How we climb Kilimanjaro
As we will be constantly climbing higher and higher each day, acclimatization to altitude is essential.
The following are recommended to achieving acclimatization:
Ascend Slowly. Our team will tell you, “Pole, pole” (slowly, slowly) throughout your climb. Because it takes time to acclimatize, your ascension should be slow.
Do not overexert yourself. Mild exercise may help altitude acclimatization.
Take slow deliberate deep breaths.
Climb high, sleep low. We hike to a higher altitude during the day, then sleep at a lower altitude at night.
Eat enough food and drink enough water while on your climb. It is recommended that you drink from four to five liters of fluid per day.
Avoid tobacco, alcohol and other depressant drugs including, barbiturates, tranquillizers, sleeping pills and opiates. These further decrease the respiratory drive during sleep resulting in a worsening of altitude sickness. In any case, alcohol and tobacco are banned on the mountain.
If you begin to show symptoms of moderate altitude sickness, don’t go higher until symptoms decrease. If symptoms increase, descend.
Our guides are all experienced in identifying altitude sickness and dealing with the problems it causes with climbers. They will constantly monitor your well-being on the climb by watching you and speaking with you.
It is important that you be open, active and honest with your guide. If you do not feel well, do not try to pretend you are fine. Do not mask your symptoms and say you feel OK. Only with accurate information can your guide best treat you.
