local kids. Russ gave away his jelly babies much to their delight. The condition of these children is quite heartbreaking and it makes you realise how lucky you are.

We set off way before the porters, however it wasn't long before they passed us going up the mountain and coming back down to get some more supplies and bags! They really are quite incredible.

We stop to eat our pre-packed lunch at a picnic table (we could have been at Coombe Park!) which consisted of a buttered cob, carrots, soft ready salted crisps, 4 biscuits and a bar of dairy milk.

The afternoon walk was not hard and was fairly easty but with the heat and dust it wasn't pleasant. A few steep rocky stretches then we arrive at Simba camp and what a site, tents pitched, choose your own, mess tent up, cook tent up, a whole hive of activity. Simon informs me that these are better tents than what he was expecting and is pleased. We choose a tent and then get our bags and are introduced to our personal porters, Simon's and mine are brothers.

We set off again on a small acclimatisation walk, walk high, sleep low, I was surprised we only went 100 m higher and then back to camp.

The porters greet us with a bowl of boiling hot water to wash in, it was heaven particularly bathing the feet after. This will be close to a shower as we are going to get on this trip!

Its then time for tea and popcorn in the mess tent (folding camp chairs and tables), its all a bit strange but very much appreciated!

We are to go back to the mess tent at 6'30pm for dinner. Our gourmet dinner consisted of a tasty soup, again with bread and butter, some kind of fish in batter, roast spuds, spinach and a veg stew. Followed by fruit and washed down with lots of tea! and after dinner we are briefed on tomorrow's day, we rise at 6.30, then breakfast at 7 and we leave by 7.30 sharp. Apparently it will be harder, 6 to 7 hours walking, going up to 3700m and will be steeper in the morning section and then back down to sleep at 3400m

Currently feel ok, my back hurts a little and my knee is hurting will probably go for the full knee support tomorrow. The camp is now in silence with people either sleeping, reading or listening to their ipods!