Altitude Sickness

One challenge you cannot fully prepare for is altitude sickness on Kilimanjaro. It can affect anyone, even those with previous experience at high altitudes. While most cases are mild, severe forms can be life-threatening.

Fortunately, your experienced guides are trained to recognize the early signs of altitude sickness  and will take immediate action to prevent it from escalating. They are always monitoring your well-being and will make adjustments to ensure your safety. Your blood oxygen level will be checked twice a day and there is a standard questionnaire to monitor your health.

At Kilimanjaro Climbing Club, your health and safety are our highest priority.

One challenge you cannot fully prepare for is  high altitude sickness. It can affect anyone, even those with previous experience at high altitudes. While most cases are mild, severe forms can be life-threatening.

Fortunately, your experienced guides are trained to recognize the early signs of altitude sickness  and will take immediate action to prevent it from escalating. They are always monitoring your well-being and will make adjustments to ensure your safety. Your blood oxygen level will be checked twice a day and there is a standard questionnaire to monitor your health.

At Kilimanjaro Climbing Club, your health and safety are our highest priority.

Medication (Diamox)

One commonly used medication for altitude sickness prevention is Diamox (Acetazolamide). Many in the high-altitude trekking community believe it can help reduce or prevent symptoms. However, there is no conclusive scientific evidence proving its effectiveness.

We strongly recommend consulting your doctor before the trip to discuss whether Diamox is appropriate for you, and to receive personalized medical advice.

Kilimanjaro Climbing Club Altitude sickness on Kilimanjaro

Emergency Response & Helicopter Evacuation

In the unlikely event of a serious health emergency on the mountain a helicopter rescue evacuation is possible.
To access this service, you must:

  • Have travel insurance that covers high-altitude evacuation, or
  • Be prepared to cover the costs with a valid credit card.

At Kilimajaro Climbing Club, your health and safety are our highest priority.

Altitude sickness on Kilimanjaro

Altitude sickness on Kilimanjaro

KilimanjaroGO — Real Tips & Emergency Info
KILIMANJARO • Safety & Real Tips

Prevent Altitude Sickness

Everything you need for a safe, comfortable, and successful tour.

Pro Tips: Prevent Altitude Sickness on Kilimanjaro

  • Choose longer routes (Lemosho or Northern Circuit) for better acclimatization.
  • Go slow (“Pole Pole”) — a gentle ascent helps your body adjust.
  • Stay hydrated — drink 3–4 liters of water daily.
  • Eat small, frequent meals — even if you’re not hungry.
  • Consult your doctor about Diamox — it can help prevent symptoms.
  • Use ginger or peppermint — natural relief for nausea.
  • Listen to your body — report headaches or dizziness immediately.
  • Keep warm — cold can make symptoms worse.
  • Breathe deeply and stay calm — it helps your body cope.
KilimanjaroGO — Real Tips & Emergency Info
KILIMANJAROGO • Safety & Real Tips

Emergency Response, Altitude Tips & Honest Advice

Practical tips from real climbers to help you stay safe, comfortable & confident on your Kilimanjaro adventure.

🚁 What Happens in an Emergency?

If something serious happens on the mountain, you can be evacuated by helicopter. To access this service, you must:

  • Have travel insurance that covers high-altitude rescue
  • Or be ready to pay with a valid credit card

At KilimanjaroGO, your health and safety always come first. Double-check your insurance before you travel.

💡 Pro Tips: Prevent Altitude Sickness

  • ⏳ Take your time — longer routes (like Lemosho) help your body adjust
  • 🐢 Go “Pole Pole” (slowly) — never rush the climb
  • 💧 Drink 3–4 liters daily — hydration is your best friend
  • 🍲 Eat small, frequent meals — even if you’re not hungry
  • 💊 Ask your doctor about Diamox — it works for some climbers
  • 🌿 Try ginger or peppermint — natural relief for nausea
  • 🧠 Listen to your body — headaches and dizziness are signals
  • 🧥 Stay warm — cold makes symptoms worse
  • 🌬 Breathe deep & stay calm — it really helps

✨ Real Tips from Real Climbers

Sleeping on Kilimanjaro

Cold nights are no joke. A fleece liner inside your sleeping bag makes a huge difference. Bring your own — it’s worth it.

🔥 Hot water bottle trick: Every night staff can fill one for you. Hug it or put it by your feet — game changer!

🛏 Don’t forget a pillow. A small inflatable one saves your neck. Trust us.

🧦 Socks, socks, socks. Dry and warm feet = good sleep.

💊Weird Side Effects of Diamox

Diamox helps prevent altitude sickness — but it comes with quirks:

  • Tingling hands & feet (the “Botox feeling”)
  • Frequent peeing
  • Metallic taste in your mouth

Tip: Everyone reacts differently. Test it before your trip, and always listen to your body.

⛰️Altitude Check

Even fit hikers struggle at high altitude. Success is about:

  • Going slow & staying hydrated
  • Taking rest days seriously
  • Believing in yourself — mental strength matters

🌦Weather Shifts Fast

One day sunny, the next freezing. Layers and waterproofs are not optional — they’re survival gear.

Tent Talk

Bigger tents = colder nights. Cozy tents = warmer nights. Choose comfort over space if warmth matters most.

🎒Daypack Drama

Your daypack (30–40L) is your lifeline. Test it loaded before the trip.

  • Chest & waist straps = lifesavers for weight
  • Rain cover is a must (drizzle can ruin clothes)

🚻Toilets — Real Talk

Public camp toilets can be rough. Many climbers rent a private toilet tent for comfort. Worth it!

♨️Warm Packs = Secret Weapon

Pop a few in your gloves or sleeping bag. Small investment, huge comfort.

🧠The Best Advice

Don’t look up on summit night. The peak looks endless. Instead: look down, walk steady, one step at a time.

Mindset Is Everything

Your brain is your strongest gear. Stay positive, stay warm, and keep moving. “Pole pole” — slowly, step by step.