To the Summit through Difficulties

     Elli Ambros, Campbell University’s academic counselor at Pope Air Force Base, and her husband Keith, safety officer with the Golden Knights Parachute Team, spent two weeks traveling in Tanzania, Africa. The first eight days of their journey were spent climbing Mt. Kilimanjaro, followed by an exciting six-day safari throughout three wildlife national parks.    

     "After a tiresome 20 hour flight, we were driven to our hotel which was in the town Moshi near the base of Mt. Kilimanjaro,” said Elli. “At dinnertime the following day, the clouds broke open just enough for us to view the majestic mountain from the hotel balcony. I was in sheer awe and mesmerized by its towering height and impressive size, its captivating beauty and snow-capped roof. I felt it was beautiful, mystifying but most of all intimidating. I knew the very next day when our climb began that Kilimanjaro would either be a friend or foe to me within the next eight days.”
      Mt. Kilimanjaro, called the "Roof of Africa" is the highest freestanding mountain in the world, towering at a 19,400 feet high. According to the Africa National Parks System, approximately 20,000 trekkers attempt the climb yearly, only 10,000 reach the summit, and 5-15 lose their lives annually. Failure to reach the summit is usually due to altitude sickness, poor weather conditions and/or physical inability.
     Elli and Keith have remained in good physical condition by jogging, walking, hiking and weekly visits to the gym, although they increased their training three months prior to the trip. Despite the steep terrain, sleeping in tents in wintry cold temperatures, oxygen deprivation, altitude, food and water sickness and discomfort, they both reached the summit with their group of guides and porters.
     "Climbing the mountain was the most difficult (non-academic) pursuit of my life. On a daily basis I was challenged physically and mentally and psychologically, while maintaining a positive attitude and staying motivated,” said Elli. “We trekked through steep rainforest, beautiful moorland, desert and rock at a steady incline, despite our illnesses. The majestic glaciers and vast view from the peak were breathtaking. The African culture, viewing the diverse wildlife and interacting with the locals were memorable experiences.”
     The six day safari was such a relaxing reprieve after their strenuous climb. For the duration of their journey they toured three game viewing parks: Lake Maynara, Ngorogoro State Park and Tarangire State Park.
“Our guide was a local who was very knowledgeable about the animals, culture and Masaii warriors, and our transportation over the bumpy terrain was a Land Rover. It was such a treat for us to view the diverse selection of wild animals in their natural habitat,” said Elli.
     They saw animals such as wildebeests, zebras, elephants, giraffes, rhinos, hippos, hyenas, boars, dik-diks and lions. These animals were often times just yards away from the vehicle.
     Africans rely heavily on fruits, vegetables and natural foods so the food was very fresh.
     “Being a semi-vegetarian I felt like I was in Heaven,” said Elli.
     Tarangire State Park camp did not allow any food items in the tents, nor were they allowed to come out of their tents after dark because wild animals were free to roam anywhere and were not shy when they are hungry.
     “One of the most memorable aspects about the safari and the climb was meeting and socializing with locals, including the Masaii villagers,” said Elli. “We met and made friends with travelers from all over the world.”

Photo Copy: Elli Ambros, Campbell University’s academic counselor at Pope Air Force Base, and her husband Keith, climbed to the top of Mt. Kilimanjaro.