Kilimanjaro rises peerlessly from the plains almost three vertical miles beneath its summit. There is no higher point on the earth’s surface for nearly 4,000 miles in any direction. Kilimanjaro, Africa’s highest peak at 5,895 m, is the world’s largest free standing mountain.
Climbers should have undergone a suitable regime of cardiovascular and endurance training in the months leading up to their expedition. The final days prior to flying out should be only moderately active, and care should have been taken to avoid rich foods.
Once rested from our flights, hydrated and refreshed, the ascent of Kilimanjaro will normally commence on a Monday morning. Having registered with the Kilimanjaro National Parks Authority (KINAPA), we begin ascending gradually through tropical rain forest, leaving behind the sunbaked savannah.
An ascent of Kilimanjaro takes us through almost every climate type and across a diverse range of environments. Day three, we reach what resembles a moonscape: a high altitude plateau from which rise the majestic and austere summit cones of Kibo and Mawenzi, seven miles apart.
In the small hours of day five we quit camp and begin the final ascent of Kibo’s summit pyramid.
We summit as the sun breaks the surface of an horizon that is more than a hundred miles away. Look to the north and with good eyesight you will glimpse Mount Kenya, precisely 200 miles to the north as it peeps over the brow of the earth’s curvature. The awe-inspiring view will be etched on your memory forever.
