Ain’t no mountain high enough for 14-year-old Adia Coetzer who conquered the
highest peak on the African continent – Mount Kilimanjaro.
And the best part? The thought of doing it never even occurred to Adia Coetzer until a teacher mentioned the once-in-a-lifetime opportunity one morning during assembly about a year ago.
“I remember being silly with my friends, joking about doing it. And, in the spirit of being funny, I joined the teacher’s Kilimanjaro WhatsApp group. I honestly didn’t think I was actually going to do it at the time. The next thing I knew, a few months had passed and I was at the airport on my way to Tanzania!”
Although adventure has always been in Adia’s blood, this was by far the most spontaneous thing she’d ever done. She admits though, she wasn’t exactly in tip-top shape beforehand. But, who needs to be when you’ve got guts, right? It’s all about mind over matter – in Adia’s case, at least.
In fact, nothing – not even a delayed flight leading to a sleep-deprived seven-hour trek on day one – could stop this daring teen. She was determined to push through. And boy is she glad she did.
Think extraordinary views, twinkling stars and a passionate Kilimanjaro crew singing, dancing and keeping spirits high. Her fave part? The views … by far! Nothing compares to being above the clouds and soaking in the African sun.
As for the weather … let’s just say she got all four seasons in one week. From sweating buckets to teeth-chattering cold! But, when she finally reached the peak during the wee hours of the morning, all that hardship just seemed to melt away.
Hands down, it was the toughest thing she’s ever pulled off, but ask her if she’d do it again, and she’ll scream “Heck yes!” before you can blink.
But, don’t be mistaken – this hardcore adventurer has a little diva in her too! For Adia, school holidays shout ‘manicure’, and don’t think trekking through a Tanzanian mountain range stopped her from adding those nail tips!
“Yes it was challenging at times”, Adia chuckles “especially when I had to put on extra thick gloves for the sub-zero temperatures, but at least I knew my nails looked good underneath!”
When she isn’t busy proving that age is but a number, Adia is all about the good stuff. Reading – especially Shakespeare – learning Spanish and hanging out with friends. Because, life’s all about the climb, right?
Adia tells us more about her 19 300 foot antics.
Your experience in 3 words?
Amazing. Breathtaking. Challenging.
What would you do differently next time?
I will pack lighter because I really didn’t need all the stuff I thought I’d need. And, let’s just say that the bulk of my preparation was mentally. So, next time I’d focus more on the physical, haha.
The most challenging part?
Altitude sickness. When you reach a certain height, the air becomes thinner and suddenly you can’t walk two steps without gasping for air. And, you feel dizzy, like someone hit you over the head with a hammer. I was also super nauseous. But the thought of summiting (reaching the peak) kept me going.
Biggest lesson learned?
The journey taught me a lot about endurance, and not giving up. And, pushing through especially when you feel like throwing in the towel. Nothing compares to that feeling of accomplishment when you finally reach the top.
Three things you couldn’t have gone without?
Wet wipes. Lip balm. And my gaters.
The golden rule?
Don’t go if you don’t feel like it. You should be 100 percent committed. Your state of mind plays a huge role – so, if you’re doubting yourself or your capabilities, this might not be for you.
Advice for others wanting to climb Kilimanjaro?
Drink as much water as your body can possibly take, then drink a little more. And, many people give up at the first stop. Don’t! It gets better as you go along. Just push through. Oh, and whatever you do, don’t forget the toilet paper!
Must-have qualities to conquer the mountain?
Endurance. Willpower. The ability to go with the flow. Oh, and be careful not to overthink it. Otherwise, you might just create a mental block for yourself. Just relax – it’s an adventure.
What’s your life motto?
Hakuna Matata. There are no troubles. Sometimes it just feels like I’m sitting in a boat on the sea and I’m just going where it takes me. Just say yes to new stuff. You only live once. Use your time to the fullest and have fun.
Adia’s fave feel-good hiking smoothie
You’ll need: 1 banana, 1 large handful of blueberries and/ or strawberries or raspberries (frozen or fresh), 100ml almond milk, 1 tsp chia seeds, cinnamon, 2 dates (without core), some oat flakes if desired.
To make: Put all ingredients in the blender, mix well and enjoy! The milk can also be replaced with yoghurt.
Extra enjoyment: Switch it up with various toppings such as nut butter, granola, nuts, desiccated coconut or cocoa. If you don’t have all the ingredients for the drinks at home, that’s no problem, because it still tastes great even with fewer ingredients!
5 Must-try hiking trails in the area
• Walter Sisulu National Botanical Garden Trail – A 3.9km loop trail in Roodepoort which is generally considered a moderately challenging route. This is a very popular area for birding, hiking, and walking, so you’ll likely encounter other people while exploring.
• Kings Kloof Farm – Trails start from 5.6km up until 26.6km. Be sure to bring a big bottle of water as there are no water points along the trails and lots of snacks to keep yourself going. They also advise that you choose the correct difficulty level for your fitness level.
• Kloofendal Nature Reserve – This hidden gem is home to a number of small mammals such as duiker, mountain reedbuck, dassie, mongoose and so much more. There is a stone amphitheatre with picnic facilities, walking trails of various distances, and a dam with a hide. And, of course, a 4.7km loop trail.
• Sterkfontein Trail – This 5km trail is considered a moderately challenging route. But, it’s still a beautiful and peaceful hike. It’s great for the whole family, but it’s quite exposed with little shade for most of the way. So, just remember your sunblock, as with any hike.
• Cradle Moon Lakeside Game Lodge – With over 50 kilometres of mountain biking and hiking trails there’s a special experience for every level of athlete. Think varied terrain from forests to mountains, with over 20 species of wild animals!
Compiled by: ALANICKA LOTRIET.
