Have you ever dreamed of standing on top of the world? On July 24th, I did just that! As I stood atop Lenana Peak on Mount Kenya, gazing at the breathtaking world below, I realized this journey was about so much more than reaching a summit. It was a testament to the power of human determination, the awe-inspiring beauty of nature, and the incredible strength we all possess within ourselves.
The Call of the Mountain
Every great adventure starts with a single step – or in my case, a friend’s encouragement. My guide, Sammy, knew of my long-held dream to summit Mount Kenya. When he mentioned a group heading out in July, I knew it was time to stop postponing and start climbing.
As a regular gym-goer, I felt physically prepared, but I soon learned that conquering a mountain is as much a mental challenge as it is physical. The resolve to take on Mount Kenya started in my mind, and that’s where the real preparation began.
*Tip for aspiring climbers:* Your journey begins the moment you decide to climb. Embrace the mental preparation as much as the physical!
The Ascent: One Step at a Time
Our climb was a three-day journey that tested our limits and revealed our strengths. Here’s how it unfolded:
Day 1: Embracing the Challenge
We set off from Sirimon Gate to Old Moses Camp, a 4-hour trek that Mother Nature decided to spice up with a heavy downpour. But we were too excited to let a little rain dampen our spirits!
As we reached Old Moses Camp, exhausted but exhilarated, we were greeted with an unexpected treat – a buffet dinner prepared by our incredible porters. Who says you can’t dine in style on a mountain?
Day 2: The Long Haul to Shiptons
Day 2 was our Everest – a grueling 9-hour trek from Old Moses to Shipton’s Camp. The journey was tough, with each conquered climb revealing yet another challenge. But we had a secret weapon: teamwork. We pushed, pulled, and cheered each other on. Our mantra became, “Just put one foot in front of the other.”-Thanks Anko!
As we finally approached Shiptons Camp, we caught our first glimpse of Lenana Peak. It stood majestically, as if waiting for us to conquer it. That sight gave us the final push we needed.
*Lesson learned: In life, as on the mountain, just when you think you’re done, another challenge appears. Keep going – the view is worth it!
Day 3: Summit Day – Touching the Sky
We began our final ascent at 2:58 AM, armed with warm gear and unbreakable determination. The trek was steep and rocky, but our guide Salim paced us perfectly. During quiet moments, I reflected on life and why I was doing this. I had brought my son’s football jersey as a summit memento, wanting to teach him that with determination, anything is achievable.
As dawn broke, we saw the peak up close. Despite exhaustion and biting cold, that sight ignited a fire within us. The final climb was a true test, especially for someone with a fear of heights like me. But as I pulled myself up those final metal bars, I knew I was conquering more than just a mountain.
Standing at the summit was indescribable. The 360-degree view, the sense of accomplishment, the realization of a dream – it all came together in that perfect moment. We danced, we took photos, we called our loved ones. I even made a video for my son, hoping to inspire him with this proof that any challenge can be overcome.
Mountain Etiquette: Treating Porters with Respect
When climbing a mountain, it’s not just about reaching the summit—it’s about how we conduct ourselves along the way. A crucial part of this is how we treat the porters who make our journeys possible. From my experience I attempted to create a guide to proper porter etiquette and general mountain respect:
- Fair Treatment -Porters are not just employees; they’re crucial team members. The real MVPs of the mountain. Treat them with the same respect you’d give to guides or fellow climbers.
- Proper Equipment- Ensure your porters have adequate clothing, footwear, and equipment for the conditions. If they don’t, speak to your tour operator.
- Weight Limits- Stick to weight limits for porter loads. Usually, this is between 20-25 kg. Overloading porters is dangerous and simply unethical.
- Tipping-Tip your porters appropriately. This is often a significant part of their income. Privacy-Respect porters’ privacy. Ask before taking photos, especially in camp areas.
General Mountain Etiquette
- Leave No Trace-Pack out all your trash. Leave the mountain as you found it—or better.
- Stay on Trails-Stick to designated paths to prevent erosion and protect local flora. Respect Wildlife-Observe animals from a distance. Never feed them.
- Be Considerate-Keep noise levels down. Others are there to enjoy nature too.
- Treating porters and the mountain with respect isn’t just good ethics—it enhances your climbing experience, creating a journey of mutual respect and shared accomplishment.
Essential Gear and Clothing for Mountain Climbing
Here’s a comprehensive list of gear, equipment, and clothing you’ll need for a safe and comfortable mountain climbing experience. Remember, specific needs may vary based on the mountain, this was the list that I used to prepare for this hike.
