I first became aware of the possibility of climbing Mt. Kilimanjaro in 2004.
Jason and I were at the Denver Museum with baby Hamp, who needed a nap, so we ducked into the IMAX theater and while Hamp snoozed solidly in my arms I learned all about an expedition to the summit of the highest point in Africa... and I was hooked. The thought that a single mountain climb could include a rainforest, deciduous forest, moorland, alpine tundra, and a glacier was fascinating - as was the fact that it was a 'simple' climb meaning no special skills were required for the trek.
Just walking.
Granted, it's a LOT of walking, and it's mostly uphill, until it's downhill, and then that is excruciating!
But I digress.... the point is that I had dreamt of this adventure for 20 years and finally decided it was time to make it a reality and booked a trip with Hamp & Sam to Mt. Kilimanjaro for my 50th birthday!
I can't begin to explain how incredible the whole trip was... an adventure of a lifetime.
We were fortunate to have 9 other Americans on our trek whom we absolutely loved, and the camaraderie between the group made all the difference.
And I can't say enough good things about Embark Exploration Co. - they were amazing from start to finish. An American company, their Tanzanian staff were outstanding and not to be dramatic, but they saved my life!
(seriously, I nearly walked off a cliff at one point and Emmanuel gently guided me back on trail!)
We took the Lemosho Route up the mountain, which took 8 days. We slept in tents at campsites along the way and took in views for days. We ate like royalty and never had to carry much as the porters were absolute superheros packing everything up the mountain. I was in awe of the people, the views, and of course the perseverance of everyone of us that made it to the top!
Here are some of my favorite photos of the trip:
How it started
How it ended!
