Mt Kilimanjaro

In 2014 or 2015, during my time at LinkedIn, I had a serendipitous encounter with a dear colleague who shared a remarkable story—one that would ignite a spark within me. He spoke of an extraordinary journey, one he had been waiting to embark upon since he was a young man. This was not just any trip; it was a journey he had postponed until his children had grown, allowing him the opportunity to share this incredible adventure with his family. The destination was none other than the iconic roof of Africa, Mount Kilimanjaro.

As my colleague recounted his experiences, he painted a vivid picture of a land unlike any other, where diverse ecosystems coexist. He described a landscape that transformed from lush rainforests in its lower elevations to a barren, Mars-like terrain near the summit. The temperature gradient was equally astonishing, ranging from a scorching 110 degrees at the beginning of the journey to a chilling minus 30 degrees at the mountain's peak.

Yet, what captured my imagination the most was the reverence with which the locals regarded Mount Kilimanjaro. They considered it a sacred place, a source of life, and their deep admiration for the mountain had endured for generations. My colleague shared the challenges they faced during their ascent, the days it took to reach the summit, and the indescribable feeling that washed over them when they finally stood at the pinnacle.

As I listened to his narrative, the fever for adventure swelled within me, and I knew that I too had to undertake this journey at some point in my life. I wanted to stand where he had stood, to feel what he and his family felt, and to experience the majesty of Mount Kilimanjaro for myself. The decision was made; the call of the mountain had been answered, and a new chapter of exploration and discovery awaited me.

In early 2022, a post on Facebook caught my attention—it was an invitation to participate in a challenging 26-mile walk/hike, an essential part of the preparation for an upcoming journey to Africa and the ambitious goal of summiting Mount Kilimanjaro. This post served as a powerful reminder of the promise I had made to myself seven years ago, a promise that had lingered in the back of my mind and now had the chance to become a reality.

Filled with excitement and determination, I reached out to the brave soul who had posted the invitation, introducing myself and expressing my keen interest in joining the 26-mile hike. The day of the hike arrived, and a group of four individuals set out to conquer the grueling 26 miles of challenging terrain. However, as I reached the 21-mile mark, my unprepared feet developed painful blisters, rendering me unable to continue. In my moment of need, I called upon my wife to come to my rescue.

During the hike, I shared my story with this person, expressing my deep desire to be a part of the larger journey—summiting Mount Kilimanjaro. In the interim, I embarked on a rigorous training regimen, honing my skills and fitness levels. I booked my trip, secured plane tickets, and the anticipation for the impending adventure became almost unbearable. The wait to stand atop the roof of Africa and achieve my long-cherished goal was an agonizing yet thrilling experience, building a sense of eager anticipation that would carry me through the final steps of my incredible journey.

Day 1 - ARRIVING AT Kilimanjaro Airport AND TRAVELING to Moshi

The long-awaited day finally arrived, and I was more prepared than ever for the adventure of a lifetime. After an arduous 22-hour flight, my plane began its descent into Moshi, bringing me closer to my destination at Kilimanjaro International Airport. As I peered out the window, I caught a glimpse of the majestic mountain's summit from high above, igniting an indescribable surge of excitement within me.

Once on the ground the journey continued as I gazed out of the car window on my way to the hotel, where I would finally set foot on the land that housed the towering peak I had long dreamed of conquering. The sight of that magnificent mountain, looming in the distance, was a powerful moment etched into my memory.

Upon my arrival at the hotel, I had the pleasure of meeting my fellow trip mate, creating a sense of camaraderie that would accompany us throughout this grand adventure. With a couple of days to spare before our ascent, we decided to explore the surroundings, embarking on a journey to a nearby waterfall and a village where the friendly locals introduced us to the art of coffee cultivation in Moshi. The experience was enriched by the tantalizing flavors of local cuisine, accompanied by the mesmerizing songs and dances performed by the welcoming residents.

