This post highlights what I wish I knew before climbing Kilimanjaro
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Mount Kilimanjaro: 5,895m (19,341 feet) above sea level, the tallest free-standing mountain in the world. It is no small feat to conquer. Whether you are an advanced hiker or just a casual adventurer looking for a challenge, be prepared to face one of the hardest experiences both mentally and physically.
I’m here to tell you what I wish I knew before climbing Kilimanjaro so you can be as prepared as possible. I will highlight everything from choosing the right company to bringing the right gear to reach the summit. So sit back, relax, and take note of all my tips and tricks for this once-in-a-lifetime experience!
1. The Tour Company matters
So you’ve decided to climb Mount Kilimanjaro, and you’re on the search to find the tour company for you. There are SO many out there, and I’m here to tell you that it does matter which one you pick.
The first reason is that not every company treats its employees fairly. On our way up, we would see young men running up the mountain in flip-flops, worn runners, or other inappropriate footwear. The pay for these workers varies greatly due to a high rate of unemployment and the constant need for work, so please pay attention to their employment standards. You want a company that pays their porters enough to buy appropriate shoes for the conditions.
Secondly, not all experiences are the same, so picking a company that’s going to safely get you to the summit and back is so important. My group decided to go with Altezza Travel, and we have nothing but amazing things to say about this company. They did routine health checks throughout the day to make certain we were well enough to continue; they were constantly feeding and hydrating us to ensure we had the proper nutrients (although we NEVER felt hungry because they fed us so much); and they had all the emergency medications available in case anything went wrong. I (stupidly) forgot my Ventolin inhaler at the bottom for my mild exercise-induced asthma, but I didn’t have to worry, as our guide had numerous to spare.
So although it may be tempting to go with the cheaper guide option, I would think twice before doing that. Your and the porters’ safety is of the utmost importance.
2. Invest in good rain gear
The weather changes on a dime in the mountains. Although I come from the Canadian Rockies, I didn’t expect the weather to change so drastically. One second it’s sunny, the next you’re pulling out your rain gear, and the next it’s snowing. Good rain gear is worth the investment, or you’ll be hiking in soaking wet clothes. The porters with the rest of your belongings are miles ahead, so you won’t be able to switch into new clothes if needed. And you don’t want the weather to ruin the experience. I had rain pants, a raincoat, a poncho, and gaiters, and trust me, I needed them all.
With that being said, overall, I’d follow the gear list provided by the company to a tee. There was not one item that I brought that wasn’t essential. They are the experts; listen to them.
3. take the medications for altitude sickness
When preparing for the hike, I really questioned whether I needed the medications for altitude sickness. We did the 7-day Machame trek, with 5 days to acclimatize and reach the summit. I’m here to tell you to take the meds. I saw many fit, young individuals not summit due to not taking them. They were stumbling, dizzy, and disoriented, vomiting on the side of the trail. To me, I’d rather not risk the chance of making it to the summit. I took both Diamox (acetazolamide) and Decadron (dexamethasone) to prevent altitude sickness, and I was able to summit. So that’s my suggestion to you.
4. It will challenge you in every way
Mentally and physically, Mount Kilimanjaro will challenge you in every way possible. I am an avid hiker in the Canadian Rockies, and this was the hardest thing I have ever done. There were many days during my health check that I had oxygen saturation levels of mid-70s to low 80s. If you don’t know what that means, a healthy person should always have an oxygen saturation < 92%, but at a higher altitude there is less oxygen available. I constantly had to tell myself, “Just one step at a time.” You’re exhausted from days of hiking with poor sleep. There were many times I didn’t think I would make it.
5. You will never be hungry
When I say you will never be hungry, I mean it. I don’t think I have ever eaten so much food in my life. Due to your constant activity and caloric burn, the tour company is always feeding you. We had breakfast, lunch, and dinner, with a snack in between each meal. Which may sound reasonable, but the servings are MASSIVE. You didn’t just have eggs and toast for breakfast; you started with a large serving of porridge and whatever other accoutrements they came out with. The food just keeps coming, and they will essentially force-feed you. You need the calories to hike the distance every day, but trust me, you often don’t want it.
6. Pack layers
I know you think that you’re in Africa and it’s going to be warm, but I’m going to tell you that every single night will be cold. I wore layers upon layers and slept in my toque. Most importantly, bring high-quality thermal socks. I kept one pair specifically for sleeping in as to not have cold, muddy, wet feet. My favourite thermal socks are the ones made by Darn Tough. Although they aren’t the cheapest option, they are high quality, sure to last you years of use. They’re also made of merino wool, which is the best option for hiking, in my opinion. Merino wool has moisture-wicking and odour-resistant properties, as well as the ability to thermally regulate temperature, meaning they will keep your feet cool when it’s hot and warm when it’s cold. I use these regularly in all Canadian weather.
Altezza was well aware of the cool nights and provided us nightly with a plush bunny hot water bottle, keeping us warm for hours in our sleeping bags.
7. Build up your endurance
Climbing Mount Kilimanjaro is an incredible feat, but not without challenge. These tips & tricks highlighted should ensure you successfully reach the summit. Can’t wait to hear all about it. Until next time! XO
This post covered what I wish I knew before climbing Kilimanjaro.
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