Climb for Freedom: Kilimanjaro
Climb Mt. Kilimanjaro to help bring freedom
"Reaching Uhuru (‘Freedom’) Peak as sunrise broke on Anti-Slavery Day is something I will never forget!"
Take on the challenge of a lifetime
IJM UK's Climb for Freedom is not only an epic adventure and remarkable challenge, but an incredible opportunity to help bring freedom. It's also a chance to connect in a deeply personal way with the fight to end slavery and violence including visiting the inspiring IJM Kenya team.
Trip Details
When: 12th-21st October 2026
Cost: approx. £3,595. Inclusive of all flights, accommodation, meals, transportation, and ‘the climb'.
Fundraising Target: We have set a target of £3,000 per person, an amount which would help stop slavery and violence around the world.
Download your trip pack to find out more and sign up below to register your interest.
At 5,895m, Mount Kilimanjaro is the highest walkable mountain in the world and therefore requires no technical experience or equipment. Reaching the roof of Africa is however a considerable and, at times, gruelling challenge. The midnight ascent to the summit is the toughest test both physically and mentally. The effect of being at altitude will also play its part throughout, but you are more than rewarded by sunrise at the highest point on the continent!
IJM is committed to working with the authorities to address police abuse of power and child sexual exploitation in Kenya. IJM works to hold perpetrators of violence accountable and protect people from ever experiencing abuse in the first place.
From Nairobi we will travel to Kilimanjaro and set out on the start of the journey to 5,895m via the six-day Rongai Route. The trek will lead you through tropical rainforest, alpine landscape, lunar desert and finally reach the stunning glacier at the mountain’s summit, Uhuru Peak. After descending the mountain, there will be an opportunity to relax and savour your achievements prior to travelling back to Nairobi Airport for the return overnight flight home.
What was the trip like?
It’ll definitely be one of the hardest, if not the hardest challenge you ever do...but every muscle ache is worth it, for the incredible cause that is IJM.
Reaching Freedom ‘Uhuru’ Peak at sunrise was exhilarating. Climbing for freedom was one of my most impactful moments this year!
IJM’s founder, Gary Haugen, says: “Victims of injustice don’t need our spasms of passion; they need our legs and lungs of endurance and our long obedience in the same direction.” His words felt particularly apt as we climbed through the night, step by step, determined to shine a light on the injustices that still trap millions.
Reaching Uhuru (‘Freedom’) Peak as the sunrise broke on global Anti Slavery Day is something I will never forget.
We are seeing whole nations change as a result of IJM's transformative work. The trip is a celebration of the breakthroughs and also a chance to raise valuable awareness and funds to bring many more people to freedom from slavery and violence!
FAQS and More
How fit do I need to be? Could I take part? ¶
You absolutely can make it to the summit! Make no mistake about it, reaching Uhuru Peak atop Mount Kilimanjaro is a gruelling and physically demanding challenge that will test all who attempt it. However, it is also truly achievable and, with the right approach, anyone can succeed. With the exception of the long summit day, each day on the mountain will include between four-seven hours trekking with the remainder of the day to relax, rest and socialise with the group. The biggest problem faced by those attempting Kilimanjaro is in fact, not lack of physical fitness but some degree of high altitude illness. Almost all participants will experience at least some of the symptoms associated with being at high altitude, but being aware of this in advance and responding appropriately will allow you to minimize its effect – namely, walking slowly and taking plenty of fluids and rest. You will be provided with more information about high altitude illness in your confirmation pack. Those with prior medical problems or concerns should seek advice from a doctor first. With some advance physical preparation and mental determination you too truly can achieve this magnificent goal.
Who can apply to go? ¶
Anyone over the age of 18 who wants to take on a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to support those in need at the same time as trekking through and up a UNESCO World Heritage site. Interested participants over the age of 65 will need to provide a medical form or consent letter signed by a doctor. Anyone under the age of 18 will need to be accompanied by an adult and parental consent provided.
Who is organising the trip? ¶
IJM UK is partnering with RightFoot: a highly-regarded organiser who work directly with trusted and highly reputable local organisers on the ground to ensure a high quality experience throughout. RightFoot is a member of the IMEC Partnership for Responsible Travel. We take this responsibility very seriously and endeavour to ensure that the service provided is always ethical and of the highest standard.
Have another question? ¶
We’d love to share with you how can join in with Climb for Freedom. If you have any more questions about the challenge itself, or if you’d like to connect more, ask questions or explore corporate partnership opportunities, please email Ben McMechan at [email protected]