Altitude Sickness Symptoms You May Experience on Kilimanjaro

Climbing Mount Kilimanjaro is a thrilling adventure, but as you ascend, your body undergoes significant changes due to the decreasing oxygen levels. One of the most common challenges climbers face is altitude sickness, also known as acute mountain sickness (AMS). This can affect anyone, regardless of fitness level, and understanding the symptoms is crucial for a safe and successful climb.

So how will you know if the symptoms you are feeling are serious? Here’s what you can expect as you ascend Kilimanjaro:

Day 1-2

Lower Altitudes (Up to 3,000 meters / 9,850 feet)

At these lower altitudes, most climbers don’t experience any noticeable altitude sickness symptoms, but it’s important to be aware of how your body is responding.

Mild Symptoms

Headaches: You might experience slight headaches as your body adjusts to thinner air.

Shortness of breath: Even on easier terrain, you may feel slightly winded, especially when walking uphill.

Fatigue: Feeling tired earlier than usual is normal as your body begins to work harder with less oxygen available.

Day 3-4

Mid-Altitudes (3,000 to 4,500 meters / 9,850 to 14,760 feet)

As you reach the higher camps, such as Shira, Barranco, or Lava Tower, symptoms of altitude sickness often become more noticeable.

Moderate Symptoms

More Intense Headaches: These can become stronger, resembling a tension headache or migraine.

Nausea and Loss of Appetite: As altitude increases, many climbers lose their appetite or feel queasy. Eating becomes less enjoyable, but it’s essential to maintain your energy levels.

Dizziness and Lightheadedness: Some climbers experience dizziness, especially when getting up too quickly or looking around rapidly.

Disturbed Sleep: It can become harder to sleep well at higher altitudes. The oxygen reduction might cause periodic breathing disruptions, leading to restless nights.

Day 5-6

High Altitudes (Above 4,500 meters / 14,760 feet)

At this point, you’ll be nearing Kilimanjaro’s summit, including the base camps at Barafu or Kibo. The symptoms of altitude sickness can become more intense and, for some, serious.

Severe Symptoms (AMS)

Severe Headaches: At these altitudes, headaches can become crippling, making it difficult to think or concentrate.

Severe Nausea and Vomiting: It’s common to feel nauseated, and vomiting might follow, which worsens dehydration.

Shortness of Breath: Breathing becomes labored even at rest, as the oxygen levels plummet to around 50% of what you’re used to at sea level.

Confusion and Disorientation: You may experience confusion or trouble making decisions. This is a red flag that AMS is becoming serious and you will need to descend.

Swelling: Some climbers experience swelling of the hands, feet, or face, a sign of poor circulation and fluid retention due to the altitude.

Summit Night

Extreme Altitude (5,895 meters / 19,341 feet)

Summit night, the final push to Uhuru Peak is where altitude sickness can become extreme.

Critical Symptoms

Ataxia (Difficulty Walking): A loss of coordination and balance can occur, making it difficult to walk straight or stand without help.

Confusion and Hallucinations: Lack of oxygen may cause confusion, memory lapses, or hallucinations.

Bluish Skin or Lips: A sign of oxygen deprivation, your extremities may take on a bluish tint.

Pulmonary or Cerebral Edema: In rare but severe cases, fluid can accumulate in the lungs (pulmonary edema) or brain (cerebral edema). Both conditions are life-threatening and require immediate descent.

Coping with Altitude Sickness

Most people experience mild symptoms of altitude sickness on Kilimanjaro, and prevention and proper acclimatization are key to managing it.

Take your time: Choose a route that offers extra days to acclimatize.

Hydrate: Drink plenty of water to stay hydrated.

Eat well: Even when you’re not hungry, eat energy-rich foods to keep your strength up.

Listen to your body: Don’t push yourself if you’re feeling unwell. Descending, even briefly, can help alleviate severe symptoms.

Train: Don’t attempt Kilimanjaro without proper training first. Studies show that the better shape you’re in, the less strain you place on your body, allowing it to handle the altitude more effectively.

Prevention

Our Kilimanjaro guides are Wilderness First Responder (WFR) certified, and expertly trained to handle medical emergencies in remote environments.

They carry comprehensive first aid kits and emergency oxygen on every climb, ensuring safety throughout the ascent.

Additionally, our guides are skilled in preventing altitude sickness and managing emergency evacuation situations. In the rare event of a serious condition, we are fully prepared to facilitate a rapid evacuation.

For added peace of mind, all our climbers are covered with AMREF Flying Doctors Evacuation Insurance free of charge, providing swift air evacuation to the nearest medical facility if needed.

Final Thoughts

Altitude sickness is a reality for anyone climbing Kilimanjaro, but with the right precautions, it can be managed. Pay close attention to how you’re feeling at each stage of the ascent, and always communicate with your guides about any symptoms. Your body will do its best to adjust, but knowing when to take action can make all the difference between a safe summit and turning back.