Savvi Travel director says Kilimanjaro climb ‘hardest thing I’ve done’

Savvi Travel director Kay Batley has described summiting Mount Kilimanjaro as the “hardest thing I’ve ever done”.

Batley, who reached the peak of Africa’s highest mountain last week, a month before turning 65, said she was “still buzzing” after returning home to North Northamptonshire.

“I thoroughly enjoyed it but it was definitely the hardest thing I’ve ever done in my life. It was the most rewarding thing I’ve ever done as well,” she added.

Batley, who completed the Tanzania trek with specialist tour operator Legend Expeditions, began the climb on Friday, August 7 and reached the peak at 8am on Thursday, August 13.

She said she was “really pleased” her efforts had raised £2,648 for baby loss charity Sands.

During the climb, she experienced challenges linked to the altitude, including headaches, but she said she managed to control her breathing effectively.

The five members of the group were well supported by a 32-strong team of porters, she said, who kept morale high. “I loved the people of Tanzania,” she added.

On reaching the foot, Batley was greeted by husband Dave before the pair went on a three-day safari taking in Tarangire National Park and the Ngorongoro Crater.

In preparation for the trek, Batley visited the gym for about 18 months. She intends to continue walking and has set her sights on conquering another peak.