Climbing Mount Kilimanjaro (5,895m/19,341ft) is an incredible adventure, but the biggest challenge isn’t fitness—it’s altitude sickness. The rapid ascent doesn’t give the body enough time to adjust to lower oxygen levels, making altitude sickness a common concern. Here’s everything you need to know about symptoms, prevention, and treatment to ensure a safe and successful Kilimanjaro climb.
Altitude sickness (Acute Mountain Sickness – AMS) occurs when you ascend too quickly, and your body struggles to adapt to lower oxygen levels at high elevations. It can range from mild discomfort to life-threatening conditions.
Most climbers experience some form of altitude effects, but symptoms vary.
Mild Altitude Sickness (AMS) – Common but manageable
Headache
Nausea or dizziness
Fatigue and difficulty sleeping
Loss of appetite
Moderate Altitude Sickness – Needs attention
Worsening headache
Vomiting and severe nausea
Shortness of breath even at rest
Confusion or trouble walking
Severe Altitude Sickness – Medical emergency
High Altitude Cerebral Edema (HACE) – Brain swelling (life-threatening)
High Altitude Pulmonary Edema (HAPE) – Fluid in lungs (life-threatening)
✔ Climb Slowly (Pole Pole!)
The slower you go, the better your body acclimatizes. Routes like Lemosho and Northern Circuit (7-9 days) reduce altitude sickness risk.
✔ Hydrate Well
Drink at least 3-4 liters of water daily. Dehydration worsens altitude sickness.
✔ Choose the Right Route
Avoid shorter routes (e.g., Marangu 5-day) as they have a higher failure rate due to rapid ascent.
✔ Take Diamox (Acetazolamide)
Prevents altitude sickness by improving oxygen intake. Dosage: 125 mg twice daily (start 1-2 days before climbing).
✔ Eat High-Energy Foods
Your body burns more energy at high altitudes. Eat carbs for sustained energy.
✔ Sleep Low, Climb High
If possible, gain altitude during the day but sleep at a lower elevation.
✔ Listen to Your Body
If symptoms worsen, descend immediately—altitude sickness can become severe fast
Mild AMS? Slow down, rest, hydrate, and take Diamox.
Moderate AMS? If symptoms worsen, descend immediately.
Severe AMS? DESCEND IMMEDIATELY—no summit is worth your life.
Altitude sickness is the biggest reason climbers fail to summit Kilimanjaro, but with proper acclimatization, hydration, and the right route, you can increase your chances of success.
United Republic of Tanzania, Kilimanjaro Region | NSSF Building | Aga Khan Rd – 4th Floor
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