Day 1 - Harder than expected

Well today was a lot harder than I expected.

We left the Machame Gate at 12.30 lunchtime and it was raining hard. In fact it rained pretty much throughout the walk today. Whilst that is to be expected, often until Day 3 when we get above the clouds, nevertheless walking in the rain is never much fun at the best of times but walking in the rain at altitude is something else !!! Especially as my waterproof bag is not very waterproof. Lesson for anyone reading this blog for future climbs: makes sure your waterproof gear is fully waterproof and don't just trust the labels!!

The contrast from the dry of yesterday is marked - but the scenery more than made up for that. We walked constantly upward today for 6 hours and climbed just under 4,000 feet. Effectively today we have climbed Ben Nevis but of course we started at over 6,000 feet so we are walking nearly three times the height of Ben Nevis already.

Whilst I remain in very good spirits, I would be lying if I said I couldn't feel the altitude. I was fine throughout the walk today but when I got to camp I got a mild headache and I feel a little bit sick now so I'm off to bed. Nothing too bad but it reminds you all the time that the Mountain is in control and not the other way around!

My mobile signal comes and goes so if I don't get through to everyone I'm sorry.

Hopefully tomorrow will be dry !!

xxx