Looking for trekking buddies and tips

Hi there! I’m looking for one or two (or more) people to climb the Maasai sacred mountain, Ol Doinyo volcano. I already have a guide. The dates are January 12, 13, and 14. It’ll be a full moon, so it’ll be easier to see during the night ascent. Good physical fitness is required. Otherwise, to anyone who’s been there before—I’d love some tips!

Hi,

It’ll be a full moon, easier to see clearly during the nighttime ascent.

What’s the point of climbing at night? The heat? It should be doable during the day, but two days seems better. Personally, I’d rather set off early, around 5:30 / 6:00 AM... Above 2,500m, the heat shouldn’t be too much of a problem. At least you get to enjoy the scenery!

Exactly—we soak in the scenery at sunrise! Heading out in the morning and coming back after dark… why not 😄

Leave in the morning and come back at night.. why not

To do the round trip in one go, I think you need to be in really good shape! The elevation gain is probably significant (over 1,500m?). And coming back at night, descending after a tiring day, seems a bit risky to me. Good luck.. I hope you find some teammates. I’ve found some (here on VF) three times for long treks in the Himalayas—it always went well—but now (since VF reopened), I don’t see many candidates for trekking anymore. VF has become the site for cruises and tame sightseeing tours... Good luck!

Yes, 1500 m of elevation gain—we go up and down, so you understand why we leave around 11 PM and return around noon. A bit sporty! But gently... definitely! I’ve done the Sinai, it’s magical when the sun rises. Otherwise, I’m heading to Ethiopia for a trek if you’re interested! Late January, in the Simien Mountains and a tour of the Danakil Depression.

Otherwise, I’m heading off on a trek in Ethiopia if you’re interested! End of January, in the Simien Mountains and a tour of the Danakil Depression.

Oh, I’ve done two there. The first in the Simien Mountains. Gorgeous landscapes but few villages along the route. The second was a "full immersion" style like "Meet the Locals" in the Lalibela region—an unforgettable memory! I’ve kept in touch with my guide for 9 years now; he still messages me from time to time. Mareg Asmro. I talk about it here: https://voyageforum.com/forum/retour-trek-3-jours-dans-montagnes-lalibela-ethiopie-d9825122/

Thanks! When I click, it doesn’t work! I’m new here, I haven’t figured everything out yet 😅 but if you want to DM me... Always helpful to have good recommendations 😊