As I reflect on my journey up—and safely down—Mount Kilimanjaro, one thing is crystal clear: I did not do this alone. Climbing to 19,341 feet and trekking across glaciers, alpine deserts, and rainforests for eight grueling days took everything I had. But even more, it took the strength, dedication, and heart of an extraordinary team.
First I want to thank Summit Africa for putting this expedition together, especially after a well known operator bailed on me. And thank you debbie@livewelltraveloften.com and Hills of Africa for connecting me with Summit Africa. The entire Summit Africa operation was professional and first-class from start to finish. The information prepared was very helpful and assisted me greatly in buying the essential gear I needed for all phases of the climb. The pre-climb briefing was also well done. So thank you Summit Africa for putting me in a position to succeed and providing me with your A-Team.
To my guide Moses—you were my North Star. Patient, wise, and unflinching, you led with quiet confidence and deep knowledge. You read the mountain like a map and always knew what I needed before I did. I trusted you completely, and you never let me down. Asante sana for guiding me every step of the way. I loved our banter up and down the mountain and it helped me immensely.
To Peter, my camp manager—you kept the operation smooth, organized, and somehow even cheerful in the most unforgiving conditions. Your calm presence and reassuring smile at every camp reminded me that I was in good hands.
To Silas, affectionately known as Mountain Mama—your cooking was legendary. I have no idea how you managed to make such nourishing and delicious meals at altitude, but your food gave me strength when I needed it most. And your spirit brought warmth to the coldest of nights.
To my 13 incredible porters—you are the true unsung heroes of Kilimanjaro. Carrying enormous loads up steep terrain, often racing ahead to set up camp before I even arrived—your strength, endurance, and good humor were humbling. You cheered me on, encouraged me with every “pole, pole,” and made this mountain feel like a home. Your Jumbo, Bwana was a highlight!
Together, you were my A-Team—and I mean that in every sense of the word. I could not have reached the summit or returned safely without each of you. This wasn’t just my climb. It was our climb.
From the bottom of my heart: Asante sana. You helped me chase the leopard—and catch it.
#KilimanjaroAteam #StrattonSummits #ChasingTheLeopard #ThankYouMoses #MountainMamaSilas #CampBossPeter #KilimanjaroPorters #FartherTogether #PolePole #GratitudeFromTheSummit
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