Preparing To Climb Kilimanjaro | The Ultimate Bucket List Adventure!
Preparing To Climb Kilimanjaro | The Ultimate Bucket List Adventure!
Introduction
For me, climbing Kilimanjaro is more than just a trek; it’s a once-in-a-lifetime adventure. Climbing to 19341 ft / 5895m, Kilimanjaro is the tallest mountain in Africa and one of the world’s famous Seven Summits, the route takes 10 days to complete, taking on 5 unique weather systems. My trek up the mountain begins on September 15th!
After months of training hikes, marathon running and kit testing, it is almost go time. The preparation has been intense. Proving what’s possible when you say yes to big opportunities, step outside your comfort zone, and take on those big, hairy, audacious goals.
For many, standing on Uhuru Peak as the sun rises over Tanzania is a dream. For me, it’s no different, which is why I am taking on this personal challenge that combines resilience, focus and preparation. In this blog, I want to give you a glimpse of what it’s like to take prep for an expedition to Kilimanjaro.
Why Kilimanjaro?
Kilimanjaro is unique because it isn’t just you standard climb, it’s a journey through five different ecosystems, from dry desert, to rainforest to an arctic summit. Along the way, trekkers experience stunning landscapes, incredible camaraderie and a deep sense of personal triumph.
Pat, our expedition leader, has summited Kilimanjaro more than 65 times and guided over 2,000 people to the top. His passion and knowledge make this more than just a climb, it’s gearing up to be a truly transformative adventure.
Fit For Life Podcast Special Episode | Kilimanjaro Preparation | Training, Mindset & Adventure 🎙️
The Adventure Ahead
Here’s a snapshot of the journey:
Day 1–2: Depart the UK, arrive in Tanzania, and prepare for the climb.
Day 3–7: Trek through rainforest, heather moorlands, and alpine desert, acclimatising and building resilience for the summit.
Day 8: Summit day! Starting at midnight, climb to Uhuru Peak (5,895m) before descending to Mweka Camp.
Day 9–10: Complete the descent, celebrate, and adventure with a safari or Zanzibar escape (undecided) before heading home.
Every step is about more than reaching the summit; it’s about pushing limits, embracing the challenge, and experiencing Africa in a truly unforgettable way.
Preparing for Success
“What do I need to bring?”
The answer: a well-thought-out kit list that strikes a balance between comfort, warmth, and efficiency. You’ll need everything from a sturdy duffel bag and warm sleeping bag, to high-quality hiking boots, thermal layers, and the small but crucial extras like trekking poles, head torch, and SPF lip balm.
I’ve put together a comprehensive video showcasing what I have personally packed that you can watch for free.
👉 Click here to watch on YouTube
Beyond the Trek
As a busy professional, it’s easy to feel like there’s never enough time. Climbing Kilimanjaro is a powerful reminder to step away from the constant rush, use your time wisely, and truly be present in the moment. This expedition isn’t just about the physical challenge; it’s about giving myself permission to slow down, breathe and enjoy the journey.
Along the way, I plan to:
Appreciate Tanzania’s breathtaking landscapes rather than racing past them.
Engage with local culture.
Embrace stepping outside of my comfort zone.
While Kilimanjaro is a huge tick off the bucket list. It’s also a chance to stop, and reflect on my transformation from being 152kg, losing 60kg and becoming fit for business and LIFE. Allowing me to take on such a challenge.
Follow My Journey
I’ll be setting off from the UK on September 12th, arriving in Tanzania. On the 15th, we begin the trek. If all goes to plan, I should be standing on the summit of Kilimanjaro on day 6 of this epic expedition (September 20th).
I’ll be sharing updates along the way. Make sure to follow @sharpfitforlife on social media to join the journey and see what it’s really like to take on Africa’s highest peak.
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