The Power of Expeditions: Why They're the Best for Team Building

Summiting Mt.Kilimanjaro Case Study

Back in 2016, I led a team from my university on a journey of self-discovery by climbing to the summit of Mt.Kilimanjaro, the highest peak in Africa with the support of local guides. This expedition was a challenging and rewarding experience that offered numerous learning opportunities around team leadership and building teams. Team building is a crucial aspect of fostering collaboration, trust, and productivity within any organization. Did you know companies that prioritize team-building activities have a 30% higher employee satisfaction rate (Havard Business Review)?

While there are various team-building activities available, expeditions stand out as a powerful and transformative approach. In this blog, we will explore the case study of my Mt.Kilimanjaro expedition, the challenges it presented, the actions I made as a team leader and why expeditions are the best at building teams and how they create lasting benefits for both individuals and organizations.

First, I plan to share which route up to the tallest free-standing mountain in the world our team took over our very quick 5-day hike.

The Machame Route

The Machame route is one of the popular and scenic routes for climbing Mount Kilimanjaro. Did you know Kilimanjaro is composed of three volcanic cones: Kibo, Mawenzi, and Shira? Kibo is the highest and is dormant but could erupt again. Mawenzi and Shira are both extinct (WWF). The most recent activity was about 200 years ago; the last major eruption was 360,000 years ago (Tranquilkilimanjaro).

The origin of the name "Kilimanjaro" is still somewhat debated, but it is believed to be derived from the Swahili words "Kilima" (meaning "mountain") and "Njaro" (meaning "white" or "shining"), (World Education Fund). It is known for its diverse landscapes and gradual ascent, offering climbers a great experience. The distance and elevation gain on the Machame route can vary slightly depending on the specific itinerary and the variations in campsites used by different tour operators. However, here is a general overview of the distance and elevation gain for the Machame route:

1. Distance: The total hiking distance for the Machame route is approximately 62 kilometres (38.5 miles) to 68 kilometres (42.2 miles) round trip. This distance includes the ascent to the summit and the descent.

2. Elevation Gain: The total elevation gain on the Machame route is roughly 4,900 meters (16,100 feet) to 5,200 meters (17,060 feet) from the starting point to the summit of Uhuru Peak, which is the highest point on Mount Kilimanjaro.

Here is a breakdown of the key camps and elevations along the Machame route:

• Machame Gate (Starting Point): Approximately 1,800 meters (5,905 feet) above sea level

• Machame Camp (1st Camp): Approximately 3,000 meters (9,840 feet) above sea level

• Shira Camp (2nd Camp): Approximately 3,840 meters (12,600 feet) above sea level

• Barranco Camp (3rd Camp): Approximately 3,950 meters (12,960 feet) above sea level

• Karanga Camp (4th Camp): Approximately 4,035 meters (13,240 feet) above sea level

• Barafu Camp (5th Camp): Approximately 4,640 meters (15,220 feet) above sea level

• Uhuru Peak (Summit): 5,895 meters (19,341 feet) above sea level. This is the highest point on Kilimanjaro is Uhuru Peak. It is the highest point in Africa. Due to climate change, the glaciers on the summit of Kilimanjaro have been rapidly receding over the years. The mountain’s snow caps are diminishing, having lost more than 80% of their mass since 1912 (PNAS). Some estimates suggest that the glaciers could disappear completely by the year 2030. Mount Kilimanjaro is one of the few places on Earth where you can find snow and ice on the equator. The glaciers and ice fields near the summit are a unique geographical feature (Alezza Travel).

• Mweka Camp (Descending Camp): Approximately 3,100 meters (10,170 feet) above sea level

The Machame route, while scenic, involved significant altitude gain over a relatively short period of 4 days, as a team we had to be physically and mentally prepared for the demands of this climb. As we didn’t have first-hand experience with this mountain we reduced our risk by hiring a reputable and experienced tour operator “Nyange Adventures” that helped us to follow proper acclimatization practices and provided us with skilled guides and support staff to ensure a safe and successful ascent. Let’s now go on a deeper dive to explore the challenges our team needed to overcome to reach the summit and return safely.

What did the team have to overcome to be successful?

