ALTITUDE SICKNESS ON THE MOUNTAIN

What is Altitude Sickness?

Altitude sickness, or Acute Mountain Sickness (AMS), happens when your body struggles to adjust to lower oxygen levels at high elevations.

Mount Kilimanjaro stands at 5,895 meters (19,341 feet) — this is considered extreme altitude, and anyone climbing above 2,500 meters can be affected.

⚠️ Types of Altitude Sickness

1. ✅ Mild AMS (Common)

• Headache

• Dizziness

• Nausea or vomiting

• Fatigue

• Difficulty sleeping

• Loss of appetite

These symptoms are normal above 3,000m and can often be managed with rest, hydration, and slow ascent.

2.  Moderate to Severe AMS (Dangerous)

If symptoms worsen and aren’t treated, they may develop into life-threatening conditions:

HAPE (High Altitude Pulmonary Edema)

Fluid builds up in the lungs.

Symptoms:

• Shortness of breath (even at rest)

• Cough with frothy or bloody sputum

• Chest tightness

• Blue lips or fingertips

HACE (High Altitude Cerebral Edema)

Swelling of the brain.

Symptoms:

• Confusion or poor coordination

• Slurred speech

• Severe headache

• Hallucinations

• Loss of consciousness

Immediate descent is required if HAPE or HACE is suspected.

How to Prevent Altitude Sickness on Kilimanjaro

 1. Go “Pole Pole” – Slowly

• A slow, steady pace gives your body time to adjust.

• Avoid racing or overexertion.

 2. Choose Longer Routes

• Routes like Lemosho (7–8 days) or Northern Circuit (9 days) offer better acclimatization.

• Avoid the shorter Marangu (5-day) or Umbwe routes unless you’re experienced.

3. Stay Hydrated

• Drink 3–4 liters of water per day.

• Dehydration worsens altitude symptoms.

 4. Eat Well

• Even if your appetite drops, keep eating.

• High-energy, warm meals help your body cope.

 5. Consider Preventive Medication

• Diamox (acetazolamide) can reduce symptoms.

• Take it under medical supervision, starting a day before the climb.

What Ribris Safaris Provides for Safety

At Ribris Safaris, we prioritize climber health:

• ✅ Professional guides trained to detect and manage altitude sickness

• ✅ Daily health checks (pulse oximeter, symptoms, rest)

• ✅ First aid kits and portable oxygen on every trek

• ✅ Emergency evacuation plans in case of severe AMS

Final Advice

“Listen to your body. The mountain will still be there. Your safety is more important than the summit.”

If you’re not feeling well — speak up. Early detection can prevent a serious situation.