Reaching the Roof of Africa: A Personal Journey

The idea of climbing Kilimanjaro felt like a distant dream until the day it became real. It wasn’t just me on this adventure—I was climbing with my mum and her friends, a group whose energy and camaraderie turned what could have been a daunting challenge into an unforgettable journey. The Machame Route became not just a trail to the summit but a shared path that brought us closer, both as climbers and as people.

From the moment we arrived at the Machame Gate, the excitement was palpable. The air buzzed with conversations, introductions, and laughter as climbers from all over the world prepared to start their ascent. Our group was a mix of personalities—each bringing their quirks, strengths, and stories. Some had years of hiking experience, while others, like me, were embracing the mountain for the first time. What united us was the shared goal of standing on the Roof of Africa.

The rainforest welcomed us on that first day, its dense greenery and lively sounds creating a sense of wonder. It wasn’t long before the conversations started flowing. There’s something about walking together, step by step, that makes it easy to connect. I learned about the lives of people I might never have met otherwise—a teacher from Canada, a couple from Germany, a solo adventurer from South Africa. Their stories added richness to the experience, and by the time we reached Machame Camp, it already felt like we were part of a family.

As the days went on and we climbed higher, the bonds deepened. We shared snacks, encouraged each other through moments of exhaustion, and celebrated small victories—like the first glimpse of Kibo Peak or a particularly spectacular sunrise. My mum and her friends brought a special kind of energy to the group. Their laughter was infectious, and their determination was inspiring. Watching them tackle the climb with such resilience made me realize just how strong they were—not just physically, but mentally.

Of course, the mountain has a way of humbling you. By the time we reached Lava Tower, the altitude was starting to hit. The air felt thinner, and every step required more effort. But those were the moments when the group spirit shone the brightest. Someone would crack a joke, another would offer a helping hand, and somehow, we’d keep moving forward. It wasn’t just about reaching the summit; it was about making sure everyone got there together.

Summit night was unlike anything I’d ever experienced. We started in the dark, bundled against the cold, our headlamps casting narrow beams of light on the rocky trail. It was quiet, except for the sound of boots crunching on ice and the occasional word of encouragement. Climbing with my mum beside me made it even more meaningful. We didn’t talk much—there wasn’t much energy for that—but the unspoken support between us was enough.

When we finally reached Uhuru Peak, it was surreal. The view was breathtaking, but what I remember most is the feeling of standing there with the people who had become my mountain family. We hugged, laughed, and took photos, trying to capture a moment that words could never fully describe. It wasn’t just a personal victory; it was a collective one.

The descent was hard—harder than I’d anticipated. My legs ached with every step, and the euphoria of the summit was replaced by sheer exhaustion. But even then, the bond we’d formed carried us through. We shared stories from the climb, reminiscing about the moments that had tested us and the ones that had made us laugh until our sides hurt. By the time we reached Mweka Gate, we were no longer just a group of strangers; we were friends, bound by the mountain.

Climbing Kilimanjaro wasn’t just about reaching the top; it was about the journey—about the people who walked beside me and the connections we built along the way. The mountain taught me that challenges are easier when shared, and that some of the best memories come from the unexpected friendships formed in the most unlikely places. Kilimanjaro wasn’t just a peak to conquer; it was a reminder of how extraordinary people can be, and how much we can achieve together.