Our hike will take place from February 16-27, 2024. To join us in this amazing experience, the minimum fundraising goal is $9,500 (which does not include flight or visa). All participants will get to learn about the cause they are supporting while pushing themselves to their limits.
This hike is not for the faint of heart. It is a physically, mentally, and emotionally demanding journey. But with the right training and preparation, you will be rewarded with the most incredible view from the summit. At the end of the journey, you will have earned an indescribable sense of accomplishment, while also giving back to a cause that is very important to us.
We understand that embarking on new endeavors can be quite daunting. But fret not! The dedicated members of Team Friendship are here to accompany you throughout your journey. We pledge to provide unwavering support, going above and beyond like an overprotective first-time mom during preschool orientation day.
Enjoy the full experience and perks of the fundraising hiking event!
Upon registering, you'll receive a personal fundraising page (yay!). It's not your name on a building (yet), but it's still pretty cool.
Next, you'll get a training plan and weekly emails with training tips and tricks.
Our fundraising support is second to none. Count on us to provide you with effective tools and methods that guarantee success.
And while you're out there training and fundraising, we'll be taking care of all this stuff so you don't have to worry:
Rest assured, we have you covered. Our event includes lodging throughout the schedule, including during the hike. Say goodbye to any worries we've got it all taken care of.
From breakfast to snacks and even midnight treats, it's all taken care of. Come hungry! All meals will be strictly kosher and designed to provide hikers with sufficient energy for the hikes.
The Ultimate Travel Company will be leading the hike and will make sure that all hikers have what they need to safely participate. Additionally, hikers are provided with a Hike Manual which outlines more specific safety details such as hydration, calorie counts, and weather. The manual also includes varied training plans to meet the hiker's specific athletic level and help them prepare for Mount Kilimanjaro.
Kilimanjaro is one of Africa's most magnificent sights, and at 5985m it is her highest peak. It is the tallest freestanding volcano in the world and Kibo, which is the central crater, rests on its two sisters Mawenzi and Shira.
We will be ascending by the Rongai route, which retains a sense of untouched wilderness. It has a relatively gentle gradient and short daily stages. From cultivated farmlands on the lower levels, our route takes us through lush jungle, alpine meadow, and finally across a barren lunar landscape to the summit of Kibo where we start our final ascent to stand on the roof of Africa!
Sunday & Monday is reserved for travel while Tuesday is for those who just arrived on Monday.
3-4hrs (2600m) | Wednesday
We'll begin our adventure with an early start, embarking on a 3-4 hour drive to Rongai. Upon arrival, we'll be warmly greeted by our knowledgeable guides and dedicated porters, who will assist us with the necessary park formalities. Our ascent commences from Naremory Gate (1950m), leading us through captivating farmer's fields and the enchanting forest zone. Keep your eyes peeled, as there's a great chance of encountering the vibrant Colobus monkeys along the way. If weather permits, we'll be treated to breathtaking views of Tsavo in Kenya during the late afternoon. Our campsite awaits, nestled just beyond the edges of the lush forest.
7-9hrs (3678m) | Thursday
We leave Simba Camp and climb through the moorland. As we climb, the trees become sparser and later disappear; even the heather starts to shrink at higher altitudes. We break at a lava tube for lunch before traversing to our campsite at Kikelewa Cave.
4-5hrs (4295m) arrival before Sunset | Friday
We'll embark on a more challenging ascent towards Mawenzi Tarn Hut, perched at an impressive altitude of 4295m. Arriving just in time for a well-deserved lunch, this campsite is nestled within moraines, offering awe-inspiring views of the rugged peaks of Mawenzi towering above us. In the afternoon, we'll engage in a brief yet invigorating acclimatization walk, exploring the surroundings and ascending to even higher altitudes. This ensures our bodies adjust gradually and effectively to the changing conditions.
Saturday
The day will be dedicated to both acclimatization and embracing the serenity of the Sabbath. We'll prioritize our well-being by allowing our bodies to adjust to the altitude, ensuring a safer and more enjoyable journey. It's a time for reflection and rejuvenation, as we immerse ourselves in the tranquil atmosphere of the surroundings. While physical activities may be limited, the day presents a perfect opportunity to appreciate the awe-inspiring beauty of the mountains and soak in the peaceful ambiance of our campsite. Let nature's grandeur and the tranquility of the Sabbath rejuvenate your spirit as we prepare for the exhilarating days ahead.
5-6hrs (4700m) | Sunday
Our journey continues with a deliberate pace, as we traverse the expansive expanse known as "the Saddle," a captivating alpine desert nestled between the majestic volcanic peaks of Mwenzi and Kibo. Every step reveals a remarkable landscape that unfolds before us. At an elevation of 4700m, we will gracefully arrive at our destination, where we will pause to catch our breath, recharge our energy, and meticulously prepare for the pinnacle of our adventure—the highly anticipated summit day. It is a moment of both reflection and anticipation as we gather our strength and focus for the exhilarating challenge that awaits us.
12-16hrs | Monday
Prepare yourself for an epic, albeit challenging, day ahead. We'll embark on an extraordinary journey, enduring up to 16 hours of walking. Rising shortly after midnight, we'll ascend from our Kibo camp to reach Gilman's Point (5680m) at the volcanic crater's rim, just in time for a mesmerizing sunrise. Weather permitting, the panoramic views extend over the vast savannah plains, and if fortunate, we might even catch a glimpse of the distant Mt. Kenya, a remarkable sight 360km away.
But our ascent doesn't stop there. For another two hours, we'll traverse the snow-dusted rim, pushing towards Uhuru Peak (5895m), the highest point in Africa. This challenging trek rewards us with awe-inspiring glaciers and the chance to capture a photograph beside the sign that marks our triumph. After relishing this extraordinary moment, we'll descend to Gilman's Point before proceeding to Kibo, where a brief rest and refueling opportunity await. Finally, we continue our descent to the Horombo Huts, where we spend the night, reflecting on our incredible achievements and preparing for the final stages of our expedition.
Tuesday
We begin our descent, retracing our steps back to Mandara, where a well-deserved lunch awaits. Afterward, transport will be ready at Marangu Gate to whisk us away on our journey back to the hotel in Arusha. As the day draws to a close, we gather for a memorable Gala Dinner, reminiscing about the incredible experiences and achievements we've shared. This night marks our final overnight stay, concluding our unforgettable adventure on a high note.
Wednesday and Thursday
Following our transformative journey and the shared camaraderie, Wednesday and Thursday mark the time for us to bid farewell and embark on our individual paths homeward. Filled with cherished memories and newfound friendships, we depart, carrying the spirit of our adventure in our hearts as we return to the embrace of our respective homes.
Our mornings begin with a wake-up call and warm washing water, followed by breakfast in the mess tent around 7 AM. We start our trek around 8 AM, stopping for lunch along the way for approximately an hour. Upon reaching the camp in the evenings, we enjoy a hot cup of tea, rest, and then gather for an early dinner in the mess tent, where we receive a briefing for the next day's trek. Shabbat serves as an acclimatization day, allowing us to adjust to the altitude and prioritize our well-being.
More questions? Email mendel@friendshipcircle.com
