Id always wanted to climb Kilimanjaro. Relentlessly hearing that line in the song Africa by Toto “Sure as Kilimanjaro rises like Olympus above the Serengeti” a constant reminder. Aged 50 complete with a requirement for new hips I booked the trip.
My trek to to climb Mount Kilimanjaro via the Lemosho Route was an adventure like no other, a challenging yet exhilarating journey up Africa’s highest peak in Tanzania. From the UK, I flew into Kilimanjaro Airport, with a layover in Nairobi, before arriving and getting a Arusha Bed and Breakfast which served as my base, and I spent a night both before the trek in a serene coffee plantation lodge on the outskirts of town. The lodge was a peaceful haven, surrounded by lush coffee plants and tall trees. My room was warm, rustic and came with large windows that looked out over the landscape, offering the perfect place to unwind and prepare for the climb.
The Lemosho Route is known for its scenic beauty and gradual acclimatization, making it an ideal choice for those looking to summit Kilimanjaro. Well if your young anyway. The trek began in a forested area, where we encountered lush vegetation, colorful wildflowers, and the occasional glimpse of colobus monkeys. As we ascended, the landscape changed dramatically with each day, transitioning from rainforests to heathlands, then to the alpine desert, and finally to the arctic conditions at the summit. The physical and mental challenge of each stage was intense, but the beauty around me kept me motivated. I felt a deep sense of awe and respect for the mountain and the local guides who led our group with skill and encouragement.
The views were breathtaking throughout the trek, with vistas of sweeping valleys, rugged peaks, and an endless horizon. One of the most stunning sights was the Shira Plateau, where we could see the summit in the distance, a reminder of the journey that lay ahead. At night, the sky was alive with stars, unaffected by any light pollution, creating a magical experience as we lay outside our tents gazing up in awe.
Our meals on the trek were pretty basic. Lots of carbs thanks to our skilled cook and porters. We enjoyed hearty breakfasts, lunches, and dinners, which included warm soups, pasta, rice dishes, and even fresh fruits and vegetables. The food was simple but satisfying, providing the energy we needed for the long days of hiking. Dining in the mess tent each evening, with everyone sharing stories from the day, added to the sense of camaraderie.
The tents were surprisingly comfortable, with ample space and warm sleeping bags to ward off the mountain’s cold nights. Despite the simplicity, each tent felt like a small refuge from the elements, a place where I could recharge and prepare for the next day’s climb.
Reaching the summit was the pinnacle of the journey. As we approached Uhuru Peak just before dawn, the air was thin and freezing, and each step required immense focus and determination. Finally arriving at the summit sign, standing at 5,895 meters, was an overwhelming experience. I felt a mix of exhaustion, elation, and pure joy as I posed for a photo beside the iconic sign, the sun rising over the African continent in a golden glow behind me. It was a moment I’ll cherish forever, a personal achievement against the majestic backdrop of Kilimanjaro. Everest Base camp next anyone?