Sixth Form pupil raises more than £5000 with Kilimanjaro charity climb

A Sixth Form pupil has raised more than £5000 for charity climbing Mount Kilimanjaro.

Joe P (Rt, UVI) travelled to Tanzania over half term to complete his charity challenge, raising money for Restart Africa.  

Joe said: “In October 2024, my dad and I climbed Mount Kilimanjaro via the Machame route, an unforgettable adventure guided by Living and Tomas.

“Known as the "Whiskey Route," it challenged us with its steep climbs and diverse terrains. Starting at Machame Gate, we passed through lush rainforests, moorlands and rocky landscapes, each stage offering stunning views. The climb tested our endurance, but Living and Tomas kept us motivated and steady, ensuring we adjusted to the altitude.

“Summit night was the ultimate test of determination. We set off from Barafu Camp at midnight, facing temperatures as low as -30°C. Exhausted from days of trekking and running on minimal sleep, every step felt like a monumental effort. The thin air made breathing difficult, and the icy wind cut through our layers, but we pressed on, guided by our headlamps and Tomas’s quiet encouragement.

“Slowly, we climbed higher, surrounded by darkness and the crunch of ice underfoot. As dawn broke, we reached Stella Point, greeted by golden light illuminating the glaciers—a sight that gave us a much-needed boost.

“Finally, at 9 AM on October 26th, we stood at Uhuru Peak, the highest point in Africa. The freezing temperatures and exhaustion faded into the background as we took in the incredible views and the sense of accomplishment. Standing there with my dad was a moment of pure triumph, a reward for the grit it had taken to reach the summit.

“The descent, though exhausting, gave us time to reflect on the journey. The climb was not just a personal achievement but also an opportunity to raise over £5,200 for Restart Africa. Summit night had pushed us to our limits, but it was a testament to resilience and teamwork.

“It’s an experience I’ll never forget and one I hope to build upon in the future.”