Mount Kilimanjaro is the highest peak in Africa and a popular destination for adventurous travelers. Here are some important tips to keep in mind if you plan on climbing Mount Kilimanjaro:

1. Choose the Right Route: There are several routes to the summit, each with its own advantages and challenges. Some routes are more scenic, while others are less crowded. Research each route and choose the one that is best suited to your fitness level, experience, and preferences.

2. Train in Advance: Climbing Mount Kilimanjaro is physically demanding, so it's important to be in good shape before you start. Start a regular exercise regimen several months before your climb to build up your strength and endurance.

3. Acclimatize Properly: Altitude sickness can be a serious problem on Mount Kilimanjaro. To avoid it, it's important to acclimatize properly by climbing gradually and allowing your body time to adjust to the higher altitude.

4. Bring the Right Gear: Make sure you have all the necessary gear for your climb, including warm clothing, a good quality sleeping bag, and sturdy hiking boots. Don't forget to bring a headlamp, sunglasses, and a hat to protect yourself from the sun.

5. Hire a Good Guide: Hiring a knowledgeable guide is essential for a successful climb. A good guide will be able to provide you with valuable information about the route, help you with any problems that arise, and ensure your safety throughout the climb.

6. Stay Hydrated and Nourished: It's important to stay hydrated and nourished during your climb. Bring plenty of water and snacks to keep your energy levels up.

7. Respect the Environment: Mount Kilimanjaro is a beautiful natural environment, so it's important to respect it by leaving no trace of your visit. Make sure to follow the park's rules and regulations and leave the mountain as you found it.

8. Take Your Time: Climbing Mount Kilimanjaro is not a race. Take your time and enjoy the journey, stopping frequently to take in the views and rest as needed.

9. Be Prepared for Changes in Weather: Weather conditions on Mount Kilimanjaro can change quickly, so it's important to be prepared for any eventuality. Bring rain gear, warm clothing, and a hat to protect yourself from the sun.

10. Consider Your Health: Climbing Mount Kilimanjaro can be physically demanding, so it's important to consider your health before embarking on the journey. If you have any health issues, consult your doctor before you go to make sure it's safe for you to climb.

Kilimanjaro Health Issues

When planning to climb Mount Kilimanjaro, it is important to be aware of the potential health issues that you may encounter. Here are some of the major health issues to keep in mind:

1. Acute Mountain Sickness (AMS): This is the most common issue that climbers face due to the high altitude. Symptoms of AMS include headaches, nausea, anorexia, and rapid pulse. To prevent AMS, it is recommended to maintain a slow and steady pace, take extra days for acclimatization, drink plenty of water, and consider taking preventative medication.

2. Hypothermia: The lowering of the body's core temperature due to wet clothing or perspiration can lead to hypothermia. To prevent hypothermia, proper clothing is critical. Wearing layers of clothing made of moisture-wicking fabric can help prevent hypothermia.

3. Sun-related injuries: Due to the higher altitude, the sun's rays can be much more powerful, leading to severe sunburns or snow blindness. It is recommended to use a 20+ sun protection cream at lower altitudes and total block cream above 3000m. Wearing dark sunglasses with side panels is also essential when walking through snow or ice.

4. Fitness: Climbing Mount Kilimanjaro requires physical fitness. It is recommended to follow a physical fitness program to prepare yourself physically for the climb. Climbers who suffer from any cardiac or pulmonary problems should be cautious and consult their physician before attempting the climb.

5. Foot problems: Poor-fitting, new or little-used boots can result in blistering feet. To prevent foot problems, it is recommended to wear well-fitting boots and keep your toenails short. If you develop blisters, treat them immediately by removing the boot and covering the area with a zinc oxide tape or something similar.

It is important to be aware of these health issues before attempting to climb Mount Kilimanjaro. By taking preventative measures, you can minimize the severity of the illnesses and ensure a safe and enjoyable climb.

Mount Kilimanjaro crew, size & roles.

The Mount Kilimanjaro crew is a vital team of support staff that is essential for any successful climb. The crew consists of hard-working porters, guides, and cooks, who provide expert assistance throughout the journey to help you reach the summit.

Porters are responsible for carrying all the necessary gear, supplies, and camping equipment. Each porter is allowed to carry a maximum of 20 kg, including their own gear. Three porters are assigned per climber to ensure that all luggage is carried safely and efficiently.

Guides are licensed by the Kilimanjaro National Park and speak fluent English. They are responsible for guiding climbers safely and efficiently up the mountain. They are trained to deal with acute mountain sickness and mountain first aid. They also know the network of shortcuts to escort climbers to safety if needed.

Cooks provide all meals, including breakfast, lunch, and dinner. They carry their own daypack to ensure that they are energetic enough to perform their cooking chores once they reach the camp.

The size of the Kilimanjaro crew depends on the size of the climbing group and the weight of their bags. For a typical group, the crew size is as follows: three porters per person, one lead guide per group, one assistant guide per two to three climbers, one cook per group, and one assistant cook if the group size is over ten.

