“Wow” 
is the translation of Kilimanjaro’s famous summit peak, Kibo, and KIBO didn’t disappoint.
The Kilimanjaro expedition started with members of 158 & 162 RLC landing at Kilimanjaro airport, roughly 1000 metres above sea level. This was interesting to me when I realised that this is a similar height to Mount Snowdon! After a long bus ride to the start of Lemosho gate we were met by our amazing porters and guides. An army of 67, which shocked the expedition team due to the sheer numbers required to support. All of the porters and guides were stoked and with a quick introduction and meet and greets we were on our way.
The first day was a quick steep accent through the lush rainforest and muddy tracks. We were even welcomed by local monkeys on our trail. After a few hours we had made our first camp for the night in the thick jungle. This is where we learnt how this camp and every camp we would eventually go to was run and organised, it was impressive to say the least: with portable toilets, chef tents and porters setting up the tents. Watching the porters carry all the equipment up the mountain around us was not only incredible, but inspirational to the rest of the team and I. They showed incredible strength and determination.
The next few days we spent ascending and descending while working with the altitude to help adjust. Our porters and guides remained the real heroes, keeping us fed and keeping our moral high with songs and dances in the mornings.
The final night summit could only be described as difficult. We were awoken at 2300 to start just after midnight in temperatures of -20 windchill. This climb would also be the steepest and longest we had endured. With a 1000 metre climb facing us after the 800 metres already completed the day before, it was hard. However, spirits remained high as we pushed on towards the summit to be met by a stunning sunrise peaking over the clouds. Watching this cured any altitude related symptoms I was facing as I realised that we had made it. From the top you could see clouds under you and the rest of mountain below.
Personally, Kilimanjaro will be a once in a lifetime experience for me, setting the bar high for my Army Reserve career. Any time I take on adventure training in other places, such as Wales and Scotland, I’ll remember that nothing will probably compare to summiting Kilimanjaro.
By LCpl Harry Lowe, 261 (Horsa) Transport Squadron, 158 Regiment Royal Logistic Corps.
261 (Horsa) Transport Squadron, 158 Regiment Royal Logistic Corps
Officers and soldiers of 261 (Horsa) Transport Squadron, 158 Regiment Royal Logistic Corps are experts in logistics. The are equally as comfortable on foot as they are at the wheel of a MAN support vehicle 6 tonne truck.
The Regiment employs Regular and Reservist soldiers in various trades from across the RLC. Trained as soldiers first, they then develop a wide range of specialist skills through their individual trades; most of which are directly transferable into the civilian workplace.