Seven Wonders Safaris Kilimanjaro climbing tips.
There are several ways to increase your chances of making it to the summit, and here are some of the meaningful tips to conquer the snow-capped Kilimanjaro.
One of the most important things about Mountain climbing is to take your time, in Swahili we say “Pole- Pole” slowly, which is the way to do it, and there is no price to get for the person who gets to the camp first or to the top?
pace yourself so that you’re never completely out of breath. Exaggerate your breathing, taking deeper and more frequent breaths than you feel your actual need. This will help you acclimatize and help keep you from exhausting prematurely, and it will help lower the chances of developing pulmonary or cerebral edema
Ski poles make good walking sticks, we highly recommend these, and can be rented in most places in Arusha, Moshi, or the park headquarters.
Bring a small backpack to carry the items to which you want quick access along the trail, such as water bottles, snacks, and a camera
Most importantly, listen to what your body is telling you. Don’t overdo it! Many people get complications on the mountain because they don’t listen or pay attention to the signs, and keep pushing themselves.
Kilimanjaro Trekking Itineraries.
top and enjoy the view from time to time, and watch your footing while climbing
Drink a lot more water than you feel you need. High altitude hiking is very dehydrating, and a dehydrated body weakens quickly. Climbers should drink 4-5 liters of fluids daily from their foods and drinks. Consume foods such as soups, oatmeal porridge, and fresh fruits to supplement water and other liquids. Climbers should drink until the color of the urine is clear.
Most hikers find it difficult to sleep at high altitudes. Once you reach the camp each afternoon, rest a bit, then hike a spot a few hundred a hundred feet in altitude above the hut and relax for a while. Acclimatization even for a short time at a higher altitude will help you get a restful night’s sleep. Remember “climb high sleep low”
consume at least 130 grams per day on the climb, this can be a problem. Most climbers lose their appetite at high altitudes. Bring along the trails nuts and dried fruits, chocolate, and other goodies to enjoy which might supplement more energy required for you!
Forget about drinking alcoholic beverages on the climb. Altitude greatly enhances the effects of alcohol, and alcohol causes dehydration. A headache caused by altitude sickness can be bad enough without having a hangover on top of it
As the entire descent is made in two days, your knees take a hard pounding, you want to wrap your knees with elastic bandages or use elastic knee support.
Some climbers take the prescription drug Diamox, a diuretic that usually reduces the symptoms of Mountain sickness, however, there are side effects from taking the drug, including increased urination. You should discuss the use of Diamox with your doctor before leaving home.
We know that climbers can rent gears in Arusha, Moshi, and park headquarters, but they may not be of top quality. If possible, we recommended that bring your gear to fed away disappointment.
What's Your Dream Safari?
We design private, group joining and camping safaris for people who want to explore African pristine wilderness for unmatched wildlife, trekking and cultural tours. Our amazing team of travel designers, local guides work together to showcase Africa beauty in depth.
Join Our Newsletter
Get expert planning advice and new trip ideas from Africa’s leading safari travel specialists