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This is one of the most important topics for anyone planning a Kilimanjaro trek. Proper acclimatization is the single biggest factor in determining your summit success and, more importantly, your safety.
Here is a guide to understanding acclimatization and getting ahead of altitude sickness.
Understanding Altitude Sickness
Altitude sickness, also known as Acute Mountain Sickness (AMS), is a common reaction to a lack of oxygen at high altitude. While it can affect anyone regardless of fitness, it is easily manageable if you understand the symptoms.
Common Symptoms of AMS:
Important: If left unchecked, these symptoms can progress to more serious and life-threatening conditions like High Altitude Pulmonary Edema (HAPE) or High Altitude Cerebral Edema (HACE). Your guides are trained to spot the signs and will take immediate action if a climber’s symptoms worsen.
Key Acclimatization and Altitude Tips
The goal is to allow your body to adapt to the lower oxygen levels at a gradual pace. This process is called acclimatization. Here are the most effective ways to do it:
1. Go "Pole Pole" (Slowly, Slowly)
This is the most important rule on Kilimanjaro. Your guides will constantly remind you. Walking slowly, even if you feel you can go faster, conserves energy and allows your body to take in more oxygen with each breath, helping you to acclimatize.
2. Hydrate Aggressively
Drink at least 3-4 liters of water per day. Altitude and physical exertion cause dehydration, which can mimic or worsen altitude sickness symptoms. Your guides will constantly check your water bottles and encourage you to drink. Electrolyte tablets are a great way to supplement your hydration.
3. Eat Well and Eat Carbs
Your body burns a significant amount of calories on the trek. Maintain a high-carbohydrate diet, as your body uses carbohydrates more efficiently for fuel at high altitudes than fats or proteins. Your guides and cooks will provide three full meals a day and plenty of snacks.
4. "Climb High, Sleep Low"
This is a proven strategy for acclimatization. The Machame and Lemosho routes are designed around this principle. On certain days, you will hike to a higher altitude during the day and then descend to a lower camp to sleep. This exposes your body to high altitude without the added stress of sleeping there, making it an excellent way to prepare for the summit.
5. Communicate with Your Guides
Your guides are your most valuable resource on the mountain. Be honest and proactive about how you are feeling, even if your symptoms are mild. They are trained medical professionals and have instruments to monitor your oxygen saturation and pulse. Hiding symptoms can be dangerous.
6. Consider Medications (Consult a Doctor)
Some trekkers choose to take prescription medications like Diamox (Acetazolamide) to help with acclimatization. This medication helps speed up the body’s natural acclimatization process. However, it is vital that you consult with your doctor well in advance of your trip to discuss whether this medication is right for you. Tarry Adventures is not a medical professional and cannot give medical advice.
Tarry Adventures' Commitment to Your Safety
Your safety is our number one priority. Our guides are highly trained in identifying and managing altitude sickness. They carry oxygen cylinders and a comprehensive first aid kit. They will be monitoring your health throughout the trek, and if necessary, they have the authority to recommend or enforce an immediate descent, which is the fastest and most effective cure for altitude sickness.
