Conquering Kilimanjaro: A Journey of Friendship and Ethical Travel

World Vegan Travel Mount Kilimanjaro Trekkers smiling at the camera at Karanga Camp — CREDIT: MONICA KIRCHNER

Why Climb Mount Kilimanjaro?

In a recent episode of the World Vegan Travel podcast, Monica and Lise shared all about their amazing adventure climbing Mount Kilimanjaro. This famous mountain is known for its stunning views, but it also helps people challenge themselves and make stronger connections with others. For Monica and Lise, the climb wasn’t just about reaching the top—it was a journey of friendship and excitement!

World Vegan Travel_Mount Kilimanjaro long distance view — CREDIT: MONICA KIRCHNER

Why Monica and Lise Decided to Climb Kilimanjaro

Monica’s Journey and Personal Challenge

Monica is from Flower Mound, Texas, and she didn’t have much hiking experience before this trip. She saw climbing Kilimanjaro as a big challenge and said, “I thought it just sounded like a challenge.” This shows that even if you’re new to hiking, you can still take on big adventures!

Lise’s Experience and Why She Chose Kilimanjaro

Lise, from Brisbane, California, had more hiking experience. She decided to climb Kilimanjaro because she wanted to go with a great group. She said, “If I’m ever going to do it, this is it!” This shows that Kilimanjaro is a mountain for all types of adventurers—whether you’re a beginner or someone who’s done lots of hikes.

World Vegan Travel_Kilimanjaro camp site at sunset dinner time — CREDIT: MONICA KIRCHNER

The Trekking Itinerary: Exploring the Mountain

Lise shared that their climb was planned over eight days. As they went up the mountain, they passed through different climate zones and saw all kinds of cool plants and animals. The adventure ended with a nighttime climb to the top, timed just right to catch a full moon—making it a magical moment for everyone!

World Vegan Travel Mount Kilimanjaro summit night full moon — CREDIT: MONICA KIRCHNER

Strength in Numbers: Friendship on the Trail

Friendship played a big role during their climb. Monica said, “There’s just so much that’s going on that you just have to support one another.” Going through tough moments and celebrating successes together helped the group become closer. This shows how working together and supporting each other can help everyone succeed!

World Vegan Travel Kilimanjaro trekking group — CREDIT: MONICA KIRCHNER

Support Systems: Thanking the Local Guides and Porters

A big reason for their success was the help they got from the local guides and porters. Lise talked about how great the team was, saying, “The porters were superhuman beings who were always cheerful and lovely.” This shows how important it is to support the local community when you travel.

World Vegan Travel Mount Kilimanjaro trekking full moon at night — CREDIT: MONICA KIRCHNER

Altitude Challenges and Health Tips

Both Monica and Lise explained how important it is to listen to your body while climbing. Lise had trouble breathing at one point and learned how important it was to follow the mountain doctor’s advice. She said, “When a mountain doctor tells me I have to stop, I’m going to listen to him.” This reminds us that safety should always come first, even if it means not reaching the top.

World Vegan Travel Mount Kilimanjaro Trekking up the summit — CREDIT: MONICA KIRCHNER

Future Adventures: What’s Next After Kilimanjaro

At the end of the episode, Monica and Lise talked about how climbing Kilimanjaro would change their future travels. Monica said she might go to the Arctic next, while Lise is excited about sailing in Croatia. Their adventures show how facing challenges can lead to even more exciting trips!

The World Vegan Travel PodcastLise and Monica smiling at the camera

Conclusion

The Kilimanjaro trip in this podcast teaches us about friendship, growing as a person, and being kind when we travel. As more people look for special experiences, it’s important to remember that facing challenges and helping others can go together.

World Vegan Travel_Mount Kilimanjaro trekking climbers looking at the camera — CREDIT: MONICA KIRCHNER

If our conversation inspired you, we’d love to hear your own travel stories! How do you make sure your travels are kind to others? Leave a comment or connect with us on Instagram @worldvegantravel. Don’t forget to subscribe to the World Vegan Travel Podcast for more exciting stories about adventures that help the planet!

“Ready for your own adventure? When you travel, think about supporting local communities and always be responsible.”

World Vegan Travel_Kilimanjaro distant view at dusk — CREDIT: MONICA KIRCHNER

World Vegan Travel_full moon summit night Kilimanjaro — CREDIT: MONICA KIRCHNER

Learn More About What is Discussed on the Podcast

Monica talks about how she started with little hiking experience and took on the challenge of climbing Kilimanjaro, showing how adventure helps you grow.
Lise shares her love for hiking and explains how Kilimanjaro is a great challenge for both beginners and experienced hikers.
The guests talk about their eight-day trek, traveling through different climates, and the magical moment of reaching the top under a full moon.
They highlight how working together and supporting each other through tough moments makes the journey even stronger and more meaningful.
The podcast discusses how local guides and porters were key to their success, showing the importance of supporting local communities when you travel.
Lise talks about the importance of listening to your body and putting safety first—reminding everyone that reaching the top isn’t as important as staying healthy.