Kilimanjaro Climbing Safety
Your safety is our top priority. Learn about our comprehensive safety measures, protocols, and how we ensure a safe climbing experience.
Our Safety Commitment
At Serengeti Times Luxury Safaris, safety is not just a priority—it's our foundation. We have an impeccable safety record and are committed to ensuring every climber returns safely. Our comprehensive safety protocols, experienced guides, and proper equipment ensure you're in the best hands.
Altitude Sickness Prevention
Altitude sickness (Acute Mountain Sickness - AMS) is the primary concern when climbing Kilimanjaro. Our guides are trained to recognize and manage altitude-related issues.
Symptoms to Watch For
- •Mild symptoms: Headache, nausea, dizziness, fatigue, loss of appetite, difficulty sleeping
- •Severe symptoms: Severe headache, vomiting, confusion, loss of coordination, difficulty breathing, chest tightness
Our Prevention Strategies
Proper Acclimatization
We use "climb high, sleep low" principle and longer itineraries for better acclimatization.
Slow Pace
Our guides maintain "pole pole" (slowly, slowly) pace to allow your body to adapt.
Daily Health Checks
We monitor oxygen saturation, pulse rate, and symptoms twice daily.
Hydration
We ensure you drink 3-4 liters of water daily to prevent dehydration.
Important:
If you experience severe symptoms, descending is the only cure. Our guides will immediately escort you down if necessary. Never hesitate to communicate any symptoms—your safety comes first.
Emergency Procedures
We have comprehensive emergency response procedures in place to handle any situation quickly and effectively.
Emergency Oxygen
All groups carry portable oxygen cylinders for emergency use in case of severe altitude sickness.
First Aid Kits
Comprehensive first aid kits are carried by all guides, including medications for common issues.
Radio Communication
All guides carry radios for constant communication with base and emergency services.
Evacuation Plan
We have established evacuation procedures and can arrange helicopter evacuation if necessary (at additional cost, covered by insurance).
Medical Support
We maintain relationships with local medical facilities and can coordinate medical care if needed.
Guide Qualifications & Training
Our guides are among the most experienced and qualified on Kilimanjaro. They undergo rigorous training and certification.
Required Certifications
- ✓Wilderness First Responder (WFR) certification
- ✓Kilimanjaro National Park guide license
- ✓Minimum 7+ years of guiding experience
- ✓Altitude sickness recognition and management training
Ongoing Training
- ✓Annual safety and first aid refresher courses
- ✓Emergency response drills
- ✓Client communication and care training
- ✓Environmental and conservation awareness
Safety Equipment
We provide and maintain high-quality safety equipment for all climbs.
Medical Equipment
- • Portable oxygen cylinders
- • Comprehensive first aid kits
- • Pulse oximeters for daily health checks
- • Emergency medications
- • Stretchers for evacuation
Communication Equipment
- • Two-way radios for all guides
- • Satellite communication devices
- • Emergency contact systems
- • GPS tracking devices
Pre-Climb Safety Briefing
Before every climb, we conduct a comprehensive safety briefing covering all aspects of the climb.
Route Overview
Detailed explanation of the route, daily schedule, and what to expect.
Altitude Sickness Education
How to recognize symptoms, prevention strategies, and when to alert guides.
Equipment Check
Verification that all necessary equipment is present and in good condition.
Emergency Procedures
What to do in case of emergency and how to contact help.
Team Introduction
Meet your guides, porters, and support team.
Health Requirements
Before climbing, ensure you meet the following health requirements:
Medical Clearance
We strongly recommend obtaining medical clearance from your doctor before attempting to climb Kilimanjaro, especially if you have:
- • Heart or lung conditions
- • High blood pressure
- • Diabetes
- • Previous altitude sickness
- • Any chronic medical conditions
Physical Fitness
You should be in good physical condition and able to:
- • Walk 6-8 hours per day
- • Carry a daypack (5-8 kg)
- • Handle multiple consecutive days of hiking
- • Manage elevation gain
Age Considerations
While there's no maximum age limit, climbers should be in good health. We've successfully guided climbers in their 70s. The minimum age is typically 10-12 years, but this depends on the child's maturity and fitness level.
Questions About Safety?
Our safety team is available to answer any questions or concerns you may have about climbing Kilimanjaro safely.