Charity trekking to the roof of Africa: Mount Kilimanjaro

Participants in this life-changing adventure will raise funds for disadvantaged children in both Tanzania and Kenya.

Marketing Director, Tricia Evans said, "Mount Kilimanjaro is formidable in terms of reputation and altitude, so anyone that joins us is in for a real adventure. At 5,895m (19,340ft), 'Kili' is Africa's highest peak - and the challenge is to reach the summit! It's a lifelong dream of many people to stand on 'Africa's Roof' and look down at the surrounding savanna. Whilst not aimed at athletes - we've had many former 'couch potatoes' complete it in previous years - it's still a demanding test of determination and fitness. However, because it's one of the most rewarding adventure challenges it's also one of the most popular, so sign up now before all the places are taken. If you do want to take part, I'd advise you to start training now. The fitter you are, the more you will enjoy yourself."

Chairman Brian Wilkie added, "This will be our fourth charity challenge to Kilimanjaro, and it's a special adventure for us because it was the one that officially launched Gulf for Good in 2001. Our past Kilimanjaro challenges raised a total of over Dhs800,000 for charity. This purchased four 4x4 ambulances for hospitals in rural Africa, extended and renovated schools and a wheelchair factory in Tanzania, and built a dormitory for an orphanage in Nairobi, so all these projects are still helping the needy today. Trekking on Mount Kilimanjaro is truly a once in a lifetime experience, which is why we expect lots of people from all over the Gulf to take up the challenge. We've already had confirmation from people from 3 countries, including a Bahraini national lady."

Beginning in Nairobi, the group will drive to Tanzania where they will start this tough 9-day challenge (with 5 days actual trekking) on the Marangu route with an ascent to 2,740m / 9,000ft at Mandara. They will continue on to Horombo (3,810m) for another acclimatization day, then to Kibo (4,724m) before reaching the summit at Uhuru Peak (5,895m) and descending back down.

Rated at a Difficult to Demanding fitness level and accompanied by a local team of experienced guides, participants on this charity challenge will be able to truly test their limits whilst experiencing and exploring an exceptional part of the world in the company of like-minded individuals. Participants will need to raise a minimum sponsorship to take part, but no previous experience is necessary and a number of free training sessions will be held.

The first 3 people that register for the challenge will receive a free East Africa travel guide courtesy of Magrudy's.