Why Would You Want to Climb Mount Kilimanjaro? … and the lessons learned from the adventure

"I just recently climbed Mount Kilimanjaro in Africa." When I share this accomplishment, I often receive two distinct reactions. The most common response is a puzzled look followed by the unspoken question, "Why would you do this?" Some wonder if I'm too old for such adventures. The second, less frequent reaction is one of awe and envy, acknowledging the grandeur of climbing Kilimanjaro as a remarkable adventure.

Mount Kilimanjaro, affectionately known as "Kili," is a dormant volcano located in the Kilimanjaro Region of Tanzania. It holds the prestigious title of being the highest mountain in Africa and the highest single free-standing mountain above sea level in the world, towering at 19,341 feet (5,895 meters). Not only is it the highest point in Africa, but it also stands as the highest volcano in the Eastern Hemisphere.

Statistics show that approximately 30,000 people attempt to climb Kilimanjaro each year. Summit rates across all routes and climbers range between 45% and 65%. However, it is also important to acknowledge that climbing Kilimanjaro carries risks. On average, 3-10 people lose their lives annually during the climb, with most deaths resulting from altitude-related issues. These figures make the "why" question even more significant.

So, why would someone choose to spend seven days living in a tent under less-than-optimal climatic conditions for the opportunity to ascend above 19,000 feet? The answer lies in the appeal of the physical and mental challenges that such an endeavor presents. There is an indescribable sense of accomplishment that comes from pushing oneself to unprecedented physical and mental limits.

During our climb, the pinnacle of the physical challenge arrived on the summit day. This grueling 11-to-16-hour trek involves hiking and climbing in freezing temperatures, with most of the day and night spent below zero degrees Celsius. The altitude gain for the day reaches approximately 3,700 feet or 1,145 meters. Such exertion is particularly demanding for someone like me, accustomed to living in Miami at or below sea level. And reaching the peak at 19,341 feet is only the halfway point, as the descent continues to 12,200 feet.

By understanding these arduous details, one can begin to grasp the difficulties and challenges associated with climbing Kilimanjaro, or any mountain for that matter. However, the feeling of accomplishment that washes over you after hours of relentless climbing and the struggle to breathe in thin air for 8-10 hours is like no other. It is the realization that you have completed something that only a small percentage of people have ever achieved. This feeling is a high like no other, and it makes all the challenges worthwhile.

So, if your initial reaction to my statement, "I just recently climbed Mount Kilimanjaro in Africa," was one of perplexity, perhaps this brief explanation can shed some light. The allure lies in the combination of physical and mental challenges, the unparalleled sense of accomplishment, and the opportunity to join an exclusive group of individuals who have scaled this majestic peak.

I believe that there is also a valuable lesson to be learned from embarking on this extraordinary adventure and pushing ourselves to these extraordinary heights. Did I ever think I would or could climb a mountain higher than 19,300 feet? Not really. However, the experience proved to me that we all possess untapped potential within us. It served as a powerful reminder that our bodies and minds are capable of remarkable feats.

Just imagine what you can achieve in your own life by tapping into that inner strength, by pushing your body and mind to levels you never thought possible. Each of us has our own metaphorical Mount Kilimanjaro waiting to be conquered. It might be a personal goal, a professional aspiration, or a daring dream. The journey of climbing Kilimanjaro has taught me that limitations are often self-imposed, and by breaking through those barriers, we can unlock new realms of achievement.

So, I encourage you to ask yourself, "What is your next Mount Kilimanjaro?" What is the next great challenge or ambition that will stretch your limits and redefine what you believe is within your grasp? Embrace the spirit of adventure, the hunger for growth, and the courage to venture into uncharted territory.

Mount Kilimanjaro taught me that the journey to the summit is not just about reaching the physical peak; it's about the transformation that occurs along the way. It's about discovering your own resilience, perseverance, and determination. It's about understanding that greatness lies within you, waiting to be awakened.

So, dare to dream big, set audacious goals, and push yourself beyond your comfort zone. Take inspiration from the triumphs and challenges of climbing Kilimanjaro, and let it be a catalyst for unleashing your true potential.

What is your next Mount Kilimanjaro?