Planning to tick your bucket list for Kilimanjaro? Worry not I’ve got you!

Here is what you need to know before attempting it;

1. The Mental Challenge: While physical preparation is crucial, few emphasize the mental fortitude required. Climbing Kilimanjaro is not for the faint of heart, it requires you to have mental strength to pursue what’s ahead of you despite the challenges you are facing. The altitude, fatigue, and sheer height can play tricks on your mind, requiring resilience and determination.
2. Age and Fitness are Irrelevant when it comes to climbing Kilimanjaro: I’ve watched some of the fittest people who are used to running marathons fail to summit Kilimanjaro, and watched some of the unfit people and as old as 72 years make to the summit. Despite preparation, altitude sickness can strike anyone. It's not just about physical fitness but also about acclimatization, the way you combat altitude sickness is by going slow and knowing when to stop ascending to prevent serious health issues.
3. Extreme Weather Shifts: Kilimanjaro's weather is unpredictable. From blazing sun to freezing temperatures, climbers must be prepared for anything, including sudden storms and icy winds. Proper gears are required to be carried incase of change of weather to help climbers in the extreme weather.
4. The Nighttime Ascent: Summit night is a grueling test. Climbers often start in the dead of night, battling exhaustion and cold, with only headlamps guiding the way to Uhuru Peak. The summit night is the most difficult days of them all! At this point you are breathing by half of oxygen; altitude sickness becomes vivid to everyone.
5. Your Life is in Your Guide’s hands: The summit is at 5895m most of the climbers will experience some sort of mild Acute Mountain Sickness at that point your life is in your guide’s hands. It’s important to listen to your guide’s instructions since the beginning of your climb. Your guide knows the terrain, understand altitude sickness symptoms, and provide essential support and motivation. His decision is final if he decides that you are not in a good condition to continue and descent you should listen and accept the reality.
6. No Showers/baths for the whole period of the climb: Yep! You heard it right. Due to extreme cold weather on the mountain, you will not be showering. Instead, you will be given hot water in the basin to wipe yourself with a wash cloth every morning and evening. For my female climbers I advise you plan your climb considering your menstruation cycle.
7. Physical Toll on the Body: Climbing Kilimanjaro is physically demanding. From steep inclines to rocky terrain, every step takes its toll. Proper training beforehand can mitigate risks of injury and enhance the overall experience. Not less than 3 months of physical training that involves walking, hiking with weighted backpack and strength training to prepare for your trek.
8. The Emotional Journey: Summiting Kilimanjaro is an emotional roller-coaster. From doubt and exhaustion to overwhelming joy at the summit, it's a profound personal journey that often brings tears and a sense of profound accomplishment.
9. The Aftermath: Climbing Kilimanjaro changes you. Physically, mentally, and emotionally, it leaves an indelible mark. Post-summit, reflection on the experience and its impact on your life is inevitable. Expect to have ice burn on your face due to extreme weather conditions or sun burn. Its important to carry Vaseline and sunscreen to help you with the skin damage.

Climbing Kilimanjaro is a remarkable feat, but it's not just about reaching the summit. It's about the journey, the challenges faced, and the lessons learned along the way. These untold realities add depth to the adventure and enrich the entire experience.