Climbing Mount Kenya: A Journey of Heart and Resilience via the Chogoria Route

Mount Kenya is more than just a mountain—it’s a testament to the human spirit, a place where every step tells a story of discovery and adventure. For us, the journey along the Chogoria route to Lenana Point was a deeply personal adventure, one that brought us closer and filled our hearts with joy.

Being born and raised in Kenya and having climbed this mountain in my 20s on a whim, it was more special to be able to take overlandmini on this adventure. Over three days, we climbed towards the sky, and in one rain-soaked day, we made our descent, facing challenges that would etch this journey in our hearts forever.

The Ascent: A Thrilling Adventure

The Chogoria route is renowned for its stunning landscapes and inviting trails. With our Kilimanjaro climbing team by our side, we set out with excitement buzzing in the air. The days ahead were filled with the promise of adventure and the thrill of exploring one of Africa’s most beautiful mountains. For my 12-year-old daughter overlandmini, this climb was a chance to embrace the adventurous spirit she had grown up around.

Each day of the ascent was an exhilarating experience. The trail meandered through lush forests, past cascading waterfalls, and over rocky outcrops that offered breathtaking views. Every turn revealed something new and spectacular—a hidden grove, a playful group of monkeys, or a sunlit meadow. For overlandmini, the journey was like stepping into a real-life storybook, each moment more exciting than the last.

We laughed as we navigated winding paths, paused to soak in the beauty of the landscapes, and marveled at the vastness of the mountain around us. The camaraderie within our team added to the joy, with shared stories and moments of awe at the wonders we encountered. For overlandmini, the climb was not just a challenge—it was a grand adventure, full of fun, discovery, and the pure joy of being in nature.

Reaching Lenana Point: A Moment of Triumph

On the third day, we reached Lenana Point. The final stretch, while steep, was charged with excitement. The anticipation of standing at the summit drove us forward, and as we reached the peak, the view was nothing short of magical. Overlandmini's eyes sparkled with delight as she took in the sweeping vistas, her face alight with a mix of pride and wonder.

In that moment, standing at Lenana Point, it wasn’t just about reaching the summit—it was about the joy of the journey that brought us here. The laughter, the awe, the shared experiences—all of it culminated in this incredible moment of triumph. This was a defining moment for overlandmini, a realization of her adventurous spirit and boundless potential. For me, it was pure joy to see her embrace the adventure with such enthusiasm and courage.

The Descent: A True Test of Resilience

Our descent was a different kind of challenge. The weather took a turn as we began our journey down, with heavy rains transforming the trail into a slippery, treacherous path. Overlandmini found the descent particularly tough. The rain was relentless, and the muddy terrain made each step a battle. Her small frame, already exhilarated from the climb, now had to navigate the challenges of the descent.

There were moments when I could see the struggle in her eyes, the weariness of a 12-year-old pushed to her limits. But her spirit never wavered. She faced the rain and the mud with a determination that left me in awe. Each step was a testament to her resilience, her courage in the face of adversity. Our team rallied around her, offering support and encouragement, but it was her own inner strength that carried her through.

A Journey of Growth and Connection

When we finally reached the base, drenched and weary, there was a sense of triumph that words can’t fully capture. This climb was more than a physical challenge—it was a journey of growth, resilience, and connection. This was overlandmini's lesson in courage, a reminder of her strength and the power of perseverance.

For me, it was a profound experience of watching my daughter rise to the occasion, facing each challenge with grace and grit.

Mount Kenya, with all its beauty and trials, became a symbol of our bond, a shared adventure that will live on in our memories. The journey to Lenana Point was not just about reaching the summit—it was about discovering what we’re capable of when we push beyond our limits. For both of us, it was a journey that will forever shape who we are and the stories we carry in our hearts.