Africa Adventure Consultants’ own Nell Pollak has a deep passion for Africa. She has enjoyed a variety of adventures across the continent, including a four-month trip to Kenya after college as well as walking 1,088 miles over 58 days across Kenya, Uganda and Rwanda. One indelible memory for her was kicking off a new year on Uhuru Peak on Mt. Kilimanjaro for sunrise. She shared her day by day experience with us here on the blog.
Climbing Mount Kilimanjaro, Africa’s tallest peak, had always been a dream of mine. The challenge, the allure of reaching the “Roof of Africa” and the breathtaking views from the summit were enough to convince me to embark on this epic adventure. I chose the Machame Route, known for its stunning scenery and diverse landscapes, and what follows is an accounting of my incredible journey to the summit.
The beginning of my Kilimanjaro adventure started at the Machame Gate, where I met my fellow trekkers and our experienced guides. The Machame Route is a popular choice for those seeking a more adventurous and scenic experience, and it didn’t take long to see why. The lush rainforest enveloped us as we began our ascent, and the first day’s hike was a gentle introduction to what lay ahead.
The second day brought a noticeable change in the landscape. The dense rainforest gave way to moorland, and the air began to thin as we gained elevation. The hiking was more strenuous, but the promise of reaching the Shira Plateau kept us motivated. The evening sky treated us to a stunning display of stars.
The Shira Plateau is a high desert-like expanse, and it’s truly a sight to behold. We trekked across this otherworldly landscape, feeling like we were on another planet. The stark beauty of the surroundings and the sense of isolation from the outside world made for a unique experience.
One of the most challenging and exhilarating days of the journey was when we tackled the Barranco Wall. This steep climb required some scrambling and determination. As we conquered the wall, we were rewarded with breathtaking views of the Barranco Valley below.
Karanga Camp marked our progress towards the summit, and our excitement was palpable. We could see the snowy peak of Kilimanjaro above us, reminding us of the ultimate goal of summitting. As we settled into our camp, we knew that the next day would be the most demanding yet.
The day leading to Barafu Camp was physically and mentally taxing. The thin air and challenging terrain made this ascent a true test of endurance. Arriving at Barafu Camp, we knew that the summit was within reach, but we also understood the immense challenge that lay ahead.
The summit night is what Kilimanjaro climbers often describe as the most challenging part of the journey. We woke in the dead of night and bundled up against the freezing cold. Slow and steady or “pole, pole” (slowly, slowly in Swahili) we ascended the scree slopes of the summit, navigating by headlamp. The air was thin, and every step was a challenge, but the determination to reach Uhuru Peak kept us going.
The summit reaching Uhuru Peak, the highest point on Kilimanjaro, was an overwhelming moment. The sense of accomplishment, the spectacular sunrise and the breathtaking views across the African plains were nothing short of magical. We had conquered Kilimanjaro!
Climbing Kilimanjaro on the Machame Route was the adventure of a lifetime. The journey challenged me physically and mentally, but the rewards were immeasurable. The diverse landscapes, the camaraderie with fellow trekkers and the triumph of standing on Uhuru Peak made this experience unforgettable. Kilimanjaro is not just a mountain; it’s a symbol of determination and the human spirit’s ability to conquer even the highest peaks. If you’re seeking an adventure like no other, consider the Machame Route and make your own journey to the Roof of Africa.
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