The following day, we set out to explore Lake Chala, a stunning natural wonder nestled on the border between Tanzania and Kenya. The lake's clear, warm waters beckoned, and I couldn't resist the opportunity to partake in a kayaking tour while my trip mate enjoyed the shadows of the local trees on the shore. As I paddled across the pristine waters of Lake Chala, I marveled at the breathtaking beauty of this tranquil oasis, a perfect prelude to the monumental journey that awaited you on the slopes of Mount Kilimanjaro.

The day I had eagerly anticipated had finally arrived, and the excitement coursing through my veins left me unable to sleep past 5 a.m. I rose from my bed, ready to embrace the adventure that lay ahead. Oddly enough, everything had been meticulously prepared the night before, and yet, there I were, gazing at my bags, cameras, and batteries in anticipation.

After a hearty breakfast, it was time to venture out to meet the driver who would transport us to the Machame Gate, one of the six starting points for the trek up Mount Kilimanjaro. As I gathered my gear and essentials, the weight of the journey ahead hung in the air. At the gate, we underwent the process of having our luggage weighed, an essential step in ensuring that everything was in order before embarking on the trail. And with that, my trek to the summit officially began, with each step bringing me closer to the breathtaking heights of Africa's tallest peak.

Day 2 - Machame Camp

(9,927 feet/3,026 m), 7 miles/11 km (5 to 7 hours)

The day of my expedition had dawned, and after a hearty breakfast at my hotel in Moshi, I eagerly awaited the moment when our journey would truly begin. The guides arrived to pick us up, and with a sense of anticipation, I set out on a drive that took roughly an hour.

Our destination was the Machame Gate, a significant starting point for the trek up Mount Kilimanjaro. As I arrived at the gate, the atmosphere was charged with excitement and the promise of adventure. The initial leg of my trek would take me through a dense rainforest, a serene and lush environment that provided a gentle introduction to the challenges that lay ahead.

With every step, I ventured deeper into the heart of the forest, my senses immersed in the sights and sounds of this pristine natural world. The path led me ever onward, drawing me into the embrace of Kilimanjaro's majestic terrain, and with each passing moment, I grew more attuned to the rhythm of the journey.

Day 3 - Shira Camp

(12,355 feet/3,766 m), 3 miles/5 km (4 to 6 hours)

My morning on Mount Kilimanjaro began with a special and personal introduction to my dedicated trekking team. As we gathered together, a sense of camaraderie and shared purpose enveloped the group, forging bonds that would grow stronger with each step of the journey. I met my cook, my waiter my porters, assistant guides and others.

Today's trek presented a notable change in scenery as I left behind the dense jungle that had accompanied me on my initial ascent. The landscape shifted, revealing zones of giant heather and moorland, a stark yet captivating transition that signaled my increasing elevation and the changing ecosystems of the mountain.

Me and my fellow trekkers embarked on a short hike to the Shira Caves after reaching camp. This excursion provided an opportunity to explore and appreciate the unique features of the mountain, offering a firsthand encounter with the rugged terrain and fascinating geological formations that defined Kilimanjaro. With each passing day, I delved deeper into the heart of this extraordinary mountain, and the journey continued to unveil its wonders.

Day 4 - Barranco Camp

(13,066 feet/3,983 m), 6 miles/10 km (5 to 8 hours)

Leaving Shira Camp in the morning, our ascent took us in the direction of the primary peak of Mount Kilimanjaro, Kibo. Along the way, we marveled at the breathtaking sight of the western glaciers, their icy forms starkly contrasting against the rugged, high-altitude desert landscape punctuated by volcanic rocks and boulders.

As we pressed forward, the trail led us to the site of the Lava Tower, standing at an impressive elevation of 15,000 feet (4,600 meters). This marked a significant milestone in my journey, as we had now ventured into the realm of high-altitude terrain, where the air grew thinner, and the environment was characterized by barren volcanic rocks. there were only big birds and very small birds around us. no other life form that at least we could see existed.

Our trek also involved a descent into the Barranco Valley, where we descended to an elevation lower than where we had initially started for the day. This strategic ascent and descent, despite covering a relatively small total ascent of 110 meters, played a crucial role in your acclimatization process. It allowed my body to adjust to the increasing altitude gradually, enhancing my chances of success as you ascended further towards Kilimanjaro's summit.

