Woke up just in time for sunrise over horombo, which sits at 3700m, above the cloud line.
We packed for the last time making a pile of clothes to give to the porters. A light breakfast and then as we were about to break camp the porters burst into a song about Kilimanjaro.
We gave them our clothes which they really appreciated and then the obligatory tip. Our guide Elias explained more about why we were doing the challenge and they all were pleased that done of our sponsorship will come back to Tanzania through Transaid.
We had a steady descent in sunshine through the moorland and then forest zones. Passind Mandala huts which are the first stop for climbers in the Marungu route up Kili.
The track down was very busy with porters going up and down and bedraggled climbers descending passing hopeful and already tired climbers pn their way up.
We did pass several memorials to recent climbers and porters whom had died on the mountain. A sobering reminder of the realities of our challenge.
We managed to get to the park gate to complete the formalities by 1pm which meant that we had descended from the summit in less than 24 hours.
Writing this en route to Arusha for a well earned shower and any food but field camping fare.
Arrived at our hotel in Arusha, the Impala, which we are told is the 'best hotel in town'. It is not a five star, but any hotel with showers, warm water and real beds is very welcome.
Dad celebrated by having a quick shower and then having a Kilimanjaro beer by the pool.
We're off at 7am for the first day of our safari in tangarete national park.
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