To climb Mount Kilimanjaro is a once in a lifetime opportunity. People travel from all over the world to stand on top of the Roof of Africa. If you fail to prepare, Prepare to fail so being adequately prepared to climb Mount Kilimanjaro is the key to a successful summit attempt.

Climbing Skills 

You do not require any climbing skills to summit Mt Kilimanjaro, Its like one big hike if you go through one section called the Barranco Wall. Which requires basic bouldering skills, If you went on one of our training weekends, we would bring your skills to level up to scratch.

The Right Gear

Having the right equipment is essential to climbing any mountain. The hike has four different climatic zones. You will need a layered system for clothes, so you can stay cool at the lower sections of the mountain and stay warm as you get higher up the mountain.

A thermal base layer, mid fleece layer and an outer jacket are best. Boots are essential and make sure they are comfortable. I would recommend high-quality gloves and even layering them too for the summit attempt.

I would also recommend trekking poles.

If you need any of this, you can come down to the lodge, and we can sort you out for all the gear you may need on your adventure.

Fitness for Kilimanjaro

There is a common misconception that you need to be super fit to be able to climb Mount Kilimanjaro. That is not true. Of course, having the right level of health and fitness is essential for anyone wanting to climb Mount Kilimanjaro, but you don’t need to be an experienced marathon runner! On Kilimanjaro, you will be trekking approx. 5-7 hours a day (summit day is a lot longer). Preparing for these treks through practice hikes in your area is a great way to build up your fitness level. As we have said above, we do training weekends to help you judge your fitness as well as giving you the summit day experience.

Acclimatisation on Kilimanjaro

Given enough time the body adapts to changes in altitude. Some people experience worse altitude sickness symptoms than others. Altitude effects every person differently. It is vital to understand the symptoms associated with it, we have another more in-depth article here.

Pole poley

Go slowly at all times, even on the lower part of the mountain. Do not overexert yourself. You will hear all the porters and guides say Pole poley, which is Swahili for slowly slow.

Hydration

Staying hydrated is crucial for you at any time, but on the mountain, it can help you avoid altitude sickness. The more fluids you can drink, the better. You are recommended to take 3 litres a day.

Climb high, Sleep low

Climbing high, sleeping low allows your body to experience altitude for a short period before descending to sleep. We always use an acclimatisation day to get the best use of this odd climbers adage.

Food on Kilimanjaro

Eating well on Kilimanjaro is key to your success (you’ll need the energy on summit night.) Typically breakfast consists of tea/coffee, bread with spreads, porridge, sausage and eggs. Lunch usually includes soup, bread, a cooked stew or sandwiches. Dinner is similar to lunch. Take snacks and try to eat three a day. The main symptom of altitude sickness is nausea and loss of appetite.

If you experience these symptoms, you must remember to try to eat something to ensure that you have some energy reserves you can draw on during the summit. Eating a few biscuits helps!

Water on Kilimanjaro

Water is vital on the mountain. As I said before you will need to take 2-3 litres of water. You have to add water purification tablets for any water that has not boiled.

Our Guides

Your guides will unadoptable be your greatest asset to you on the trek. All of our guides have a good grasp of English and cupla focal as Gaeilge. You will have huge respect for these guys when you see them hauling up the gear and food.

Determination

Getting to the top of Mount Kilimanjaro has a lot to do with determination. There will likely be a point during the summit attempt where you might feel like giving up. You might be feeling sick and exhausted. At that lowest point, it is vital that you remain determined to get to the top. Just take it one step at a time “pole poley”. As long as it won’t adversely affect your health, our guides will help monitor that, and it is crucial that you listen to your body and others in your group.

 

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