Life-changing treks can have a powerful effect on our everyday lives. One unforgettable journey to summit Mount Kilimanjaro became an immutable part of a trekker’s story, compelling her to reexamine values and perspectives long after the mud was wiped from boots. The awareness that strife creates strength. The recognition that, wherever we go, people are what matter most. The realization that conscientious trekking creates a higher-quality experience for everyone. “The hardships we endured and the people who assisted us, without whom we could not have summited successfully, have irrevocably changed our lives forever,” she said. So, what made this Kilimanjaro trek so transformative?

The Ascent

Taking the Western Approach to Uhuru Peak—a 9-day route offering the most acclimatization time possible and a daytime summit bid—this journey travels through five distinct climate zones, ranging from tropical rainforest to frozen tundra. It’s one of the most accessible, yet consistently challenging routes of the world’s Seven Summits. At camp on the first day, looking up at the mountain inspired awe. “The great mountain sprung from the earth, reaching into the ether, seemingly residing in another plane of existence.”

The People

Time and again, the trekker found herself moved by the people met on the mountain. Like all Kilimanjaro routes, the Western Approach is led by a team of guides and porters—55 of them on this trek—well prepared to help combat physical difficulties and altitude effects while ascending from the heath to the moorlands, alpine desert, and arctic zones. When tight Achilles tendons and calves caused pain on the second day, a guide walked alongside at a slower pace, talking, joking, and offering steady companionship. The personal porter carried 25 pounds of gear, kept spirits up with Swahili lessons, ensured plenty of hydration, and encouraged the “pole, pole” (slowly, slowly) pace. “This porter served as more than someone to carry gear; he became a companion and brother. Without him, the summit may not have been possible.” Because of Kilimanjaro’s challenging conditions, inseparable bonds formed with the support crew. “Ethical and responsible tourism is vital to sustaining a thriving community and environment,” said the trekker. “The highest standards when it comes to the compensation and welfare of team members make all the difference.” At I Artist Adventure, we deeply respect and support the vital role of guides and porters in every successful safari and trekking experience.

The Test

The greatest challenge came on day five at the Barranco Wall, an 843-foot rocky slope rising sharply along Kilimanjaro’s side. Even for seasoned trekkers, this was a true test of strength. Fatigue and altitude made the steep scramble harder than any previous expedition. “I broke down and cried because I felt inadequate and weak,” she said. “I had trained so much but felt like I was failing.” But the support of guides and fellow trekkers helped overcome doubt and fear. “When insecurity hit, someone would always bolster my confidence, helping me tap into that inner strength to rise to the challenge.” In the end, she rose to the test—gaining strength to overcome Barranco Wall and move onward to Uhuru.

To Uhuru

The following days took the trekker through dramatically shifting landscapes—from the lunar-like Karanga Valley to the glacial summit zones. Nutritionist-designed meals, cooked by porters on portable stoves, fueled the climb, and mornings started with freshly brewed coffee and tea. On day seven, the final push to the summit began. The path to Stella Point, the last major milestone before Uhuru Peak, was steep and painful. Tight ankles and calves nearly stopped progress. “I overcame this by modifying my steps using a mountaineering rest step,” she said. “Pole-pole was vital!” Reaching Stella Point brought a renewed vigor, and the final trek to Uhuru Peak, Africa’s highest point at 19,341 feet, was a surreal, adrenaline-filled experience. “It was almost out-of-body, so surreal it didn’t register until after descending.”

Coming Down

Only after descending and seeing Kilimanjaro recede did the true impact settle in. “I was on the summit of that! WOW!” The mountain was tremendous, the climb epic, but what stayed longest in memory were the people. “Words can’t fully express the gratitude I feel towards the team. Scaling Earth’s greatest features changed how I view humanity and the importance of connection—to ourselves and to each other.” At I Artist Adventure, we believe every safari and trek is more than just a trip; it’s a journey that transforms. Ready to experience Tanzania like never before? Book your next adventure with I Artist Adventure today!