The flag of St Petersburg University raised on Kilimanjaro

The expedition, which lasted a total of five days, followed the classic and oldest route — the Marangu route, which offers picturesque panoramic views of the southern side of the volcano. According to Daniil Engelke, each stage of the ascent over the course of 90 kilometres included consecutive uncomplicated paths that facilitated a comfortable moderate climb. During their ascent to the summit, the group, which included Daniil Engelke and his sons, passed through all the climatic zones of Kilimanjaro, observing vibrant African landscapes ranging from rainforest to glaciers. 

"For any tourist who wishes to conquer a mountain, it is sufficient to be prepared for an average physical activity. The primary preparation lies in the right mindset and the desire to succeed, to overcome both another point on the map and oneself," said the head of the expedition, Daniil Engelke, Vice-Rector for Capital Construction at St Petersburg University. He also noted that, for him, since he is a professional racquetball athlete, there were no insurmountable difficulties. However, for a modern urban dweller, the complete lack of basic living conditions can present a serious obstacle. Daniil Engelke emphasised that perseverance, self-discipline, and self-confidence are essential in overcoming any difficulties, both on the sports field and in the mountains.

Kilimanjaro is the highest stratovolcano in Africa, located in north-eastern Tanzania. Every year, approximately 30,000 people from the Commonwealth of Independent States and other regions strive to conquer its summit.

The group commenced their journey at the foot of the mountain. The main route began with a steep ascent through a forest belt with moist soil, interwoven with numerous tree roots, which gradually gave way to a tropical landscape. As noted by Daniil Engelke, special attention had to be paid to the preservation of strength and proper acclimatisation. Consequently, the participants of the expedition stayed in specially equipped huts, where they not only restored their energy but also enjoyed the solitude and silence of the mountain wilderness.

"During the ascent to the summit a person experiences a wide range of emotions, including those feelings that are not typical in everyday urban life. Clarity, awareness, surprise, freedom, and admiration — all of these are pure, genuine emotions. The aftertaste of staying in the mountains is a unique kind of pleasure," shared Daniil Engelke. "The sensations and impressions gained from climbing a mountain are difficult to articulate and cannot be compared to anything else." 

Daniil Engelke, Vice-Rector for Capital Construction at St Petersburg University noted that such experiences serve as motivation to overcome difficulties, set worthy goals, and strive to achieve high results.

Climbing to the top gives a great boost of energy and it is a unique tool for inspiring oneself. One should not be afraid of new challenges. On the contrary, they should be viewed as opportunities for personal growth and self-development.

Daniil Engelke, Vice-Rector for Capital Construction at St Petersburg University

For Daniil Engelke, this is not the first mountain he has conquered. Last year, together with his sons he undertook an expedition to the highest peak of Russia — Mount Elbrus. He dedicated the ascent to the anniversary of the University. Speaking about future plans, he stated that the team is considering the possibility of conquering another famous height to mark the 300th anniversary of the oldest Russian university. "Three centuries are three peaks. We are looking to the future with ambitious plans. The flag of St Petersburg University is now raised on Mount Kilimanjaro, so it would be great to take another step to pay tribute to our university, strengthen the collective spirit, and reach new heights", Daniil Engelke, Vice-Rector for Capital Construction, emphasised. 

Additionally, as part of the celebrations to mark the 300th anniversary of the University, the St Petersburg University mountaineering team, led by coach Sergei Semiletkin conquered a nameless mountain peak in the Republic of Buryatia, which has since been officially named after St Petersburg University.