Lesson learned in climbing Mount Kilimanjaro
I encountered the majestic Mount Kilimanjaro in my middle school geography class in Germany. There, I learned about Tanzania, once known as Tanganyika, during its colonial era under German rule. I discovered that Hans Meyer, the mountain's first recorded climber, originally named its summit Kaiser William Peak. However, this name was later transformed by Nyerere, the revered father of Tanzania, into Uhuru Peak( A Swahili word for Freedom), signifying freedom after the nation attained independence. This historical narrative captivated me, igniting a lifelong ambition to stand at the summit of Kilimanjaro. Fast forward fifty years to a poignant moment after my late husband's passing: I embraced the solemn duty to honor his wishes by carrying his ashes to the very top of the mountain, making my dream not only personal but profoundly meaningful.
Looking back on this exhilarating journey, I am compelled to share why I believe that everyone should undertake this once-in-a-lifetime experience, as Mount Kilimanjaro stands as one of the seven wonders of Africa.
At an awe-inspiring height of 5,895 meters (19,341 feet) above sea level, Mount Kilimanjaro is not merely Africa’s highest peak; it is the tallest freestanding mountain in the world, an iconic sentinel that commands attention. While such statistics may seem abstract, they pale compared to the breathtaking vistas that greet climbers at every turn. Over seven to eight days, adventurers traverse an astonishing array of climatic zones—from verdant rainforests to dry moorlands, alpine deserts, and ultimately to the icy summit—each distinct environment echoing the allure of nature’s diversity. This journey allows one to experience all four seasons, from searing summer heat to the chill of snowy nights. The mountain hosts unique flora and fauna, including the endemic Impatiens Kilimanjaro flower, and beneath an expansive canopy of stars, the landscape unfolds into an unforgettable tapestry.
Lesson learned: Nature's grandeur is a testament to the beauty of our planet, urging us to champion its preservation and promotion.
Mount Kilimanjaro embodies various meanings for different souls. For some, it represents a formidable physical challenge; for others, it is a mental test or a significant source of livelihood. For me, it stands as a profound revelation: a poignant reminder that nothing is beyond my grasp, regardless of how daunting the odds may seem. Through this journey, I unearthed insights about my strength and the resilience of the human spirit.
Pole pole (slow down).
Embarking on a strenuous seven-day hike as a solo traveler was a conscious endeavor, a call to challenge both my physical and mental limits. After six months of meticulous planning and intense training, I embarked on this journey. Initially, I found the trek manageable, which engendered a sense of overconfidence. Yet, by the second day, the mountain humbled me, teaching the invaluable lesson of listening—to both my own body and the wisdom of my team. This expedition was not merely a race; it demanded a positive mindset (we honored a strict #nocomplaints rule), embraced living in the moment (with the absence of phone reception), and fostered the courage to face obstacles that once appeared insurmountable, such as the formidable Barranco Wall we conquered on day four. Ultimately, I learned that the true key to pushing beyond my limits lies in the power of perspective.
Lesson learned: Patience, perseverance, and a profound appreciation for the journey are essential, not just for climbing mountains but for navigating the complexities of life.
As we ascended to greater heights, the struggle for breath escalated, prompting me to question whether I would reach the summit—and at what cost. On the night before our final ascent, I confronted an emotional breakdown. The harsh weather left me numb, frozen, utterly exhausted, and devoid of appetite. Yet, despite these challenges, the dawn called me to rise and climb alongside my team. When tensions soared, and fatigue rendered me immobile, having not consumed enough nourishment, my guide offered me soup and encouragement, reminding me, “It’s about the journey, not just the destination.” He echoed a sentiment my late husband cherished: “Getting there is half the fun.” Both the journey and the destination held profound significance for me. Miraculously, I discovered an uncharted reservoir of strength that carried me through a relentless snowstorm to Uhuru Peak. An unparalleled sense of pride enveloped me in that climactic moment.
Lesson learned: Set ambitious goals for yourself and celebrate each accomplishment, no matter how small. I owe my success to the unwavering support of my incredible team: James, Elias, my guides Steve and Melissa, and my fellow climbers. With their presence, I reached the summit.
Climbing Mount Kilimanjaro had been a childhood fantasy I scarcely believed would ever materialize. Yet, my early years in Africa transcended all my expectations; I journeyed across the continent called Arusha home and ventured into countless adventures in Africa after that.
I am proud to say that I have summited Mount Kilimanjaro 14 more times since those early days. Additionally, I participated in the 7 Summit Africa Expedition, where we conquered seven summits in seven weeks for seven different causes.
“It is not the mountain we conquer but ourselves”