Above & Beyond - Alysia & Sam Norris

Our search for a climb company began in early 2013 when we decided to tackle Kili. 

We started with our favourite travel agent but turned back to the internet when her wholesalers were unable to cater to our preferences for route and number of days or guarantee small group numbers. 

Armed with a check list we found Majestic Kilimanjaro. The daunting task of booking it ourselves was made easy being able to talk to the Australian partners who answered all our questions. And when it came time to liaise with Tumaini for the finer details via email we found it just as easy despite being on the other side of the Indian Ocean. 

Enjoying a coffee in Arusha, Tanzania

From the moment Tumaini picked us up at ‘Jaro International Airport we knew we had made the right choice. When each of us came down with altitude sickness we trusted his experience and were thankful for his cool, calm manner. Knowing that we were really battling he amended our eight-day trek, abandoning the northern circuit for the more direct route, giving us the best possible chance of reaching the summit without sacrificing necessary acclimatisation. 

Walking through the rainforest

For the final summit he led us out of camp at 4am rather than midnight to avoid the worst of the cold night air. The only forfeit was not being at the summit for sunrise but more importantly we made it to the Uhuru Peak, coaxed to the sweet end despite fatigue and exhaustion! 

At the Summit - Uruhu Peak, 6th August 2013

If we had attempted this with a big group and large operator we would most likely have failed. Despite our attention to training it was our preparation and, most importantly, the choice of Majestic Kilimanjaro that ensured our success. Tumaini was also an excellent guide on our three-day safari proving very knowledgeable and passionate about his country. As a bonus we not only got an awesome holiday we felt like our money was going to the right people, staying in Tanzania.

About to get back on the bus with the Majestic Kilimanjaro team at the end of a great climb.

Alysia & Sam Norris

You can also read Alysia's TripAdvisor Review here. 

Sam Norris is a Journalist with The Maitland Mercury. Read his story of their climb here.