The journey was demanding, requiring 6 to 7 hours of walking, but each step brought me closer to my goal and deeper into the heart of this awe-inspiring mountain. Thankfully my oxygen level never dropped below %90 and that was a big plus.

Day 5 - Barafu High Camp

(15,239 feet/4,645 m), 5 miles/9 km (5 to 8 hours)

The new day brought with it a formidable challenge: the steep ascent of the Barranco Wall. While the climb required some scrambling, it was not technically difficult, yet it demanded determination and focus. As we made our way up the Barranco Wall, the sense of accomplishment grew with each step, and the panoramic views of the surrounding landscape rewarded our efforts.

Following the exhilarating climb, I descended into the tranquil Karanga Valley, where a well-deserved break awaited me. Here, we took a pause to replenish our energy with a nourishing lunch, preparing for the next leg of our journey.

For those who had opted to add an extra day to their itinerary, Karanga Camp beckoned, offering a chance to rest and acclimatize further. Meanwhile, those following the regular itinerary pressed on after lunch, embarking on a journey that would last between 5 to 8 hours. In this stretch, I ascended an impressive 650 meters in elevation, culminating at Barafu Hut.

Barafu Hut marked the highest campsite on our route, a crucial waypoint in our ascent. Here, we rested and prepared for the challenging summit bid, which was scheduled to commence at 11 p.m. As the evening approached, I diligently readied my gear, knowing that the final and most demanding part of my journey lay ahead: the ascent to the summit of Mount Kilimanjaro.

Day 6 - Uhuru Peak Altitude

(19,340 feet/5,895 m), 3 miles/5 km ascent + 7 miles/12 km descent (10-16 hours)

The most momentous day of our journey commenced at the stroke of midnight, as we embarked on the final, challenging push towards the summit of Mount Kilimanjaro. Under the cover of darkness, the ascent was characterized by frigid temperatures and relentless effort, as we battled through a grueling six-hour hike up a steep slope. General Jummah gathred the group around and started the with a prayer. He led the group following him was my trip mate, then me then his assistant Michael and an extra assistant in case one od needed someone to carry their bag.

The trail, while achievable, was steep and filled with numerous switchbacks that seemed to stretch into eternity. everytime we looked up we saw a trail of headlamps aheadsaand behind us in a distance. The snow packed peak of the mountain was also shimmering under the faint light of half moon. Our determination and resilience were put to the test as we ascended relentlessly towards the summit rim. This demanding effort was a testament to our unwavering commitment and months of training to reaching the highest point in Africa. My trip mate was having a very difficult time but that was not going to distract from the commitment. I started hallucinating the food tent. latter I laugh at the idea of that.

Just as the sun's first rays began to paint the sky, we reached the summit rim, the wind started blowing a cold stream and the temperature dropped by -15 degrees. Getting here was a remarkable achievement that coincided with the glorious sunrise. From here, it was a relatively level hike along the rim to Uhuru Peak, the ultimate summit of Mount Kilimanjaro. the distance was only one km but it felt like 10. the lack of oxygen was getting to me. every step felt like i was carrying a load 10 time heavier. with the speed of a crawler we made it to the Uhuru Peak. This is the highest point of the summit. The elation and sense of accomplishment that washed over us as we stood at Uhuru Peak were beyond words, a pinnacle moment in my life's journey. I looked around me with disbelief. I felt small and humbled. in the mean time I felt I could achieve anything and can do anything. I felt like a giant and a spec of dust at the same time. It reminded me of a poetry that says:

"I wonder if I am a drop in an ocean

or an ocean in a drop"

The moment was nothing short of exhilarating. my hands began to tremble, and soon, my entire body followed suit. In the biting cold of minus 30 degrees, my eyes welled up, but it was hard to discern whether it was the frigid wind stinging my face or the torrent of emotions coursing through me that brought tears to my eyes.

It was a moment of overwhelming significance, where a myriad of emotions swirled within me, each vying for recognition. In that frozen, high-altitude environment, I stood at the pinnacle of achievement, a place where dreams became reality, and the boundaries of human potential were tested. The mixture of pride, joy, awe, and humility blended together, making it difficult to distinguish one feeling from another.

