Belizean Women Prepare to Climb Kilimanjaro

Yesterday, two adventurous women from Dangriga, Belize, made headlines by completing the first leg of their climb up Mount Meru in Tanzania, reaching an impressive altitude of 4,566 meters (14,990 feet). Stacy Webber and Judie Zab proudly left Belize’s flag at the summit of Africa’s fifth-highest mountain.

The climb typically takes 3 to 4 days via the Momela Route and requires proper acclimatization. It is also a sacred site for the local Waarusha people.

In an interview today with News 5, Webber said, “It was recommended to do at least 8 weeks of training. But honestly, no amount of training could fully prepare you for this. That’s from experience.” She described the challenges faced during the hike, stating, “I vomited more than I ate. My friends said I left a part of me all along the way.”

Webber said that the climb took about 14 to 15 hours, with only 2 hours of sleep. The team first hiked to Little Meru, which took 5 hours. After a short rest, they set off at midnight for Big Meru, reaching the summit by sunrise.

The women are now preparing for a 10-day hike up Kilimanjaro. Webber said, “Wish us luck and let Belize know we are going to make every woman, man, and child proud as we carry our flags as we climb.”