When Gary Barlow and Cheryl Cole teamed up to climb Mt. Kilimanjaro in 2009, they raised an estimated 3.5 Million Euros in the three-day climb. Since 2009, climbing Mount Kilimanjaro has been a part of the activities undertaken by Comic Relief organizers to raise money to fight poverty in the world. In the last edition in 2019, popular broadcaster Anita Rani, Shirley parks, Ed balls, and Dani Drey are some of the celebs who took the 2019 challenge by climbing Mt. Kilimanjaro.
Here are the top reasons that drove these celebrities and over 35,000 others to take the daring climb of the mountain.
- World of its own
Mt Kilimanjaro is the tallest mountain in Africa and the tallest free-standing mountain in the world. Its popularity appeals to both the young and old, rich and poor, popular and ordinary and all nature lovers, that it has been nicknamed every man’s Everest. With its three volcano cones, both experienced and amateur climbers will find something fascinating about this African heritage.
- Mt. Kilimanjaro is an icon
Mt. Kilimanjaro is one of the seven summits of the world. Standing at 5895M above sea level, it is the highest peak in the region. While climbing Mt. Kilimanjaro, you will experience the magic of three volcanoes, namely Kibo, Mawezi, and Shira. Both Shira and Mawezi are extinct volcanoes, while Kibo in an active volcano cone might erupt. The fascinating vegetation in the mountain offers a great site. The vegetation ranges from the desert, moorland, alpine, rain forest, and iced peak.
- It is easy to climb
Mt. Kilimanjaro has been described as one of the most accessible summits to climb. You don’t need technical skills or the fitness of a football star to climb. The terrain favors the young and old, fit or unfit. The youngest person to climb the mountain is Keats Boyd, who climbed aged six while Anne Lorimor was the oldest person who climbed the mountain aged 87 in 2019. If these two could manage, you can surely succeed. All you need is the will and drive to explore this fantastic mountain.
- It hosts fascinating wildlife
Apart from the Big 5, the mountain is home to thousands of wildlife, including an estimated 140 mammals, birds, carnivores, and vegetation. While most animals are located on the lower slopes of the mountain, expect to view a unique and distinctive variety at high altitudes. Some of the animal species like olive ridley, black leather turtle, Columbus monkey (red), and hawks-bill are endangered species that can only be found in Mt. Kilimanjaro.
- It is one of the natural wonders
Mt. Kilimanjaro lies along the equator of the world, which implies that it doesn’t experience seasonal variations. The snow-capped mountain is surrounded by rain forest. They remain evergreen and snow-capped all year round. Climbing kilimanjaro can be compared to a journey from equator to farthest north-pole with a varying climate, wildlife, vegetation, and scenic beauty.
- Great area for scientific research
Renowned German scientists Dr. Andreas Hemp is accredited with several fascinating discoveries in the mountain. The leading revelation that Mt. Kilimanjaro is the only mountain in the world without bamboo vegetation is a hot research topic. Also, the few unique, rare plants in the mountain make an excellent subject for scientific research some plants like Passifloraceae is under study as an alternative traditional herb for blood pressure patients. If you are fascinated by scientific discovery, then Mt. Kilimanjaro is a great destination to uncover the hidden scientific knowledge while having a great time.
- An excellent destination for a romantic gateway
Power couple Sabrina Dowre and Idris Eba spent their honeymoon exploring the Serengeti while enjoying hot air balloons and lit bonfires at Mt Kilimanjaro. The adrenaline that comes with climbing Mount Kilimanjaro can help you bond with your partner. Further, the mountain has several five-star hotels with amazing cultural food and exotic African entertainment. Climbing Kilimanjaro with your partner can create a lasting memorable experience for you.
- A great resource to understand climate change
The melting glaciers at the peak of Mt. Kilimanjaro make a great resource to understand and appreciate climate change. Watching the glaciers melt before your eyes can make you more environmentally conscious and understand the real impact of climate change.
- Appreciate the African story
Mt. Kilimanjaro is the pride of Africa, not just for its tallness but for its sign of freedom from colonial rule. Tanzania was the first African country to gain independence in 1961 from the British colonizers. The first president Mwalimu Nyerere mounted the Tanzanian flag on top of Mt. Kilimanjaro as a sign of the struggle for independence and subsequent freedom. The story of Tanzania inspired many African countries in the struggle, and it was during that time that most countries gained their independence. The view of the African continent from the top of Mt. Kilimanjaro is fascinating, and a reflection of their struggle, joy, culture, and heritage.
- Support a worthy cause
One way to feel great about our lives is by living it for others, Mahatma Gandhi. Climbing Mount Kilimanjaro for something bigger than you is a great way to give back to humanity. There are many charitable causes that you can support by climbing the mountain, including:
- Support for wildlife protection
- Reduce infant mortality
- Support access to healthcare in rural Africa
- Create awareness about autism
- Support education of the African child
- Create awareness about the recent Coronavirus
You can team up with leading organizations like concern world-wide, water aid, comic relief, and UNICEF to get the ideal cause that you can support.
- Gives a sense of accomplishment
Climbing Mount Kilimanjaro is a tough challenge. The adrenaline, sweat, pain, tears, and discouragement that came with the terrain can be tough. However, overcoming these to get to the peak is a great source of accomplishment.
Get your big boy boots and explore this amazing treasure. Rest assured, it is worth it.