Climbing Mt. Kilimanjaro: Conquering the Lemosho Route at 60
By Tina M. Johnson
Introduction to Mount Kilimanjaro
Mount Kilimanjaro is Africa’s tallest mountain and the worlds largest free standing mountain. It comprises three extinct volcanoes, Kibo, Mawenzi and Shira. The highest of these points, Shira, stands at 5,895m (19,341 ft) above sea level. Located in northern Tanzania, near the Kenyan border, Kilimanjaro is the one of the world’s most popular and rewarding mountains to climb.
Mount Kilimanjaro presents extraordinary extremes of weather and climate. Its location means that at its base you will experience equatorial climate, but its high altitude creates Arctic conditions at the summit. There are five main climatic zones from the base to the peaks of Mount Kilimanjaro, bushland-farmland, rainforest, moorland, alpine forest and arctic.
The Adventure Begins
Climbing Mt. Kilimanjaro is a monumental challenge that requires both mental resilience and physical endurance. My 8-day trek along the Lemosho route was more than just a physical test; it was a profound mental and spiritual journey. From a grueling 36-hour travel ordeal, our original flights being canceled having to rearrange our original climb for 2 weeks later, to facing altitude sickness, a diverse terrain and unpredictable weather, every moment was a testament to the power of an unresolute mindset.
Preparing for this journey took months of physical training, gear preparation, and mental conditioning. I discovered that climbing Mt. Kilimanjaro isn’t just about physical strength — it’s about mindset, perseverance, determination and staying in alignment with Spirit. What struck me most, though, wasn’t just the physical toll — it was seeing others, some younger than me, forced to turn back before reaching the summit. At 60 years old, I wasn’t the fastest or the strongest, but determination and inner guideance carried me forward when strength alone wasn’t enough.
It wasn’t about age or athleticism; it was about mindset, perseverance, and refusing to let the mountain decide my limits. In this post, I’ll share tips on how to prepare for the climb, what to expect on the Lemosho route, and how to overcome the unique challenges of high-altitude trekking.
How to Climb Mt. Kilimanjaro – Challenges and Preparing Beforehand
Our three-week trip was originally planned to begin with a Kilimanjaro climb, followed by a five-day safari adventure. However, when our initial flights to Africa were canceled, we had to return home and rethink our plans. Fortunately, since we booked both the climb and the safari with the same trekking company, they were incredibly accommodating and rescheduled our Kilimanjaro climb to begin the day after the safari ended. This unexpected change gave us an extra week to prepare and shift our mindset from doing a relaxing safari first and then tackling the challenging climb. Surprisingly, everything fell into place perfectly. On the climb we missed, harsh weather conditions forced three climbers to abandon their summit attempt due to relentless rain and strong winds, which made me a bit uneasy. In hindsight, the flight cancellations turned out to be a blessing in disguise!
Before even setting foot on the mountain, I encountered another mental hurdle: adapting to a new FOOD environment. The shift from the fat and protein-rich diets of Minnesota to the carbohydrate-heavy meals typical at the equator could have been a setback. However, I embraced this change, understanding that our bodies can adapt to our surroundings. This adaptability is not just physical but profoundly mental. I chose to see the dietary shift as an opportunity rather than an obstacle, a mindset that would prove crucial on the mountain.
To further prepare, I spent time in Colorado to help acclimate to higher altitudes before tackling Kilimanjaro. This strategic acclimatization period was not just about physical adaptation but also about setting my mental framework for success. By experiencing higher altitudes of 14,000+ feet in a more controlled environment, I was conditioning my body and mind to cope with the challenges ahead, reinforcing the idea that with the right preparation, any challenge can be turned into a possibility.
Tips for a Successful Climb
Climb it with purpose
Having a purpose can serve as your anchor during the tougher moments on the mountain. It gives you motivation to keep moving when the going gets tough and provides clarity in moments of uncertainty. Your purpose will remind you that every step, no matter how difficult, is part of something greater, making the journey more meaningful. There were moments when I felt completely pushed to my edge, questioning what I was even doing. But knowing I carried 11 heartfelt prayers and messages from friends and family facing serious health challenges, along with loving notes from my grandchildren, gave me the strength to press on. My plan was to read each of the 11 messages once I reached the summit.
