Kilimanjaro Climb Tips
Things to consider when you climb mount Kilimanjaro.
Drinking water
Water is critical on the mountain, the first day you will be given 2-3 liters from our office. You should aim to drink at least not less than 3 liters per day. Dehydration is a key cause of acute mountain sickness so make sure you stayed hydrated. During the climb you will get water which is normally collected by potters from replenish supplies. They boil and filter before give it to you but also if you need you can add purification tablet to your water though sometime it does not taste well if you put the kind of water purification tablets.
Eating well
On Kilimanjaro eating well is also main key to reach on the top; you will need the energy especially the summit night so you need to eat. Food is carried and prepared by your climbing crew. Normally breakfast consist of tee/coffee, bread with spreads, porridge, sausages and eggs. Lunch usually include soup, bread, a cooked stew, super gets etc depend on the plan from the cook and is mostly similar to lunch remember food requirements from the client is considered.
Taking snacks is important especially energy bars are good idea.
Go slowly
Do not exert yourself, you will hear the porters and guides say pole pole this mean slow slow in swahili. Make sure you listen and follow your pace.
Climb high sleep low (acclimatization)
This is making your body to experience for a short time before descending to sleep. On Kilimanjaro its high recommended to have an acclimatization day. You may also decide to take Diamox (though water is the best) which is the medication that helps prevent onset of a.m.s
Guides, cooks and porters
These are your greatest asset on the mountain, most of them are local who speak swahili but guides usually have a good command of English speaking. At the end of your climb you will learn to respect these guys. Porters are the one who carry the stuff in general which is food, tents, your bag etc. Each porter should carry not more than 20kg of kit apart from their climbing staff. Guides are always the head of the group and they always walk with the climbers and responsible for everything about the whole crews.
Determination & Concetration
Going to the top of africa mount kilimanjaro has a lot to do with determination and concentration. Sometimes will feel like giving up especially the summit ascend typically around stella or gilman’s point you might feel awful, nervous, sick and exhausted. What you need hear is determination and concentration, make one step at a time while you listen to your body and you’re guide. If the situation is worse please is better to descend remember your life is more important.
Right equipments
We cannot stress enough the importance of having the right equipment to climb the mountain. The hike covers four to five climatic zones and layering of clothes is key to stay warm and comfortable as you ascend. A base thermal layer, mid fleece layer and outer jacket is a must, the right gloves and hiking boots are also critical.
