Trekking Toward Kilimanjaro: Ndo🔥Adventure!

As I lace up my hiking boots, the excitement bubbles up…this isn't just another hike, but a thrilling prelude to my Kilimanjaro adventure!

Last Sunday, the Ndofaya hiking trail greeted us with a gentle embrace of cool, crisp air, an encouraging reminder that Mother Nature is our biggest fan.

It was an ideal for those last-minute training sessions before tackling the majestic Kilimanjaro.

I met up with Haps very early this past Sunday, drove together to Meadowlands, Soweto and gathered at the car wash waiting for Masike our tour guide to arrive and explore the trail.

Our guide arrived, with a smile, loads of energy and sugar cane “hiking sticks” that he proudly offered and told us are locally made by the children he mentors.

The Ndofaya hiking trail is renowned for its challenging yet rewarding path and for its busy Holy land where traditionalist usually gather for their rituals whilst the church performs their baptisms and prayers sessions. It was no different when we hiked passed the stream and man made dam.

Shortly after passing the dam and witnessing the cleansing and baptisms, we crossed over to the second part of the hike; the “Private land” where he tasked us to pick a stone and carry it with us for the prophesy later on.

As we trudged along, We reached the dessert and took a break at a resting place I’d call “Kgotla” where we took out our stones and the prophecy began. I was stunned by the prophecy and couldn't help but reflect on the parallels between this hike and the intentions of climbing Kilimanjaro. It was a reflective yet interesting encounter.

It was another realisation of how the great outdoors provides both a workout and a therapy session. Every bend in the path and every uphill reminded us of the importance of perseverance. We puffed and huffed our way up. The chirping birds serenaded us, while the dancing leaves whispered secrets of the ancient mining land.

We climbed the golden stairs to heaven and stopped to marvel at the dessert, the trees and Soweto streets.

Nature's competitive spirit shone through as we shared stories and laughter, making the tough climb worth it.

The bends and rocky outcrop taught us about balance, not just in hiking, but in life. We embraced both the challenges and the triumphs, reminding each other that the journey is just as essential as the destination.

We began our descent with a beautiful view of Soweto, pointing out Orlando Stadium, the Towers and many other familiar places. We were welcomed by a group of local boys playing soccer which reminded me of my childhood, where Sunday treats involved going to the grounds after church and watching different teams play.

As we wrapped up our Ndofaya adventure we walked past the Meadowlands streets to our starting point, taking us via a “Kota” chill place where we enjoyed our kotas with coke, listening to loud gospel music and exchanging our experience together.

This hike was more than just a training session; it was a celebration of friendship and sisterhood.

So as I gear up for Kilimanjaro, I carry with me the lessons of the Ndofaya trail: it's not just about reaching the peak; it's about enjoying the trail of life - all the laughter, chats, ascends and descends, picture moments and snacks along the way!

Climbing Kilimanjaro in the coming weeks may be at the forefront of our minds, but the memories we create along the way are what will keep us moving forward.

It’s a Wondrous Wednesday

Likha~Biso ❤️