Take it slow and steady
Trekking at a slow and steady pace is your best defense against Kilimanjaro’s biggest challenge: altitude. At the start, even if you feel able to walk at a faster pace, holding back is the best way to allow your body to acclimatize to the increasing height, which brings progressively lower oxygen levels, as well as steadily dropping temperatures. A slow speed also helps you maintain your stamina for your six-or-so days of walking and uses your energy efficiently. Your guides know the pace that works best so you should heed their advice.
Eat and drink well
Even though your appetite is likely to decline at high altitude, it is important to eat adequately – energy. I felt like I was eating enough and yet I dropped about 6 pounds during the trek which is a lot for my size. Drinking well is absolutely essential to your well-being on Kilimanjaro – at high altitudes it is all too easy to become dehydrated without even noticing. You should aim to drink at least 4-5 liters of water per day. Drinking at least 2–3 liters of water throughout the day was absolutely key to the success of my climb. On summit night, however, we had very limited access to water during the grueling six-hour push. We were only able to stop once an hour for a quick sip—it was brutal. That experience made me realize just how crucial hydration truly is for endurance and performance.
Walk high, sleep low
This is an important maxim in mountain hiking. Taking time to stroll to a higher point than that at which you will be camped for the night is an effective way to shield your body against the effects of altitude sickness.
Travel light
While you must ensure that you bring everything you need for your climb, try to carry as little weight as you can in your day pack. A greater mass on your back means that walking will demand more effort and that breathing the thinner mountain air will feel even more of a strain.
Medical Coverage, Travel Insurance and Rescue Coverage
You want to make sure that you have a plan in place that would cover you if you had any medical emergency while in Tanzania. This should include repatriation back home in an emergency. You will want to have a trip cancellation policy in place because if you need to cancel your trip for any reason, you will need to claim on your insurance to do so. You also want to have cover for any possible lost baggage, flight delays, flight cancellations, etc. Helicopters can be available for extreme rescue situations on Kilimanjaro. However, they can only be used if the weather is agreeing high on the mountain, which is not guaranteed. The heli-pad is positioned below Barafu Camp at 15,091 feet/ 4,600meters. You should consider having a plan that will cover you for evacuation.
The Lemosho Route: A Scenic and Safe Path to the Summit
The Kilimanjaro Lemosho route was a ten-day trip, with eight days spent on the mountain. The route itself was 70 km / 42 miles long, with the total elevation from the entry gate to the summit being 3,645 m / 11,958 feet.
Day 1: Kilimanjaro International Airport to Hotel
After flying into Kilimanjaro International Airport, we spent our first night in the town of Arusha at the 4 Points by Sheraton. We began the trek from the Lemosho Gate, located on the western side of Kilimanjaro.
Day 2: Start at Lemosho Gate to Mti Mkubwa Camp
After breakfast at the hotel, we drove to the beginning of the trail. We checked in at the national park gate – Lemosho Gate – and had a hot lunch. A couple of hours later, we started the hike through the beautiful rain forest trails to reach the Mti Mkubwa Camp. Kilimanjaro National Park was rich in flora and fauna. Our route led us up to the Shira Plateau, which offered spectacular views before we headed up the southwestern side of Mount Kilimanjaro.
Day 3: From Mti Mkubwa to Shira 1 Camp
On day three, we went from Shira Camp 1 across the Shira plateau to Shira Camp 2 at 3,900m/ 12,795 feet.
Day 4: Shira 1 Camp to Shira 2 Camp
On day four, after three nights of good acclimatization, we reached the height of 4,640m/ 15,223 feet, giving us some of the best views of the western breach of Kilimanjaro.
Day 5: Shira 2 Camp to Lava Tower
From there, we trekked to Lava Tower and through the Southern side of Kilimanjaro, as we descended to the Barranco Camp at 3,900m/ 12,795 feet.
Day 6: Climbing the Barranco Wall – A Steep But Supported Ascent
The following day, we faced the Great Barranco Wall, a steep 300m/ 948 feet winding trail up to the mountain’s southern face. One of the most memorable moments of the climb was tackling the famous Barranco Wall. This steep, 300-meter (948-foot) climb was not just physically demanding but mentally challenging as well. As we navigated the rocky, winding trail, the guides were strategically positioned below us, ready to assist in case anyone lost their balance or felt unsure about their next move. Their constant vigilance and expertise ensured that we could climb with confidence, knowing we had support every step of the way.
