Brooke Baldwin’s Kilimanjaro Climb: 10 Life Lessons from Africa’s Tallest Peak

Brooke Baldwin, a renowned journalist and former CNN anchor, traded the bright studio lights for the rugged trails of Mount Kilimanjaro, fulfilling a lifelong dream of adventure in Africa. Climbing the highest freestanding mountain in the world at 19,341 feet, she embarked on a transformative journey, returning with ten unforgettable life lessons.

1. The Mountain is the Boss

On Kilimanjaro, nature dictates the rules. Brooke quickly learned to check her ego at the gate of the Machame Route as altitude sickness humbled even the strongest climbers. The unpredictable environment teaches respect—what you eat, how you hydrate, and how you sleep at 15,000 feet can make or break your summit attempt.

Lesson: Flexibility and humility are key to overcoming challenges, whether on the mountain or in life.

2. The Guide is the Guru

Dismass Mariki, Brooke’s guide, had summited Kilimanjaro over 200 times, shepherding climbers of all ages—including an 82-year-old woman and her three septuagenarian friends—to the summit. His wisdom, strict rules on hydration, and unwavering support ensured Brooke’s success.

Lesson: Trust the experts and lean on those with experience when venturing into the unknown.

For more on Kilimanjaro’s incredible guides, read The Role of Porters and Guides on Mount Kilimanjaro.

3. Breathing is Everything

At extreme altitudes, breathing changes. Dismass taught his group deep, controlled breathing techniques, which helped maintain oxygen levels and prevent altitude sickness. Pulse oximeter readings during meals revealed just how crucial this practice was.

Lesson: In moments of stress, slow, deep breaths can be the difference between panic and perseverance.

For an in-depth look at altitude adaptation, check out Acclimatization on Kilimanjaro.

4. Keep Your Eyes on the Prize—But Not for Too Long

While trekking, it’s tempting to fixate on Kilimanjaro’s glacier-capped peak. However, staring at the summit for too long can be overwhelming, making the climb feel insurmountable. Instead, the best approach is focusing on one step at a time—a valuable lesson for life as well.

Lesson: Success comes from consistent, steady progress rather than fixating on the destination.

5. Embrace the Stink

Seven days, no showers. For someone used to daily TV-ready grooming, this was a leap outside Brooke’s comfort zone. No makeup, no hair products—just her natural self, dirt and all. It turned out to be incredibly liberating.

Lesson: Letting go of vanity can be refreshing. Simplicity fosters self-acceptance and appreciation.

6. No Cell Service, No Problem!

Climbing Kilimanjaro meant an entire week disconnected from social media, emails, and work distractions. Without constant notifications, Brooke and her fellow climbers engaged in deep, distraction-free conversations about life, politics, and dreams.

Lesson: Unplugging from technology can help reconnect us to what truly matters.

7. Laughter is the Best Medicine

Altitude sickness, fatigue, and freezing temperatures were no match for the power of laughter. Whether it was sharing stories, playing games, or dancing after a long day’s trek, humor kept spirits high.

Lesson: In difficult times, a shared joke or a song can lift morale and make challenges more bearable.

8. ‘Pole Pole’—Slow and Steady Wins the Race

In Swahili, “pole pole” means “go slow”—the mantra of every Kilimanjaro climb. Rushing at high altitudes can lead to exhaustion and altitude sickness. Instead, taking it one deliberate, steady step at a time is the key to reaching the summit.

Lesson: Life, like Kilimanjaro, is best approached at a sustainable pace.

9. It’s About the Journey, Not Just the Summit

Standing at Uhuru Peak for a quick six minutes before racing back down might have been the technical goal, but the true magic of Kilimanjaro was in the experience—the bonds formed, the songs sung by the porters, and the breathtaking star-filled nights.

Lesson: Achievements are fleeting, but the journey is what truly shapes us.

10. You’re Stronger Than You Think

On the final night, just an hour into an eight-hour push to the summit, Brooke faced severe dehydration and dizziness. She nearly gave up. But thanks to her guide’s quick action and encouragement, she pushed through and made it to the top.

Lesson: When you think you’ve reached your limit, you still have more to give. Keep going.

Final Thoughts: The Power of Adventure

Brooke Baldwin’s Kilimanjaro experience was more than just a physical feat—it was a spiritual and emotional awakening. From trusting in expert guidance to embracing discomfort and finding beauty in simplicity, she returned home with insights that extend far beyond the mountain.

For those inspired by her journey, Kilimanjaro awaits. Will you take the challenge?

If you’re planning your own climb, explore these essential resources:

Ready to experience your own life-changing Kilimanjaro journey? Start planning today!