Plus Real Stories from I Artist Guests

Sweat. Aches. Pains. Dust. Cold. Fatigue. Is climbing Mt. Kilimanjaro even worth it?

Ask any I Artist trekker who’s stood on the Roof of Africa and you’ll hear a resounding, “YES, ABSOLUTELY!”

For many, Kilimanjaro was the beginning of a new chapter. It was the triumph that revealed their deepest strength. A milestone that forever changed their lives.

“I was so overloaded with adrenaline at the summit that it was like an out-of-body experience. An event so surreal that it didn’t register until well after coming down the mountain.”
— Lisa Garruzzo, I Artist Trekker

With I Artist Adventure’s expert guides and a high summit success rate, it’s no wonder climbers descend from Kilimanjaro feeling revived, empowered, and inspired. Here are six ways climbing Kilimanjaro can transform your life.

1. Your Confidence Climbs with Every Step

Climbing Kilimanjaro may be the hardest thing you ever do. The mountain challenges you physically, mentally, and emotionally. But with I Artist’s professional guides and warmhearted support team, you’ll never walk alone.

Every hurdle you overcome on the mountain builds your self-belief. You’ll discover that persistence and positivity are more powerful than fatigue—and that strength will stay with you long after you descend.

“Summit morning gave me confidence in myself that no other experience could have given me. I gained confidence as an adult, as a mom, as a wife, as a colleague—you name it. When you accomplish something as big as Kili, you know other challenges pale in comparison.”
— Ali Riley, I Artist Trekker

2. Training Unleashes Your Inner Athlete

Training for Kilimanjaro is more than preparation—it’s transformation. Your focus on endurance, strength, and cardio leads to a sharper body and clearer mind.

You’ll learn how to balance nutrition, sleep, and movement in ways that benefit every area of your life.

“Kili leaves me with many cherished memories, a significant physical accomplishment and a new-found understanding of mental and physical stamina.”
— Ken Hosch, I Artist Trekker

“It didn’t happen overnight, but during my Kili training, I dramatically improved my lifestyle. More focused on health, fitness and mental wellness.”
— Eric Hankinson, I Artist Trekker

Not sure where to start? Our fitness partners offer customized training programs tailored to your Kili itinerary. Ask us about exclusive discounts for I Artist trekkers!

3. You’ll Forge Lifelong Bonds

The friendships formed on Kilimanjaro last a lifetime. Sharing breathtaking views, tough climbs, and triumphs creates unforgettable connections with your fellow trekkers.

You’ll also remember your guides and porters—the unsung heroes of your journey. Their kindness, strength, and spirit will inspire you.

“Words cannot adequately express the gratitude I feel. I’ve never thought about how scaling earth’s most magnificent features could have such a profound effect on the way I view humanity and the importance of connection—connection to our inner selves and each other.”
— Lisa Garruzzo, I Artist Trekker

4. See Otherworldly Beauty

Kilimanjaro is not just a mountain—it’s five worlds in one. You’ll hike through lush rainforests, alpine deserts, moorlands, arctic zones, and glaciers.

It’s like trekking from the equator to the North Pole in a single climb.
There’s simply nothing like it on Earth.

5. Kili Can Be a New Beginning

Kilimanjaro is a place of rebirth. A journey of struggle, success, and spiritual clarity. For many, it marks a turning point in life.

Take Peter Matthews, one of our inspiring guests. After recovering from a life-saving liver transplant, he set his sights on Africa’s highest peak.

“If you have a big challenge, decide that you’re going to do it and never, ever, quit on it. If a 68-year-old grandfather with a newly transplanted liver can do it, anyone can.”
— Peter Matthews, I Artist Trekker

On the mountain, there are no distractions. Only you, your journey, and the horizon.

6. Kili Is an Adventure Like No Other

For most people, Kilimanjaro remains a distant dream. Too far. Too hard. Too risky.

But for you, it will become a personal badge of honor. Something that proves your resilience, courage, and ambition.

“When something difficult comes up, I remember that I did this trip and accomplished my goal; so I can persevere at anything. I still love throwing it into conversation when people start to doubt me – Excuse me, I climbed Kilimanjaro; trust me, this isn’t so bad.”
— Christine Jacobs, I Artist Trekker

Ready to Embark on the Climb of Your Life?

Start your Kilimanjaro journey with I Artist Adventure. Our locally-based team in Tanzania offers unparalleled support, expert knowledge, and the experience of a lifetime.

Your mountain is waiting.