Why You’re Not in the Clear After the Summit
Most people believe the moment they start descending from Kilimanjaro’s summit, the danger of altitude sickness is over. After all, you’ve made it to Uhuru Peak at 19,341 feet, so it’s all downhill from there, right?
Not quite.
What many climbers don’t realize is that altitude can still affect you on the way down. This is a common time for acute mountain sickness (AMS) symptoms to appear or worsen. Just because you’re descending doesn’t mean you’re out of danger.
AMS Doesn’t Stop at the Summit
AMS is caused by prolonged exposure to low oxygen levels at high elevation. It typically results in symptoms like:
- Headaches
- Dizziness or lightheadedness
- Nausea or vomiting
- Fatigue
- Shortness of breath
While descending does help reduce altitude exposure, your body doesn’t instantly recover the moment you start losing elevation. Here’s why:
The Effects of High Altitude Linger
Climbing Kilimanjaro pushes your body to its limits. You’ve likely spent days at elevations above 12,000 feet, slept poorly, eaten less than normal, and used more energy than usual.
By the time you summit, your body is already depleted of oxygen, sleep, hydration, and nutrients. Descending helps reduce the pressure of altitude, but recovery takes time.
Many trekkers continue to feel:
- Dizzy or disoriented
- Out of breath, especially on uneven terrain
- Weak or emotionally drained
AMS Symptoms Can Show Up Late
It’s not uncommon for symptoms of altitude sickness to begin after the summit, particularly as your body starts to “crash” from fatigue and exertion.
Some climbers’ experience:
- A sudden headache after returning to camp
- Nausea that hits a few hours post-summit
- General malaise or fogginess during the descent
Your body is essentially catching up to everything it’s been put through, and it may still struggle to cope, especially if you’ve been pushing too hard.
Dehydration Makes It Worse
During summit day and the descent, many climbers forget to drink enough water. Cold temperatures, fatigue, and lack of appetite often lead to dehydration, which can:
- Worsen AMS symptoms
- Increase the risk of fainting or disorientation
- Impair muscle function and energy levels
Pro Tip: Even if you’re tired, keep drinking water regularly. Add electrolytes if available to aid recovery and reduce cramps or headaches.
Don’t Rush the Descent
It’s tempting to speed down the mountain, especially when the summit is behind you and a hot meal or real bed awaits. But rushing the descent can cause:
- Increased dizziness or faintness
- Falls on loose scree or muddy trails
- Exacerbated AMS symptoms due to overexertion
Pro Tip: Descend at a steady pace and listen to your body. Rest when needed, keep eating, and check in with your guide if you feel “off.”
How Low Is Low Enough?
Most people start to feel dramatically better below 10,000 feet, which is why many Kilimanjaro itineraries push down to Mweka Camp or Millennium Camp after summit day.
But some symptoms may linger until you’re back in Moshi or Arusha, especially if your body needs time to rehydrate and refuel.
Watch for Serious Symptoms
Though rare, HAPE (High Altitude Pulmonary Edema) and HACE (High Altitude Cerebral Edema) can still occur during or after summit day, especially if someone has been suppressing symptoms during the climb.
Signs to watch for:
- Severe shortness of breath at rest
- Confusion or difficulty walking in a straight line
- A worsening, throbbing headache
- Coughing up frothy or pink sputum
If you notice any of these signs, alert your guide immediately. Rapid descent and medical treatment may be necessary.
Final Thoughts
Just because you’re heading downhill doesn’t mean you can let your guard down. Altitude still matters on the descent, and your body needs time and care to recover.
Stay hydrated. Rest. Eat. And move at a pace that allows your system to gradually adapt as you return to lower elevations.