AFRICA: Climbing Kilimanjaro & Safari - July 2023

It's very quiet now that today's group of hikers have departed early this morning.  They were mostly energetic 20-30 somethings very excited to get going and start their climb. I don't really blame them. They have been preparing for this day for many months, and at great sacrifice.   Lindrin Lodge The outdoor lounge at the lodge I too have been preparing for this.  For nearly a year I've been living with perpetually sore muscles trying to get into marginal condition. It's been tough trying to emulate mountain climbing in Florida where the tallest "mountain" in the state is about 350 feet. My solution was to walk with a 35-40 lb pack (I only need to carry a 12-14 lb day pack on the actual hike.) And when not walking, I would take Ingrid's spin and circuit training classes. My goal there was just to keep up with the ladies. Yes, I'm looking at you Leslie, Wendy and Chris. The walking does a couple of things besides build endurance. First, it helps to...

Left Orlando on 30 June - arrive Moshi Tanzania, at the foot of Kilimanjaro on 2 July. The 45 minute drive to the lodge in Moshi was insane. The left-hand drive a la British was just a suggestion. We regularly passed trucks and motorcycles into oncoming traffic. As expected, the area is impoverished. Lots of people walking along the road. I was surprised to see so many women walking. What really caught me was how well dressed the women were. Beautiful clothes. Even the goat and cow herders were dress in bright red plaid outfits. I don't know what you would call them.  I must be cautious about taking pics of people because it is considered rude.  Lindrin Lodge in Moshi is located off the main road down a very rough dirt road. It's a gated ShangriLa in a very poor rural area. I don't think it would be safe to wander beyond the gates.  Today is a jet lag recovery day. I had tentatively planned for a tour of Moshi, thinking it must have a town center and tourist area but was ...