People

Mt Cotopaxi, Ecuador

Charles versus the volcano

Charles Murray’s Cotopaxi diary (22 Jan - 2nd Feb)

Friday 2nd February - heading home

"We're leaving for home today, which is exciting and I'm looking forward to seeing my family immensely, but it will be sad to see the expedition team break up. I didn't know what to expect from Ecuador: it's a stunningly beautiful country with scenery that has to be seen to be believed. At the start of the expedition I knew only one other person on the team, but today I'm leaving with 17 good friends, many of whom I've shared life changing experiences with; for that, I am grateful.

31.01.2007: Charles nears the summit

"Will there be other trips? I don't know. You've probably got to ask my wife Heather that one. Climbing/high altitude trekking is addictive, but it's also very selfish. Every time I contacted home it was evident it wasn't easy for them at home not truly knowing where we were or what we were doing and often we would be out of contact for many days at a time.

"However I hope that everyone who sponsored me is proud of what I've done. I've achieved more than I personally wanted to from this trip and I hope everyone who reads these rambling and disjointed thoughts is inspired to do something similar or even better, as it is really truly life changing."

Charles Murray's Cotopaxi climb is in aid of STEPS Charity Worldwide and Reach. Read previous instalments of his online diary >