
Kilimanjaro altitude sickness
You cannot talk about Kilimanjaro without discussing altitude sickness. This is because the trek requires you to climb to nearly 6,000 m above sea level! The air is very thin at that elevation, and affects everyone, even the fittest of climbers.
What is altitude sickness?
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Can altitude sickness be avoided?
What are the symptoms of mild altitude sickness?
headaches sleep disturbance fatigue shortness of breath with physical exertion dizziness loss of appetite nausea and vomiting irritability muscle aches swelling of the hands, feet, and face a rapid heartbeat
More than 75% of climbers will experience at least some form of mild altitude sickness on Kilimanjaro.

How to treat mild symptoms
acetazolamide to prevent and treat high altitude sickness ibuprofen and paracetamol for headaches anti-sickness medication, like promethazine, for nausea
Please remember that mild altitude symptoms are to be expected.

What are severe symptoms?
wet coughing chest congestion extreme fatigue fast, shallow breathing gurgling breaths blue or grey lips or fingernails pale complexion and skin discolouration inability to walk or lack of balance (ataxia) confusion social withdrawal
Descending in an emergency

What are HAPE and HACE?
High altitude pulmonary edema (HAPE), which is a build-up of fluid in the lungs High altitude cerebral edema (HACE), which is the swelling of the brain caused by a lack of oxygen
HAPE symptoms and treatment
HACE symptoms and treatment

What is the best acclimatisation process?
1. Climb high, sleep low

2. Drink lots of water

3. Climb slowly
Staying safe on the mountain
Choose a qualified tour operator
Experienced guides

We felt greatly taken care of by the Follow Alice crew! The guides made us feel safe at all times.
The right equipment
