Nicole's Kilimanjaro Journey

It all began with a simple question: “Who would like to climb Kilimanjaro?” And just like that, my hand went up. I wanted to join, I wanted to climb Mount Kilimanjaro!

This moment was more than a spontaneous “yes.” It was a dream come true. Early in my tourism career, I once saw a newsletter that read, “Climb Mount Kilimanjaro.” I remember looking at it and telling myself:

“One day, I want to do that.”

Years later, that dream became a reality.

When you decide to take on a challenge like this, the planning begins long before the hike itself.

If you’re not an avid hiker and don’t already have the gear, you have to start from scratch. For me, the most important piece of equipment was finding the right hiking boots. I spent weeks researching which boots were best for Kilimanjaro, trying them on, and making sure I felt completely comfortable. I wanted boots I could also use for future hikes. Eventually, I settled on the Salomon brand, which felt right for me.

The second most important part of my gear was socks. I invested in quality hiking socks from Bridgedale and packed a variety of weights: liner socks, lightweight, midweight, and summit socks

Next came thermals and base layers. I tried different options to find what felt both warm and comfortable.

I chose a comfortable daypack, just the right size for daily hiking and training. I added a hydration bladder for easy access to water, plus trekking poles, which I practiced with before the hike.

Everything else, from sleeping bags to outerwear, was easy to rent once in Tanzania.

We continued through the rainforest and into the moorland. I noticed how the vegetation changed with altitude: warm, humid forest giving way to cool, cloudy moorland.

The pace was slow and deliberate, one step at a time, to help acclimatize. Evening reflection time became an important mental routine.

Our guide’s words echoed in my head: “Don’t force the mountain; it will push back. Rest. Stay calm.”

• 05:45: Wake-up Call
• 06:00: Breakfast and pack up
• 08:00: Departure
• 13:40: Lava Tower arrival

A windy and cold day, with a tea break en route to coffee, tea, Milo, and crisps. We reached Lava Tower around 13:40 for a hot lunch of vegetable soup, buttered bread, and fruit. The climb to Lava Tower was a challenging acclimatization hike. Nonetheless, I managed well and was glad when we descended to camp for the night.

The alpine desert terrain was stark and beautiful. We reached Baranco Camp in the late afternoon, tired but grateful. Dinner was cucumber soup, veggie pizza, and spaghetti. Yum.

Order of Day 6: This was it, summit preparation.

• 08:30–13:15: hike
• Lunch
• 17:30: Dinner
• 18:30: Bedtime
• 23:00: Wakeup call and prep for midnight summit hike

Bloody nose from dry air, dust, and altitude
Experienced some stomach discomfort and shortness of breath

We had a hot lunch at camp and an early dinner at 17:30 before trying to rest. I woke up often but stayed calm, remembering the guide’s advice.

At 23:00, we got up for tea, coffee, and biscuits, then at midnight began our summit hike under the stars. Seeing the line of headlamps ascending the mountain was surreal.

My water bladder froze, something I’d been warned about but still couldn’t quite believe. I broke away from the group to keep my own steady pace, breathing deeply. The guides were incredible, supporting us every step of the way.

During the summit hike, I reminded myself to look up, look around, and take it in. Seeing daybreak over the mountaintops was phenomenal.

Our team members were well-prepared, from medication for headaches and altitude symptoms to probiotics, antibiotics, and snacks.

Diamox or Azomid, which we tested before the trip, caused tingling in our fingers, feet, and even facial numbness — all normal side effects which we were ready for.

• Walk Pole Pole – Slow and steady is the key to acclimatizing well.
• Hydrate – Aim to drink at least 3 L of water per day to keep your body strong and help with altitude and headaches.
• Rest – Sleep or simply rest whenever you can. Recovery is crucial.
• Fuel Up – Make sure to eat enough, especially in the early days. Your appetite might drop as the altitude increases, so eat well when you can.
• Listen to Your Guide – They know the mountain best; follow their lead and advice.
• Communicate How You Feel – Always keep your guide informed about how you’re feeling physically and mentally.

• Climbing Mount Kilimanjaro was more than just climbing a mountain. it was a personal achievement of strength, determination, and commitment.
• If you had asked me while I was on the mountain whether I’d do it again, my answer would have been a firm “no.” If you ask me now, my answer is a loud “yes — absolutely!”
• The incredible support from our mountain guides and our fellow team members — an interesting and diverse group — made the experience unforgettable. We all shared the same mindset and goal, which created a strong sense of camaraderie.
• After the descent, there was a celebration ceremony and lunch, probably one of the happiest moments of my life. I received my summit certificate and medal, which now proudly hang at my work desk as a daily reminder of what’s possible when you push yourself.
• Each morning began with short breaths and a moment’s hesitation to leave the warmth of my sleeping bag. Then the tent flap opened, and the world transformed – the mountain towering ahead, the clouds spread out beneath us, as if we were waking in heaven itself.
• Climbing Kilimanjaro was a journey of preparation, perseverance, and self-discovery, and it’s an experience I will carry with me forever.