I have decided to use the £50 to cover the cost of hiking to the summit of Acatenango Volcano, which overlooks the old colonial city of Antigua in Guatemala. Climbing Acatenango is a popular activity; however, it is not without its dangers. Six people died whilst attempting the climb due to a sudden cold front during January this year. As such, due to the altitude (the peak is almost 4,000 meters above sea level) and dangers of climbing in the colder months, I will be attempting the climb in the warmer months, on Tuesday 27th June.

We will leave for the summit around midday, hike all afternoon and evening, before setting up camp for the night (an hour’s hike from from the summit). If we are lucky, Fuego volcano (which is adjacent to Acatenango) will be putting on a spectacular light show as it erupts on a regular basis. We will then wake in the very early hours to complete the final ascent and watch the sunrise from the summit. Then it’s back down to earth for a well deserved cerveza or two!

Thank you in advance to everyone who sponsors me. And a BIG thank on behalf of Maidstone Mencap! :)