When I first climbed Kilimanjaro in 2016 I never imagined the change it would bring. The sheer size of the volcano was striking when I saw it rising on the horizon as we drove towards the Machame Gate. And hiking through the different climate zones from rain forests to alpine desert was surreal. Reaching the peak at the rim and looking into the enormous crater of Kilimanjaro made me feel so small. It also made me feel strong, capable and like I achieved something wonderful. A widened perspective, great friendships and confidence. It was my first experience with high altitude and a gateway to mountaineering. A passion that has slowly been building ever since.
In June 2023 I returned a third time to climb the 5895 m to the roof of Africa. I was asked to photograph and film a fundraising climb for the organization Radiating Hope. Their aim is to provide access to cancer care in developing countries. Specifically they work to further access to radiation therapy. This climb was focused on their work with a local hospital in Moshi, Tanzania. You can read more about Radiating Hope at https://www.radiatinghope.org/
We had a rainy week on the Machame Route all the way up the mountains slopes. But on the summit push all was quiet and clear. We hiked all night under a glowing full moon that lit up our path and made our headlamps unnecessary. As we reached Uhuru Peak we were greeted by a warm sunrise. And then it started pouring down on the descend after we passed Barafu and I was soaked to the bone. A fitting end to a very wet climb.
In the pictures from this trip I took a more naturalistic approach to the editing and grading. I hope you like them!
