Katampe Adventures: Hiking, Laughing, and Building Resilience

 

Saturdays are sacred a day to escape the hustle and bustle of life, reconnect with nature, and let out a good laugh (or ten). My latest hike was no different, and this time, the destination was the magnificent Katampe Mountain, located behind Shama Fuel Station. (Yes, that’s how we give directions in Nigeria: landmarks first, GPS later!)

The day started as perfectly as a boiled egg paired with hot coffee which, incidentally, was my breakfast. The golden sunlight broke through the horizon, and the dew on my potted plant sparkled like diamonds. Nature was already setting the mood for an adventure. Fueled by caffeine and egg protein, I laced up my sneakers, grabbed my water bottle, and stepped out with excitement bubbling in my chest.

Gathering the Crew

At the meeting point, I encountered an eclectic mix of hiking enthusiasts. Among them was my "fighting buddy," a quick-witted character whose sharp humor kept everyone entertained. Don’t worry there were no actual punches thrown, just some good-natured banter that got the group laughing even before we hit the trail.

After some waiting (because no Nigerian event ever starts without a “few minutes delay”), we piled into the cars and headed to Katampe. If you’ve never been, let me paint a picture for you: Katampe Mountain is a natural gem offering panoramic views of Abuja. From the top, the city looks like a postcard except you’re sweating buckets while admiring it!

The Ascent: “Easy,” They Said

The trail at Katampe is marked as "medium" difficulty, but my adventurous spirit declared it “easy.” Naturally, I shared this opinion with a new friend during the hike. His response? A hearty laugh followed by, “Easy for someone like you!” And just like that, I became the group's unofficial mountain goat, leaping over rocks and leaving everyone behind. (Okay, maybe not everyone. But I was close to leading the pack!)

As we climbed, the conversations flowed as freely as the sweat on our brows. From debating why partner are not opened to each especially sexually to swapping funny hiking fails, we kept each other entertained. Of course, there were moments when the incline made everyone pause not because we were tired, but because we wanted to "appreciate the view." Yes, let’s call it that.

Zeebee, the Juice Lady

No hike is complete without snacks and refreshments, and Zeebee, the juice lady, came through like the MVP of the day! She brought freshly made juices of all kinds that refreshed our taste buds and bodies. At the summit, I treated myself to her delicious pineapple and turmeric juice, a vibrant and tangy mix that energized me instantly. As if that wasn’t enough, the coconut smoothie was a creamy delight that made the panoramic views even sweeter. Who knew climbing a mountain could feel like a spa day?

The Views, Laughter, and Life Lessons

Reaching the top of Katampe Mountain felt like winning a small lottery. The view was breathtaking Abuja spread out beneath us like a living, breathing map. It was the kind of scenery that makes you forget the blister forming on your heel or the mosquito bite on your elbow.

We took a well-deserved break, snapping pictures, sharing snacks, and savouring our juices. The air up there felt different lighter, fresher, and infused with a sense of accomplishment.

Amid the banter and laughter, I reflected on why hiking is more than just a fun outdoor activity. It’s a journey of resilience, teaching us lessons about perseverance, mindfulness, and our connection to the earth.

Resilience Through Hiking

Physical Resilience: Let’s face it hiking is no walk in the park. It challenges your body, pushing you to climb higher, walk farther, and dodge the occasional thorny bush. Each step strengthens your muscles and builds endurance, preparing you for life’s other uphill battles (like tackling Nigerian traffic or navigating AEDC outages).

Mental Resilience: There’s something magical about nature’s quietude. The rustling leaves, chirping birds, and distant hum of life create a symphony that soothes the mind. Hiking sharpens your focus and problem-solving skills. For instance, I had to figure out the best way to step over a muddy patch without ruining my sneakers a skill that translates surprisingly well to office politics.

Emotional Resilience: Standing on a mountain top has a humbling effect. It reminds you of how small your problems are compared to the vastness of the world. Plus, nature’s beauty fills you with awe, gratitude, and a renewed sense of purpose. Trust me, after seeing Katampe’s view, even my Monday morning blues seemed manageable.

Environmental Resilience: Hiking through pristine landscapes fosters a deeper appreciation for the environment. Witnessing the delicate balance of ecosystems inspires a desire to protect them. At Katampe, I couldn’t help but marvel at the vibrant flora and fauna, vowing to do my part in preserving nature’s wonders.

The Descent: Gravity and Grumbles

The descent was just as eventful as the climb. Gravity may have been on our side, but so were the random loose rocks that threatened to trip us up. At one point, someone joked, “If I roll down this hill, just tell my family I died doing what I loved.” Morbid? Yes. Hilarious? Also yes.

As we made our way back, I realized how much I’d gained from the experience beyond sore legs and funny stories. Hiking is a reminder that life’s journey is as important as the destination. Every step, stumble, and laugh along the way adds to the richness of the adventure.

Why You Should Try Hiking

If you’ve never hiked before, let me be your hiking ambassador:

Reconnect with Yourself: Hiking allows you to unplug from distractions and tune into your thoughts. It’s like therapy, but free and with better views!

Make New Friends: There’s something about shared struggles (like climbing a steep hill) that forges instant connections.

Boost Your Health: From burning calories to strengthening your heart, hiking is a full-body workout disguised as fun.

Appreciate Nature: Trust me, the world looks different from the top of a mountain. You’ll gain a new perspective literally and figuratively.

Your Call to Adventure

So, what are you waiting for? Grab a pair of sturdy shoes, pack some snacks (and don’t forget juice from your local Zeebee!), and head out to explore the beauty of Katampe Mountain or any trail near you next weekend. Whether you’re a seasoned hiker or a beginner, nature has something to offer everyone.

And when you’re at the top, take a deep breath, snap a picture, and remember: life is better with a little adventure.