Sisters on the Barranco Wall of Mount Kilimanjaro

My name is Angela Woods, and I’m the Manager of Guest Experience here at I Artist Adventure, based in the heart of Tanzania. I just returned from an unforgettable journey – trekking Mount Kilimanjaro, the legendary “Roof of Africa”! What made this adventure even more special? I shared every step of it with my incredible sister, best friend, and lifelong teammate, Ashley.

Kilimanjaro had long been a dream for both of us – a bucket-list goal fueled by our desire for adventure, physical challenge, and deep personal connection. We wanted more than just beautiful scenery; we wanted to reconnect, to laugh, to sweat, and to conquer something extraordinary together. And I knew from the start, if I was going to spend nine days battling altitude and terrain, there was no one else I’d rather have by my side.

Training for the Climb

We both knew climbing Kilimanjaro wasn’t going to be a simple hike. It demanded more – endurance, strength, and most importantly, mental grit. Months before departure, we committed to a consistent training regimen. Long hikes, strength training, and high-altitude simulations became our routine. But more than that, we trained ourselves mentally for the ups, downs, and unpredictable elements the mountain would throw our way.

The Journey Begins

Landing in Tanzania always takes my breath away, but this time it was even more powerful. Not only was I preparing to trek the tallest free-standing mountain in the world, but I was doing it with Ashley – and I couldn’t wait to show her the country I hold so dear. Tanzania isn’t just where I work; it’s where I found love, built my career, and fell in love with the wild soul of Africa.

On day one, we drove to Lemosho Gate, where we met our phenomenal I Artist Adventure trekking team – experienced, knowledgeable, and full of Tanzanian warmth. They weren’t just guides and porters; they were the heartbeat of our journey.

Our trekking group felt like instant family – a mix of first-time trekkers, marathon runners, and nature lovers from all over the world. One biologist even pointed out native flora and curious monkeys as we passed through the rainforest.

Climbing Through Changing Worlds

Every day on the mountain was a new world – lush rainforests gave way to alpine deserts, volcanic rock, and icy peaks. We moved pole pole (“slowly, slowly” in Swahili), stopping often to soak in our surroundings and rest. We laughed, we shared snacks, we admired the incredible biodiversity – from vivid birds to shy colobus monkeys swinging through the trees.

Each step up brought fresh challenges, but also breathtaking beauty. And each night under a sky full of stars reminded us that this was no ordinary adventure – it was a journey into the heart of Tanzania and into our own strength.

Overcoming Obstacles

Ashley is a machine when it comes to endurance – she crushes marathons like they’re warm-up jogs. But even she was challenged by Kilimanjaro. It wasn’t the distance, but the altitude, camping conditions, and lack of daily comforts that tested her most.

As someone who supports travelers every day through I Artist Adventure, I always emphasize physical preparation – but the mental side is just as critical. Ashley had trained, but nothing fully prepares you for mountain life. Cold mornings, no showers, and altitude sickness were real tests.

Still, we kept each other’s spirits up – with stories, laughter, and sisterly encouragement. Our team saw her struggling early and rallied behind her, adjusting her backpack, cheering her on, and ensuring she stayed hydrated and energized. That kind of support? It’s what makes trekking Kilimanjaro with I Artist Adventure so different – it’s not just about reaching the summit, it’s about the people who help you get there.

Reaching the Summit: Our Sister Moment

The night before summit day, I opened a surprise note from a coworker and savored a few chocolate-covered pistachios from another – small rituals that fueled me emotionally before the hardest climb of all. Summit night is a test: freezing temperatures, thin air, steep inclines, and sheer fatigue. But together, step by step, Ashley and I pushed through.

There were tears. There was doubt. But there was also that magical sisterhood strength – the kind of love that pushes you forward when your legs say no. After seven days of climbing, we reached Uhuru Peak, the very top of Africa.

We hugged. We cried. We laughed. Then, in true triumphant spirit, our entire group did celebratory push-ups on the summit – because why not show off a little strength on top of the world?

More Than Just a Climb

Climbing Mount Kilimanjaro with I Artist Adventure wasn’t just a mountain trek – it was a journey of self-discovery, teamwork, and sisterhood. It was the joy of being guided by passionate locals who know every inch of the trail. It was the bond formed over shared struggles and shared sunsets. It was seeing the magic of Tanzania through fresh eyes – with someone I love beside me.

Now that we’re back home, we’re sore, sun-kissed, and full of pride. What we accomplished wasn’t just about distance or elevation – it was about rising above our fears, together.

So... are you ready to rise too? Join us at I Artist Adventure for your own unforgettable Kilimanjaro experience – and discover what’s waiting for you at the summit.