Leading a team on a hike up Mount Kilimanjaro comes with its own set of challenges due to the mountain's high altitude, rugged terrain, and unpredictable weather conditions. Here are some of the biggest challenges that I had to deal with when leading a team on this challenging expedition:

1. Altitude Sickness: As the team ascends to higher altitudes, some of us started to experience altitude sickness, which can range from mild symptoms like headaches and dizziness (this is what I was experiencing) to severe conditions like High Altitude Pulmonary Edema (HAPE) and High Altitude Cerebral Edema (HACE). Unfortunately, two of my teammates were experiencing severe conditions and ended up not summiting the mountain on the last day with emergency evacuation down. As the leader, I had to be vigilant in monitoring the team's health and acclimatization alongside the expert guides and I had to be prepared to make decisions on whether to proceed or descend based on individuals' well-being. We even had a deputy leader succession plan should I be removed from the mountain due to altitude sickness someone else in the team would need to step in as leader. Approximately 25,000 people attempt to summit Mt. Kilimanjaro annually. Approximately two-thirds are successful. Altitude-related problems are the most common reason climbers turn back (Just One Africa).

2. Physical Fatigue: Climbing Kilimanjaro is physically demanding, even for fit individuals and endurance athletes like myself. The team did experience fatigue, muscle soreness, and exhaustion, especially during the summit attempt on our final day of ascending. As one of the leaders, I had to manage the team's pace, ensure adequate rest breaks, and be prepared to support members who may struggle physically. I was provided support, encouragement, and practical assistance to ensure their well-being and safety. What I needed to do at times with teammates struggling with fatigue:

   1. Encourage Rest and Hydration: Encourage my teammates struggling to take short breaks to rest and hydrate regularly. Fatigue can often be alleviated by giving the body time to recover and staying well-hydrated to avoid dehydration.

   2. Adjust the Pace: when possible, I would adjust the pace of the climb to match the struggling climber's abilities. Slowing down can help reduce physical strain and allow the climber to regain energy.

   3. Break Down the Ascent: It was important to break the climb into smaller, manageable segments with designated rest points. Focusing on reaching each checkpoint was invaluable in providing a sense of accomplishment and motivation to continue.

   4. Offer Motivation and Support: I regularly would provide positive reinforcement, encouragement, and motivation to keep the struggling teammates going. Reminding them of their goals and the rewards of reaching the summit.

   5. Carry Extra Gear: If my teammate was struggling with a heavy load, I often would redistribute some of their gear among other team members who were stronger to lighten their load and reduce fatigue.

   6. Monitor Altitude Sickness: Although I wasn’t an expert on altitude sickness I needed to be vigilant for signs of altitude sickness, as it can cause extreme fatigue. If necessary, on a few occasions I consulted with our guides and descended to lower altitudes to allow the team to acclimatize better.

   7. Medical Evaluation: If one of my teammate’s fatigue seemed severe or persistent, at times it was necessary to assess their physical condition. OUr expert guides were able to offer a medical evaluation that can help determine if any health issues need attention.

   8. Provide Nutritional Support: I often was checking in with my teammates to make sure that they are eating enough nutritious food to sustain energy levels. High-carbohydrate snacks can be particularly beneficial during the climb, I had lots at my disposal to share with anyone struggling.

   9. Divide Tasks: When we had a struggling team member we would divide the tasks among the stronger team members, so the struggling teammate’s responsibilities are minimized. This can allow them to focus on the climb without additional physical exertion.

   10. Stay Positive: One of the very key supportive actions I encouraged the whole team to do was to maintain a positive and supportive atmosphere within the team. Avoid placing unnecessary pressure on the struggling teammates and focus on the collective effort.

3. Weather Conditions: The weather on Kilimanjaro can be unpredictable, with sudden changes in temperature, wind, and precipitation. I need to be prepared for varying weather conditions and ensure the team is equipped with appropriate clothing and gear (I did pre-equipment checks before we set off).

4. Logistics and Planning: Coordinating logistics for a multi-day expedition requires meticulous planning, as the leader I was in charge of ensuring that all necessary equipment, supplies, and provisions were in place and that the team follows the designated route and schedule. This took 6 months to prepare prior to the expedition taking place.

5. Emotional and Mental Challenges: Climbing a mountain of this magnitude can be emotionally and mentally taxing. I know through my experience as a world-record-holding endurance athlete that each of my team members at one moment or another during or before this expedition may face self-doubt, fear, and moments of uncertainty. In knowing this I was prepared at all times to provide encouragement, motivation, and emotional support to keep the team focused and positive.

6. Group Dynamics: Managing group dynamics is crucial for a successful climb. Over the 6 months prior to the expedition taking place, I was busy fostering a cohesive team environment, addressing conflicts if they arose prior to and during the expedition, and ensuring effective communication and cooperation among team members.

7. Safety Concerns: Safety is paramount on a challenging expedition like Kilimanjaro. I was very well-trained in mountain safety protocols, including first aid and emergency response, and was prepared to handle any accidents or medical emergencies that may occur.

