Climb for Freedom: Kilimanjaro
Climb Mt. Kilimanjaro to help bring freedom
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: Updated dates: 23 June - 2 July 2024
Cost: Approx. £3,500. 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 IJM work to stop slavery and violence around the world.
Download your trip pack to find out more and sign up below to register your interest.
About Mount Kilimanjaro
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!
About IJM's Work in Kenya
IJM remains committed to holding police accountable and working with the authorities to address police misconduct. IJM works alongside government investigative agencies to prosecute abusive police and provide hands-on training for police and officials to strengthen the legal safeguards that protect innocent people.
About The Trek
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 is hard to put into words the extraordinary privilege that IJM UK's first ever Climb for Freedom challenge was. Finally 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. This trip will be a celebration of the breakthroughs we've seen and also a chance to raise valuable awareness and funds to bring many more people to freedom from slavery and violence!"
FAQS and More
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.
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.
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.
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 over Zoom or explore corporate partnership opportunities, please email Chief Partnerships Officer, Esther Swaffield-Bray on [email protected]