The Barranco Wall is notorious for testing a climber’s strength and determination, but it’s also a testament to the incredible guidance and safety measures provided on the Lemosho route. With the guides standing by, I was able to focus on each step, trusting that I had a strong team watching over me in case I needed help. The route continued underneath the Decken and Rebman glaciers to Karanga Camp at 4,010m/ 13,156 feet in Karanga Valley.
Day 7: Karanga Camp to Kosovo Camp
From Karanga Camp, we trekked past Barafu Camp at 4,680m/ 15,354 feet to Kososo Camp, our last stop before the summit.
Day 8: Kosovo Camp to Uhuru Peak
From Karanga Camp, we trekked past Barafu Camp at 4,680m/ 15,354 feet to Kososo Camp, our last stop before the summit.
Kilimanjaro Lemosho Route: 8-Day Adventure with Ian Taylor Trekking
Ian Taylor Trekking offers an incredible 8-day climb on Kilimanjaro’s Lemosho Route, which is known for its excellent acclimatization and safety features. With a 95% success rate on their Kilimanjaro expeditions, Ian Taylor Trekking ensures a high-quality experience by utilizing a well-chosen route, specialized training, and top-notch guides, equipment, food, and service.
A key factor in their success is the use of Kosovo Camp at 4,900m (16,076 feet) as the high camp, providing climbers with the best possible preparation for the summit. With over 20 years of experience on Kilimanjaro, including nearly 50 summits, Ian Taylor, the lead guide, has the expertise to help climbers prepare for a safe and life-changing experience.
Ian Taylor Trekking is dedicated to making sure each adventurer has the best chance for success while experiencing the awe-inspiring beauty of Mount Kilimanjaro.
Overcoming Mental and Physical Obstacles During the Ascent
As the climb began, the physical demands were immense. Each step up Kilimanjaro was a step into higher altitudes, where the air grows thin, and the body demands more with less. But the real battle was in my mind and gut. A resilient mindset turns challenges into opportunities, pushing you to exceed your limits.
Even the Healthy Can Feel the Effects of Kilimanjaro
Acute mountain sickness hit me hard, and I felt it not just in my head but in my belly. By day 4 the gas, bloating and constipation was overwhelming, but I refused to let it define my journey. A large boulder to lay over was calling my name! It helped a little. I leveraged my knowledge and resources, like the TeloYouth I brought along. I remembered how back home, during stressful times, our concentrated aloe vera gel extract had soothed my stomach; here, it became my secret weapon against the mountain’s harshness. This approach turned a potential defeat into a victory!
Not Letting Thoughts Hold You Back
One of the most enlightening parts of this journey was the realization of how our thoughts can either propel us forward or anchor us down. Here are some key lessons from my experience:
- Refuse to Quit: The climb was not just about physical endurance but also about refusing to give up mentally. Believing in the possibility of success, even when the body protests, reinforces our commitment to overcoming challenges.
- Remember Your Motivation: Tuning into my loved ones—reading their messages, seeing their faces, and hearing their voices—gave me the courage and determination to stay focused and keep moving forward.
- Adapt and Overcome: The dietary changes, the physical exhaustion, the harsh weather – all these were surmounted not just by physical endurance but by a mental commitment to adapt and overcome. It was about shifting my mindset to see every change or hardship as a part of the journey to be conquered.
- Visualize Success: Even in the darkest moments, I visualized reaching the summit. This mental imagery kept me motivated, reminding me that sometimes, you just see it in your mind before you can achieve the reality. Visualization was a powerful tool against the mental fatigue and doubt that high altitudes can induce.
Lessons Learned on the Mountain: The Mental Journey to the Summit
Reaching the peak of Kilimanjaro was an achievement, but the real summit was within. Our thoughts can either be chains that bind us or wings that lift us. By fostering a resilient attitude, I learned to push through when my body said no, to see beyond immediate discomfort, and to harness all the energy stores.
This climb was not just about conquering a mountain; it was about going within and aligning with my Divine Spirit, conquering my own self-doubt, fear, and the mental barriers that so often keep us from reaching our own peaks. More than that, it showed me how a mindset of self-care and self-love is essential for getting younger. Just as I cared for my body and mind during this climb, nurturing ourselves with patience, understanding, and love can reverse the effects of stress and time on our bodies.
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