8. Cultural Sensitivity: Kilimanjaro is located in Tanzania, and our team did interact with local guides and porters. As the leader of the group, I set the standard in being culturally sensitive, respectful of local customs, and ensuring fair treatment and proper working conditions for the support staff on our expedition.

9. Decision-Making under Pressure: There were many situations where I needed to make critical decisions quickly, especially during two medical emergencies. Sound judgment and clear communication were essential in such circumstances.

10. Summit Success and Turnaround Time: Reaching the summit is a significant achievement, but as the leader of the group alongside the supporting guides I was mindful of the turnaround time to ensure the team descends safely and does not risk being caught in darkness or adverse weather conditions on the way down.

As a leader of this Mt.Kilimanjaro trek, I needed to be well-prepared, experienced, and adaptable to handle these challenges effectively, ensuring the safety and success of the team on this incredible adventure. So what else did I learn as a team leader in building this expedition team and being successful in completing the expedition safely?

What I learnt leading a team up to the roof of Africa

Here are some of the key lessons I learnt from leading a team to conquer this iconic mountain:

1. Leadership Skills: Leading a team up Mount Kilimanjaro requires strong leadership skills. I had to learn how to communicate effectively, make quick decisions, delegate tasks, motivate team members, and handle challenges that arose during the ascent.

2. Teamwork and Collaboration: Climbing Kilimanjaro is a group effort that demands teamwork and collaboration. As a leader, I became better at fostering a supportive team environment, promoting open communication, and ensuring everyone works together towards a common goal.

3. Resilience and Perseverance: The climb can be physically and mentally demanding, and this along with other challenges I have done has built my mental fitness, helping me to be resilient in the face of adversity. Every expedition or endurance challenge I do I develop additional perseverance and the ability to push through difficulties, inspiring the team to do the same.

4. Time Management: Ascending Kilimanjaro involves adhering to a strict schedule. This experience helped to hone my skill in managing time effectively to ensure the team reaches each campsite or summit attempt at the right time while allowing for rest and acclimatization.

5. Decision-Making under Pressure: Climbing a mountain like Kilimanjaro involves making critical decisions, especially concerning safety and health. Every experience is different and there are new scenarios playing out which helps me learn to make sound judgments under pressure, considering the well-being of the team above all else.

6. Risk Assessment: For each expedition that I lead I must continuously assess risks associated with weather conditions, altitude sickness, and physical capabilities of the team. Over time I have learned to strike a balance between pushing the team towards the summit and ensuring everyone's safety.

7. Cultural Awareness: Mount Kilimanjaro is located in Tanzania, and this was a wonderful opportunity for me to be able to engage with local guides and porters, learning about the local culture and traditions. The Chagga people, who live around the slopes of Kilimanjaro, consider the mountain to be a sacred place. It has cultural significance and plays a central role in their traditional beliefs (United Republic of Tanzania).

8. Appreciation for Nature and Environment: The climb showcases the beauty of nature and highlights the importance of environmental preservation. This was another great session of mindfulness and learning to appreciate and respect the delicate ecosystem of the mountain and the impact of human activities on the environment. Climbing Kilimanjaro offers a unique experience of passing through various climatic zones, from tropical rainforests at the base to arctic conditions near the summit. Almost every kind of ecological system is found on the mountain: cultivated land, rain forest, heath, moorland, alpine desert and an arctic summit ( BenefacTours). Did you know in 1973, the mountain and its six surrounding forest corridors were named Kilimanjaro National Park in order to protect its unique environment? The park was named a United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (UNESCO) World Heritage site in 1987 (National Geographic).

9. Personal Growth: Climbing Kilimanjaro can be a life-changing experience for many people. It provides a chance for personal growth, self-reflection, and the realization of inner strength and capabilities.

10. Celebrating Success: Reaching the summit is a significant achievement. I had a good opportunity to celebrate successes, acknowledge the efforts of the team, and foster a sense of accomplishment and camaraderie.

I learnt a lot as a team leader and that is clear to see, but the key learning was building the right team for this expedition which I want to discuss next.

The Benefits of Team-Building through expeditions which translate to benefits in the office…

Team-building is essential, whether up a mountain or in the office, because it fosters collaboration, enhances communication, and creates a strong sense of camaraderie among team members. Here are some reasons why getting team-building right is crucial in both settings:

1. Shared Goals and Challenges: Expeditions bring team members together around a common goal, such as reaching the summit of a mountain or completing a challenging trek. These shared objectives create a strong sense of purpose and unity among the team, aligning their efforts towards a common target. Facing and conquering challenges as a group fosters teamwork, encourages collaboration, and strengthens bonds. These experiences help team members get to know each other on a personal level, leading to stronger relationships and a deeper appreciation of each other's strengths and contributions. In turn, this can lead to greater synergy and a higher level of support among team members which enhances team engagement and companies with engaged employees experience 2.5 times more revenue growth than their competitors (Bain & Company.