As I gazed upon the breathtaking landscape from the summit of Mount Kilimanjaro, I understood that this was not just a physical triumph but a testament to our unwavering determination and the limitless possibilities that lay within the human spirit. It was a moment of transcendence, etched into my memory, and a reminder that the world's most extraordinary experiences often come when we push beyond our limits and embrace the unknown.

The descent began, taking me back to Barafu Hut, where I was rewarded with a brief respite and some much-needed snacks. After our rest which I was told I was snoring and letting the whole camp know :) , the journey continued as we descended further to Mweka Camp, situated at an elevation of 3,068 meters (10,065 feet). The long day of trekking served a crucial purpose: to facilitate a swift return to lower elevations, mitigating the risk of altitude-related issues and ensuring my well-being. As we reflected on the incredible feat we had accomplished, the memories of this extraordinary adventure etched themselves into my heart and soul, a testament to my indomitable spirit and the allure of Mount Kilimanjaro's majestic heights.

Day 7 - Mweka Camp to Moshi

(Descent to 5,380 feet/725 m), 6 miles/10 km (4 to 5 hours)

The final leg of our remarkable journey began at Mweka Campsite. With the finish line in sight, we embarked on a descent that would last for approximately 4 to 5 hours. The trail led us through the lush forest, a serene and enchanting environment that served as a stark contrast to the rugged and challenging terrain we had encountered higher up the mountain.

As I descended, the air grew thicker, and the sights and sounds of the forest enveloped me, creating a sense of tranquility and closure. The journey brought me to the Mweka Gate, a symbolic threshold marking the conclusion of my epic adventure. Here, we collected our well-deserved certificates, tangible proof of our incredible accomplishment.

The celebration

The car picked our laguage and dropped us to the hotel. I was tired and beat but full of excitment and joy. I had just finished one of the biggest undertaking of my life. I had climbed 19341 feet to the top of Kilimanjaro. I had not taken a shower in 9 days. I took a much needed shower and damn it was good. I took a nap and then went to the lobby to get my Kilimanjaro climb certificate. 

In the lobby of the hotel, I had a chance encounter with a group of individuals who were gearing up for their own climb the following day. My friendly introduction and willingness to share our experiences made an instant connection, and they were delighted to see me.

As we engaged in conversation, we found ourselves fielding a plethora of questions, offering insights, and providing valuable guidance based on my own journey. The camaraderie and shared enthusiasm for adventure created an instant bond among us. I found out they were also from the US and from the same state I was form.

Later in the evening, we all decided to continue the conversation over dinner at the hotel's rooftop restaurant. It was a delightful and engaging meal, where stories were shared, advice was exchanged, and the sense of kinship among fellow adventurers was palpable.

Knowing that the next day held a new ascent for my newfound friends, I bid them good night, and they retired to prepare for their upcoming climb. I, too, sought the rest I deserved, as the memories of my own remarkable journey continued to resonate within me.

Day 8 - Departure Day

With the dawn of a new day, my journey on Mount Kilimanjaro had drawn to a close, leaving me with memories that would last a lifetime. After a hearty breakfast, the time had come to bid farewell to the magnificent mountain and its surrounding landscapes. I went up to the roof to take a look at the mountain one last time before leaving for the airport. The weather was pleasant and the sun was warm. the mountain stood in the distance half covered with clouds. So long my freind. until we meet again.

The driver who had picked me up from the airport was downstairs and it was time for me to get dropped off to the airport. I went and got my bags. said good bye to everyone and left.

As I departed from this extraordinary corner of the world, I carried with me not only the certificates of my achievement but also the profound sense of accomplishment, humbleness and wonder that had defined my expedition. Mount Kilimanjaro had shared its beauty, its challenges, and its indomitable spirit with me, leaving an indelible mark on my heart and soul. Though my journey had come to an end, the memories and the sense of achievement would stay with me, serving as a testament to the power of human determination and the allure of nature's wonders for years to come.