The crew size may seem large, but each member of the team plays an essential role. The size of the crew adheres to the rules and regulations set by the authorities, and it ensures that the porters are not overworked or overloaded.

It is important to note that climbing Kilimanjaro without a guide or porter is illegal according to Tanzanian law. To have a safe and enjoyable trip, you need an experienced team of support staff around you. The crew's roles provide the closure you need, as they give a clear picture of the vital support that each member provides to ensure a successful climb.

Personal Items

To ensure a successful summit attempt, it is crucial to be properly equipped. We have prepared a Kilimanjaro packing list that can serve as a guide for your trek. Please keep in mind that the weight of your duffel bag and its contents should not exceed 20 kg (44 lbs.), as that is the maximum weight a porter is required to carry. Your sleeping bag will be included in the weight limit, but sleeping mats and tents will not.

For those who want to travel light, equipment can be rented or purchased at stores in Tanzania.

Below is a list of items you should have to help you summit Mount Kilimanjaro:

Travel Documents

• Valid passport and visa

• Airline ticket

• International health card with immunizations

• Travel insurance

• Medical insurance

• US$ cash / Travelers Checks / Credit Card

Essential Items

• Duffel bag - large enough for all climbing gear and clothing. To be carried by the porters. An extra bag to be left at the hotel with extra gear

• Small luggage lock - to lock zippers

• Day backpack - 20-35 L capacity. Large enough to carry your water, camera, raincoat, lunch pack, snacks, and warm clothing

• Sleeping bag

• Ski-pole / walking stick

• Water bottle / containers

• Water Bladder (Camelbak type, 3 liters)

• Kilimanjaro map (Can be bought at Park gate)

Tip: A duffel bag is preferred as porters bundle the bag with other items and carry the load on their heads.

High Altitude Gear

• Waterproof, breathable, and windproof jacket (outer wear like Ventex or Gore-Tex)

• Waterproof, breathable, and windproof pants (outer wear)

• Polar fleece (middle layer)

• Thermal underwear (under layers)

• Mittens or warm gloves

• Glove liners (if necessary)

• One pair thermal socks

• Balaclava

• Gaiters

• Thermal water flask

Hiking Gear

• Shorts

• Hiking pants

• Regular underwear

• T-shirts

• Raincoat or Poncho

Tip: Clothing with moisture-wicking fabric (such as merino wool or Capilene) is recommended for the base layer, as staying dry is essential. Avoid cotton as it absorbs moisture, which can lead to hyperthermia (see all Kilimanjaro health issues)

List of Medical and First Aid Supplies

• Headache tablets

• Diamox for altitude sickness (if not allergic to sulpha)

• Imodium for diarrhea

• Valoid for nausea

• Malaria prophylaxis

• Water purification tablets

• Painkillers

• Muscle sprain relief

• Supplies for abrasions, blisters, and cuts such as plaster and bandages

• Betadine antiseptic cream

• Medication for flu and colds

• Eye drops

• Insect repellent containing DEET

Footwear

• Water-resistant semi-stiff hiking boots - mid-weight boots work great

• Shoes for overnight camps - i.e., sneakers, running shoes, etc.

• Socks - several pairs for the climb

• Liner socks - to keep your feet dry and limit the risk of blisters

Equipment

• Sun hat or similar (with a brim)

• Knit hat (for warmth)

• Collapsible ski sticks (optional but highly recommended)

• Water bottles - two or three (total capacity at least 4 liters)

• Headlamp, a good strong one with spare batteries and an extra light bulb

• Water purification tablets

• Sunglasses, good quality dark lenses for the climb, with a securing strap

• Flashlight (torch) with spare batteries

• Backpack cover (optional)

• Camp pillow

Essential Items:

• Toilet kit (including soap, toothbrush, toilet articles, wet wipes, etc.)

• Towel (lightweight and quick-dry, optional)

• Sunscreen and lip protection (SPF 30+)

• Ziploc bags (for protecting camera, binoculars, etc. from dust)

• Toilet paper

• Wet wipes (recommended)

• Pee bottle (recommended, to avoid leaving tent at night)

• Money belt (for passport and valuables)

• Medical and first aid supplies (including headache tablets, altitude sickness medication, diarrhea medication, nausea medication, malaria prophylaxis, water purification tablets, painkillers, muscular sprain relief, abrasion/blister/cut supplies such as plaster and bandages, antiseptic cream such as Betadine, flu and cold medication, eye drops, and insect repellent containing DEET)

Optional Items:

• Camera (with extra lenses, memory cards, and spare batteries)

• Binoculars

• Powdered sports drinks for the climb (such as Game or Isotonic drinks)

• Pocket knife

• Notebook and pencil

• Plastic bags (to keep clothing dry, masking tape)

• Energy snacks and sweets

• Video camera (with tapes/memory cards, battery packs, and tripod)

Tip:

• Carry essential items in your carry-on baggage, in case checked luggage is lost or delayed.

• Wear a complete hiking outfit on the plane, including long-sleeve shirt, hiking pants, underwear, socks, and hiking boots.

• Do not carry trekking poles on the plane.

• Wear/carry your hiking boots to avoid blistering on your climb.