2. Outdoor Adventure and Creativity: Expeditions take teams out of their typical work environment and immerse them in the great outdoors. This change of scenery encourages creativity, inspires fresh perspectives, and stimulates innovation. The natural surroundings provide a conducive atmosphere for brainstorming, problem-solving, and thinking outside the box, allowing team members to tap into their untapped potential. These skills can then be applied to problem-solving and decision-making in the office. Exposure to natural settings can enhance creativity and problem-solving, leading to increased innovation in the workplace (Harvard Business Review).

3. Trust Building and Communication: In the wilderness, team members must rely on each other for support, safety, and decision-making. This reliance creates a strong foundation for trust-building. Through challenging situations and shared experiences, individuals learn to trust and communicate effectively. Team-building activities in outdoor settings improve communication effectiveness by 50% (Outdoor Industry Association). They develop a deeper understanding of each other's strengths, weaknesses, and communication styles, which enhances collaboration and cooperation back in the workplace.

4. Effective Conflict Resolution: In any team setting, conflicts may arise. These conflicts can be heightened outside of the comfort zone on expeditions. Team-building experiences in outdoor expedition settings provide the best opportunities to address and resolve conflicts constructively, ensuring that issues are addressed promptly and without long-lasting negative impacts. The key reason why outdoor team-building expeditions are so effective in resolving conflict is that they take employees out of the usual office setting, providing a neutral ground where conflicts can be addressed without the stress and tensions associated with daily work routines. 91% of participants in outdoor team-building activities reported improved conflict resolution skills (Institute for Applied Positive Research, research arm of GoodThink). Being in a different environment can make it easier for team members to express themselves openly and honestly. Also, team-building expeditions often include debriefing sessions, where team members discuss their experiences and reflect on the challenges they faced together. These sessions can be used to address any conflicts that arose during the activities and find resolutions. Companies that prioritize team-building and collaborative activities achieve a 21% higher profitability (Deloitte).

5. Leadership Development: Expeditions offer a unique platform for leadership development. Team members have the opportunity to take on leadership roles, make critical decisions, and guide the group towards success. This allows emerging leaders to flourish and provides valuable insights into individual leadership styles. Leadership skills developed during expeditions can be transferred to the workplace, contributing to a more dynamic and empowered team. 88% of participants in outdoor leadership programs reported improved leadership skills, including decision-making and problem-solving. (Journal of Experiential Education).

6. Resilience and Adaptability: Navigating unpredictable terrain and weather conditions requires adaptability and resilience. Expeditions push team members beyond their comfort zones and teach them to adapt to changing circumstances. They learn to embrace challenges, overcome setbacks, and maintain a positive attitude in the face of adversity. These lessons in resilience build mental toughness and prepare teams to face and overcome obstacles in the workplace. 91% of participants in outdoor team-building activities reported increased resilience in dealing with challenges (Outdoor Foundation)

7. Stronger Relationships and Camaraderie: Expeditions create lasting memories and unique shared experiences. Spending time together in an unfamiliar environment strengthens personal connections, breaks down barriers, and fosters a sense of camaraderie. Team members bond over shared triumphs, memorable moments, and even the occasional humorous mishap. During team-building activities, we build trust which can create a sense of psychological safety within the team. Team members feel comfortable taking risks, sharing ideas, and asking for help, which is essential for fostering a productive and innovative work environment. These relationships extend beyond the expedition, leading to improved collaboration, support, and camaraderie within the workplace. 91% of employees believe that team-building events help break down barriers between departments, leading to better collaboration (TinyPulse).

8. Promotes a Positive Work Culture: When you undertake an expedition together, automatically you are creating a strong team-building culture in order to be successful with the challenge. This culture creates a positive work environment where individuals feel valued, respected, and included. This fosters higher job satisfaction, reduced turnover, and a more positive company culture. Organizations with strong team cohesion have a 41% lower turnover rate (Forbes)

Expeditions like the Mt.Kilimanjaro trek offer a transformative team-building experience that goes beyond traditional activities. They provide a powerful platform for shared goals, challenges, and personal growth. Through outdoor adventure, trust building, communication, leadership development, resilience, and stronger relationships, expeditions create lasting benefits that significantly enhance team dynamics and productivity in the workplace. By investing in expeditions as a team-building approach, organizations can cultivate cohesive, motivated teams that thrive on collaboration and innovation. I run expeditions like this in the UK such as the National 3 Peaks Challenge. Check out my offering on my website to find out more.