Clothing
- Thermal Tops
- Thermal Pants
- Quick dry trousers 4pcs
- Polyester T.shirts 4pcs
- Wind Jacket
- Balaclava
- Summit trousers
- Fleece jacket or wool sweater
- Insulated pants
- Waterproof and breathable jacket (with hood)
- Waterproof and breathable pants
- Insulated jacket (down or synthetic)
- Warm hat or beanie
- Sun hat or cap
- Neck gaiter or buff
- Glove liners
- Insulated, waterproof gloves or mittens
Footwear
- Sturdy, waterproof hiking boots
- Crocs (to be used at Camp)
- Trekking shoes
- Thick, moisture-wicking socks (multiple pairs)
- Gaiters
- Climbing Gear
Essential Equipment
- Backpack (Day Pack 30-50 liters)
- Trekking poles
- Headlamp with extra batteries
- Water bladder
Camping Equipment
- Tent suitable for mountain conditions
- Sleeping bag rated for low temperatures
- Sleeping pad
- Hot water bottle
Personal Items
- Sunglasses (100% UV protection)
- Sunscreen (high SPF)
- Lip balm with SPF
- First aid kit
- Personal medications
- Toiletries
- Hand sanitizer
- Toilet paper
- Camera
- Power bank and charging cables
- Ziplock bags
- Binoculars
Food and Nutrition
- High-energy snacks e.g. energy bars, protein bars
- Electrolyte powders or tablets
Remember, it’s crucial to know how to use all your gear before you set out on your climb. Practice with your equipment, break in your boots, and always check your gear before each trip.
In Conclusion:
The Summit is Just the Beginning
As I stood atop Lenana Peak on that crisp July morning, the world sprawled out beneath me in breathtaking views, I realized that this moment was both an end and a beginning. The journey to the summit of Mount Kenya had been more than just a physical ascent – it was a climb through my own limitations, doubts, and fears.
The aching muscles, the biting cold, the moments of self-doubt – all of these faded away as I gazed out at the horizon. In their place was a profound sense of accomplishment, a newfound respect for the raw beauty of nature, and an overwhelming gratitude for the strength I discovered within myself and the unwavering support of my climbing partners.
But the true magic of this experience wasn’t just in reaching the peak. It was in the journey itself – the camaraderie forged in challenging moments, the quiet reflections as we trekked through changing landscapes, and the simple joy of putting one foot in front of the other, no matter how difficult the path.
As I held my son’s football jersey up high, recording a message of encouragement for him, I realized that this climb had given me more than just memories. It has given me a powerful lesson to share: that with determination, preparation, and the courage to take that first step, we are capable of achieving things we once thought impossible.
The descent from Lenana Peak marked the end of our climb, but it was the beginning of something much greater. It was the start of a new perspective on life’s challenges, a deeper appreciation for our planet’s natural wonders, and a renewed belief in the power of human perseverance.
To anyone reading this who has ever doubted their ability to overcome a challenge, I say this: your mountain is waiting. It may not be a physical peak – it could be a personal goal, a career ambition, or a dream you’ve been hesitant to pursue. Whatever it is, know that the strength to conquer it lies within you.
Remember, the view from the top is breathtaking, but it’s the climb that changes you. So, lace up your boots, metaphorical or real, and start your ascent. The summit is calling, and you are more than capable of answering.
As for me, while I’ve descended from Mount Kenya, the spirit of the mountain lives on in my heart. It whispers to me in quiet moments, reminding me of the strength I found on its slopes. And when life presents its next challenge, I’ll remember the lessons of the mountain:
Take it one step at a time.
Trust in your preparation.
Lean on your team when you need to.
And never, ever give up on the climb.
Because now I know – we all have a Lenana Peak within us, just waiting to be conquered. What’s yours?
I want to express my heartfelt gratitude to everyone who made this adventure truly exceptional. Our guides, Salim and Sammy, deserve special recognition for their expertise and unwavering dedication throughout our trek.
Equally deserving of praise are our amazing porters, whose strength, endurance, and positive spirits were nothing short of inspirational. Their hard work behind the scenes ensured our comfort and safety, allowing us to fully immerse ourselves in the experience.
I’m also grateful for the wonderful hiking family that formed over these three unforgettable days. Anko, Hellein, Nick, and Miriam – your companionship, encouragement, and shared sense of wonder turned what could have been just another hike into a truly memorable experience.
To my fellow adventurers, our fantastic guides, and our indispensable porters: thank you for making this journey so special. The memories we’ve created together will undoubtedly last a lifetime!
