Day 6: The adventure concludes

The final day had arrived. There was only one other team at camp and they were completing the last few kilometres in a vehicle. Alex explained that the risk of dangerous animals is high on this final section so most people drive. There was limited space in the vehicle, Alex had discussed with the ranger and we had approval to walk the final stretch. "We are concerned for you, ladies need their personal space and I am worried you will not be comfortable squashed with all these men" Alex explained. I did question what was worse a potential round two buffalo charge or an hour being squashed in a vehicle? I think it's an easy choice, but Alex had already made up his mind as he laughed flexing his muscles saying I'll protect you. So with that we headed into buffalo territory.

The walk followed a gentle descent along a dirt track lined with elephant dung. We chatted about the animals on Mount Kenya and Alex explained when you first become a porter on the mountain the rest of the team make you go through an initiation. They get bones from the chicken used for dinner and place them in a circle around your tent, "This way you are partying with the hyenas all night!" He told me to watch out of I saw a buffalo with an injured leg, explaining it was shot by poachers but didn't die so now fears humans and will always charge. It made me laugh that he told me to "watch out" like there was something I could do to mitigate a charging buffalo, reason with it maybe. We saw a herd grazing in the distance but luckily no charges occurred.

We reached the gate where we were picked up by Alex's friend and taken to the nearest town where we met Edwin and Samson for a tea. We reminisced about our time together and laughed about all the fun moments. I was so grateful for their support and guidance and thanked them with a tip. From here we said goodbye to Samson and Edwin and I travelled with Alex back to Nairobi in a colourful Manchester United themed Matatu.

Mount Kenya has always been an aspiration of mine but was catalysed by my summit of Kilimanjaro and my love for East Africa. I did fear it would feel like an inferior achievement, almost like I was chasing another Kilimanjaro. But my experience was entirely different. Wild animal encounters, extreme weather, summit night challenges, friendly company, stunning views, glorious solitude - this mountain delivered everything and was an incredibly rewarding adventure.

Whenever I undertake these adventures I feel like I return to where I’m supposed to be. You can lose yourself in daily obligations – the schedules, the alarms, the messages. But as soon as those hiking boot laces are tied and the rucksack is secured around my waist - I return to myself. Kitted out in outdoor clothes with excessive pockets, each layer serving a practical purpose - waterproof, windproof, brutal temperature proof. Armed with high calorie snacks, back up layers for the inevitable plummeting temperatures and a head torch to navigate camp when darkness falls. Sat on a rock clutching a warm mug of tea, exchanging stories, breathing in the clean air, appreciating the scenery. No news, no excessive noise, no screens, no crowds. Just blissful shared purpose with kind strangers.

I find peace in the mitigation strategies, seeking some vague sense of order in an unfamiliar environment. The cold, the altitude, the fatigue all become challenges to overcome. I have now achieved my second East African summit and I will rest up a little before I head over the boarder in search of another.

The team behind the success

Alex: Lead guide and master of decision making

Alex is a fantastic guide - friendly, funny, caring and knowledgeable. His decision to change the plan based on both my ability and the weather was the reason I can now say I've climbed Mount Kenya. He is passionate about the mountain and shared everything he knows with me, making the experience memorable. He knew when to push me, when to offer support and he showed constant kindness to his team members.

Edwin: Chef and creator of beautiful fruit platters

Edwin prepared some of the best food I've ever eaten on a mountain. Warming soups, chapatis with lentils, fresh omelette, pasta dishes, chips - you name it he could prepare it on the ground in a hut with a small camping stove. Edwin has a warm personality and would always high five me when passing on the trail and congratulate me when arriving at camp.

Samson: Porter and head of 5 star service

Samson is the most polite person I've ever met with an enthusiasm for life that is rare to find. He has a passion for learning and listening to others and I will miss our conversations. He would prepare the table (rock coveted in a table cloth) like he was working in a fancy restaurant, taking care over the placement of the plastic plates and bowls. Each day he would carry and prepare my tent with pride, delivering me hot water bottles and snacks. His little daily motivational phrases and acts of kindness made the expedition so much easier.

(Alex, Edwin, me, Samson)

Thank you for following my climb and all the supportive messages. I hope you enjoyed the stories! See you all soon for more adventures on Africa's 5th highest summit: Mount Meru!

Thank you Kenya xx

(I plan to update the next plan when I return home on 5th March as my connection will be limited in Tanzania)