Another great day in the mountains for our climbers! Today, January 16th, we’ve had two teams hit the summit. Here are the details:

Our Orizaba Express team turned their attention to Iztaccíhuatl (5,230 meters / 17,160 feet) over the last few days, and today, they made their summit bid. We are proud to share that we had 100% on top, and this crew below hit both objectives: Pico de Orizaba and Izta.

A massive congratulations goes out to:

• Marc M.
• Chelsey M.
• CTSS Guide Juan M.

On Kilimanjaro, it was a tough summit morning with wind for our Rugged Luxury climbers, but we also had 100% on top. The entire team watched the sunrise over Africa with a champagne toast, beating the crowds and rocking up in true Rugged Luxury style.

A massive congratulations goes out to:

• Dan A
• Kimberly L
• Chris N
• Julie N
• Caroline P
• Mark W
• CTSS Guide Dr. Brenton S.

The team is already back in Arusha at their 5-star hotel. With our Rugged Luxury program, climbers are whisked from a lower camp (weather dependent) all the way back to the base of Kilimanjaro. This exclusive descent offered the team a breathtaking aerial view of the glaciers, ridgelines, and the route they just completed. Now it’s time for some rest, relaxation, celebrations, and, of course, signature African Safaris!

Here are a few reflections from the team:

“The best part of the day, other than the summit, was wishing the incredible Tanzanian crew thank you and goodbye – as the helicopter plucked us from Barafu Camp and 30minutes later dropped us in the tropics of Arusha and back to the Legendary Lodge!”

– Caroline Pemberton

“It was fantastic to be back guiding again this week. This morning at 0533, my team of six from Rugged Luxury Expeditions was the first to summit Mount Kilimanjaro for the day. We had the summit to ourselves as we basked in the sunrise on the roof of Africa. After being whisked away from High Camp in our own private helicopter, we are now recovering in luxury in Arusha before heading to the Serengeti tomorrow for safari.

We had an amazing week of fine dining with 3-course gourmet meals as well as luxurious camping, daily hot showers, and daily massages as we made our way up the mountain.

I’d especially like to thank our dedicated porter team, without whom this expedition would not have been possible. Your support, enthusiasm, and merriment were absolutely fantastic and were a highlight of this climb! Thanks also to the RLE head office and logistics team, as well as the chefs, waiters, massagers, and local guides.

It’s these luxuries that make every meter of elevation gain a pleasure knowing what awaits at camp!”

– CTSS Guide Dr. Brenton Systermans

Images from Caroline Pemberton, Dr. Brenton Systermans, and Mark Watson