Preparing for Kilimanjaro

Equip yourself and pack appropriately

Make sure to review our suggested packing list and order your equipment.

An essential part of preparing dissertation writing services for Kilimanjaro will be to ensure that you are well equipped for the entire climb and especially your summit attempt. Remember that you will be on the mountain for at least 5 or 6 days. You need to take enough clothing, especially socks to last for this period. Due to frequent rainfall as well as numerous streams on the routes, it is advisable to individually pack items in your bag in plastic bags to protect dry clothes from wet ones. The most critical items are waterproof hiking boots, a sub-zero sleeping bag, a headlamp (with extra batteries), and a good outer jacket. Your jacket should be relatively windproof and waterproof, warm enough for -10 to -25 degrees Celsius temperatures, and yet still ‘breathable’.

Try to avoid particularly tight fitting clothing or underwear as it will hamper circulation, causing either cold or discomfort. A balaclava is a must to protect your face against cold, wind, sun and snow. A walking stick/ski pole is similarly useful, especially on the descent. Other clothing like shorts, sweaters and T-shirts are strongly recommended, especially for the first few days when day temperatures are still high.

The only way to ensure that you are dressed warmly is to follow the principal of wearing the correct clothing layers, starting from against the body. A common mistake made by climbers is to wear almost everything they have and to start off with cotton against the skin. Cotton absorbs moisture perfectly, and moisture trapped against the skin will result in a definite lowering of the body temperature, which could even lead to hypothermia. It is therefore very important to use proper thermal underwear with “wicking” properties (a fabric which has the ability to draw moisture away from the body) and thus enabling it to evaporate to the outside. The middle layer should provide the insulation and a product like polar fleece will be adequate in this regard. The outer layer should be a jacket as described above. Short of altitude and physical exertion, cold is one of the most serious obstacles when attempting to summit Kilimanjaro.

Physically prepare yourself

It is important that your body is adequately prepared for the physical challenges of Mount Kilimanjaro. It is thus important that you assess your own condition and train accordingly. In general, the fitter you are, the easier it will be for you to handle the rigors of the trek. A well-rounded training program would include strength training, aerobic cross training, and hiking (ideally at high altitude but not necessary).

Mentally prepare yourself

It is possible to summit Kilimanjaro successfully. Many before you have succeeded. You should always keep a positive state of mind, but not ignore the signals your body sends you. Your mental stamina will, without a doubt, make the most difficult parts of the climb achievable.

Take the necessary health precautions

You should be aware of the health risks associated with travel to Tanzania and with attempting the climb. Two primary concerns are malaria and altitude sickness. my essay Malaria occurs below 1800 meters. You should consult with your doctor to find the right prophylactic treatment for you. Altitude sickness occurs because oxygen thins as you climb. Every individual reacts differently to this change and unfortunately, altitude sickness is impossible to predict. It can however result in very serious health complications if not recognized early enough. Again, please consult with your doctor to understand the signs of altitude sickness.

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