Everest Base Camp Trek: Conquering Peaks at 57
In the crisp air of October 18th, 2023, standing at 5,364 meters above sea level at the Everest Base Camp, my heart overflowed with euphoria. The Everest Base Camp trek had been a dream, a goal set after months of preparation and years of hiking, realized through sheer determination at age 57.
My journey into hiking began just a year before, at 57, igniting a passion that led me from local trails to summits like Mt. Kilimanjaro and Mt. Kenya. Each trek built my strength and resolve, preparing me for the ultimate challenge: the Everest Base Camp trek.
The Humble Beginning
In 2022, at age 57, I discovered a newfound passion for hiking. It all began with a simple one-day hike organized by a local church. From that modest beginning, I gradually progressed to summiting renowned peaks: the 6-day trek to Mount Kilimanjaro at 5,895 meters above sea level and a 3-day Mount Kenya expedition to Lenana Peak at 4,985 meters.
Hiking revealed the transformative power of nature—found in the quiet solitude, the physical challenge, and the meditative moments amid God’s magnificent creation.
A Missed Chance That Opened a Door
One day, I saw a poster for a 4-day Mount Kenya expedition via the Chogoria Route. Excited by the idea, I quickly tried to find a group to join. Unfortunately, the plan fell through at the last minute. But I didn’t give up. Instead, I organized a solo trek through a hiking gear dealer who happened to be a seasoned guide.
On May 30, 2023, at 6:30 AM, we stood at Lenana Peak via the Sirimon Route. It was a 54-kilometer journey that offered breathtaking views of Kenya’s central highlands. The joy of reaching the summit was beyond words.
Chasing New Heights
After Mount Kenya, it was only natural to set my sights on Africa’s highest peak—Mount Kilimanjaro. I connected with a reliable guide based in Arusha, Tanzania, and set off on a 6-day trek to Uhuru Peak. To prepare, I summited local peaks including Mount Kinangop (3,900 meters), known for its grueling terrain and unforgiving summit.
Thanks to the Cushy Adventures team, I successfully summited Kinangop. This training proved vital.
On July 29, 2023, at 8:15 AM, I reached Uhuru Peak. It was surreal to see the sign: “Congratulations, you are now at Uhuru Peak, Tanzania, 5,895 meters above sea level—Africa’s highest point, the world’s highest free-standing mountain.” I even witnessed a summit proposal—a moment of pure mountain romance.
Though the summit stay was brief due to the extreme cold, the experience was etched into my soul. I received my certificate of achievement the moment I descended.
The Everest Dream
After Kilimanjaro, I contemplated what was next. During a family dinner, I hesitantly shared my dream of trekking to Everest. The reaction was immediate and intense: “No, Mum!” Dinner came to a halt. Phones came out. A full presentation followed—complete with stories of Green Boots and Blue Jackets that mark the Everest trail.
I left the table uncertain, even fearful. My dream felt extinguished. But I couldn’t let go.
I prayed, did my research, and prepared a counter-presentation—this time, to convince them. I had just summited Kenya’s and Africa’s tallest mountains. My body was already acclimatized. Postponing would mean retraining. Slowly, I won over my children. But my husband remained silent.
One morning over breakfast, I brought it up again. He simply said, “Pray about it.” That was my answer. A week later, he added, “Look for a group.” I was going to Everest!
Preparing for the Everest Base Camp Trek: A Journey of Determination
The support from my family was overwhelming. Referrals, encouragement, prayers, and even financial support came pouring in. Eventually, I joined two Nairobi hikers—although one dropped out at the last minute. Still, two was a group!
On October 7, 2023, I flew to Kathmandu to begin a 12-day roundtrip trek to Everest Base Camp. From gear inspections to cold-induced illness, the challenges began early. Fog grounded our flight to Lukla for two days—a lesson in Everest’s unpredictability.
The eventual 20-minute flight to Lukla, landing on a strip nestled between two towering hills at 2,860 meters, was both terrifying and exhilarating.
Trekking Through the Himalayas
The cold hit me hard. My lungs struggled. I relied on prayer and inner dialogue with God. “You didn’t bring me this far to leave me,” I repeated to myself. I stuck to a strict diet, avoiding eggs, meat, and fatty foods.
Our Sherpa guide was a blessing. We trekked through colorful villages, crossed swaying suspension bridges (a nightmare for me), and climbed toward Namche Bazaar, Thamserku, and Ama Dablam. Each stop—Tengboche, Dingboche, Lobuche—offered surreal beauty and modern conveniences at unexpected prices.
At Gorakshep, the highest inhabited village on Earth, we were finally close to our goal.
Reaching Everest Base Camp: The Heart of the Everest Base Camp Trek
On Day 8, I reached the iconic Everest Base Camp rock. Tired but exhilarated, I stood side by side with a stranger-turned-photographer who captured the moment. I was overwhelmed by God’s faithfulness. My dream had come true.
As I descended, I soaked in the glory of creation. This trek was more than a physical challenge—it was a spiritual and emotional journey of self-discovery.
Homecoming
On October 24th at 2:30 PM, I exited Jomo Kenyatta International Airport to a hero’s welcome. My husband was waiting. Two days of exhaustion followed, but so did an outpouring of love. From my community, friends, and long-lost connections, the support was humbling.
A Thanksgiving Mass organized by my husband crowned the journey. All glory belongs to God. Truly, when I called, He answered.
What’s Next?
More trails await. The Twelve Apostles in the Aberdares is top on my list. Maybe even scuba diving one day.
Life Lessons From My Hiking Journey and The Everest Base Camp Trek
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Faith Moves Mountains: From spine surgery to Everest, God made the impossible possible.
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Gratitude Grounds Us: The gift of movement and breath should never be taken for granted.
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Start Small, Dream Big: Begin with manageable hikes. Progress is a journey.
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Push Your Limits: Growth comes from discomfort. Keep challenging yourself.
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Find Meaning in the Struggle: Every steep climb is a life lesson in disguise.
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Connect Deeply: Hiking is a soulful conversation with nature and self.
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Community Matters: Fellow hikers fuel the journey with strength and support.
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Travel Light: Carry only what you need—on trails and in life.
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Stay Focused: Eyes on the summit, heart in the journey.
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Celebrate Everything: Every step, every summit, every breath is a victory.