![Male doctor in office consulting with a man in glasses, both seated](https://images.followalice.com/2fYbsnLVuOQ0dgx8ly6rdz/63d1d6fe87d81eff4f7dfae69c33d2a4/Male_doctor_in_office_consulting_with_a_man_in_glasses__both_seated.jpg?q=80&fit=fill&f=center&w=1200&h=1200)
Climbing Kilimanjaro? Get a medical checkup first!
You need to be fit and healthy to climb Kilimanjaro safely. We strongly encourage anyone keen to climb Africa's highest peak to visit a doctor beforehand to discuss their health as well as the inherent dangers of high-altitude trekking.
![Snow and trekkers on Kilimanjaro summit](https://images.followalice.com/7K3Oo00tZqWhcemLRroRDn/e5490a31eda125a63d12a2e3bfdd6542/Snowy_summit.jpeg?q=80&fit=fill&f=center&w=800&h=450)
Discuss these 3 things with your doctor
1. The dangers posed by high altitude
![Beste. Moorland zone, trekkers, Kilimanjaro](https://images.followalice.com/1pELEdE34GpD81J3PKoAMI/8691c952bc03aa21b76f04f5a4b309f4/Beste._Moorland_zone__trekkers__Kilimanjaro.jpg?q=80&fit=fill&f=center&w=800&h=1000)
2. How to prevent or mitigate altitude sickness
Painkillers for headaches (a common symptom of mild altitude sickness). Strong anti-nausea tablets (another common symptom of mild altitude sickness). Cortisone (should you start coughing and spluttering).
3. Any potential concerns based on your personal medical history
![Group pic at Barafu camp sign, Kilimanjaro, in August 2022](https://images.followalice.com/7GwivFWnvyhcUOguq7aMHT/20e57fedf254a054662dfcac6a37f778/Oscar_von_Seidel._Group_pic_at_Barafu_camp_sign__Kilimanjaro.jpg?q=80&fit=fill&f=center&w=800&h=600)
Have this appointment before booking your climb