Safety on Kilimanjaro – Our Top Priority
Health and Safety on Mount Kilimanjaro
Mount Kilimanjaro, standing at 19,341 feet, is the highest peak in Africa and ranks among the Seven Summits. Despite its extreme altitude, reaching the summit does not require technical climbing skills. However, the climb should not be taken lightly. Trekking at such high elevations in a remote area can be hazardous. Each year, over 1,000 climbers are evacuated from Kilimanjaro, and unfortunately, some do not make it back to their families.
Key factors impacting your safety on Kilimanjaro include:
- Altitude Sickness and Altitude-Related Complications
- Remote Location
- Experience and Training of Your Guides
- Proper Emergency Equipment
- Robust Monitoring and Evacuation Processes and Protocols
How We Work to Keep You Safe on Kilimanjaro
Ensuring safety on Mount Kilimanjaro starts with a comprehensive understanding of potential risks and strategies for mitigating them. All climbers are required to complete a detailed medical questionnaire. For certain pre-existing conditions, we may ask for a physician’s confirmation regarding your fitness for the climb. It’s vital that your guide is informed about any current medications you’re taking, including over-the-counter drugs, as well as whether you’re using Diamox for acclimatization.
It is essential that your guide is properly trained to recognize and manage the early signs of altitude sickness. Our guides undergo Wilderness First Responder training, which equips them with critical skills for managing medical conditions in remote settings. We collaborate with the Sentinel Outdoor Institute, a high-altitude medical training organization, which conducts in-depth training courses in Tanzania to keep our guides updated with the latest medical protocols. Proper training ensures that emergency equipment is used effectively when needed.
Daily health checks are crucial during the ascent. Our experienced guides perform thorough assessments each day, monitoring vital signs such as heart rate, blood pressure, and oxygen saturation levels. Climbers are encouraged to report any symptoms or discomfort promptly. We keep a close eye out for signs of altitude sickness, such as headaches, nausea, or fatigue, and address any issues immediately. This vigilant monitoring helps us make informed decisions to maintain climbers’ safety and well-being throughout the journey.
Our team is equipped with a comprehensive medical kit that includes bottled oxygen and a portable stretcher. While supplementary oxygen is reserved for emergencies, immediate descent remains the primary solution for acute mountain sickness. If an injury prevents a climber from descending on foot, we use a portable stretcher provided by the National Park at each campsite. Oxygen and immediate descent can help alleviate symptoms of altitude sickness, and our first aid kit is available for treating minor injuries.
In case of an emergency, we utilize a search and rescue service based in Moshi. After a distress call, a helicopter will be dispatched to the nearest landing point to airlift the patient to a local hospital. However, in adverse mountain weather conditions, a helicopter may not be able to land, necessitating a manual evacuation using a stretcher provided by the National Park.
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Explore the stunning landscapes of Tanzania with our unbeatable hiking and cycling trips. At Moshi Treks, we’re excited to offer you affordable rates on unforgettable adventures. Whether you’re conquering Kilimanjaro or cycling through breathtaking terrains, our expert guides and personalized service ensure an exceptional experience. Don’t miss out—book your trip today and embrace the adventure of a lifetime with Moshi Treks!
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Why Moshi Treks
Why You Should Hike Wih Us
Experience the joy of hiking with Moshi Treks. Our expert guides make every hike exciting and enjoyable, with beautiful views and local culture along the way. We ensure your safety and comfort, whether you’re looking for a challenging trek or a relaxing walk. Join us and find out why our clients love their adventures with Moshi Treks.
We run our own climbs for the best experience
In order to give you the very best chance of summiting we operate every aspect of your climb: that means fantastic guides, great equipment and lots of nourishing food.
Tailor made treks for individuals and groups
The whole of your trip can be tailor made to your requirement: your choice of routes, length of trek and dates in a custom made trip.
Great value all-inclusive climbs
Private airport transfers, hotels before and after the trek, park fees, guides and porters and all your accommodation and food on the trek. All you need for a great climb.
