Notes from Kilimanjaro

The sunsets do not get any better than above the clouds on Mount Kilimanjaro in Tanzania.

By Leon Louw founder of WhyAfrica and Endorphin Expeditions and editor of the WhyAfrica magazine

Kilimanjaro is the highest mountain in Africa and at 5895m above sea level, the highest free-standing mountain in the world.

As one walks through the different ecological zones of the mountain, oxygen (and life) gradually dwindles, until the stark, barren and lifeless landscape of the Alphine Desert reminds one that you have entered a sacred place, where life was not meant to be. Humans entering this space are there on borrowed time and the mountain, and nothing else, decides who will be handed the key to reach its highest point.

Views of a continent

The volcanic rocks of Uhuru (Kilimanjaro’s highest point) towers above Africa, offering spectacular views of a continent on the move. Climbing those peaks, and finding the key to unlock success, mirrors entering the African market to do business.

As the oxygen levels drop the higher you climb, the most important survival strategy is to be patient, walk slowly and take one step at a time. Pole Pole (slowly slowly) is what your local guides repeat day in and day out. Slowly so that you body can adapt. Local knowledge is essential. If you want the key, be prepared, do research, assess the risks, and do not underestimate the immense challenges.

Lessons in the clouds

There is more life lessons locked up above the clouds on Kilimanjaro’s dizzying heights and in those sacred spaces, but you have to be brave enough to go and find them.

Asante Sana Kilimanjaro! Until we meet again.

Notes from Kilimanjaro