John Summits Mount Kilimanjaro

On 23 June, John Dennis packed his kit and set off on his journey to climb to Uhuru Peak, at 5895m the highest point on the crater rim of the dormant volcano.

John took on the challenge, looking to raise much-needed funds for a few carefully selected charities, including Behind Closed Doors.

“I chose Behind Closed Doors as it seems domestic abuse isn’t widely recognised or spoken about. The fact that anyone can be abused is something people should be made aware of. Behind Closed Doors is local to Leeds which makes me feel better that people I may know could be receiving their valuable support.”

John decided on the Machame route, also called the ‘whiskey route’, and is considered to have the most spectacular scenery. On Day 1 John started at Machame Gate, at the southern base of the mountain. It’s a 7-mile steep trek through lush rainforest to reach the first camp, Machame camp. On Day 2 John left behind the rainforest and continued along a steep rocky ridge to Shira camp. Over the next 3 days John trekked to Barranco camp, Karanga camp and to Barafu camp, 15,300ft above sea level.

Day 6 was summit day, John left Barafu at midnight and trekked 7 hours by head torch light to reach Stella point and watch the incredible sunrise. After a short rest John continued the 1-hour journey to the peak. “I was absolutely drained of energy. I was tired and cold, although I had 3 layers of clothes on, but!!!” He did it!

A fantastic achievement – congratulations John!